Toxoplasma gondii--host cell interaction. Ultrastructural aspects of the parasite penetration mechanism
Steriu, D.; Dunăreanu, G.
Archives Roumaines de Pathologie Exprimentale et de Microbiologie 35(3): 223-230
1976
ISSN/ISBN: 0004-0037 PMID: 1021046 Document Number: 108046
Active forms of Toxoplasma gondii from mouse peritoneum were incubated with mouse peritoneal macrophages or mouse fibroblasts in vitro. When they came into contact with the parasites, both forms of cells put out pseudopods and engulfed them. Contact took place on any part of the parasite surface. Apparently the parasite releases lysosomal enzymes which probably sensitize the host cell membranes (before penetration) or which destroy the host cell (after penetration).