Immune damage to liposomes containing lipids from Schistosoma mansoni worms.

Abstract

SummaryA protein-free lipid extract (“F2”) consisting mainly of glycolipids, a small amount of phospholipids and an unidentified brown pigment, was obtained from Schistosoma mansoni adult worms. The F2 was tested for the presence of haptenic molecules by incorporation into liposomal model membranes containing trapped glucose. Sera from five infected monkeys were assayed for serological activity against the F2 in liposomes at different times following infection. Complement-dependent damage leading to liposomal glucose release was observed with sera from four out of five monkeys. Glucose release did not occur when the F2 was omitted from the liposomes nor when heat-inactivated complement was used. All of the activity was removed by adsorption of monkey serum with adult schistosomes. The IgM-containing fraction of serum accounted for all of the antibody activity. It was concluded that a complement-dependent immune response against lipids may be observed during the course of schistosomiasis in monkeys. The an...