Studies on the effect of entamoeba histolytica on vero cell culture

ABSTRACT

Isolates of Entamoeba histolytica trophozoites from patients at Qalyoub General Hospital [Egypt] were tested for their cytopathogenic effect [CPE] using Vero cell tissue culture technique. The cytolysis of Vero cells by E. histolytica was rapid-dependent event, that appears to involve the penetration of cell mebrane of the Vero cells and reach the nuclear membrane of these cells during 6-12 hours. The LD50 ranged from 10[-2.6] to 10[-2.3]. No CPE was evident at [0.6 ug/ml] concentration of treated E. histolytica trophozoites with metronidazole seeded on Vero cells, the CPE was seen after 6-24 hours. High temperature [60°C] did not affect the action of endotoxin of Entamoeba on Vero cells, as CPE was seen after 3-24 hours suggesting that toxins were heat stable. E. histolytica, trophozoites [6-12] hours after incubation with Vero cells treated with hydrocortisone showed reduction and inhibition of killing target Vero cells by lysed amoebae