Differential expression and characterization of a member of the mucin-associated surface protein family secreted by Trypanosoma cruzi.

ABSTRACT: We describe the characterization, purification, expression, and location of a 52-kDa protein secreted during interaction between the metacyclic form of Trypanosoma cruzi and its target host cell. The protein, which we have named MASP52, belongs to the family of mucin-associated surface proteins (MASPs). The highest levels of expression of both the protein and mRNA occur during the metacyclic and bloodstream trypomastigote stages, the forms that infect the vertebrate host cells. The protein is located in the plasma membrane and in the flagellar pockets of the epimastigote, metacyclic, and trypomastigote forms and is secreted into the medium at the point of contact between the parasite and the cell membrane, as well as into the host-cell cytosol during the amastigote stage. IgG antibodies sp

SUBMITTER: De Pablos LM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3187265 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature