Abstract
Here, we determined the staining properties of Balamuthia mandrillaris cysts, and assessed the effect of 2, 6-dichlorobenzonitrile (DCB), a cellulose synthesis inhibitor, and calcofluor white, a brightening agent, on its encystment. Periodic acid-Schiff reagent stained the inner wall intensely and middle and outer walls weakly suggesting that the cyst wall of B. mandrillaris may contain glycans. Furthermore, cysts, but not trophozoites, fluoresced when stained with calcofluor white. Calcofluor white and DCB, a cellulose synthesis inhibitor, inhibited B. mandrillaris encystment. This is the first report suggesting possible glycan biosynthesis in B. mandrillaris encystment, and this pathwaymay provide a potentially useful drug target and help improve treatment.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have