Antigens of Three Medically Important Schistosoma spp

Abstract

The present study was carryout to review the antigens of three (3) medically important Schistosomes namely: Schistosoma mansoni, S. haematobium, and S. japonicum. The parasites-host relationship, the antigens, the species that produce the antigens, and the functions of the antigens were discussed.  Identified antigens include: Sm-24 kDa, Sm108 kDa, Polymorphic mucins, 28/30 kDa Protease, 47 kDa protease, 60 kDa protease, Cercarial Elastase (CE) also called 28/30 kDa, Cathepsin, 22.6 kDa, 23 kDa, 16 kDa/SLP/SPO-1, Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), SmEnolase, SmCalp1, 28-kD GST (rSh28GST), 29-kDa, Calpain (Sp80) and SG3PDH. The above mention antigens of the parasites were found to be much important since they enable them to compete with body immunity while carrying out their metabolic activities, reproduction, growth, defense, resistance, and so many other things within the host.  Therefore, these antigens are very important in immunological studies; hence, it was recommended that, Since some parasite antigens were found to be promising candidates for developing a vaccine to protect against Schistosoma infection, more parasite antigens should be searched for the best planning and development of numerous strategies that aid in the prevention and control of schistosomiasis.