DNA synthesis in gametocytes of Plasmodium falciparum

Parasitology. 1988 Feb:96 ( Pt 1):1-7. doi: 10.1017/s0031182000081609.

Abstract

The DNA content of Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes during intra-erythrocytic development and during gametogenesis was established by cytophotometric methods. Intraerythrocytic micro- and macrogametocytes (Stage I-Stage VB) contain about twice the amount of DNA of haploid sporozoites and ringstages, indicating that DNA is synthesized during transformation of ringforms into Stage I gametocytes. Microgametocytes, after activation at pH 8, rapidly duplicate their genome several times, while the DNA content of macrogametocytes remains constant during gametogenesis.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • DNA / biosynthesis*
  • Gametogenesis
  • Genes*
  • Haploidy
  • Plasmodium falciparum / genetics
  • Plasmodium falciparum / growth & development
  • Plasmodium falciparum / metabolism*

Substances

  • DNA