P. Wang et al., Localization of midgut-specific protein antigens from Aedes aegypti (Diptera : Culicidae) using monoclonal antibodies, J MED ENT, 38(2), 2001, pp. 223-230
Most insect transmitted pathogens interact with the midgut of their vectors
for infection and in some cases, development Therefore, molecules associat
ed with the midgut epithelium in direct contact with pathogens may be poten
tial targets of infection-blocking measures. Here, we identify midgut-speci
fic protein antigens from Aedes aegypti (L.) using monoclonal antibodies. S
ixty-four monoclonal antibodies were generated with reactivity to the mosqu
ito midgut, five of which are reported in this article. Three monoclonal an
tibodies identified protein antigens localized at the midgut epithelial sur
face (the brush border) and the peritrophic membrane. In addition, two mono
clonal antibodies recognized mosquito nucleus-specific proteins by immunofl
uorescence microscopy. Because potential target antigens for blocking trans
mission of pathogens most likely are located at the interface of mosquito-p
athogen interactions, these monoclonal antibodies could provide valuable to
ols for studying midgut-specific proteins and interactions of the mosquito
midgut with pathogens.