A conserved protein of Babesia microti elicits partial protection against Babesia and Plasmodium infection
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Published:2023-08-30
Issue:1
Volume:16
Page:
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ISSN:1756-3305
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Container-title:Parasites & Vectors
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language:en
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Short-container-title:Parasites Vectors
Author:
Wang Yao,Zhang Qianqian,Zhang Wanruo,Chen Junhu,Dai Jianfeng,Zhou Xia
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The protozoan parasite Babesia microti that causes the zoonotic disease babesiosis resides in the erythrocytes of its mammalian host during its life-cycle. No effective vaccines are currently available to prevent Babesia microti infections.
Methods
We previously identified a highly seroactive antigen, named Bm8, as a B. microti conserved erythrocyte membrane-associated antigen, by high-throughput protein chip screening. Bioinformatic and phylogenetic analysis showed that this membrane-associated protein is conserved among apicomplexan hemoprotozoa, such as members of genera Babesia, Plasmodium and Theileria. We obtained the recombinant protein Bm8 (rBm8) by prokaryotic expression and purification.
Results
Immunofluorescence assays confirmed that Bm8 and its Plasmodium homolog were principally localized in the cytoplasm of the parasite. rBm8 protein was specifically recognized by the sera of mice infected with B. microti or P. berghei. Also, mice immunized with Bm8 polypeptide had a decreased parasite burden after B. microti or P. berghei infection.
Conclusions
Passive immunization with Bm8 antisera could protect mice against B. microti or P. berghei infection to a certain extent. These results lead us to hypothesize that the B. microti conserved erythrocyte membrane-associated protein Bm8 could serve as a novel broad-spectrum parasite vaccine candidate since it elicits a protective immune response against Babesiosis and Plasmodium infection.
Graphical Abstract
Funder
National Natural Science Foundation of China
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Subject
Infectious Diseases,Parasitology,General Veterinary
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