Relationship between the pathogenicity of Schistosoma mansoni in mice and the susceptibility of the vector mollusc: I. Cercariae infectivity and worm burden

Abstract

The possible influence of the immune mechanisms of the molluscs on the developmente of the sporocysts and the resultant behavior of the adult worm in the vertebrate host were studied. Two strains of Schistosoma mansoni (BH and SJ) were used. These were genetically selected for their susceptibility and maintained, respectively, in Biomphalaria glabrata and Biomphalaria tenegophila, the natural invertebrate hosts. Experimental groups of mice infected with cercariae proceeding from the two species of molluscs, belonging to generations P, F1 F2, F3 and F4, were formed. The infection rates of the snails, the number of the penetrant cercariae and the worm burden in mice were evaluated. It was concluded that the higher susceptibility of Biomphalaria tenagophila results in a greater ability on the part of the cercarial to develop into adult worms. The higher susceptibility of B. glabrata results in greater power of penetration into mice tegument on the part of the cercariae.