Expression of gene encoding immunodominant merozoite surface protein of Theileria annulata in Escherichia coli

The asexual blood stage “merozoites” of an Indian strain of the tick-borne cattle haemoprotozoa, Theileria annulata, was generated in in vitro culture and the gene encoding the merozoite surface protein (Tams 1) was amplified from cDNA by using primers designed from T. annulata (Ankara strain). The amplified gene was cloned into pPROExHT b plasmid vector and expressed as fusion protein in Escherichia coli, DH5α strain. The recombinant protein was purified using NINTA affinity chromatography and used to detect antibody response in known anti-Tannulata bovine serum samples in a ELISA format.