Antigenic Relationships Between Polymorphic and Monomorphic Strains of the Brucei Group Trypanosomes

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Abstract
Summary: The antigenic relationships between the Brucei group trypanosomes have been examined. The serum of infected sheep has been used as a source of antibody and a respiratory technique empolyed to measure the cross-reactions to specific antibody. Antibody to polymorphic strains is relatively specific although a weak cross-reaction with other polymorphic and monomorphic strains may be demonstrated. After prolonged maintenance by mechanical passage in laboratory animals and the resultant loss of the polymorphic character, the antigenic distinctions between the three species tend to disappear. There is almost complete cross-reactivity between monomorphic strains of the three species comprising the Brucei group.

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