Merozoite
Merozoite
Merozoite (pronunciation: /mɛrˈɒzɔɪt/) is a term used in the field of parasitology to describe a specific stage in the life cycle of apicomplexan parasites.
Etymology
The term "merozoite" is derived from the Greek words "meros" (part) and "zoon" (animal). It was first used in the late 19th century to describe the reproductive stage of certain parasites.
Definition
A merozoite is the result of asexual reproduction (also known as schizogony) in the life cycle of apicomplexan parasites. After invading a host cell, the parasite multiplies inside the cell, producing multiple merozoites. These merozoites then burst out of the host cell and are free to invade other cells.
Related Terms
- Apicomplexa: A large phylum of parasitic protozoans, many of which have complex life cycles involving both sexual and asexual reproduction. Merozoites are a stage in the life cycle of these parasites.
- Schizogony: A form of asexual reproduction in which a cell or organism divides into several identical individuals. In the case of apicomplexan parasites, this results in the production of merozoites.
- Sporozoite: Another stage in the life cycle of apicomplexan parasites. Sporozoites are formed in the oocysts and are the infective stage of the parasite.
- Trophozoite: The active, feeding stage of a protozoan parasite. In the case of apicomplexan parasites, the trophozoite stage precedes the formation of merozoites.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Merozoite
- Wikipedia's article - Merozoite
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