Effects of AIBL on Oncomelania hupensis, the intermediate snail host of Schistosoma japonicum: an enzyme histochemical study.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effect of AIBL on Oncomelania hupensis, the intermediate snail host of Schistosoma japonicum.

METHODS

The enzyme histochemical profiles of cholinesterase, cytochrome oxidase, lactate dehydrogenase, nitric oxide synthase, and succinate dehydrogenase in the soft tissues of Oncomelania hupensis, the intermediate host snail of Schistosoma japonicum, were analyzed before and after treatment with the active ingredient of Buddleia lindleyana (AIBL), a potent and safe plant molluscicide.

RESULTS

Treatment with AIBL induced a notable decrease in the activities of the five enzymes (P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that AIBL impairs the activities of the enzymes, thereby influencing the transfer of neurotransmitter and energy supply in Oncomelania hupensis and ultimately harming their various physiological functions, which are considered to cause death of the species.