Rubella virus nonstructural protein 2 is a minor immunogen

The full-length nonstructural protein P90 of rubella virus (RV) was express ed as recombinant protein in Escherichia coli bacteria, as well as in Vero cells. Monoclonal antibodies raised against the protein specifically reacte d with the protein in both P90-transfected and RV infected Vero cells. Nine ty human sera obtained from reconvalescents, vaccinces and patients with ac ute RV infection were tested for reactivity against the P90 protein. A weak immune reaction was detected only in a small minority (8%), indicating tha t P90 is minor immunogen for RV and is not suitable for diagnostic purposes . (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.