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Updated: Jun 17, 2026
11:49
Analysis of the Epithelial Damage Produced by Entamoeba histolytica Infection
Published on: June 12, 2014
Entamoeba invadens, encystation process and enolase
Norma Cristina Segovia-Gamboa1, Bibiana Chávez-Munguía, Yolanda Medina-Flores
1Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Av. IPN 2508, Zacatenco, 07360 Mexico City, Mexico.
Experimental Parasitology
|January 5, 2010
Summary
Researchers identified enolase as a key protein in Entamoeba invadens cyst formation. A specific antibody (mAb B4F2) targeting enolase was developed, showing its role in the encystation process.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Entamoeba invadens serves as a model organism for studying Entamoeba encystation.
- The molecular mechanisms underlying encystation are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize a novel component of the Entamoeba invadens cyst wall.
- To investigate the role of this component in the encystation process.
Main Methods:
- Production and characterization of a monoclonal antibody (mAb B4F2) against an E. invadens cyst wall component.
- Immunodetection of the target antigen in encysting cells and mature cysts.
- Two-dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectrometry for antigen identification.
- Analysis of enolase mRNA levels during encystation.
- Inhibition assays using the B4F2 mAb to assess its effect on cyst formation.
Main Results:
- The mAb B4F2 specifically recognizes a 48-kDa protein in E. invadens cells undergoing encystation.
- This antigen, identified as enolase, is initially found in cytoplasmic vesicles and later on the cyst surface.
- Enolase mRNA levels increase during encystation.
- The B4F2 mAb inhibits E. invadens cyst formation.
Conclusions:
- Enolase plays a significant role in the encystation process of Entamoeba invadens.
- The B4F2 mAb is a valuable tool for studying the function of enolase in parasite differentiation.
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