Identification of antigens of Colombian Giardia duodenalis isolates recognized by total IgG and subclasses

Antigen profiles were described for Giardia duodenalis cysts and trophozoites that are recognized by IgG and its anti-G. dudodenalis subclasses (IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4). Antigens were identified by Western blot from G. duodenalis cyst and trophozoite isolates. Cysts and trophozoites were each subjected to protein separation by SDS-PAGE. The proteins were then transferred to nitrocellulose membranes by electroimmunoblot, and their antigenicity was determined by exposing them to sera from patients with confirmed diagnosis of G. duodenalis infection. The antigen-antibody reaction was revealed by specific alkaline phosphatase antibody conjugates against IgG, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4: bands were visualized by addition of the substrate 5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-phosphate and the stain nitro blue tetrazolium. The bands were read and analyzed by linear regression using Quantity One software. Thirty two antigens were simultaneously recognized by total IgG anti-G. duodenalis in the cyst and trophozoite stages. The antigens varied in molecular weight from 22 to 185 kDa. Nineteen antigens were identified by both IgG, and IgG3 anti-G duodenalis, with molecular weights ranging from 42 to 180 kDa. IgG2 and IgG4 did not identify any antigen in either stage. The antigens of molecular weights 27, 30, 31, 33, 45, 49, 57, 78, 89 and 170 kDa are shared with G. duodenalis isolates from other geographical regions of Colombia. The recognition of cyst and trophozoite antigens of Colombian G. duodenalis isolates by IgG, IgG1 and IgG3 anti-G. duodenalis suggested that they are involved in the induction of the host immune response.