Abstract
IgE induction in schistosomiasis is an important human response to infection, yet few specific parasite allergens have been characterized. One allergen of Schistosoma haematobium was found to be a species-specific surface antigen and a member of the serine protease inhibitor gene family (SH serpin). The purified recombinant SH serpin protein was used to characterize human isotypic responses to this antigen. Quantitative ELISA based on the recombinant antigen revealed marked IgG4 and IgE responses and a high degree of species specificity (IgG = 96%, IgG4 = 66%, and IgE = 95%) in sera from S. haematobium-infected persons. In contrast, ELISA based on soluble adult worm or egg antigens could not discriminate between species. There was no correlation between serpin-specific IgE and IgG4 levels in 41 infected persons. Further, serpin-induced antibody production in vitro indicated that IgE and IgG4 responses are not coordinately regulated.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.