Preparation of specific antiserum against Vibrio vulnificus hemolysin by immunization with hemolysin-bound liposomes

Specific antiserum against Vibrio vulnificus hemolysin was prepared by immunizing rabbits with a liposome suspension bearing the hemolysin. A cholesterol-phosphatidylcholine-liposome suspension was incubated with crude hemolysin preparation, washed well and then injected intravenously (i.v.) into rabbits. Of the various proteins in the crude preparation, the hemolysin was the only protein which was able to bind to the liposomes, because V. vulnificus hemolysin possesses specific cholesterol-binding activity. Therefore, the antiserum obtained could react only with the hemolysin. Specific antiserum was thus prepared by a simple method, with no need for tedious treatment to purify the immunizing antigen.