Identification and molecular cloning of a 67-kilodalton protein in Schistosoma japonicum homologous to a family of actin-binding proteins

Abstract

A monoclonal antibody to Schistosoma japonicum which conferred significant protection against cercarial challenge in mice was produced. The predicted translation product of the cDNA corresponding to the antigen recognized by this antibody was homologous to a newly identified family of actin-binding proteins. The expressed protein bound polymerized actin and was recognized by serum from patients infected with S. japonicum.