Studies of the PKX parasite in rainbow trout via immunohistochemistry and immunogold electron microscopy

Citation

Morris D, Adams A & Richards R (1997) Studies of the PKX parasite in rainbow trout via immunohistochemistry and immunogold electron microscopy. Journal of Aquatic Animal Health, 9 (4), pp. 265-272. https://doi.org/10.1577/1548-8667%281997%29009%3C0265%3ASOTPPI%3E2.3.CO%3B2

Abstract
Tissues from rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss that had been exposed to proliferative kidney disease (PKD) infective waters were sampled from May through to August. These tissues were examined via immunohistochemistry with four monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) previously raised to the causative agent of PKD, a myxosporean termed PKX. The results showed the MAbs were specific for different phases in the parasite's life cycle. Immunogold electron microscopy revealed that three of the MAbs appeared to be specific for vacuoles within the extrasporogonic parasites, and the fourth MAb was specific for secondary cells within the extrasporogonic parasite and for sporogonic stages. Intensification of the staining properties of the parasite through its maturation in the kidney, as demonstrated by immunohistochemistry, indicates that the extrasporogonic parasite may undergo autophagy during the release of maturing secondary cells.

Journal
Journal of Aquatic Animal Health: Volume 9, Issue 4

People

Professor Randolph Richards

Emeritus Professor, Institute of Aquaculture