The Formation of Filopodium-Like Processes by Trypanosoma (Trypanozoon) Brucei

Abstract

Bloodstream forms of Trypanosoma (Trypanozoon) brucei were observed in Vitro to possess long filaments arising from both the posterior end and the tip of the flagellum, and also to become attached to various substrates, including themselves. The filaments were examined by negative staining and thin-section techniques and found to have a structure resembling filopodia. However, as their functional significance is still questionable, their designation as filopodia must be considered provisional. The possible functions of these structures, such as mediation of attachment, and release of antigenic material, are discussed.