Characterization and localization of an Eimeria-specific protein in Eimeria maxima

A recently completed analysis of Eimeria maxima transcriptome identified a gene with homology to sequences expressed by E. tenella and E. acervulina but lacking homology with other organisms including other apicomplexans. This gene, designated Eimeria-specific protein (ESP), codes for a protein with a predicted molecular weight of 19 kDa. The ESP gene was cloned and the recombinant protein expressed in bacteria and purified for preparation of specific antisera. Quantitative RT-PCR showed transcription of ESP was low in unsporulated oocysts and after 24 h of sporulation. However, transcription nearly doubled after 48 h of sporulation and reached its highest levels in sporozoites (SZ) and merozoites (MZ). The protein was detectable by Western blot in both sporulated oocysts and in SZ and MZ. Immuno-localization by light microscopy identified ESP in paired structures in the anterior of SZ and MZ. Immuno-localization by electron microscopy identified ESP in MZ rhoptries but no specific staining of any SZ structures was detected. In addition, localization studies on intestinal sections recovered from birds 120-h post-infection indicates that oocysts do not stain with anti-ESP but staining of microgametocytes and developing oocysts was observed. The results indicate that ESP is associated with the rhoptry of E. maxima and that the protein may have functions in other developmental stages.