Plasmodium fallax: High-resolution autoradiography of exoerythrocytic stages treated with primaquine in vitro

Abstract

The distribution of 3H-primaquine within cultures of the exoerythrocytic stages of Plasmodium fallax was studied using electron microscope autoradiography techniques. 3H-primaquine first becomes localized within the parasite mitochondria where it is often associated with mitochondrial swelling. In advanced stages of treatment, mitochondria overlaid by silver grains are invariably swollen, although exposed grains can also be detected overlying the electron-dense paired organelles.