Cross-reactivity and localization of Schistosoma mansoni antigen for immunodiagnosis

Schistosomiasis remains a major global health concern, affecting approximately 260 million people, with 440 million experiencing morbidity and over 800 million at risk of infection. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it ranks as the second most socioeconomically impactful infectious disease and the third most significant parasitic disease in terms of public health. This study aimed to improve immunodiagnostic tools for Schistosoma mansoni in resource-limited settings by developing monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) using locally available materials. MoAbs were produced using hybridoma technology and assessed for specificity to soluble worm antigen preparation (SWAP) through ELISA. Immuno-phosphatase and immuno-peroxidase staining were employed to localize target antigens across various life cycle stages and assess cross-reactivity with related species. Four distinct MoAbs demonstrated strong phosphatase and peroxidase activity in the gut and tegumental tubercles of S. mansoni adult worms, with extreme (4+) phosphatase staining. The dorsal tubercles and oral/ventral suckers showed strong (3+) peroxidase staining. S. mansoni schistosomula showed positive staining in the oral sucker and penetration glands, while cercariae showed no reactivity. Cross-reactivity with S. haematobium was minimal, showing only weak (1+) peroxidase staining in gut and tegumental structures, as well as the intact worm's tegumental tubercles and suckers. In conclusion, the MoAbs developed exhibited high specificity for S. mansoni with limited cross-reactivity to S. haematobium, supporting their potential utility in locally produced, sensitive immunodiagnostic tools to strengthen schistosomiasis control and elimination efforts in endemic regions.