Abstract
Blastocystis hominis, an intestinal parasite of humans, had been previously grown only with benefit of a bacterial flora. Bacteria were eliminated in the presence of 4000 μg/ml of ampicillin and 1000 μg/ml of streptomycin. Amphotericin B (50 μg/ml) was added only to eliminate yeasts or filamentous fungi. Blastocystis hominis was found to be a strict anaerobe. It was essential to use a prereduced modified biphasic egg medium, and cultures were incubated in anaerobic jars. The bacterial flora of the conventional cultures was eliminated gradually, over a month's time, and 6–10 transfers. Two lines of each of 8 strains of axenized B. hominis have been transferred weekly for 2 yr, one with antibiotics and one without. Cultures for bacteria, mycoplasma, and L forms have remained negative. It is now possible to study pure cultures of B. hominis without the previously essential bacterial flora.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
