Immunolocalization of the proliferation-related protein WD40 of Schistosoma japonicum.

Objective To study the localization of the proliferation-related protein WD40 of Schistosoma japonicum(SjWD40) in the parasite.Methods Cercariae were collected from infected Oncomelania snails.Adult worms and eggs of S.japonicum were obtained from infected rabbits 42 days post-infection.The whole cercaria and paraffin sections of adult worm and eggs of S.japonicum were studied by immunohistochemical staining with anti-rSjWD40 serum as the first antibody.Results SjWD40 was expressed in the vitelline glands and testes of adult female and male worms,in the integument of miracidia in eggs,and in the cephalic glands and penetration glands and ducts of cercariae of S.japonicum under natural conditions.Conclusion The wide distribution and extensive sites of SjWD40 in the parasite were clearly demonstrated,helping to provide significant clues for further studies of the biological action and use of WD40 protein.