Ultrastructural study of entry of Chlamydia strain TWAR into HeLa cells

Abstract

Ultrastructural studies of the entry of Chlamydia strain TWAR into HeLa cells showed that the elementary bodies first attach to host cells by the pointed end, secure other binding sites on the host cells by forming cell wall protrusions, enter host cells by invaginating the host cell membrane, and form vacuolated endocytic vesicles. Differences were demonstrated between TWAR and other chlamydiae in the mode of attachment and endocytosis.