Partial purification of antigens from eggs of Schistosoma mansoni that elicit delayed hypersensitivity.

Schistosoma mansoni egg antigens that elicit delayed hypersensitivity in appropriately sensitized guinea pigs were partially characterized by using ion exchange chromatography and preparative electrophoresis. At least three skin-reactive antigens were found, one of which was purified to homogeneity, as analyzed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE). This antigen was not adsorbed to CM cellulose, migrated cathodal to guinea pig albumin on electrophoresis, and was adsorbed to DEAE cellulose. A second pool of antigenic activity was obtained by adsorption to CM cellulose and subsequent elution. DEAE cellulose chromatography and preparative electrophoresis of this pool indicated the presence of more than one antigen.