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Membrane fluidity on the surface of Hymenolepis diminuta (Cestoda): immunological implications

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 December 1997

K. TAYLOR
Affiliation:
Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
J. R. KUSEL
Affiliation:
Division of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Davidson Building, Institute of Biomedical and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
D. HOOLE
Affiliation:
Centre for Applied Entomology and Parasitology, Department of Biological Sciences, Keele University, Keele, Staffs. ST5 5BG, UK
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Abstract

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Regional differences of Hymenolepis diminuta to immune lysis have been investigated by monitoring surface membrane fluidity utilizing fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP). Although the surface membrane of the newly excysted stage was completely immobile the molecular fluidity of the strobila membrane of 4-day-old parasites was greater than that associated with the scolex/neck region. Significant differences (P>0·001) occurred in the mobility of the strobila membrane of 4-day-old H. diminuta from 100-worm infections compared with 7- and 21-day-old parasites and 4-day-old individuals from 10-worm infections. Exposure to 50% normal rat serum and 1 mg/ml rat C reactive protein decreased or eliminated membrane fluidity. The significance of membrane mobility is discussed with reference to resistance to complement-mediated lysis and destrobilation.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
1997 Cambridge University Press