Schematic 3D view of the phases of interaction of the amastigote form of <i>T. cruzi</i> with vertebrate cells (macrophage).

<p>(A) In this example, attachment of the amastigote form to the macrophage surface is observed to initiate the process of internalization via phagocytosis. (B) The formation of pseudopods is followed by the formation of a parasitophorous vacuole (C). The lysosomes fuse with the parasitophorous vacuole and discharge their contents. (D) Subsequent digestion of the parasitophorous vacuole membrane occurs. (E) Note that the amastigote is released into the cytoplasm of the host cell and divides several times (F). (G) Following division, the amastigotes transform in trypomastigotes, which display intense and constant movement. (H) Finally, the host cell bursts and the parasites are released into the extracellular space and reach the bloodstream. These images were made based on micrographs of transmission electron microscopy and video microscopy.