title: A simple method of obtaining an enriched fraction of tegumental brush border from Hymenolepis diminuta.
abstract: A method for isolating an enriched preparation of tegumental brush border from the tapeworm, Hymenolepis diminuta, is described. Combining incubation of whole tapeworms in Krebs-Ringer/tris-maleate solution containing a hemolytic saponin, low shear-force agitation, and differential centrifugation, a pellet is obtained at 2,500 g which contains a significant concentration of surface brush border. The content of brush border in this fraction is identified by the presence of numerous microvilli, increased specific radioactivity after surface tagging with 3H-Concanavalin A, and relatively little mitochondrial contamination (succinic dehydrogenase). Based on morphological criteria, fractions sedimenting with greater force contain dense vesicles and mitochondria from the outer portion of the tegument.
mesh_terms: D002589:Cestoda / Q000166:cytology*; D006926:Hymenolepis / Q000166:cytology*; D008928:Mitochondria; D012503:Saponins
chemical_list: D012503:Saponins