Abstract:

By summarizing the characteristics of morphology and structure, formation and degradation of Schistosoma japonicum hemozoin in its gut, this review proposes that the formation of S. japonicum hemozoin is not the way to detoxify toxic heme from metabolisim of hemoglobin, but rather serves to transport iron to eggs to meet the need for iron during egg development. Current understanding of the morphology and formation as well as biological significance of S. japonicum hemozoin are also summarized.

Key words: Schistosoma japonicum, Hemozoin, Iron