Abstract:In this study, the specific IgY was isolated from the yolk of eggs laid by immunized hens with Escherichia coli O157:H7. The methods for the titer detection and isolation of the specific IgY were developed and the inhibitory effects of IgY on the bacteria in vitro were also studied. The results showed that the highest titer of IgY against Escherichia coli O157:H7 was of 1:230400 after 44 days, and still of 1:7200 after 360 days. The titer of the IgY, purified by water dilution, ammonium sulfate precipitation, and gel filtration, was 4 times higher than that of the unpurified. Two major bands were observed in the SDS-PAGE electrophorogram, which represented the heavy and the light chains. The results also demonstrated that the specific IgY could inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli O157:H7.
