Cryptosporidium surface antigen (specific names include "Cryptosporidium glycoprotein 60" (GP60), "Cryptosporidium protein 23" (CP23), "Glycoprotein 900" (GP900); more specificity often required) (GP60 (for Cryptosporidium glycoprotein 60); other abbreviations include CP23, GP15, GP40, GP900)

Cryptosporidium antigens are a heterogeneous group of glycoproteins and surface proteins expressed by the protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium spp., most commonly including GP60 (which yields GP40 and GP15 via proteolytic cleavage), GP900, and CP23. These molecules participate in parasite invasion of host epithelial cells and are recognized by the host immune system, playing critical roles in the pathogenesis of cryptosporidiosis. They are major targets for diagnostic assays and are being investigated as vaccine candidates and for epidemiological tracking. The term "Cryptosporidium antigen" is not adequately specific and should be replaced with the precise antigen name when possible

Other names

Cryptosporidium GP60Cryptosporidium GP40Cryptosporidium GP15Cryptosporidium CP23Cryptosporidium GP900Cryptosporidium antigen (generic)

Vaccine candidates: raise antigen-specific T-cell or antibody responses to block invasion or facilitate parasite clearance