Molecular characterization of glycoprotein antigens on surface of Treponema pallidum: comparison with nonpathogenic Treponema phagedenis biotype Reiter

Abstract

Four glycoproteins of Treponema pallidum were identified by intrinsic [14C]glucosamine labeling. Only two glycoproteins were demonstrated in T. phagedenis biotype Reiter with the same technique. Glycoproteins of both treponemes were characterized as antigens and shown to be localized within the outer membranes of the microorganisms.