SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A PROTECTIVE PEPTIDE-BASED VACCINE AGAINST SCHISTOSOMA-MANSONI

Two synthetic peptides, corresponding to the N-terminal sequence of th e 45-kDa subunit of the protective 9B antigen of Schistosoma mansoni a nd differing in only one amino acid residue, were synthesized. These p eptides mere recognized by the protective monoclonal antibody 152-66-9 B, as well as by sera of mice and humans infected with schistosomiasis . The peptides were coupled to a protein carrier and used for immuniza tion. One of the peptides, 9B-peptide1, induced in mice significant pr otection against challenge infection, manifested in a 40 to 50% reduct ion in worm burden.