Ameboflagellate transformation I. Possible initiation of the ameba-to-flagellate transformation of Naegleria gruberi (NB-1) by divalent cation influx

Abstract

The hypothesis that the ameba-to-flagellate transformation (AFT) of Naegleria gruberi (NB-I) requires Ca 2+ and/or Mg 2 ' was tested with divalent cation blockers and competitors. Several compounds were found to decrease the rate and magnitude of the AFT as well as increasing the time of enflagellation onset. The compounds include: the chloride salts of lanthanum, cobalt, and manganese; C-6oo; and EDTA. These results suggest that the AFT requires the influx of Ca 2+ and/ or Mg 2 +.