Surface of the filarial parasite Setaria digitata and the structural changes on treatment with Triton X-100

Abstract

SummarySetaria digitata, a bovine filarial parasite is used as a laboratory model for filariasis. The studies showed that considerable amount of biochemically and immunologically active materials are present on the surface of the parasite. The effect of Triton X-100 on the surface of the parasite, when it is used to separate the surface associated materials, is not known. Treatment with Triton X-100 enhances the amount of ES protein released into the medium. The electron microscopic study of S. digitata wall showed that structure of the surface is similar to that of W. bancrofti. There are striations, annulations and button like bosses on the filarial surface. On treatment with Triton X-100 the electron dense cloudy layer on the surface was disappeared. The surface appeared to be suitable for hosting secreted molecules on the surface.

Setaria digitata in advancing our knowledge of human lymphatic filariasis

“…Unique embryonic interconnections were observed in the reproductive system, which were thought to play a role in nutrient circulation and thus have a possible evolutionary significance (Decruse & Raj, 1990). Furthermore, electron microscopic analysis of the surface structure of S. digitata showed striations, annulations and bosses, depicting a surface similar to that of W. bancrofti (Madathiparambil et al , 2011).…”

“…The ES material of S. digitata , particularly that released during the hatching of microfilariae, is found to be the most immunogenic of the various worm fractions (Decruse & Raj, 1988). The surface coat of S. digitata is suggested to be comprised of loosely held ES material of the parasite together with molecules of the host, which may be responsible for immune evasion and parasite survival in the host (Madathiparambil et al , 2011). Although an antifilarial immune response is generated for the shed antigens, parasites evade this immune response by ‘surface epitope hiding’; grooves and striations on the adult parasite surface may be ideal for antigenic concealment (Bright & Raj, 1994).…”