Screening of traditional Chinese medicine-derived snail control drug targets based on network pharmacology / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To screen the targets of traditional Chinese medicine-derived potential plant molluscicides based on network pharmacology and explore the mechanisms of molluscicidal actions. Methods The traditional Chinese medicines with molluscicidal actions were screened based on retrospective literature reviews, and their molluscicidal efficiency was summarized. The active ingredients and potential targets of traditional Chinese medicines were captured from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform, Unified Protein Database and literature mining using network pharmacology. The drug-active ingredient-target network was created using the software Cytoscape 3.7.2, and the key targets were subjected to Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis using the Metascape software. Results A total of 27 types of snail control drugs derived from traditional Chinese medicines were screened from publications and classified into 14 categories. Network pharmacology identified 190 active ingredients, and the active ingredients with a high degree in the drug-active ingredient-target network included quercetin, linoleyl acetate, luteolin, beta-carotene, (24S)-ethylcholesta-5,22,25-trans-3beta-ol, fumarine and arctiin, with 181 corresponding potential targets screened. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that these targets were mainly located in 16 pathways, including the neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions, regulation of adipocyte lipolysis and adrenergic signal in myocardial cells. Conclusions This study preliminarily demonstrates the multi-ingredient, multi-target and multi-pathway mechanisms of action of 27 molluscicides. The screened key ingredient may provide the basis for isolation, purification and pharmacological studies of molluscicides, and the screened key targets and key pathways may facilitate the illustration of mechanisms of actions of traditional Chinese medicine-derived molluscicides and development of novel green molluscicides.

Strengthening the research on novel molluscicides to accelerate the progress towards elimination of schistosomiasis / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Oncomelania hupensis is the only intermediate host of Schistosoma japonicum, and control of Oncomelania snails is an important measure to control and interrupt the transmission of schistosomiasis. Therefore, snail control plays a very critical role in the national schistosomiasis control programmes of China. Pyriclobenzuron, which was recently developed by National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, is the latest great advance in the research on molluscicides and is expected to solve the problem of toxicity to fish, which is worthy of expanding experiments.

Strengthening the research on novel molluscicides to accelerate the progress towards elimination of schistosomiasis / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Oncomelania hupensis is the only intermediate host of Schistosoma japonicum, and control of Oncomelania snails is an important measure to control and interrupt the transmission of schistosomiasis. Therefore, snail control plays a very critical role in the national schistosomiasis control programmes of China. Pyriclobenzuron, which was recently developed by National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, is the latest great advance in the research on molluscicides and is expected to solve the problem of toxicity to fish, which is worthy of expanding experiments.

Development of a natural molluscicide prototype kit (MoluSchall) for the control of schistosomiasis mansoni transmission

Abstract INTRODUCTION In Brazil, Biomphalaria glabrata, B. tenagophila, and B. straminea are intermediate hosts of Schistosoma mansoni, the etiological agent of schistosomiasis mansoni. Molluscicide use is recommended by the WHO for controlling the transmission of this parasite. Euphorbia milii latex has shown promising results as an alternative molluscicide. Thus, a natural molluscicide prototype kit based on freeze-dried E. milii latex was developed and evaluated against Biomphalaria spp. METHODS E. milii latex was collected, processed, and lyophilized. Two diluents were defined for freeze-dried latex rehydration, and a prototype kit, called MoluSchall, was produced. A stability test was conducted using prototype kits stored at different temperatures, and a toxicity assay was performed using Danio rerio. Additionally, MoluSchall was tested against B. glabrata under semi-natural conditions according to defined conditions in the laboratory. RESULTS MoluSchall was lethal to three Brazilian snail species while exhibiting low toxicity to D. rerio. Regardless of storage temperature, MoluSchall was stable for 24 months and was effective against B. glabrata under semi-natural conditions, with the same LD100 as observed under laboratory conditions. CONCLUSIONS MoluSchall is a natural, effective, and inexpensive molluscicide with lower environmental toxicity than existing molluscicides. Its production offers a possible alternative strategy for controlling S. mansoni transmission.

Advances in researches of biogenic molluscicides / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Biogenic molluscicides refer to the use of plants,animals and micro?organisms or their metabolites,and synthesis biomimetic molluscicides to kill Oncomelania hupensis snails. With the rapid development of science and technology,new bio?genic molluscicides are continuously emerging and the category also continues to expand. According to the molluscicidal active ingredient and sources,at present,the biogenic molluscicides with in?depth studies include plant?derived molluscicides,micro?organism molluscicides,microbial metabolite molluscicides and animal molluscicides. This paper reviews the advances in the re?searches of biogenic molluscicides in recent years.

Effects and cost of four formulations of niclosamide ethanolamine salt in On-comelania hupensis snail control in field / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To investigate the effects and cost of four formulations of niclosamide ethanolamine salt in Oncomela-nia hupensis snail control in the field in marshland and lake regions,so as to provide the evidence for drawing up the plan of mol-luscicide using in schistosomiasis endemic areas. Methods One drainage channel and one channel without water in the same area with snails in Jiangling County,Jingzhou City were selected as the research fields. The drainage channel was divided into 9 sections,except one section as a blank control group where the natural death rate of snails was observed only,and the remaining 8 sections were taken as the observation groups,where different dosages of 4％niclosamide ethanolamine salt powder,5％ni-closamide ethanolamine salt granules,25％ niclosamide ethanolamine salt suspending agent,26％ metaldehyde and ni-closamide ethanolamine salt suspending agent,and 50％niclosamide ethanolamine salt wettable powder were used re-spectively. The channel without water were divided into 4 sections,except one section as a blank control group,the oth-er 3 segments were taken as the observation groups,where 4％niclosamide ethanolamine salt powder,5％niclosamide ethanolamine salt granules,and 50％ niclosamide ethanolamine salt wettable powder were used respectively. Before and after spraying molluscicide for 7 days and 15 days,the system sampling method was used to observe the effects of snail control. Meanwhile,the unit cost method was used to calculate the costs of the different mulluscicide formulations abovementioned in unit area(1 m2). Results In the field at the drainage channel,the snail mortality rates of the groups spraying 4％niclosamide ethanolamine salt powder(50 g/m2),5％niclosamide ethanolamine salt granules(40 g/m2),25％ niclosamide ethanolamine suspending agent,26％ metaldehyde and niclosamide ethanolamine salt sus-pending agent,and 50％niclosamide ethanolamine salt wettable powder(2 g/m2 and 4 g/m2)for 7 days were 79.52％-97.87％,while the rates after spraying for 15 days were 71.00％-96.30％,and compared with those before spraying, the differences were statistically significant(all P<0.01). For the groups spraying with 2 g/m2 or 4 g/m2 suspending agent as well as wettable powder for 7 days,the snail mortality rates were significantly different(both P<0.05). In the field at the channel without water,the snail mortality rates of the 3 observation groups after spraying molluscicide for 7 days were 97.14％-100％,while for 15 days were 94.32％-100％,and compared with the rates before spraying,all the differences were statistically significant(all P<0.01). The unit costs per 1 m2 of the molluscicide abovementioned were ranged from 0.280 Yuan to 0.416 Yuan. Conclusions In marshland area inside embankment,the molluscicide formulations of the powder and granule are suitable for the environments without water or with instability water level , while the molluscicide formulations of the suspended agents and wettable powder are suitable for the water environment. Though the unit cost of powder is the lowest,the molluscicide in this formulation flies away seriously.

Plant extracts, metaldehyde and saline solutions on the population control of Bradybaena similaris / Extratos vegetais, metaldeído e soluções salinas para o controle populacional de Bradybaena similaris

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to test the efficiency of plant extracts, metaldehyde and saline solutions, as alternatives to the population control of the snail Bradybaena similaris , and to investigate the effect of the plant extracts in reducing the damage of the snail on Brassica oleracea . The experiments were performed at the Entomology Laboratory of the Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó (Unochapecó), using a random experimental design with nine treatments in triplicate. Five adult individuals of B. similaris were subjected to each trial, totaling 135 snails. The following treatments were tested: cinnamon ( Melia azedarach ), timbó ( Ateleia glazioveana ), rosemary ( Rosmarinus officinalis ), mate herb ( Ilex paraguariensis ), two concentrations of metaldehyde (3% and 5%), two concentrations of salt solution (5% and 10 %), and a control treatment (distilled water). To evaluate the survival of B. similaris it was checked the treatments every 24 hours, over four consecutive days. The results revealed that the two concentrations of metaldehyde were fully efficient, that the saline solution (10%) had and intermediate efficiency, and that all other treatments were not effective. The treatment with the M. azedarach extract induced a higher consumption of B. oleracea , while the saline solution at 10% and the extracts of R. officinalis and I. paraguariensis inhibited leaf consumption.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a eficiência de extratos vegetais, metaldeído e soluções salinas como alternativas para o controle populacional de Bradybaena similaris e o efeito dos extratos para a redução dos danos sobre Brassica oleracea , em condições de laboratório (Laboratório de Entomologia da Unochapecó, Chapecó, Santa Catarina). O experimento foi conduzido utilizando cinco indivíduos adultos de B. similares para cada um dos nove tratamentos em triplicatas, totalizando 135 caracóis. Os seguintes tratamentos foram testados: extrato de cinamomo ( Melia azedarach ), timbó ( Ateleia glazioveana ), alecrim ( Rosmarinus officinalis ), erva-mate ( Ilex paraguariensis ), metaldeído (3% e 5%), soluções salinas (5% e 10%) e a testemunha (água destilada). Para avaliação dos dados, foi determinada a taxa de sobrevivência de B. similaris a cada 24 horas em um período de quatro dias. Os resultados obtidos indicam que as duas concentrações de metaldeído foram eficientes, a solução salina (10%) apresentou eficiência intermediária, enquanto os demais tratamentos não foram eficazes. Observou-se que o tratamento com extrato de M. azedarach induziu a um consumo maior de B. oleracea , enquanto a solução salina a 10% e os extratos de R. officinalis e I. paraguariensis inibiram o consumo.

Oncomelania hupensis snail control effects of molluscicides with different formulations in field in marshland and lake regions / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To observe the Oncomelania hupensis snail control effects of molluscicides with different formula?tions in the ditch with unstable water level in field of marshland and lake areas,so as to provide the evidence for formulating the prevention strategies. Methods A drainage channel with O. hupensis snails in Jiangling County,Jingzhou City were selected as the study field,then it was divided into 6 segments,except 1 segment was treated as the blank control group for observing the natural mortality rate of the snails,the other 5 segments were treated as observation groups,where 4% niclosamide ethanol?amine salt powder,5%niclosamide ethanolamine salt granule,25%suspension concentrate of niclosamide ethanolamine salt, 26% suspension concentrate of metaldehyde and niclosamide ethanolamine salt,50% niclosamide ethanolamine salt wettable powder were applied respectively. Before and after the mollusciciding,the snail surveys were carried out through the systematic sampling method,and the short?and long?term effects of snail control were observed,and the mortality rates of the snails on the slope above the water level and those below the water level were compared. Results When 7 d and 15 d after mullusciciding, the mortality rates of snails on the slope above the water level in each observation group were 79.52%-97.87% and 90.43%-96.30%,respectively,when compared with those before mollusciciding,all the differences were statistically significant(all P<0.01). When 7 d after mullusciciding,the mortality rates of snails below the water level in each observation group were 17.11%-50.00%,which were all lower than those of the snails on the slope above the water level in the corresponding groups(all P<0.05);when 15 d after mullusciciding,the rates were 9.43%-95.24%,and those in 25%suspension concentrate of niclosamide ethanolamine salt,26%suspension concentrate of metaldehyde and niclosamide ethanolamine salt,50%niclosamide ethanol?amine salt wettable powder groups were all lower than those of the snails on the slope above the water level in the corresponding groups(all P<0.01). Compared with the densities of living snails before mollusciciding,those 6 months after mollusciciding in each observation group decreased by 70.21%-78.98%. Conclusions The molluscicides in the formulation of powders and granule are suitable for both the snail environment with or without water,while those in the formulation of suspension agents and wettable powders are suitable only for environments with water.

Development and application of Jingcen DY-1 spraying tanker for Oncome-lania hupensis snail control / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To develop a Jingcen DY?1 type spraying tanker for Oncomelania hupensis snail control and evaluate its effect of field application as well as the cost. Methods The currently available tractor was used as a vector,and the mechan?ical and electrical equipments and containers were integrated with shafts,pipelines and electric lines to produce a spraying tank?er for snail control,with the functions of carrying people and molluscicides,generating electric power and getting water,mixing stocking solutions,adjusting molluscicide solutions evenly,and spraying drugs. The volume of the molluscicide solution,flow rate of water injection,and the flow rate,range and advance speed of the spray gun were tested,and the solution concentrations of molluscicide in the tanker and at the muzzle of the spray gun at different time were detected. Meanwhile,the molluscicidal ef?fect and cost of the spraying tanker were analyzed by the field test. Results The volume of the liquid storage pot of the Jingcen DY?1 type spraying tanker was 1 800 L,the flow rate of water injection was 400 L/min,the flow rate and the spray range of the standard spray gun were 110-200 L/min and 19.70-23.50 m,respectively,the efficiency of drug spraying of the spraying tanker was 6 000 m2/h,and the ratio of spray width(m)to march speed(m/min)was 1∶200. When 5 min post mother liquid recirculat?ing ,the average concentration of the molluscicide at the upper? ,middle? and lower?layers of the liquid storage pot was (1 030.39 ± 43.00)mg/L,with a variation coefficient of 4.17%. The average concentration of the molluscicide in the spraying process(spraying for 2,4,6,8,9 min)was(953.00 ± 68.87)mg/L,with a variation coefficient of 7.22%. The concentration of the residual drug in the liquid storage pot post spraying was 1 000.43 mg/L,which reached the effect concentration for snail con?trol. After spraying for 7 days in the field,the average density of living snails reduced by 88.20% as compared to that before spraying,and the adjusted mortality of snails was 87.65%. The unit cost of Jingcen DY?1 spraying tanker was 0.086 7 Yuan/m2, which reduced by 58.20% as compared to that of the conventional spraying tanker. Conclusions Jingcen DY?1 type spraying tanker for snail control which integrates various equipments together can effectively control the concentration and dose of the mol?luscicide,and the machine is labor?saving,efficient,economic and well adapted,and is worthy to be widely applied.

Evaluation of the toxicity and molluscicidal and larvicidal activities of Schinopsis brasiliensis stem bark extract and its fractions

Dengue fever and schistosomiasis are major public health issues for which vector control using larvicide and molluscicide substances present in plants provides a promising strategy. This study evaluated the potential toxicity of the extract of hydroethanol Schinopsis brasiliensis Engl., Anacardiaceae, stem bark and its chloroform, hexane, ethyl acetate, and hydromethanol fractions against Artemia salina and Aedes Aegypti larvae and snails Biomphalaria glabrata. All of the assays were performed in triplicate and the mean mortality rates were used to determine the LC50 and LC90 values using the probit method. The hydroethanol hydromethanol extract and fraction were free of toxicity towards A. salina (LC50 > 1000 µg/ml), while chloroform fraction was moderately toxic (LC50 313 µg/ml); ethyl acetate and hexane fractions displayed low toxicity, with LC50 557 and 582 µg/ml, respectively. Chloroform, hexane, and ethyl acetate fractions showed larvicidal potential towards A. aegypti (LC50 values of 345, 527 and 583 µg/ml, respectively), while chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions were highly toxic to B. glabrata (LC90 values of 68 and 73 µg/ml, respectively). Based on these findings, ethyl acetate, chloroform, and hexane fractions should be further investigated for their potential use against the vectors of dengue and schistosomiasis.

Molluscicidal effect comparison between TDS and MNSC in field / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To compare the molluscicidal effects between“Luo-wei”(TDS),a plant molluscicide in 4 percent, and metaldehyde and niclosamide(MNSC)in the field. Methods A natural ecological environment with Oncomelania hupensis was selected as the test area,the test concentrations of TDS and MNSC were 2.5 g/m3 and 2 ml/m3 respectively by the immersion method;the test doses of TDS and MNSC were 3 g/m2 and 2 ml/m2 respectively by the spray method;the doses of WPN in a control group were 2 g/m3 and 2 g/m2 respectively by the two methods above-mentioned. The molluscicidal effects between TDS and MNSC were compared by using the synchronous design method and parallel comparative method. Results In the TDS group,the death rate of snails was 90.70%by immersion for 24 hours,reached to 81.40%after spraying for 7 days,and there were no significant differences among the observation time points in molluscicidal effects(P>0.05). One day after the spraying,the death rate of snails was less in the TDS group compared with that in the MSCN group(P0.05). In the MSCN group,the death rate of snails was 99.17%by immersion for 24 hours,reached to 66.07% by spraying for 1 day. In the WPS group,the death rate of snails was 97.15% by immersion for 24 hours,reached to 71.43%after spraying for 1 day,and there were no significant differences(both P>0.05). Conclusion TDS has a good molluscicidal activity and stable efficacy,and the molluscicidal effect of TDS is similar to that of MSCN in the filed, but the molluscicidal sensitivity of TDS is lower than that of MSCN.

OVICIDAL EFFECT OF PIPERACEAE SPECIES ON Biomphalaria glabrata, Schistosoma mansoni HOST / Efeito ovicida de espécies de Piperaceae em Biomphalaria glabrata, hospedeiro do Schistosoma mansoni

SUMMARY Schistosomiasis is a neglected disease with public health importance in tropical and subtropical regions. An alternative to the disease control is the use of molluscicides to eliminate or reduce the intermediate host snail population causing a reduction of transmission in endemic regions. In this study nine extracts from eight Piperaceae species were evaluated against Biomphalaria glabrata embryos at blastula stage. The extracts were evaluated in concentrations ranging from 100 to 10 mg/L. Piper crassinervium and Piper tuberculatum extracts were the most active (100% of mortality at 20 mg/L and 30 mg/L respectively). .

RESUMO A esquistossomose é uma doença negligenciada de importância para a saúde pública em regiões tropicais e subtropicais. Uma alternativa para o controle da doença é o uso de moluscicidas para eliminar ou reduzir a população de caramujo hospedeiro, acarretando uma redução da transmissão da doença nas regiões endemicas. Neste estudo, nove extratos vegetais provenientes de oito espécies de Piperaceae foram expostos a embriões de Biomphalaria glabrata no estágio de blástula. Os extratos foram avaliados em concentrações que variaram entre 100 e 10 mg/L, sendo Piper crassinervium e Piper tuberculatum os extratos mais ativos (100% de mortalidade a 20 mg/L e 30 mg/L respectivamente). .

Laboratory assessment of the molluscicidal and cercariacidal activities of Balanites aegyptiaca

Objective: To assess the molluscicidal and cercariacidal activities of aqueous extracts ofBalanites aegyptiaca (B. aegyptiaca) against Ethiopian Biomphalaria pfeifferi (B. pfeifferi), Lymnaea natalensis (L. natalensis) and Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni) cercariae. Methods:Extracts of seeds, endocarp, mesocarp, and fruit of B. aegyptiaca were tested for their activities against adult B. pfeifferi and L. natalensis. The cercariacidal activity of the seeds of the plant was also evaluated against S. mansoni. Bioassays were carried out following the methods recommended by WHO. Snail mortalities were compared between each plant part and snail species, and LC50 and LC90 values for the plant parts tested were computed. The cercariacidal activity of the plant was assessed by exposing the mice to the cercariae pre-exposed to aqueous extract of B. aegyptiaca seeds. Results:For the molluscicidal activities of seeds, endocarp, mesocarp and whole fruit, the LC50 values against B. pfeifferi were 56.32, 77.53, 65.51 and 66.63 mg/L, respectively, while the respective LC90 values were 77.70, 120.04, 89.50 and 97.55 mg/L. Similarly, the LC50 values for the seeds, endocarp, mesocarp and whole fruit against L. natalensis were 80.33, 92.61, 83.52 and 87.84 mg/L, respectively, while the respective LC90 values were 102.30, 138.21, 115.42 and 127.69 mg/L. B. pfeifferi were found to be more susceptible to B. aegyptiaca than L. natalensis. S. mansoni cercariae exposed to 15 mg/L of extract of seeds were incapable of infecting mice. The mean egg load of tissue was reduced in mice infected with the cercariae exposed to 5 and 10 mg/L of the extract. Conclusions:The aqueous extracts of different parts of B. aegyptiaca exhibited reasonable molluscicidal activity against B. pfeifferi and L. natalensis, as well as cercariacidal activity against S. mansoni cercariae. However, comprehensive laboratory evaluation is recommended prior to field tests of the plant parts since their impact on other aquatic biota is not known.

Impact of Taraxerol in combination with extract of Euphorbia tirucalli plant on biological parameters of Lymnaea acuminata / Impacto do Taraxerol em combinação com o extrato da planta de Euphorbia tirucalli nos parâmetros biológicos da Lymnaea acuminata

The present work was carried out to evaluate the molluscicidal activity of active ingredient Taraxerol with the acetone extract of Euphorbia tirucalli against Lymnaea acuminata snail. The (fecundity, hatchability and survivability) of snail L. acuminata exposed to this extract was studied. The effects of the tested extracts on life-history traits of harmful snail L. acuminata have also been evaluated, and this study also expounds the inhibitory effects of these extracts singly as well as in binary combination (1:1 ratio). It concluded that these herbal products act as a potential source of molluscicides, and that they would also have the advantage of easy availability, low cost, biodegradability and greater acceptance amongst users than synthetic pesticide.

O presente trabalho foi levado a efeito para avaliar a atividade moluscicida do ingrediente ativo Taraxerol junto com o extrato de acetona da Euphorbia tirucalli contra o caramujo Lymnaea acuminata. Foram estudados a fecundidade, o desenvolvimento e sobrevivência do caramujo Lymnaea acuminata exposto a estes extratos. Os efeitos danosos destes extratos testados na vida do caramujo L. acuminata foram também avaliados e este estudo demonstra os efeitos inibidores destes extratos isolados ou em combinação binária (relação l:1). Concluiu-se que estes produtos vegetais agem como fontes potenciais de moluscicidas e que eles também têm a vantagem de obtenção fácil, baixo custo, biodegradabilidade e maior aceitação entre os usuários do que os pesticidas sintéticos.

Letalidade do extrato de synadenium grantii hook. F. (Euphorbiaceae) frente a caramujos biomphalaria glabrata say, 1818 (gastropoda, planorbidae) / Letalidad del extracto de synadenium grantii hook. F. (Euphorbiaceae) contra caracoles biomphalaria glabrata say, 1818 (gastropoda, planorbidae) / Lethality of synadenium grantii hook. F. (Euphorbiaceae) extract to snails biomphalaria glabrata say, 1818 (gastropoda, planorbidae)

No Brasil, o caramujo Biomphalaria glabrata Say, 1818 (Gastropoda, Planorbidae) atua como principal vetor hospedeiro intermediário do helminto trematódeo Schistosoma mansoni (Schistosomatidae), agente etiológico da esquistossomose. O combate deste hospedeiro com substâncias moluscicidas é considerado uma das formas de redução do risco de transmissão da esquistossomose. Na busca por novos produtos naturais para controlar este vetor, o presente trabalho testou os extratos de algumas espécies vegetais exóticas consideradas tóxicas: Allamanda cathartica L. (Apocynaceae), Breynia nivosa (W. Bull) Small (Phyllanthaceae), Croton floribundus Spreng. (Euphorbiaceae), Dieffenbachia picta Schott (Araceae), Euphorbia milii des Mol. var. breonii (Euphorbiaceae), Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae), Monstera deliciosa Liebm. (Araceae) e Synadenium grantii Hook. f. (Euphorbiaceae). Apenas a espécie S. grantii apresentou atividade moluscicida (CL50 = 40,0 µg mL-1) promissora, sendo este o primeiro relato desta atividade para espécies do gênero Synadenium.

In Brazil, Biomphalaria glabrata Say, 1818 (Gastropoda, Planorbidae) snail serves as the principal intermediate vector host of Schistosoma mansoni (Schistosomatidae) trematode helminth, the etiologic agent of schistosomiasis. A way of reducing transmission risk of schistosomiasis is the combat of this host with molluscicide substances. In the search for new natural products to control this vector, the present study tested the extracts of some exotic plant species considered toxic: Allamanda cathartica L. (Apocynaceae), Breynia nivosa (W. Bull) Small (Phyllanthaceae), Croton floribundus Spreng. (Euphorbiaceae), Dieffenbachia picta Schott (Araceae), Euphorbia milii des Mol. var. breonii (Euphorbiaceae), Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae), Monstera deliciosa Liebm. (Araceae) and Synadenium grantii Hook. f. (Euphorbiaceae). Only the S. grantii species showed molluscicide activity promising (LC50 = 40.0 mg mL-1), and this is the first report of this activity to the genus Synadenium (Euphorbiaceae).

En Brasil, el caracol Biomphalaria glabrata Say, 1818 (Gastropoda, Planorbidae) actúa como principal vector hospedero intermediario del helmintos trematodo Schistosoma mansoni (Schistosomatidae), agente etiológico de la esquistosomiasis. El combate de este hospedero con sustancias molusquicidas es considerado una de las formas de reducción del riesgo de transmisión de la esquistosomiasis. En la búsqueda por nuevos productos naturales para el control de este vector, el presente estudio examinó los extractos de algunas especies exóticas de plantas consideradas tóxicas: Allamanda cathartica L. (Apocynaceae), Breynia nivosa (W. Bull) Small (Phyllanthaceae), Croton floribundus Spreng. (Euphorbiaceae), Dieffenbachia picta Schott (Araceae), Euphorbia milii des Mol. var. breonii (Euphorbiaceae), Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae), Monstera deliciosa Liebm. (Araceae) y Synadenium grantii Hook. f. (Euphorbiaceae). Sólo la especie S. grantii presentó actividad molusquicida prometedores (CL50 = 40,0 ug mL-1) promisora, siendo éste el primer relato de esta actividad para especies del género Synadenium.

Efficacy of euphorbia hirta latex as plant derived molluscicides against freshwater snails / Eficácia do látex da Euphorbia hirta como moluscicida vegetal contra caramujos de água doce

The toxic effect of binary and tertiary combinations of Euphorbia hirta Linn latex powder with other plant molluscicidal compounds, were evaluated against the freshwater snails Lymnaea (Radix) acuminata and Indoplanorbis exustus in pond. These combinations showed significant time and dose dependent effect against both the snails. These compounds at higher doses were also lethal to freshwater fish Channa punctatus (Bloch) (Channidae {Ophicephalidae}), which shares the habitat with these snails, but the LC90 (24h) doses of snails have no apparent killing properties in fish populations when treated in mixed population of snails and fish.

Os efeitos tóxicos das combinações binárias e terciárias do pó de látex da Euphorbia hirta Linn assim como outros compostos vegetais moluscicidas foram avaliados em sua ação sobre caramujos de água doce Lymnaea (Radix) acuminata e Indoplanorbis exustus em represas. Estas combinações mostraram significante efeito dose e tempo dependente contra ambos os caramujos. Estes compostos em doses altas foram também letais para peixes de água doce Channa punctatus (Bloch) (Channidae {Ophicephalidae}), que compartilham o ambiente com estes caramujos mas a dose LC90 (24h) para caramujos aparentemente não tem propriedade de matar as populações de peixes quando uma população mista de peixes e caramujos são tratadas.

Carbohydrate metabolism alterations in Biomphalaria glabrata infected with Schistosoma mansoni and exposed to Euphorbia splendens var. hislopii latex

This paper evaluates the alterations in the glycogen content of tissues (digestive gland and cephalopedal mass) and glucose in the haemolymph of Biomphalaria glabrata BH strain infected with Schistosoma mansoni BH strain and exposed to the latex of Euphorbia splendens var. hislopii. A reduction in the glycogen deposits was observed in infected snails exposed and not exposed to latex. However, the exposure to latex caused a greater depletion of the glycogen levels in both sites analysed, especially from the third week onward. The utilisation of latex as a molluscicide to control the population of infected B. glabrata selectively is proposed.

Avaliação da atividade moluscicida do látex de três espécies de Euphorbia (Euphorbiaceae) sobre Leptinaria unilamellata d'Orbigny, 1835 (Gastropoda - Subulinidae) / Assessment of moluscicidal activity of the latex of three Euphorbia (Euphorbiaceae) species on Leptinaria unilamellata d'Obigny 1835 (Gastropoda - Subulinidae)

Gastrópodes pulmonados terrestres podem atuar como hospedeiros intermediários de helmintos. Os primeiros registros do controle químico desses invertebrados datam do início do século XX e as substâncias utilizadas eram toxinas inespecíficas já empregadas no controle de outras pragas. Moluscicidas sintéticos apresentam limitações técnicas que estimularam a busca de substitutos naturais. Dentre as várias espécies vegetais com atividade moluscicida, Euphorbia cotinifolia L., Euphorbia milii des Moul. var. splendens (Bojer ex Hook) Ursch & Leandri e Euphorbia tirucalli L. despertam atenção pelos excelentes resultados obtidos sobre moluscos aquáticos. Contudo, estudos sobre a atividade de plantas moluscicidas em moluscos terrestres são pouco comuns, apesar de sua grande importância parasitológica e agrícola. As semelhanças anatomo-fisiológicas entre espécies de moluscos aquáticos e terrestres sugerem que estratégias de controle químico possam ter eficiência semelhante para os dois grupos de invertebrados. Com base nessa hipótese, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a atividade moluscicida do látex de três espécies do gênero Euphorbia sobre Leptinaria unilamellata d'Orbigny, 1835, gastrópode terrestre descrito como hospedeiro intermediário de helmintos trematódeos digenéticos que parasitam animais domésticos. Destas E. milii var. splendens apresentou efeito moluscicida elevado sobre L. unilamellata, 100 por cento até uma diluição de 1:800, já nos primeiros minutos após a aplicação. Embora citadas na literatura como tóxicas para moluscos aquáticos, E. cotinifolia e E. tirucalli não exibiram atividade moluscicida sobre L. unilamellata. Os resultados do presente estudo indicam que o látex de E. milii var. splendens pode se constituir em uma estratégia viável de controle químico de moluscos terrestres.

Pulmonate terrestrial gastropods can be intermediate hosts for helminthes. The first records of chemically controlling these invertebrates date back to the beginning of the 20th century. The substances used were unspecific toxins which were already used for controlling other pests. Synthetic molluscicides have technical limitations that stimulated a search for natural substitutes. Among the many vegetal species that have molluscicidal activity, Euphorbia cotinifolia L., Euphorbia milii des Moul. var. splendens (Bojer ex Hook) Ursch & Leandri and Euphorbia tirucalli L. call attention because of the excellent results that have been obtained when they are used on aquatic mollusks. However, studies on the activity of molluscicidal plants on terrestrial mollusks are rare, in spite of its great importance in controlling parasites and to agriculture. Anatomical and physiological similarities among species of aquatic and terrestrial mollusks suggest that chemical control strategies can be effective on both groups of invertebrates. Based on this hypothesis, we assessed the molluscicidal activity of the latex of three species of the genus Euphorbia on the terrestrial gastropod Leptinaria unilamellata d'Orbigny, 1835, described as an intermediate host of digenetic trematode helminths that parasitize domestic animals. E. milii var. splendens had the highest molluscicidal effect on L. unilamellata, being 100 percent lethal in concentrations up to 1:1800 in the first minutes after application. Although E. cotinifolia and E. tirucalli have been cited in the literature as toxic to aquatic mollusks, they did not have molluscicidal activity on L. unilamellata. The results of our study indicate that the latex of E. milii var. splendens may be a viable strategy for the chemical control of terrestrial mollusks.

Fast control effect on schistosomiasis of comprehensive measures / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To evaluate the effect of the fast control scheme of schistosomiasis.Methods The fast control scheme of schistosomiasis was carried out,and the scheme mainly included dusting molluscicide,rapid immunodiagnosis screening and chemotherapy with praziquantel,environment modification,health education,etc.The control effects of the scheme were observed longitudinally.Results There were no infected snails found after the scheme was implemented from 2005 to 2008.The densities of living snails dropped from 1.48 snails/0.1 m~2 in 2004 to 0.71 snails/0.1 m~2 in 2008.The areas with snails dropped from 43.13 hm~2 in 2004 to 33.68 hm~2 in 2008.The infection rates of residents and cattle dropped to 0 in 2008.Conclusion The fast control scheme of schistosomiasis can control schistosomiasis fast.

Observation on frequency and effect of dusting molluscicide in irrigation canals / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To study a new method and technical specification for Oncomelania snail control in irrigation canals.Methods Four percent niclosamide ethanolamine salt dustable powder was dusted in a test canal three times continuously,and a control canal was set up at the same time.The molluscicidal frequency and effect of niclosamide ethanolamine salt powder was observed and the results,including the change of living snail frames,average density of living snails and mortality of snails,were analyzed.Results Between the third and fifteenth day after the first dusting in the test canal,the reduction rate of the density of snails was more than 90% and after the second and third dusting,the reduction rate was more than 99%.For the average rates of living snail frames and mortality of snails,there were significant differences between the first dusting and later two dustings,while there was no significant difference between the second dusting and the third dusting.On the thirtieth and ninetieth day after the third dusting,the effect of snail control was still satisfactory.There were significant differences between the test canal and control canal about all the observation indexes.Conclusion The application of 4% niclosamide ethanolamine salt dustable powder is efficient in the snail control in irrigation canals,and the suitable frequency of dusting is 2 or 3 times.