Regulatory role of adrenergic neurotransmitters on the spontaneous muscular activity in the ruminant trematode Paramphistomum cervi (Paramphistomatidae)

• Published in: Journal of helminthology Vol. 88; no. 3; pp. 357 - 361
• Main Authors: Saikia, B., Barua, C.C., Hazarika, S., Lahon, L.C., Saikia, D., Borah, R.S., Verma, P.K
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge, UK Cambridge University Press 01.09.2014
• Subjects: Adrenergic Agents - metabolism; Adrenergic beta-Antagonists - metabolism; Animals; Dopamine Antagonists - metabolism; Locomotion; Muscles - physiology; Neurotransmitter Agents - metabolism; Paramphistomatidae; Paramphistomatidae - physiology; Paramphistomum cervi; Research Papers; Ruminantia
• ISSN: 0022-149X; 1475-2697
• DOI: 10.1017/S0022149X13000266

The neuromuscular system of helminths is an important area for target identification and drug development. Many anthelmintics, namely ivermectin, levamisole, piperazine, pyrantel, praziquantel and organophosphates, produce paralysis of helminths by affecting their neuromuscular systems. The neuromuscular system of helminths is also an important area of research to identify some of the important differences between the neuromuscular physiology of helminths and mammals. The identification of differences would help in developing newer target-specific, safe and effective anthelmintics. The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of different adrenergic neurotransmitters (epinephrine, norepinephrine, dopamine, l-dopa) and their antagonists (propranolol and haloperidol) on the spontaneous muscular activity of isometrically mounted Paramphistomum cervi.