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Published on: January 14, 2018
Studies on Hymenolepis microstoma in vitro. II. Effect of yeast extract on development and maturation
Abstract:
Four day old in vivo Hymenolepis microstoma were cultured in vitro for 6 days in media containing 2, 1, 0.5 and 0.1% yeast extract. Worms from all groups including control group increased in length and produced nearly equivalent numbers of proglottids. However, worms grown in yeast extract added media produced significantly more mature proglottids and were heavier than those in the control medium. The possibility of pyridoxin involvement has been contemplated. Effects of osmotic pressure and pH on the development of worms are discussed.
Insights
Yeast extract supplementation in vitro significantly enhanced the development of Hymenolepis microstoma, leading to more mature proglottids and increased weight. This suggests yeast extract is crucial for parasite growth and maturation.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Invertebrate Zoology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Hymenolepis microstoma is a common tapeworm parasite.
- Understanding factors influencing parasite development is crucial for controlling parasitic infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of yeast extract concentration on the in vitro development of Hymenolepis microstoma.
- To assess the impact of yeast extract on worm growth, proglottid production, and maturation.
Main Methods:
- Four-day-old Hymenolepis microstoma were cultured in vitro for 6 days.
- Cultures were maintained in media with varying yeast extract concentrations (2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.1%) and a control group.
- Measurements included worm length, proglottid number, proglottid maturity, and worm weight.
Main Results:
- All worms increased in length and produced similar numbers of proglottids across all groups.
- Worms cultured in media with yeast extract showed significantly more mature proglottids compared to the control.
- Worms in yeast extract supplemented media exhibited significantly greater weight than control worms.
Conclusions:
- Yeast extract positively influences the maturation and overall biomass of Hymenolepis microstoma in vitro.
- The findings suggest a potential role for pyridoxine and highlight the importance of nutrient availability and environmental factors (osmotic pressure, pH) in parasite development.
