[Activity of the alternative complement pathway by various axenic strains of Entamoeba histolytica]

The activation of the alternative pathway of complement by axenic cultures of E. histolytica is reported. The activation is carried out in different proportions by several axenic strains, i.e., HK9:NIH, HM1:IMSS, HM2:IMSS and HM3:IMSS; the end result consists of a destruction of the parasite as well as consumption of the serum complement. The participation of the alternative pathway was studied in the presence of EGTA and Mg++, zymosan, heat-inactivation at 50 degree C for 20 min and immunoelectrophoretic studied with anti-factor B.