Structure and expression of a cyst specific protein of Acanthamoeba castellanii

摘要: The life cycle of Acanthamoeba is divided into a growth-division phase and two distinctive processes cellular differentiation, termed encystment excystment. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed that specific protein 21 kDa in molecular weight occurs the cyst, but not trophozoite stages A. castellanii Neff strain. This cyst-specific protein, designated as CSP21, was purified from guanidine-HCl extract cyst wall anti-CSP21 antibody produced. Immunoblotting proteins extracted variety species genus suggested for group II amoebae, therefore, providing useful tool Acanthamoebae taxonomy. A cDNA clone CSP21 isolated by immunoscreening expression library constructed mRNA amoebae at encysting stage. deduced primary structure indicated hydrophilic showing no significant homology with peptides thus far published. RNA blot analysis showed restricted within early encystment, suggesting biosynthesis regulated level.