title: DNA measurements reveal differences in the life cycles of Babesia bigemina and B. canis, two typical members of the genus Babesia.
abstract: The relative DNA levels of different developmental stages of Babesia bigemina and B. canis were measured by cytophotometry using the fluorochrome Hoechst 33258 as a staining dye. The DNA measurements provided direct proof of sexual reproduction, i.e., fusion of gametes resulting in the formation of zygotes followed by a meiotic division. Both Babesia species are considered to be typical members of the genus Babesia; however, the DNA measurements revealed important differences in the life cycle of these parasites, indicating that Babesia species are not characterized by a life cycle, which is specific for this genus.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001403:Babesia / Q000235:genetics / Q000254:growth & development* / Q000302:isolation & purification; D001404:Babesiosis / Q000469:parasitology; D002417:Cattle; D016054:DNA, Protozoan / Q000032:analysis* / Q000378:metabolism; D004285:Dogs; D008856:Microscopy, Fluorescence; D013045:Species Specificity; D013987:Ticks / Q000469:parasitology
chemical_list: D016054:DNA, Protozoan