Acanthamoeba is an evolutionary ancestor of macrophages: A myth or reality?

Given the remarkable similarities in cellular structure (morphological and ultra-structural features). molecular motility, biochemical physiology, ability to capture prey by phagocytosis and interactions with microbial pathogens, here we pose the question whether Acanthamoeba and macrophages are evolutionary related. This is discussed in the light of evolution and functional aspects such as the astonishing resemblance of many bacteria to infect and multiply inside human macrophages and amoebae in analogous ways. Further debate and studies will determine if Acanthamoeba is an evolutionary ancestor of macrophages. Is this a myth or reality? (C) 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.