Brugia malayi antigens (Bm antigens)

Brugia malayi antigens represent a diverse collection of proteins and glycoconjugates expressed by the filarial nematode Brugia malayi, which is a primary cause of lymphatic filariasis [1]. These antigens are essential for the parasite's life cycle, playing roles in larval molting, host tissue penetration, and the sophisticated modulation of the host's immune system to ensure parasite survival [2]. In clinical diagnostics, specific antigens such as BmR1 and Bm14 are used to detect host IgG4 antibodies, providing a reliable method for identifying active or past infections [3]. Although no human vaccine is currently available, several antigens like Bm-ALT-2 and Bm-HSP70 are under investigation as recombinant vaccine candidates designed to stimulate protective immunity [4]. Current therapeutic strategies utilize anthelmintic drugs like diethylcarbamazine and ivermectin to eliminate the parasites, thereby reducing the production and circulation of these antigens in the host [5]. However, the rapid destruction of the parasites can lead to the sudden release of high levels of antigens, potentially triggering severe systemic inflammatory reactions known as the Mazzotti reaction [5].

Other names

B. malayi antigensFilarial antigensLymphatic filariasis antigensBrugia malayi proteins

Anthelmintic drugs disrupt the parasite's neuromuscular transmission or microtubule assembly to reduce antigenic load, while experimental vaccines target these antigens to induce protective neutralizing antibodies and T-cell responses [2, 5].