The infective form of microsporidian pathogens is a tiny spore (about 2-10 microns in length, depending on the species). Typically, when the spores are ingested by the host, they ‘germinate’ in a unique way. Inside each spore is a coiled filament that is attached to one end of the spore. This filament everts quickly from the spore and injects a host gut cell, pouring the contents of the spore (nucleus, membranes, etc.) into the host cell cytoplasm. The microsporidium then begins to reproduce and spreads through the host tissues. New infective spores are produced 4-9 days after the initial infection.
- Lee Solter, University of Illinois
Bee Informed Partnership