Transferrin is a growth factor for the bloodstream form of Trypanosoma brucei.
A method for the selective depletion of transferrin from bovine serum is presented. Bloodstream forms of Trypanosoma brucei cannot grow in medium containing transferrin-deficient serum, whereas reconstitution with transferrin restores normal growth. We conclude that transferrin is an essential growth factor for the mammalian stage of the parasite.
Schell
D
D
Max-Planck-Institut für Biologie, Abteilung Membranbiochemie, Tübingen, Federal Republic of Germany.
Borowy
N K
NK
Overath
P
P
D000818:Animals; D003429:Cross Reactions; D003470:Culture Media; D014168:Transferrin / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism*; D014346:Trypanosoma brucei brucei / Q000254:growth & development*
D003470:Culture Media; D014168:Transferrin