Acanthamoeba is an evolutionary ancestor of macrophages: A myth or reality?

Document Type

Article

Department

Biological and Biomedical Sciences

Abstract

Given the remarkable similarities in cellular structure (morphological and ultra-structural features). molecular motility, biochemical physiology, ability to capture prey by phagocytosis and interactions with microbial pathogens, here we pose the question whether Acanthamoeba and macrophages are evolutionary related. This is discussed in the light of evolution and functional aspects such as the astonishing resemblance of many bacteria to infect and multiply inside human macrophages and amoebae in analogous ways. Further debate and studies will determine if Acanthamoeba is an evolutionary ancestor of macrophages. Is this a myth or reality?

Publication (Name of Journal)

Experimental Parasitology

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS