An increased DNA polymerase activity associated with virulence of Toxoplasma gondii

J Parasitol. 1995 Dec;81(6):1021-2.

Abstract

DNA polymerase activity of the virulent RH strain of Toxoplasma gondii was significantly higher than that of the avirulent ME49 strain, whereas sensitivity of the activities of both strains to salt, Mg2+, and inhibitors of mammalian DNA polymerases were almost the same. It is suggested that this increased enzyme activity of the virulent strain contributes to a faster rate of multiplication of the organisms as compared with that of the avirulent strain.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • DNA-Directed DNA Polymerase / drug effects
  • DNA-Directed DNA Polymerase / metabolism*
  • Magnesium Chloride / pharmacology
  • Potassium Chloride / pharmacology
  • Toxoplasma / enzymology*
  • Toxoplasma / pathogenicity*
  • Virulence / physiology

Substances

  • Magnesium Chloride
  • Potassium Chloride
  • DNA-Directed DNA Polymerase