A lectin immunotest using erythrocytes as marker (Erythro-LIT) for detection and titration of rotavirus antigen

Summary We investigated the possibility of using a lectin-antibody conjugate as reagent in an immunological procedure to detect rotavirus in stools. Wheat germ agglutinin was used as the lectin ans sheep erythrocytes were used to reveal the test, so that the erythro-lectin immunoassay (Erythro-LIT) was a simple erythroadsorption procedure. The sensitivity of the test was demonstrated by a comparative study using enzyme immunoassay, electron microscopy and Erythro-LIT with 52 samples. Erythro-LIT specificity was confirmed by blocking tests.