The pH of the alimentary tract in normal and Giardia-infected culture mice

Abstract

Among the principal intestinal factors that play a part in the host-parasite relationships, the pH values of the parasite's habitat within the host under various conditions are of great significance. As stated previously (Haiba & Williamson, 1952), among the intestinal Protozoa of man and animals, Giardia is of much interest owing to its selective localization on the inner epithelial surface or occasionally inside the goblet cells of the upper two-thirds of the small intestine, representing an important area where the main maximal intestinal functions are carried out. Accordingly, the pH of the intestinal wall, as distinct from that of the contents, is likely to be a pertinent environmental factor in giardial infections.