Parasite Cell Division

Question 1

How do Entamoeba and Trypanosoma brucei differ in nuclei and DNA?

Answer 1

Entamoeba: Varying numbers of nuclei and DNA amounts.
Trypanosoma brucei: Single nucleus with single-copy organelles that must be accurately replicated

Question 2

Compare the chromosomes and organelles in Entamoeba and Trypanosoma brucei

Answer 2

Entamoeba: Likely around 35 chromosomes with diverse segregation mechanisms.
Trypanosoma brucei: Single-copy organelles, no centrosomes; uses basal bodies for division

Question 3

How do the mitotic spindle and mitosis differ between Entamoeba and Trypanosoma brucei?

Answer 3

Entamoeba: Mitotic spindle can be mono, bi, or polypolar.
Trypanosoma brucei: Mitosis occurs via a lateral stacking model.

Question 4

Compare the cell cycle regulators in Entamoeba and Trypanosoma brucei.

Answer 4

Entamoeba: Some canonical regulators present but may function differently; some key regulators missing.
Trypanosoma brucei: Some conserved regulators, others have different functions; checkpoints not always conserved

Question 4

Describe the cytokinesis process in Entamoeba and Trypanosoma brucei

Answer 4

Entamoeba: Uncoupled from mitosis, can be random, assisted by a helper cell, or aborted.
Trypanosoma brucei: Furrow ingression along the cell’s length, requires microtubule remodeling

Question 5

What are the key differences in division mechanisms between Entamoeba and Trypanosoma brucei?

Answer 5

Entamoeba: Diverse mechanisms involving clusters of microtubules.
Trypanosoma brucei: Uses basal bodies for cell division and flagellum biogenesis