Variability of Theileria parva Antigens in Buffalo and Cattle
Author Information
Author(s): Pelle Roger, Graham Simon P., Njahira Moses N., Osaso Julius, Saya Rosemary M., Odongo David O., Toye Philip G., Spooner Paul R., Musoke Anthony J., Mwangi Duncan M., Taracha Evans L. N., Morrison W. Ivan, Weir William, Silva Joana C., Bishop Richard P.
Primary Institution: International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi, Kenya
Hypothesis
The study aims to determine the nature and extent of polymorphism in two CD8 T cell antigens of Theileria parva and analyze the sequences for evidence of selection.
Conclusion
The study found that Theileria parva parasites maintained in cattle represent a subset of the overall population, with greater diversity in buffalo-derived parasites.
Supporting Evidence
- Partial sequencing revealed extensive polymorphism in both Tp1 and Tp2 antigens.
- 30 and 42 protein variants were identified for Tp1 and Tp2, respectively.
- Evidence of positive selection was found for multiple amino acid residues.
Takeaway
Buffalo have more diverse Theileria parasites than cattle, which means that when cattle get infected, they only get a small part of the variety that exists in buffalo.
Methodology
Partial sequencing of the Tp1 gene and full-length Tp2 gene from 82 T. parva isolates was performed to analyze polymorphism and selection.
Limitations
The study does not conclusively identify all potential epitopes that may influence immune responses.
Participant Demographics
Isolates were derived from both cattle and buffalo in regions of Africa where East Coast fever is endemic.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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