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Evidence for host-induced selection in Schistosoma mansoni
The Journal of Parasitology
|June 1, 1985
Summary
Schistosoma mansoni genetic diversity decreases when passaged in mice, losing alleles. Non-human primate hosts like baboons preserve higher parasite variability, indicating host-induced selection impacts parasite genetics.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Genetics
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Schistosoma mansoni, a significant human parasite, exhibits genetic variation.
- Previous studies noted genetic differences in S. mansoni populations adapted to different hosts (baboons vs. mice).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of vertebrate host-induced selection in shaping S. mansoni genetic diversity.
- To determine if host passage influences allele frequencies and genetic polymorphism.
Main Methods:
- A Kenyan S. mansoni isolate was passaged through mice for four generations.
- Allele frequencies of four polymorphic loci (PGM-2, MDH-2, MDH-1, PGI) were analyzed using horizontal starch gel electrophoresis at each generation.
Main Results:
- All four polymorphic loci showed a trend towards allele frequencies similar to a long-term mouse-adapted strain.
- Parasite populations passaged through mice exhibited a decrease in genetic variability, with allele loss observed.
Conclusions:
- Vertebrate host-induced selection significantly reduces genetic variability in S. mansoni populations during mouse passage.
- Non-human primate hosts, such as baboons, are more effective in maintaining higher levels of parasite genetic diversity.