FIG 6.

Cytoskeleton is gradually disrupted during parasite infection. Shown are scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of Vero cells treated with Triton X-100-based solution containing phalloidin and paclitaxel (to stabilize cytoskeleton filaments). Images represent the gradual cytoskeleton disruption during the parasite lytic cycle. (A) Noninfected cell with dense meshwork of cytoskeleton. (B) Infected cell at the amastigote stage showing a less dense meshwork. (C) Infected cell with parasites at the trypomastigote stage showing the lack of an overlaying meshwork. It is possible to visualize actin filaments forming a peripheral cage surrounding the trypomastigotes. Zoom images (right panels) show loss of cytoskeleton of infected cells. Blue arrowheads show parasite sites with less or no cytoskeleton, and white arrowheads show preserved cytoskeleton filaments.