Axenic growth of oncospheres of Hymenolepis citelli (Cestoda) to fully developed cysticerocoids.

Cysticercoids of the cestode Hymenolepis citelli were grown axenically in vitro from the oncosphere to stages infective for the mammalian host. Reducing agents were an essential component of the culture medium. Of several reducing agents tested, L-cysteine was the most effective. Concentration of reducing agent was critical in that excessive amounts induced abnormal growth.