Fine structure of zygotes and oocysts of Eimeria nieschulzi.

Abstract

Mature macrogamonts were present in the small intestine of rats 5.5 to 7.5 days postinoculation with Eimeria nieschulzi oocysts; oocysts were present at 6 to 7.5 days. Types I and II wall-forming bodies in macrogamonts began to undergo ultrastructural changes within zygotes to form the outer and inner layers of the oocyst wall. Before and during oocyst wall formation a total of 5 membranes (M1-5) were formed at or near the surface of the zygote. The outer and inner oocyst wall layers formed between M2 and M3, and M4 and M5, respectively. The mature oocyst was loosely surrounded by M1 and M2, had an electron-dense outer layer, 100-275 nm thick, and an electron-lucent inner layer, 160-180 nm thick. It also contained an electron-lucent line consisting of M3 and M4 interposed between the outer and inner layers of the oocyst wall. The micropyle, measuring 935 x 47 nm, was located in the outer layer of the oocyst wall and consisted of 10-14 alternating layers of electron-dense and lucent material. The sporont of mature oocysts was covered by M5, immediately beneath which were M6 and M7. The sporont contained a nucleus and nucleolus, lipid and amylopectin bodies, mitochondria, ribosomes, as well as smooth and rough endoplasmic reticulum. Canaliculi, Golgi complexes, and types I and II wall-forming bodies were absent.