Use of Dye-Ligand Affinity Chromatography for Separation of Toxin Components of Bacillus Anthracis

Abstract : The protective antigen and lethal factor components of anthrax toxin were isolated from Bacillus anthracis culture supernatants and separated using dye-ligand affinity chromatography. The two components were assayed for serological activity by immunodiffusion analysis, for molecular weight by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and for biological activity by injection into Fisher 344 rats. They were shown to be serologically distinct, to possess different electrophoretic mobilities, and to demonstrate lethal toxic activity only when combined.