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Eimeria falciformis (Eimer, 1870) in specific pathogen free and gnotobiotic mice
Parasitology
|October 1, 1975
Summary
Eimeria falciformis, a murine coccidian, failed to establish in germfree mice. Histological analysis revealed sporozoites could not penetrate the host epithelium, preventing infection.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Microbiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Murine Eimeria species are important protozoan parasites affecting mice.
- Understanding Eimeria life cycles and host-parasite interactions is crucial for disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the endogenous and exogenous stages of a murine Eimeria species.
- To compare this species with other Eimeria species found in Mus musculus.
- To investigate the infectivity of Eimeria falciformis in germfree mice.
Main Methods:
- Observation of parasite development in epithelial cells of the caecum and colon.
- Determination of the prepatent period.
- Administration of Eimeria falciformis oocysts to germfree mice.
- Histological examination of host tissues.
Main Results:
- Three asexual generations of Eimeria were observed, with gametogeny appearing on day 4.
- The prepatent period was determined to be 5 days.
- Despite high oocyst dosage, Eimeria falciformis did not establish in germfree mice.
- Histological examination showed sporozoite invasion failure.
Conclusions:
- Eimeria falciformis exhibits a 5-day prepatent period in mice.
- Germfree conditions or inherent host factors prevent Eimeria falciformis establishment.
- Sporozoite penetration is a critical, yet unsuccessful, step in Eimeria falciformis infection of germfree mice.
