Abstract
The use of gamma radiation from a cobalt-60 cell for the preparation of non-infective diagnostic antigens for influenza A, influenza B, mumps, smallpox, and herpes simplex has been investigated. It was found possible to destroy the infectivity while retaining most of the complement-fixing activity of all these antigens. The degree of purity of the antigen had no apparent effect on the rate of inactivation, as is the case when formaldehyde is used. Under the experimental conditions described, the degree of inactivation depended on the total amount of radiation applied and not on the dose rate. The kinetics of virus inactivation make it possible to calculate the amount of radiation required to destroy infectivity completely and yet retain most of the antigenicity. If necessary it is possible to apply an additional calculated amount of radiation to destroy residual infectivity without causing loss of antigenicity. Gamma radiation appears to be superior to formaldehyde treatment for the preparation of the herpes simplex antigen which is particularly sensitive to heat and to formaldehyde.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
