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Adrenal cortex alterations in mice infected with Plasmodium berghei
M Pulido-Méndez1, H J Finol, A Márquez
1Institute of Experimental Medicine, Central University of Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela.
Journal of Submicroscopic Cytology and Pathology
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Severe malaria in mice involves adrenal cortex damage. Parasitized red blood cells and cell death were observed, suggesting adrenal lesions contribute to malaria pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Pathology
- Malariology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Plasmodium berghei is a parasite causing malaria in rodents.
- The adrenal cortex plays a role in the stress response and immune modulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructural changes in the adrenal cortex of mice infected with Plasmodium berghei.
- To determine the potential role of adrenal cortex lesions in the pathogenesis of severe malaria.
Main Methods:
- Transmission electron microscopy was used to examine the adrenal cortex of infected mice.
- Ultrastructural analysis focused on capillary integrity, cellular morphology, and parasite presence.
Main Results:
- Capillary walls in the adrenal cortex showed significant alterations, including fenestral disruption and widening.
- Capillaries were obstructed by parasitized erythrocytes, and cortical cells exhibited necrosis.
- Parasitized erythrocytes were found both outside capillaries and within cortical cell cytoplasm, with lymphocytes also observed in degenerated cells.
Conclusions:
- Plasmodium berghei infection induces severe ultrastructural damage to the adrenal cortex.
- Adrenal cortex lesions are implicated in the pathogenesis of severe malaria, highlighting a potential link between malaria and adrenal dysfunction.