Authors

I W Chalmers¹; K F Hoffmann¹; T A Gasan¹; C L Dunham¹; N Fernandez-Fuentes¹; E Tukahebwa³; J M Wawrzyniak²; D Dunne²; S Wilson²;  ¹ Aberystwyth University;  ² University of Cambridge;  ³ Vector Control Division, Ugandan Ministry of Health

Discussion

In genomic, transcriptomic and proteomic studies throughout parasitology, proteins of unknown function are common. Further, these sequences with no clear sequence similarity to characterised proteins also frequently exhibit highly restricted species range limited to parasites. In Schistosoma mansoni, the unique nature of these proteins make them intriguing and attractive targets for potential control methods due to lack of cross-reactivity with human proteins. By their nature, progress in investigating these unusual (but likely crucial) proteins is slow. In a previous study, we revealed by motif and structure prediction studies that several proteins listed as having no known homolog (such as the vaccine candidate Sm29) are actually members of the Ly6 protein family, present on the surface of the parasite and immunologically recognised during human infections. Here, utilising extensive genomic searches, phylogenetics and a range of techniques we describe current progress in characterising two other unknown proteins released by the parasite during infection. In addition to sequence-based analysis and transcriptional profiling, we have used recombinant expression to produce, purify and examine the serological responses in endemic communities pre- and post-treatment, finding specific antibody recognition to these unique proteins. Future studies aim to continue sequence-based, functional and immunological characterisation of these proteins.