Entamoeba histolytica: fibrilar aggregates in dividing trophozoites.
Entamoeba histolytica trophozoite cytokinesis is dependent upon cytoskeletal elements such as filamentous actin and myosin. Here we present confocal and transmission electron microscopy studies of this process. A sequence in the formation of the contractile ring was shown with rhodamine-phalloidine staining. Ultrastructural analysis revealed the presence of fibrilar aggregates in the cytoplasm of dividing trophozoites. Among them two filaments of different diameter were identified. These aggregates presented repeating assemblies of thin and thick filaments that in cross section revealed a muscle-like appearance. Our results suggest that these aggregates constitute the contractile ring responsible for the separation of daughter cells.
Chávez-Munguía
Bibiana
B
Department of Experimental Pathology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies, Av. IPN 2508, Zacatenco 07360, Mexico City, Mexico. bchavez@cinvestav.mx
Talamás-Rohana
Patricia
P
Ríos
Amelia
A
González-Lázaro
Mónica
M
Martínez-Palomo
Adolfo
A
D008841:Actin Cytoskeleton / Q000737:chemistry / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D000199:Actins / Q000032:analysis*; D000818:Animals; D048749:Cytokinesis; D003599:Cytoskeleton / Q000737:chemistry / Q000648:ultrastructure; D004748:Entamoeba histolytica / Q000737:chemistry / Q000166:cytology / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D018613:Microscopy, Confocal; D046529:Microscopy, Electron, Transmission; D009218:Myosins / Q000032:analysis*; D053058:Trophozoites / Q000737:chemistry / Q000166:cytology / Q000648:ultrastructure
D000199:Actins; D009218:Myosins