Analysis of Brazilian rabies virus isolates with monoclonal antibodies to Lyssavirus antigens

Brazilian rabies virus isolates from different host species obtained from different geographical areas in the country were analysed in their reactivity profile with a panel of monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) prepared against members of the Lyssavirus genus of the family Rhabdoviridae. The panel included fourteen Mabs prepared against rabies-related viruses and two Mabs prepared to the CVS-31 rabies vaccine strain. Isolates were multiplied in mice and brain impressions examined by indirect immunofluorescence. Epitopes common to lyssaviruses were identified in all rabies viruses examined. Differential patterns of reactivity were obtained with ten of the sixteen Mabs. Two Mabs reacted only with viruses from cattle and horses with the same reactivity profile, suggesting a common origin for the viruses, most likely vampire bats.