Dynein light chains (DLC) are components of dynein, an enzyme complex involved in various aspects of microtubule-based motility. We report here the molecular cloning and sequencing of cDNAs encoding a family of DLC-like polypeptides (SjcDLC1-5) from the human bloodfluke Schistosoma japonicum with open reading frames of 87-104 amino acids and deduced molecular masses ranging from 10.5 to 12.3 kDa. Two-dimensional Western blot analysis confirmed the presence of several S. japonicum DLC isoforms with differing pI values and molecular sizes. We also describe the molecular characterisation, genomic organisation and expression of clone SjcDLC1, and the immunological characterisation and localisation of its encoded protein. Northern blot analysis of adult worm RNA indicated SjcDLC1 is encoded by a single message of approximately 650 bp and Southern analysis suggested one SjcDLC1 gene exists in the S. japonicum genome. Immunolocalisation studies demonstrated that the SjcDLC1 protein is present in the tegument of the adult and cercarial stages of S. japonicum. SjcDLC1 and the other SjcDLC may function in the transport of specialised organelles, comprising membranous and discoid bodies, through the tegument to the schistosome-unique heptalaminate tegumental membrane at the external surface of the adult worm. As a consequence, they may provide novel targets for anti-schistosome vaccine and/or drug development.