Work

Trypanosoma cruzi trans-sialidase antigens: immunodominance and diagnostic applications

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: Chagas disease is caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. Traditional antigens for serological diagnosis include several members of the trans-sialidase (TS) protein superfamily, which have roles in host-parasite interactions and elicit strong B cell responses. T. cruzi expresses a large TS repertoire, comprising over 3200 polymorphic genes, organized into eight subfamilies based on sequence motifs and functional characteristics. These proteins are known to facilitate infection and immune evasion. Multiple TS antigens from different subfamilies elicit strong immune responses, with a growing list from recent studies. Current diagnostic assays still rely on antigens discovered decades ago. This review article aims to cover the immunodominance of the TS protein superfamily and their use as antigens for the serological diagnosis of Chagas disease.

Source: Trends in Parasitology

DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2026.02.010

Authors: Ryan J. Marczak, Caryn Bern, Jeffrey D. Whitman

Institution: University of California, San Francisco

Language: English

Topic: Trypanosoma species research and implications

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $7,030