Radial haemolysis in gel: a comparative study with Chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis and rubella viruses, representatives of three genera of Togaviridae family.

Optimal conditions of radial haemolysis in gel (HIG) with Chikungunya (Chik) and Japanese encephalitis (JE) viruses were developed and compared with those of rubella virus. Sheep erythrocytes were found preferable for HIG with Chik and JE viruses, unlike rubella virus, where goose erythrocytes gave best results. Rooster erythrocytes were completely negative in the Chik and JE HIG, again differing from rubella virus, which was practically as good with rooster as with goose erythrocytes. Sheep erythrocytes with rubella virus gave incomplete reactions in HIG. Sensitization of erythrocytes with JE and Chik viruses is better, when borate-phosphate, and not phosphate buffer, is used. Optimum pH values for both viruses should be regarded. Sucrose-acetone, freon and borate-saline antigens from infected mice brain may be used for HIG with Chik and JE viruses.