On the anatomy and function of the cephalic structures in Phractura (Siluriformes: Amphiliidae), with comments on some striking homoplasies occurring between the Doumeinae and some loricaroid catfishes
Diogo, R.; Oliveira, C.; Chardon, M. (2000). On the anatomy and function of the cephalic structures in Phractura (Siluriformes: Amphiliidae), with comments on some striking homoplasies occurring between the Doumeinae and some loricaroid catfishes. Belg. J. Zool. 130(2): 117-130
In: Belgian Journal of Zoology. Koninklijke Belgische Vereniging voor Dierkunde = Société royale zoologique de Belgique: Gent. ISSN 0777-6276; e-ISSN 2295-0451, more
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| Authors | | Top |
- Diogo, R., more
- Oliveira, C.
- Chardon, M.
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| Abstract |
Results obtained with the model Trichobilharzia ocellata-Lymnaea stagnalis confirm the hypothesis that schistosome parasites evoke physiological effects in their snail host-castration and giant growth-by interferring with neuroendocrine systems (NES) regulating the physiological pracesses concerned. In the haemolymph of the snail host a factor, called schistosomin ,was found acting at both the central and the peripheral parts of NES involved in regulation of reproduction and growth.Schistosomin appears to be a host-derived factor, propably released by haemocytes and by cells in the connective tissue. It meets the criteria of being a cytokine-like factor, which accounts for its interference with NES. Furthermore, The physiological caused by schistosomes in the snail host resemble aspecific stress responses in mammals, e.g. upon a bacterial challenge. |
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