Comparison of major protein antigens and protein profiles of Treponema pallidum and Treponema pertenue.

Abstract

The protein profiles of Treponema pallidum and Treponema pertenue, the causative agents of syphilis and yaws, respectively, were compared by one- and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. One-dimensional gels showed essentially no differences in the protein patterns of these treponemes. On two-dimensional gels most radiolabeled protein species were shared; however, variations were noticed in several minor protein species. Antigenic comparison by radioimmunoprecipitation and Western blotting also demonstrated similarities between these spirochetes. However, lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination of T. pallidum and T. pertenue suggested differences in their surface proteins.

• Authors: R W Thornburg, J B Baseman
• Journal: Infection and immunity (Infect Immun) Vol. 42 Issue 2 Pg. 623-7 (Nov 1983) ISSN: 0019-9567 [Print] United States
• PMID: 6358027 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.)

Chemical References

• Antigens, Bacterial
• Bacterial Proteins

Topics

• Animals
• Antigens, Bacterial (analysis)
• Bacterial Proteins (analysis)
• Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel
• Rabbits
• Radioimmunoassay
• Species Specificity
• Treponema (analysis, immunology)
• Treponema pallidum (analysis, immunology)