Studies on protozoa. Part I. The metabolism of Leishman-Donovan bodies and flagellates of Leishmania Donovani

Abstract

Flagellate forms of L. donovani can be satisfactorily cultured in a simple liquid medium. Study of their metabolic activity indicates that their respiratory reactions depend on the presence of glucose or some other simple carbohydrate. CO2 and succinic acid are the main end products. Glycerol is not utilized to any extent. The Leishman-Donovan bodies are less active metabolically than are the flagellates, but do not depend as exclusively on the presence of glucose for respiratory activity. Cyanides and certain amidines tend to inhibit the O2 uptake of both the flagellates and the Leishman-Donovan bodies. Several known leishmanicidal drugs may depend upon this inhibitory reaction for their effectiveness.