Immunoelectron microscopical localization of a circulating antigen in the excretory system of Schistosoma mansoni. Ultrastructural localization studies of the excretory system of S. mansoni.

In this study the excretory system of Schistosoma mansoni was ultrastructurally examined with a recently described monoclonal antibody (mAb) against a circulating antigen. In previous studies this mAb was found to have affinity for the excretory system. Strong immunoreactivity was found on the flagella of the flame cells and of the collecting ducts throughout the worm. The eggshell and the space between the miracidium and the eggshell showed strong reactivity with a declining gradient towards the exterior, suggesting a secretion process. In cercariae, immunoreactivity was restricted to the tegument, whereas in schistosomula the labeling pattern resembled that of the adult worm, demonstrating positive reactivity of the flame cells and no immunostaining of the tegument. This stage-dependent differential expression of different antigens in the excretory system and in the tegument could suggest a maturation process of the excretory system.