Biochemical characterization ofTaenia hydatigenacysticerci from goats and pigs

Abstract

ABSTRACTAnalysis of the major biochemical components ofTaenia hydatigenacysticerci collected from goats and pigs showed marked differences, particularly in glycogen, protein, lipid and DNA levels. Differences were also detected in the levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, free fatty acids and phospholipids. Furthermore, the profile of phospholipid fractions revealed quantitative differences between the two species. It is concluded that the cysticerci of goat and pig origin probably represent two different strains and possibly follow the same pattern of speciation as reported in the related taeniid,Echinococcus granulosus.