Functional analysis of the Frzb2 gene in Schistosoma japonicum

In this study, the complete gene sequence ofSjFrzb2 was obtained by using 3 ′-rapid amplification of cDNA ends technology.SjFrzb2 transcript levels at different stages ofS. japonicum maturation were evaluated by quantitative real-time RT-PCR analysis.SjFrzb2 was expressed at all developmental stages examined and exhibited the highest transcription level in 7-day-old worms, then gradually decreased during the growth and developmental stages to reach the lowest level at 18  days post-infection.SjFrzb2 gene expression was higher in female worms than in male worms and was significantly higher in female worms from a single-sex infection than in female worms from a bisexual infection. The functions ofSjFrzb2 were explored via a small interfering RNA-based gene silencing approach and the soaking method. The results showed thatSjFrzb2 gene knockdown impaired the growth and development ofS. japonicum in mice, affecting not only the survival and morphological structure of the worms but also their reproductive ability and the viability of the produced eggs. Collectively, these observations imply that Frzb2 may be a novel target for the development of immuno- and/or small molecule-based therapeutics to control schistosomiasis fecundity and transmission.
Source: Veterinary Research - Category: Veterinary Research Source Type: research