The full-length cDNA encoding paramyosin of Chinese S. japonicum (Sjc97) has been cloned and sequenced for the first time. The homology of the nucleotide sequence of paramyosin and the deduced amino acid sequence between Chinese, Philippine, Japanese strains and S. mansoni (Sm97) were 99.7, 99.8 and 96% at amino acid level, respectively; 99.4, 99.2 and 91% at nucleotide level, respectively. The immunogenicity and protective efficacy of a DNA vaccine encoding Sjc97 was evaluated in C57BL/6 mice. Mice immunized intramuscularly with pCMV-Sjc97 resulted in predominantly IgG2a and IgG2b immune responses, and immune sera were able to mediate antibody-dependent macrophage mediated cytotoxicity in vitro. Cytokine profiles in immunized C57BL/6 mice demonstrated Th1 bias, with IFN-gamma and IL-2 production and lack of IL-4 and IL-5. Immunization with pCMV-Sjc97 conferred a significant level of protection against cercariae in C57BL/6 mice. These results demonstrate that the nucleic acid encoding Sjc97 was able to induce a Th1 type immune response and confer protective efficacy in C57BL/6 mice when administrated via the intramuscular route.