Effect of Fetal Calf Serum Fractions and Proteins on Division and Transformation of Trypanosoma (Schizotrypanum) cruzi in Vitro*

Abstract

Division and epimastigote-to-trypomastigote transformation of T. cruzi were observed in O''Daly''s SM medium supplemented, in place of whole fetal calf serum, with fractions of this serum, its partially purified proteins or with mixtures of these fractions and proteins. In addition to their division-promoting effects, most but not all serum fractions stimulated [3H]thymidine uptake by the flagellates. As revealed by TEAE-cellulose column chromatography and immunoelectrophoresis, the serum fractions were altered during the logarithmic growth phase of the trypanosomes.