1F8 Chagas

The 1F8 Chagas Recombinant protein is a significant antigen used in the diagnosis and study of Chagas disease, which is caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. This disease is primarily transmitted through the feces of triatomine bugs, commonly known as “kissing bugs.” Chagas disease is a major public health concern in Latin America, but due to globalization, its incidence is increasing worldwide.

The 1F8 Chagas Recombinant protein is an epitope of the flagellar calcium-binding protein (FCABP) of Trypanosoma cruzi. It is produced in Escherichia coli (E. coli) and consists of a polypeptide chain with a total of 234 amino acids, including a 6-His tag. The molecular weight of this recombinant protein is approximately 25.8 kDa, and it has a theoretical isoelectric point (pI) of 5.39 .

The 1F8 Chagas Recombinant protein is primarily used in immunoassays to detect antibodies in the sera of infected patients. Its high specificity and sensitivity make it a valuable tool for the diagnosis of Chagas disease. The protein is lyophilized from a solution containing 20mM Hepes, 300mM NaCl, pH-8, and varying concentrations of imidazole .

The use of recombinant proteins like 1F8 in diagnostic tests has revolutionized the detection of Chagas disease. Traditional diagnostic methods often face challenges due to the genetic variability of the parasite and cross-reactivity with other infectious diseases. Recombinant antigens, such as 1F8, provide a more reliable and specific means of diagnosis. Studies have shown that the 1F8 antigen, along with other recombinant proteins like H49, exhibits high sensitivity and specificity in serological tests .

The 1F8 Chagas Recombinant protein should be stored lyophilized at 2-8°C. After reconstitution, it should be stored at -20°C to prevent freeze/thaw cycles, which can degrade the protein and reduce its effectiveness in diagnostic assays .