Mass spec imaging of parasite glycans

Glycans mediate crucial molecular interactions between parasitic nematodes and their hosts. We utilize mass spectrometry imaging to visualize where these glycans localize within parasites and which glycans interface with host tissue. When combined with immunohistochemistry for host immune factors, we can gain a more complete picture of how these parasites evade the host immune response. In addition to improving our general understanding of these infections, identifying the glycans visible to the host provides insight into potential vaccine candidates. The unique structural characteristics of nematode glycans represent antigen candidates that could be used to immunize against infection. Prior research produced several promising protein vaccine candidates, however, when these proteins are produced recombinantly they are significantly less immunogenic when compared with crude extracts. A likely culprit for this gap in protection is the lack of species-specific glycan modifications, since the unique nematode glycans are not produced in the systems used to produce the recombinant proteins.

mass spec image of parasite glycan workflow