Preparation of specific antisera to digoxin using hapten-(C-17)- and (C-12)-bovine serum albumin conjugates.

The preparation and antigenic properties of etianic acid-[C-17]-and digoxin-[C-12]-bovine serum albumin (BSA) conjugates are described. The antisera raised against the conjugate having an [O-[N-(carboxymethyl) carbamoyl] methyl] oxime bridge at C-12 in rabbits were highly specific to digoxin, exhibiting no significant cross-reactions with digoxigenin, or its bis- and monodigitoxosides. The specificity of antisera elicited is discussed in relation to the coupled position of the hapten with BSA.