Biochemical and histopathological alterations in golden hamster during infection with Ancylostoma ceylanicum

Ancylostoma ceylanicum infection in golden hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) caused marked biochemical and histopathological derangements. Jejunum, the primary site of infection, showed pronounced alterations compared with liver. Though the biochemical composition of jejunum was not significantly altered, activities of a few lysosomal enzymes were enhanced during hookworm infection. Marked damage to mitochondrial and microsomal membranes was reflected in changes in the activities of the marker enzymes from jejunal tissue. Lipid content, especially phospholipids and neutral lipids of hepatic tissue, exhibited marked elevation. Levels of hexokinase, phosphofructokinase, and lactate dehydrogenase were enhanced in jejunal as well as hepatic tissues, indicating activation of the glycolytic machinery during hookworm infection. A decrease in the levels of mucosal disaccharidases indicated damage to intestinal brush border membranes. However, alkaline phosphatase activity was increased in intestinal mucosa during the infection. Light microscopic examination of jejunal tissue revealed peeling off of the upper epithelial layer, activation of the goblet cells, and thickening of muscularis mucosa. However, hepatic tissue did not show gross alterations, except for slight necrosis in the centrilobular region.