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Site selection by Microphallus pygmaeus Levinsen, 1881 (Trematoda: Microphallidae) in the laboratory mouse
Abstract:
When Microphallus pygmaeus Levinsen, 1881 was inoculated orally to laboratory mice, most specimens, failed to attach to the intestinal wall and passed out rapidly with the faeces. Those which did settle were distributed more or less evenly throughout the small intestine by 4 h after inoculation. By day 1 after inoculation the worms had developed to oviposition and most were found in the ileum. By 2 days after inoculation all worms were established, and they remained in this region where they grew and continued egg production with very little further mortality until day 6 after inoculation. Thereafter, gravid worms progressively detached and passed rapidly through the caecum, colon, and rectum with the faeces. All parasites had been voided by about day 12 inoculation. In spite of high mortality, distribution in the small intestine is also affected by the site of implantation.
Insights
Microphallus pygmaeus worms showed high mortality in mice, with survivors establishing in the ileum for egg production. Most parasites were eliminated within 12 days, indicating limited establishment success.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Helminthology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Microphallus pygmaeus is a digenean trematode parasite.
- Understanding parasite establishment and lifecycle in a host is crucial for disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the establishment, distribution, and lifecycle of Microphallus pygmaeus in laboratory mice.
Main Methods:
- Oral inoculation of Microphallus pygmaeus into laboratory mice.
- Monitoring parasite distribution and development over 12 days post-inoculation.
Main Results:
- High initial mortality of Microphallus pygmaeus specimens.
- Successful establishment and oviposition in the ileum by day 1 post-inoculation.
- Parasite elimination completed by day 12, with significant mortality throughout.
Conclusions:
- Microphallus pygmaeus exhibits limited success in establishing in laboratory mice.
- The ileum is the primary site for parasite establishment and egg production.
- The lifecycle in mice is short, with rapid elimination of most parasites.