METHODS OF OBTAINING ANTIGENS SPECIFIC FOR FUNGI, ANTIBODIES FOR SUCH ANTIGENS, AND DIAGNOSIS OF DISEASE USING SUCH ANTIGENS AND/OR ANTIBODIES

摘要

A method for identifying a protein antigen to a target fungus is disclosed. The method comprises screening expressed proteins from a cDNA gene expression library with antisera to the target fungus and cross-screening with antisera to a nontarget fungus. Antibodies to the protein antigen are also disclosed. Methods for detecting the presence or absence of the antibodies or of the protein antigen are also disclosed, as well as kits for performing such assays. In preferred embodiments, the target fungus is H. capsulatum.