Method for the detection of HIV-1 using a cyclosporine-specific monoclonal antibody that reacts with the P24 Gag protein

Abstract

Monoclonal antibodies to cyclosporine A (CsA), a potent immunosuppressant, were generated in Balb/c mice using a novel antigen prepared by linking CsA to a protein carrier via a photoactive cross-linking reagent, 4-benzoylbenzoic acid (BBa). Twenty-two monoclonal anti-CsA antibodies were generated, using CsA-BBa-bovine serum albumin (CsA-BBa-BSA) as the immunogen. Epitope mapping studies were performed using a series of singly substituted CsA derivatives and an antibody was identified that recognizes N-methyl leucine residues 9 and 10 of CsA. This antibody also cross-reacts with the HIV-1 Gag protein. A method for the detection of HIV-1 in patient samples employing this monoclonal antibody is disclosed.

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