Evidence for environmental modulation of gametocytogenesis in Plasmodium falciparum in continuous culture.

摘要: With the introduction of continuous culture Plasmodium falciparum it has become possible to study factors involved in gametocyte production vitro and thus eliminate uncontrollable vivo variables host. The authors have developed a method for measuring quantitatively rate gametocytes at any time such cultures. is based on an estimation percentage ring forms that develop into stage II gametocytes.Using this approach, was found dilution cultures with fresh red blood cells so as lower parasitaemia led rapid fall conversion gametocytes. rates subsequently rose again levels typically order 10% after several days growth new culture. In parental from which dilutions were made, remained high all times. This pattern consistently observed three different isolates P. Africa results indicate reduction by addition responsible reducing conditions associated period induced renewed gametocytogenesis. conclude, therefore, environmental directly modulate culture.After 1(1/2) years culture, parasites retained their ability produce undergo exflagellation.