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Skin penetration by Necator americanus larvae
Zeitschrift Fur Parasitenkunde (Berlin, Germany)
|January 1, 1982
Summary
Necator americanus larvae penetrate human skin via mechanical force and an enzyme. Lipid removal impacts larval invasion and exsheathment, suggesting enzyme activity aids epidermal passage.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Dermatology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Necator americanus is a hookworm species that infects humans, causing significant morbidity.
- Understanding larval skin penetration is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro mechanisms of Necator americanus larval skin penetration.
- To identify factors influencing larval invasion and exsheathment.
- To characterize the enzymatic activity involved in epidermal passage.
Main Methods:
- In vitro human skin penetration assays with Necator americanus larvae.
- Lipid extraction using chloroform to assess its effect on invasion and exsheathment.
- Enzyme activity assays using azocoll substrate at varying temperatures and pH.
Main Results:
- Larvae penetrated human skin from both epidermal and dermal directions, causing cellular destruction.
- Chloroform-soluble skin lipids influenced both the percentage of invading larvae and exsheathment.
- An enzyme released by larvae showed optimal activity at 37°C and pH 8.
Conclusions:
- Initial larval skin invasion appears to be a mechanical process.
- An identified enzyme is likely functional in facilitating passage through epidermal germinal layers.
- Skin lipids play a role in modulating Necator americanus larval penetration and exsheathment.