SCHIZONT Meaning and
Definition
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A schizont refers to a developmental stage of certain protozoan parasites in their life cycle. Specifically, schizonts are observed in the phylum Apicomplexa, which encompasses pathogenic organisms such as Plasmodium, the causative agent of malaria, and Toxoplasma gondii, responsible for toxoplasmosis. The term "schizont" originated from the Greek word "schizo," meaning to split or divide, indicating the characteristic splitting or division of the parasite's nucleus during this stage.
Schizonts represent an intermediate stage in the replication process of these parasites. They are typically found within the host organism, where they multiply through asexual reproduction. During this stage, the schizont undergoes multiple nuclear divisions, resulting in the formation of numerous daughter nuclei, also known as merozoites. These merozoites are subsequently released from the schizont and invade new host cells, perpetuating the infection.
In malaria, schizonts can be found within the red blood cells, causing their rupture and the consequent release of merozoites that infect new cells. This cycle of schizogony, which involves the formation and release of schizonts, contributes to the periodic febrile episodes associated with malaria.
Understanding the characteristics and life cycle stages of schizonts is crucial for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases caused by Apicomplexa parasites.
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An adult protozoon of the asexual cycle which produces only isospores developing into adult forms without conjugation.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SCHIZONT
Etymology of SCHIZONT
The term "schizont" is derived from the Greek word "skhizo", which means "to split" or "to divide". In biology, a schizont refers to a stage in the life cycle of certain parasites, such as the malaria parasite, where it undergoes a series of divisions or schizogony to produce multiple daughter cells. The suffix "-ont" is commonly used in biology to denote a living organism or entity.
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