Abstract
The microfilarial sheaths of the filarial parasites Brugia malayi, Brugia pahangi, and Litomosoides sigmodontis consist of several parasite proteins, probably ranging between 7 and 10. The gene encoding sheath protein 2 (shp2), which is the object of this study, is transcribed in embryos and in the uterine epithelium; at least in B. malayi, it is translated in both tissues. Apparently, shp2 is synthesized as a monomer, exported by the respective cells, and integrated into the microfilarial sheath. In the sheath, it exists as a highly polymerized molecule cross-linked by cysteine formation and other covalent bonds, presumably epsilon-(gamma-glutamyl)-lysine links.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Antigens, Helminth / immunology
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Brugia malayi / genetics
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Brugia malayi / immunology
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Brugia malayi / metabolism*
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Escherichia coli / genetics
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Female
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Filarioidea / genetics
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Filarioidea / immunology
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Filarioidea / metabolism*
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Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect
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Gene Expression
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Helminth Proteins / biosynthesis*
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Helminth Proteins / chemistry
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Helminth Proteins / genetics
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Immune Sera / immunology
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Immunoblotting
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In Situ Hybridization
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Male
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Microfilariae / genetics
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Microfilariae / immunology
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Microfilariae / metabolism
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Molecular Weight
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RNA, Messenger / analysis
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Rabbits
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Recombinant Fusion Proteins / immunology
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Species Specificity
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Transcription, Genetic
Substances
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Antigens, Helminth
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Helminth Proteins
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Immune Sera
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RNA, Messenger
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Recombinant Fusion Proteins
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microfilarial sheath protein, Helminth