Target
Bacteria Salmonella O Antigens
Reactivity
Bacteria
(tested or 100% immunogen sequence identity)
Immunogen
Heat inactivated cells of Salmonella paratyphi A.
Specificity
Recognizes the O antigen of Salmonella enterica, serovar paratyphi A (also known as S. paratyphi). The O antigen is a polysaccharide that extends from the core oligosaccharide, which itself is attached to lipid A. These three components together form the lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a major component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. The LPS is an endotoxin and induces a strong immune response from the host. Its mutation or removal results in the death of the bacterial cell and as such is a prime target for antimicrobial drugs. The O antigen is the outermost component of the LPS and functions as a receptor for bacteriophages. It is also important in the immune response of the host. Considerable diversity is seen within Salmonella O antigens. Salmonella enterica, serovar paratyphi A belongs to serogroup A of Salmonella and causes paratyphoid fever, which is similar to typhoid fever but more benign. Specific for the 0-2 antigenic determinant of Salmonella serogroup A and does not cross-react with the LPS of serogroups B, D or E of Salmonella spp.