Identification and characterization of cDNA clones encoding antigens of Eimeria tenella.

An Eimeria tenella cDNA library was constructed in the expression vector lambda gt11 from poly (A+) RNA extracted from sporulating oocysts. The library was screened with rabbit antiserum raised against antigens extracted from fully sporulated oocysts. All of the antigen-expressing plaque-purified clones were initially characterized by cross screening with antisera raised against different stages of the E. tenella life cycle, as well as with antiserum raised against sporozoites of a related species, namely E. acervulina. A selected number of clones were further characterized by antibody selection coupled with immunoblotting and DNA cross hybridization. Three different E. tenella antigens were identified. All three appear to be constitutively expressed at the protein level during sporogony.