Distribution and Characterization of Antigens Found in Subcellular Fractions of African Trypanosomes
Abstract
The previous report included details of experiments to investigate the membrane association of Trypanosoma rhodesiense flagella pocket membrane (FPM). These investigations have been continued with a number of significant refinements. Firstly antisera to FPM has been raised in rabbits and used as a source of antibody. Secondly we have developed an immuno-blotting technique that permits a much more sensitive means of detecting separated antigenic membrane components. Additional experiments have involved the use of phospholipase A2 and sphingomyelinase as probes for studying the release of membrane antigens. Both induce pronounced release of two major antigenic components in addition to 3-4 more minor components, all of these being glycoprotein. There would seem good reason to implicate hydrophobic interaction between FPM protein and acyl side groups of membrane phospholipid. In addition a more specific role for sphingomyelin, which we have detected by thin layer chromatography in the FPM, appears probable. Such results are discussed in the context of recent evidence of hydrophobic residues being involved in the attachment of various specific antigen to the surface membrane of Trypanosoma brucel. Studies have commenced to further elucidate the nature and degree of clonal specificity of FPM antigens. Results to date demonstrate the such identical antigens are present in two T. rhodesiense clones.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA170913
Entities
People
- John Mclaughlin
Organizations
- University of Miami