Conclusions
Cells derived from DG (but not SK) primary cultures of B. tenagophila Taim may participate in S. mansoni sporocyst control.
Methods
The digestive gland- and kidney-derived cells from primary cultures of resistant (B. tenagophila Taim) and susceptible (B. tenagophila HM and B. glabrata BH) strains of Biomphalaria were exposed to S. mansoni sporocysts.
Results
S. mansoni sporocysts were surrounded and encapsulated exclusively by cells derived from the digestive gland (DG) of B. tenagophila Taim. The process was followed by a marked decrease in the number of free sporocysts in the culture medium. The morphological characteristics of DG-derived cells in culture have been described. Conclusions: Cells derived from DG (but not SK) primary cultures of B. tenagophila Taim may participate in S. mansoni sporocyst control.