Biological Activity of Polar Lipids from Bifidobacteria

Fractions of polar lipids have been isolated from bifidobacteria, and the immunoreactivity and serological specificity of glycolipids and phospholipids have been studied. Enzyme immunoassay (dot-EIA) of polar lipids demonstrates that the fractions of glycolipids and phospholipids of bifidobacteria are highly immunoreactive. Pronounced reactions of major glycolipids and phospholipids with a homologous polyvalent antiserum against B. adolescentis 94-BIM have been observed at antigen concentrations of approximately 100 ng. The antiserum contained high titers of specific antibodies against glycolipids and phospholipids of bifidobacteria, as demonstrated by heterogeneous solid-phase enzyme immunoassay (ELISA). Experimental data confirming the presence of subpopulations of specific antibodies (antiglycolipid and antiphospholipid) in the blood sera of immunized animals lead to the conclusion that the major glycolipids and phospholipids of bifidobacteria are specific markers appropriate for serological diagnostics.