Apicomplexan

Apicomplexa is a large phylum of parasitic protozoa. Most species are obligate parasites, and have complex life cycles that involve multiple hosts and different developmental stages. The name of the group is derived from the complex of organelles found in the apical part of the cell that are involved in penetrating the host's cells.

Characteristics

Apicomplexans are characterized by a unique set of organelles located at the apical end of the cell, known as the apical complex. This complex is involved in penetrating the host's cells and includes structures such as conoid, rhoptries, micronemes, and dense granules.

Life cycle

The life cycle of apicomplexans is complex and involves multiple hosts and different developmental stages. The typical life cycle includes sexual reproduction in the definitive host and asexual reproduction in the intermediate host. Some species also have a stage of sporogony, where the zygote develops into sporozoites.

Taxonomy

The phylum Apicomplexa includes several important human pathogens, such as the malaria parasite Plasmodium and the toxoplasmosis parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Other notable genera include Cryptosporidium, Cyclospora, and Eimeria.

Pathogenesis

Apicomplexans are responsible for a number of important diseases in humans and animals. These include malaria, caused by Plasmodium species; toxoplasmosis, caused by Toxoplasma gondii; and cryptosporidiosis, caused by Cryptosporidium species.

Treatment and prevention

Treatment of apicomplexan infections depends on the specific parasite and disease. For example, malaria is typically treated with antimalarial drugs, while toxoplasmosis is treated with a combination of antibiotics and antiparasitic drugs. Prevention strategies include vector control and vaccination, where available.

See also

• Protozoa
• Parasitology
• Malaria
• Toxoplasmosis

Apicomplexan Resources
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