Permeability Studies on Taeniid Metacestodes: I. Uptake of Proteins by Larval Stages of Taenia taeniaeformis, T. crassiceps, and Echinococcus granulosus

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Abstract
Host [cat and rat] immunoglobulins of several different classes were detected within the bladder fluids of T. taeniaeformis, T. crassiceps and E. granulosus. Radioiodinated proteins were taken up in vitro by larvae of T. taeniaeformis and T. crassiceps and retained their physicochemical and antigenic characteristics. Rates of uptake were similar in the 2 spp. and were not related to the MW of the proteins. Immunoglobulins were taken up in vitro and in vivo by T. taeniaeformis larvae. Absorbed immunoglobulins retained antigen binding capacity and biologic functions associated with the Fc portion of the molecules. Not all cysts of E. granulosus contained detectable host proteins. Uptake of 125I occurred when hydatid cysts were exposed to labeled proteins in vitro, but it appeared that rapid degradation of the labeled carrier led to the appearance of dialysable fragments. This may be attributable to proteolysis within the bladder fluid. Taeniid metacestodes are capable of absorbing a variety of proteins, and these macromolecules can retain their structural and functional integrity following transport. This absorptive capacity accounts for the presence of host serum components within bladder fluids.