Metabolic changes in Biomphalaria glabrata infected with Schistosoma mansoni exposed to latex of Euphoria milii solution versus times of preparation
Résumé
In order to establish how long after the first application of the latex of Euphorbia milii it remains with activity on the metabolic pathways of molluscs host, this study aimed to screen the effects of latex exposure from 24 hours until 35 days after exposure to the latex solution to check how long the solution exhibits harmful effects on the carbohydrate metabolism and on the nitrogen excretion products of molluscs. Snails exposed to the solution presented a reduction of the glycogen levels in the tissues analyzed and changes in the ways of excreting nitrogen and the concentration of total proteins in the hemolymph, an effect that was strongest in the groups exposed up to 14 days after preparation of the solution. In both cases, the glycogen concentrations and the nitrogen excretions products in the treated groups only returned near the levels in the control groups from the 21 days onwards, but there were still statistically significant differences. These results contribute to the optimization of the use of this product as a molluscicide of natural origin and the development of protocols for control of schistosomiasis.