Immunocytochemical localization of surface antigens in microfilariae of Wuchereria bancrofti.

Antigenic sites were localized on the surface structure (sheath and cuticle) of microfilariae of Wuchereria bancrofti using sera from microfilaraemic and amicrofilaraemic patients using antibodies associated to colloidal gold particles and transmission electron microscopy. No labeling was observed on the surface of intact parasites. Microfilariae without the sheath and isolated sheath were obtained by ultrasound treatment. Using these preparations labeling of the inner portion of the sheath was observed when sera from amicrofilaraemic patients were used. Labeling of the cuticle surface was observed mainly in the regions of the cuticular annulations.