Entamoeba histolytica: Difference between revisions
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The infection of ''E. histolytica'' causes the disease, Amebiasis (a.k.a. Amoebiasis). | The infection of ''E. histolytica'' causes the disease, Amebiasis (a.k.a. Amoebiasis). | ||
Describe the appearance, habitat, etc. of the organism, and why it is important enough to have its genome sequenced. Describe how and where it was isolated. | Describe the appearance, habitat, etc. of the organism, and why it is important enough to have its genome sequenced. Describe how and where it was isolated. | ||
Include a picture or two (with sources) if you can find them. | Include a picture or two (with sources) if you can find them. | ||
Revision as of 05:46, 28 August 2007
A Microbial Biorealm page on the genus Entamoeba histolytica
Classification
Higher order taxa
Cellular organisms; Eukaryota; Entamoebidae; Entamoeba
Species
Entamoeba histolytica
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NCBI: [1] Taxonomy |
Description and Significance
Entamoeba histolytica is an anaerobic parasitic protozoan that infects the digestive tracts of predominantly humans and other primates. E. histolytica can infect dogs and cats, but these animals do not contribute significantly to transmission since they usually do not produce cysts. Cysts are the viable form of the parasite outside the host. Cysts are shed with the host's feces; they can be transmitted in water, soils and on foods under moist conditions. The active stage of the parasite is called the trophozoite, which only survives in the host and in fresh feces.
The infection of E. histolytica causes the disease, Amebiasis (a.k.a. Amoebiasis).
Describe the appearance, habitat, etc. of the organism, and why it is important enough to have its genome sequenced. Describe how and where it was isolated. Include a picture or two (with sources) if you can find them.
Genome structure
Describe the size and content of the genome. How many chromosomes? Circular or linear? Other interesting features? What is known about its sequence? Does it have any plasmids? Are they important to the organism's lifestyle?
Cell structure and metabolism
Describe any interesting features and/or cell structures; how it gains energy; what important molecules it produces.
Ecology
Describe any interactions with other organisms (included eukaryotes), contributions to the environment, effect on environment, etc.
Pathology
How does this organism cause disease? Human, animal, plant hosts? Virulence factors, as well as patient symptoms.
Application to Biotechnology
Does this organism produce any useful compounds or enzymes? What are they and how are they used?
Current Research
Enter summaries of the most recent research here--at least three required
References
Edited by Louisa Lee student of Rachel Larsen
