Dictyocaulus viviparus is a species of parasitic roundworm that infects the lungs of horses, donkeys, and other equines. The antigen for this species is comprised of proteins from the organism that act as markers of infection. These proteins are typically identified through a process of serological testing, which is used to detect the presence of the antigen in the horse’s blood serum.

One unique feature of D. viviparus is its reliance on Major Sperm Protein (MSP) for its reproductive success. MSP is a protein that plays a critical role in the fertilization process of nematodes and is produced by the male reproductive system. In D. viviparus, the MSP is encoded by a gene called DVA-1, which is transcribed as a large polyprotein precursor and later processed into smaller peptides that form the mature MSP.

Understanding the role of the DVA-1 polyprotein and MSP in the reproductive biology of D. viviparus may offer new opportunities for controlling this parasitic infection. For example, targeting the DVA-1 gene with RNA interference or other gene editing techniques could disrupt the production of MSP and impair the worm’s ability to reproduce. Alternatively, the MSP could be used as a target for vaccines or other therapeutics to prevent or treat D. viviparus infection.

The study of D. viviparus and its associated proteins such as the DVA-1 polyprotein and MSP provide valuable insights into the complex interplay between host and parasite, and offers promising avenues for developing new strategies for controlling this economically important disease in cattle.

The use of recombinant proteins/cDNA in academic research and therapeutic applications has skyrocketed. However, in heterologous expression systems, successful recombinant protein expression is dependent on a variety of factors, including codon preference, RNA secondary structure, and GC content. When compared to pre-optimization, more and more experimental results demonstrated that the expression level was dramatically increased, ranging from two to hundred times depending on the gene. Bioclone has created a proprietary technology platform that has resulted in the creation of over 6,000 artificially synthesized codon-optimized cDNA clones (cloned in E. coli expression Vector), which are ready for production of the recombinant proteins.

The application of Dictyocaulus viviparus cDNA and recombinant antigen-based diagnosis for the detection of bovine nasal worm infection can be a very useful tool for veterinarians and animal health professionals. This technique allows for the rapid and accurate diagnosis of infection with the bovine nasal worm, Dictyocaulus viviparus, which is a common and costly parasite of cattle. By using the cDNA and recombinant antigens of the parasite, veterinarians can quickly and accurately detect the presence of the parasite in the animal. This allows for early detection and treatment of the infection, reducing the economic losses associated with the parasite. Additionally, the use of this technique may help to reduce the spread of the infection, as early detection of the parasite can lead to more effective control measures.