Electron Microscopic Observations of Trichomonas vaginalis Employing the Thin-Section Technique

Abstract

Ultra-thin sections of T. vaginalis from V-bouillon (Inoki and Hamada, 1953) were examined by electron microscope. The nuclear membrane is formed of two distinct layers with discontinuous profile suggesting the presence of pores in the membrane. The periphery of the cytoplasm forms a distinct cell wall or periplast. Several kinds of structures are clearly distinguished within the cytoplasm; Round granules 5 to 12 mu in diameter are usually observed, some dense and some less dense. The Golgi apparatus near the nucleus, and vacuoles of different size are also seen. Collagen fibrils are very clear and they are likely to connect the base of the flagellum with the surface of the body. Mitochondria are not found and this is supported by biochemical results. An endoplasmic reticulum of the type reported by Palade is seen. Small granules and stripes are observed in a presumably oblique section of the axostyle. The flagellum consists of an axoneme and covering sheath. Ten pairs of fibrils, one central and nine peripheral, are contained in the axoneme.