Antigenic analysis in the Trypanosoma brucei group, using the agglutination reaction

Abstract

An agglutination reaction for trypanosomes is described, using whole blood from infected mice as antigen and antisera from infected rabbits. By using antigens frozen down to −79°C. and stored at that temperature, the comparison of large numbers of strains is facilitated. The antigenic analysis of 10 strains of recent isolation has been attempted together with two relapses of one of them. At least six different antigens were recognized, the number of antigens identified in a particular strain varying from one to five. The results, although by no means exhaustive, indicate that not only may strains from man and animals have antigenic components in common, but also successive relapses of a strain in the same host. However, differences have been discerned in these common antigens between animal and human strains and between relapses. Their interpretation is discussed.