A new blood stage antigen of Plasmodium falciparum transported to the erythrocyte surface

Mol Biochem Parasitol. 1989 Nov;37(1):47-56. doi: 10.1016/0166-6851(89)90101-1.

Abstract

On screening a lambda gt11 library from Plasmodium falciparum genomic DNA with an antiserum against the 41-kDa protein band, which confers protective immunity to monkeys, two strongly reacting clones were isolated. One of the clones codes for parts of the P. falciparum 41-kDa aldolase, while the other (41-2) codes for parts of an unknown antigen; this was analyzed further. The 41-2 insert was used to identify two genomic fragments which carry the entire gene. The 41-2 gene codes for 184 amino acids specifying a 29-kDa schizont protein as estimated by Western blot analysis. The protein contains no repetitive sequences, and is characterized by a signal sequence and by two additional hydrophobic segments which could function as membrane anchor sequences. Computer analysis of the protein sequence predicted a dominant epitope in the N-terminal part which was confirmed by immunoreactivity data. The 41-2 protein could be localized in the schizont membrane, associated with membranous structures in the erythrocytic cytoplasm and with the erythrocyte membrane.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antigens, Protozoan / genetics*
  • Antigens, Surface / genetics*
  • Base Sequence
  • Biological Transport
  • DNA / genetics
  • Erythrocytes / analysis*
  • Genes, Immunoglobulin*
  • Immunoblotting
  • Membrane Proteins / genetics*
  • Membrane Proteins / immunology
  • Molecular Sequence Data
  • Plasmodium falciparum / genetics*
  • Protein Conformation
  • Restriction Mapping

Substances

  • Antigens, Protozoan
  • Antigens, Surface
  • Membrane Proteins
  • DNA

Associated data

  • GENBANK/J04656