Detection of an antigenic protein of Leptospira interrogans which shares epitopes with the equine cornea and lens.

A protein epitope which is involved in an antigenic relationship between equine ocular tissues and Leptospira interrogans was detected in homogenates of the bacterium. The antigenic determinant was harboured on a peptide structure which was shown to be sensitive to the action of denaturing and reducing agents by means of Western blotting. The outer surface of the leptospires appeared to be free of this epitope as was proved by dot-blot and electron microscopic studies.

Evaluation of the leptospiral protein-free medium.

Bey and Johnson's leptospiral protein-free medium is evaluated and some modifications to it are introduced. Different serovars have shown good growth in this medium, but generally it is necessary to adapt it before obtaining success. When adapted, the serovars, subcultured serially, have a long term survival, with a good bacterial density.