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Growth changes induced by gamma radiation on Biomphalaria straminea (Dunker, 1848)
M A Motta1, M T Catanho, A M Melo
1Departamento de Biofísica e Radiobiologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, 50670-420, Brasil. motta@npd.ufpe.br
Memorias Do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz
|December 10, 1999
Summary
Gamma radiation exposure increased snail growth. Doses of 20 Gy and 80 Gy significantly enhanced shell diameter in Biomphalaria straminea, suggesting potential applications for schistosomiasis control.
Area of Science:
- Radiation Biology
- Malacology
- Parasitology
Background:
- Biomphalaria straminea snails are intermediate hosts for Schistosoma mansoni, the parasite causing schistosomiasis.
- Understanding factors influencing snail growth is crucial for developing effective schistosomiasis control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of varying doses of 60Co gamma radiation on the growth of Biomphalaria straminea snails.
- To explore potential applications of radiation-induced growth changes in schistosomiasis control.
Main Methods:
- 1,080 Biomphalaria straminea snails were exposed to a range of 60Co gamma radiation doses (2.5–640 Gy).
- Snails were divided into groups of 30, with half in colonies (cross-fertilization) and half in isolation (self-fertilization).
- Shell diameter was measured daily for one month to assess growth.
Main Results:
- Doses of 20 Gy and 80 Gy resulted in increased shell diameter compared to controls after 30 days.
- The 20 Gy dose produced the largest snail size among isolated groups.
- The observed growth enhancement was more pronounced in isolated snails, suggesting a potential hormonal influence.
Conclusions:
- Gamma radiation, particularly at 20 Gy and 80 Gy, can stimulate shell growth in Biomphalaria straminea.
- The findings suggest a possible hormonal mechanism underlying radiation-induced growth.
- Further research is warranted to explore the application of these findings in schistosomiasis control programs.