Antigens of the Subcellular Fractions of Trypanosoma cruzi. II. Flagellar and Membrane Fraction*

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Abstract
A method for isolation of membrane and flagellar fractions from T. cruzi epimastigotes and descriptions of their ultrastructural characteristics and antigenic activity are presented. EM observations revealed that the membrane fraction resembled vesicles, as occurs frequently when the pressure-depressure method is used for cell disruption. The flagellar fraction revealed flagella and some membranes, both related and unrelated to the flagellar structure. Flagellar and membrane fractions had 5 and 3 precipitin lines, respectively, against anti-whole homogenate of C. cruzi in double diffusion tests. One of the precipitin bands common to both fractions gave a reaction of identity with 1 precipitin line of the microsomal fractions that was not present in the mitochondrial, nuclear and cell sap fractions. Data from tests of protective activity obtained during a period of 3 yr with whole homogenate and F and M fractions are presented. Protective activity against lethal challenge doses of trypomastigotes is strongly associated with the flagellar fraction.