Abstract

The development of Trypanosoma cruzi is determined by particular attributes as changes in shape probably connected to variations in density population. In this work, we approach this topic by the study of the ultrastructural transformations of T. cruzi in axenic cultures. Results indicate T. cruzi growth reaching the maximum population peak on day 19th and a continuous population decrease from day 21. Also, point out a continuous reduction in the glucose concentration of the culture medium; however, glucose does not disappear completely. In addition, the results show that the ultrastructural characteristics of the T. cruzi epimastigotes vary as the time of culture goes by. The changes include mitochondrial and nuclear modifications, as well as dispersion of mitochondrial profiles, nuclear-compacted heterochromatin, and an increasing number of autophagic vacuoles. Subcellular changes described in this work could represent a T. cruzi adaptable answer
induced by the culture medium conditions.