Immunization effects with MEGs enzymes of Schistosoma mansoni: search for new antigenic targets against schistosomiasis mansoni

Abstract

Schistosomiasis is one of the most prevalent tropical infectious diseases. Endemic in 78 countries, it is estimated that 240 million people have been infected and over 700 million reside in risk areas. Much of the morbidity and mortality associated with this helminthiasis is directly attributed principally to the deposition of eggs and their antigens affected tissues. The use of Praziquantel is still the primary choice in the control strategy to reduce the morbidity caused by schistosomiasis in endemic countries. However, there are reports of sensitivity loss to this medicine, which can make its use less effective. Unlike the human host, feed and defense of Schistosoma mansoni depends on a cascade of reactions formed by MEGs proteins, which make them a potential target for new schistosomicide agents, or even vaccines. The genes of micro-exons (MEGs) are unique genomic structures found in secretions and mature eggs, exclusively, in S. mansoni, they are like cell associated mucins in human beings. The use of recombinant proteins is a strategy to produce vaccines against S. mansoni, since studies on immunization with other proteins presented results expressing the increase in the specific immune response led by antibodies. By these means, the main objective of this project is to analyze the production of antibodies, as well as the immunological response as a whole in mice previously immunized with recombinant proteins Micro-exon genes (MEGs) specific for S. mansoni. Through this analysis, we hope to obtain possible vaccine candidates against schistosomiasis mansoni.