The fine structure of reproducing Toxoplasma gondii

Abstract

1. Different shapes and forms found in Toxoplasma gondii are associated with reproduction and growth. The functions of the toxoneme and the conoid are discussed.2. A new structure, ‘lamella spiralis', is described in relation to the nucleus and the endoplasmic reticulum.3. T. gondii reproduces either by dividing into two (binary fission) or by multiple division (schizogony), and by a type of endogenous budding. In the latter case small portions pinched off from the nucleus are rounded up to form several small organisms named ‘morulae'.The author gratefully acknowledges the interest and valuable suggestions of Dr G. A. Gresham, M.D., who supervised this work; Dr J. M. Davis and Mr F. Allen, who were kind enough to read the manuscript critically, and Mr W. A. Mowlam for his technical help and advice on fixation techniques.This work was carried out during the tenure of a research scholarship awarded by the United Kingdom Department of Technical Co-operation and the Eastern Nigerian Government.