Some observations on the gametogonic development of Sarcocystis cuniculi of the common European rabbit in a feline fibroblast cell line
Tadros, W.; Laarman, J.J.
Acta Leidensia 47: 45-52
1979
ISSN/ISBN: 0065-1362 PMID: 122249 Document Number: 148316
Cystozoites, released from sarcocysts of Sarcocystis cuniculi (from skeletal muscles of rabbits) by trypsinization at 37 deg C, exhibited an extruded conoid and enhanced motility. 2 to 4 hours after inoculation into cultured embryonic feline fibroblasts, banana-shaped cystozoites, each surrounded by a parasitophorous vacuole, were observed within the cytoplasm of many cells. 12 hours after inoculation microgametocytes were distinguishable from macrogametocytes by their bean-shaped, darker-staining cytoplasm and slight lobulation of their nuclear material. After 14 hours mature microgametocytes with 16 gametes were seen. Macrogametes with 'frothy' cytoplasm were detected after 18 to 26 hours, but oocysts were not seen. The studies confirm the absence of schizogony preceding gametogony in the developmental cycle of S. cuniculi in the feline final host.