Related Experiment Videos
Cytochemical study on Malarial parasite and host cell membrane
Zentralblatt Fur Bakteriologie, Mikrobiologie Und Hygiene. 1. Abt. Originale A, Medizinische Mikrobiologie, Infektionskrankheiten Und Parasitologie = International Journal of Microbiology and Hygiene. A, Medical Microbiology, Infectious
|January 1, 1981
Summary
Avian malaria parasite Plasmodium lophurae interactions with host cells were studied. Researchers observed parasite membrane changes and host cell surface alterations during infection.
Area of Science:
- Cell biology
- Parasitology
- Immunology
Background:
- Avian malaria, caused by Plasmodium species, significantly impacts bird populations.
- Understanding host-parasite interactions at the cellular level is crucial for developing control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the surface characteristics of the avian malarial parasite Plasmodium lophurae.
- To examine alterations in the host cell membrane during Plasmodium lophurae infection.
Main Methods:
- Utilized cationized ferritin for membrane studies.
- Employed ferritin-conjugated lectins (e.g., Concanavalin A) to probe carbohydrate residues.
- Used anti-plasmodial antibodies for specific parasite detection.
Main Results:
- Plasmodium lophurae exhibited minimal exposed carbohydrates on its surface.
- Observed "cap formation" on the parasite membrane, suggesting structural changes.
- Demonstrated clustering of Concanavalin A binding sites on the infected host cell membrane.
Conclusions:
- The study reveals distinct surface properties of Plasmodium lophurae.
- Host cell membrane undergoes significant reorganization upon infection, indicated by lectin site clustering.
- These findings provide insights into the cellular mechanisms of avian malaria pathogenesis.