Rubella virus nonstructural protein 2 is a minor immunogen

The full-length nonstructural protein P90 of rubella virus (RV) was expressed as recombinant protein in Escherichia coli bacteria, as well as in Vero cells. Monoclonal antibodies raised against the protein specifically reacted with the protein in both P90-transfected and RV infected Vero cells. Ninety human sera obtained from reconvalescents, vaccinees and patients with acute RV infection were tested for reactivity against the P90 protein. A weak immune reaction was detected only in a small minority (8%), indicating that P90 is minor immunogen for RV and is not suitable for diagnostic purposes.