The kinetoplast is a unique and defining organelle of the order Kinetoplastida, which includes Trypanosoma and Leishmania. It is a specialized region of the single, large mitochondrion of these parasites, located near the base of the flagellum. Its primary function is to house the mitochondrial DNA (kDNA). Unlike typical mitochondrial DNA, kDNA is organized as a massive network of interlocked circular DNA molecules (maxicircles and minicircles). The kinetoplast is essential for mitochondrial function and energy production via oxidative phosphorylation, which is particularly important during stages of the parasite's life cycle that occur in the insect vector (where oxygen is more available). It is also involved in the editing of mitochondrial RNA. The close association of the kinetoplast with the basal body of the flagellum suggests a coordination of locomotion and energy metabolism.

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Zambia

• Naomi Miselo – 31 pts

• Visual Pathway Lesions
• Positive and Negative Symptoms
• Hallucinations and Delusions
• Antipsychotic Medications
• Emergency: Environmental Emergencies