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Antigenic variation among Borrelia spp. in relapsing fever
Infection and Immunity
|December 1, 1986
Summary
Seven specific Borrelia antigens are key to the relapse of relapsing fever. These outer envelope proteins, with specific molecular weights, are mixtures of serotype-specific antigens from Borrelia hermsii.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Relapsing fever is a tick-borne illness caused by Borrelia spirochetes.
- The relapse phenomenon in relapsing fever is not fully understood.
- Borrelia species exhibit antigenic variation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify antigens involved in the relapse phenomenon of relapsing fever.
- To characterize the properties of these key antigens.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of seven Borrelia antigens from B. hermsii, B. parkeri, and B. turicatae.
- Determination of isoelectric points (4.4-5.0) and molecular masses (40-43 kDa).
- Western blot analysis to assess antigen location and identity.
Main Results:
- Seven antigens were identified as playing a role in the relapse of relapsing fever.
- These antigens are located in the outer envelope of the spirochetes.
- Antigens from different phases of spirochetemia were a mix of serotype-specific antigens from cloned B. hermsii.
Conclusions:
- Specific outer envelope antigens of Borrelia are crucial for the relapse mechanism.
- Antigenic variation involving mixtures of serotype-specific antigens contributes to disease persistence.