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A Lectin HPLC Method to Enrich Selectively-glycosylated Peptides from Complex Biological Samples
Published on: October 1, 2009
Using lectins to identify hidden antigens in Fasciola hepatica.
H C McAllister1, A J Nisbet1, P J Skuce1
1Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, EH26 0PZ, UK.
Journal of Helminthology
|January 7, 2011
Summary
Developing vaccines against liver fluke (Fasciola hepatica) is crucial due to drug resistance. This study used lectins to identify specific gut-associated proteins, showing potential for new vaccine targets against fascioliasis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Fascioliasis, caused by Fasciola hepatica, is a significant economic livestock disease.
- Emerging drug resistance necessitates vaccine development for fascioliasis control.
- Targeting 'hidden' gut-associated antigens is a promising vaccine strategy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify gut-associated glycoproteins from Fasciola hepatica using lectin-based selection.
- To explore the potential of these selected antigens as vaccine candidates.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive lectin-binding screen was performed on adult Fasciola hepatica histological sections using 16 fluorescently labelled lectins.
- Jacalin and peanut lectins were identified for their selective binding to gut tissues.
- These lectins were used to isolate proteins from the integral membrane protein component of the fluke.
Main Results:
- Seven lectins showed binding to gastrodermal molecules, with some cross-reactivity.
- Jacalin and peanut lectins demonstrated selective binding to gut lamellae and gastrodermal cells, respectively.
- Lectin-based isolation yielded simpler protein subsets compared to crude extracts.
Conclusions:
- Lectins can effectively select specific gut-associated glycoproteins from Fasciola hepatica.
- Jacalin and peanut lectins are valuable tools for identifying potential vaccine antigens.
- This approach advances the search for novel fascioliasis vaccines targeting hidden antigens.
