The Culture Technology for the Transforming Parasite-Theileria Annulata Schizont-Infected Cells: Past-Present-Perspective.

Abstract

PURPOSE: The cell culture technology for Theileria annulata schizont-infected cells plays a vital role in basic research and control of bovine theileriosis. T. annulata is an intracellular parasite transmitted by some species of ticks. METHODS: Unlike other Apicomplexa parasites, T. annulata can infect and transform host B cells, dendritic cells and macrophages, further induce the transformed cells yield some cancer-like phenotypes. The attenuated parasites were obtained through in vitro culture technology, which can effectively prevent T. annulata infection. RESULTS: The cell culture has evolved from initial adherent culture to rolling bottle culture and then to suspension culture at present. In addition, the suspension culture has also been upgraded from basic serum-containing culture to serum-free culture. CONCLUSION: This paper highlights the past, present and perspective about the cell culture technology with T. annulata schizont-infected cells, which will strongly underpin application of T. annulata vaccines and control of the parasite in the future.