The analysis of the genetic variability related to susceptibility
to
Schistosoma mansoni
infection in the vector of the genus
Biomphalaria
is important in terms of a better understanding of the epidemiology of schistosomiasis
itself, the possible pathological implications of this interaction in vertebrate
hosts, and the formulation of new strategies and approaches for disease
control. In the present study, the genetic variability of
B. glabrata
strains found to be resistant or susceptible to
S. mansoni
infection was investigated using DNA amplification by random amplified polymorphic
DNA-polymerase chain reaction (RAPD-PCR). The amplification products were
analyzed on 8% polyacrylamide gel and stained with silver. We selected 10
primers, since they have previously been useful to detect polymorphism among
B. glabrata
and/or
B. tenagophila.
The results showed polymorphisms with 5 primers. Polymorphic bands observed
only in the susceptible strain. The RAPD-PCR methodology represents an adequate
approach for the analysis of genetic polymorphisms. The understanding of
the genetic polymorphisms associated to resistance may contribute to the
future identification of genomic sequences related to the resistance/susceptibility
of
Biomphalaria
to the larval forms of S. mansoni and to the development of new strategies
for the control of schistosomiasis.
