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The cDNA encoding the Toxoplasma gondii microneme protein MIC1 and the corresponding gene have been cloned and sequenced. The MIC1 gene contains three introns. The cDNA encodes a 456 amino acid (aa) sequence, with a typical signal sequence and no other trans-membrane domain. The protein contains a tandemly duplicated domain with conservation of cysteines and presents distant homology with the Plasmodium sp. microneme protein TRAP-SSP2. The MIC1 protein from tachyzoite lysates and a PMAL recombinant expressing the N-terminal duplicated domain of the protein bound to the surface of putative host cells, suggesting a possible involvement of MIC1 in host cell binding/recognition.