Immunolocalisation of the glutathione S-transferases, GST-26 and GST-28, within adult Schistosoma japonicum

This paper describes the first ultrastructural immunolocalisation study of the 26-kDa and 28-kDa glutathione S-transferases within adult Schistosoma japonicum (GST-26 and GST-28). Polyclonal antibodies raised against GST-28 (in mice) and against GST-26 (in rabbits) were used to examine the distribution of the proteins within adult parasites. Both proteins were localised within the parenchymal region of the male parasite. Additionally, both proteins were present within parenchymal cells located between the vitelline glands of female parasites. There were no detectable levels of GST-26 or GST-28 on the surface or within the tegument matrix of either the male or female worms. Possible functions for GST-26 and GST-28 within S. japonicum and their significance as vaccine target molecules are addressed.