In vitro evaluation of the activity of Entamoeba histolytica studies on motility.

The tube migration test for leukocyte function studies has been modified to test the motility of Entamoeba histolytica. The test was more sensitive to the effect of antiamebic drugs than was a test for phagocytic activity. A 50% reduction in amebic motility was seen instantly after exposure to metronidazole (40 mg/l). A similar reduction of phagocytosis at the same concentration of the drug was seen only after two hours' preexposure. The extent of amebic migration in the test tube is dependent on factors such as concentration of parasites, temperature and incubation time. The tube migration test is cheap and simple and could be a valuable supplement to existing screening methods for potential antiamebic drugs.