ABSTRACT
Entamoeba histolytica trophozoites are invasive cells capable of tissue penetration and production of intestinal ulcers and lesions in several tissues of human hosts, all characterized foremost by extensive necrosis. This chapter aims to evaluate progress in the structural, biochemical, and molecular characterization of Entamoeba histolytica trophozoites. The capacity of invasive amebas to damage cells and penetrate solid organs is a multifactorial process requiring as a first step surface contact between trophozoites and targets. The interaction is mediated by specific molecules present in the parasite with the subsequent lysis of target cells or substrates. The study of amebic surface molecules, their role in adherence, cell lysis, tissue invasion, and their potential to trigger the humoral and cellular immune response of the host, is of great importance to understand pathogenicity.
