Schistosoma mansoni tetraspanin-2 (Sm-TSP-2)

Schistosoma mansoni tetraspanin-2 (Sm-TSP-2) is a 24 kDa integral membrane protein located on the tegument, or outer surface, of the Schistosoma mansoni parasite (UniProt C4Q9S7). The large extracellular loop, known as the EC2 domain, is the primary target for vaccine development because it is highly immunogenic and accessible to the host immune system (Tran et al., 2006, PMID: 16767099). Sm-TSP-2 is essential for the biogenesis and structural maintenance of the parasite's tegument, which serves as a critical barrier for nutrient absorption and immune evasion (Hotez et al., 2010, PMID: 20144318). Research has shown that individuals naturally resistant to schistosomiasis often possess high levels of IgG antibodies against the EC2 domain. Vaccination with the recombinant EC2 domain has demonstrated significant reductions in worm burden and liver egg counts in animal models. Currently, Sm-TSP-2 is a leading candidate in clinical trials, such as NCT02337179, for a human schistosomiasis vaccine aimed at providing long-term protection against this neglected tropical disease.

Other names

Sm-TSP-2Tetraspanin-2Large extracellular loop of Sm-TSP-2Sm-TSP2Sm-TSP-2 EC2 domain

Induction of protective IgG antibodies that bind to the parasite tegument, leading to structural damage and reduced parasite survival and fecundity (Tran et al., 2006, PMID: 16767099).