cut-1-like genes are present in the filarial nematodes, Brugia pahangi and Brugia malayi, and, as in other nematodes, code for components of the cuticle.

Lewis, E., Hunter, S. J., Tetley, L., Nunes, C. P., Bazzicalupo, P. and Devaney, E. (1999) cut-1-like genes are present in the filarial nematodes, Brugia pahangi and Brugia malayi, and, as in other nematodes, code for components of the cuticle. Molecular and Biochemical Parasitology, 101(1-2), pp. 173-83. (doi: 10.1016/S0166-6851(99)00070-5) (PMID:10413052)

Abstract

A fragment of a cut-1 like gene from the filarial nematode Brugia pahangi (designated Bp-cut-1) was isolated by PCR from genomic DNA. The sequence was used to design primers for use in RT-PCR and resulted in the isolation of a cDNA fragment from larvae in the process of the L3-L4 moult. Screening of a B. malayi genomic library identified a single clone, Bm-cut-1. Using primers designed from the Brugia sequences, semi-quantitative RT-PCR was carried out on 11 different life cycle stages chosen to cover periods around the moult and inter-moult periods. This analysis demonstrated that the cut-1 mRNA was most abundant preceding the moult, consistent with its function as a cuticular protein. Immuno-gold electron microscopy using an affinity purified antiserum raised to the highly conserved region of Ascaris CUT-1 confirmed that the protein was restricted to a tight band in the median layer of the cuticle. Despite the fact that no transcripts could be detected in mature adult worms by RT-PCR, immuno-gold microscopy revealed staining of the microfilarial cuticle within the uterus of the adult female worm, suggesting that other cut-1-like genes are present in Brugia.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Tetley, Dr Laurence and Devaney, Professor Eileen
• Authors: Lewis, E., Hunter, S. J., Tetley, L., Nunes, C. P., Bazzicalupo, P., and Devaney, E.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
• Journal Name: Molecular and Biochemical Parasitology
• Publisher: Elsevier BV
• ISSN: 0166-6851
• ISSN (Online): 1872-9428
• Published Online: 20 February 2003