Three genes involved in the oxidative burst are closely linked in the genome of the snail, Biomphalaria glabrata.

Allelic variation at the Cu-Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1) locus has been shown to be associated with resistance of the snail, Biomphalaria glabrata, to infection by the trematode parasite, Schistosoma mansoni. SOD1 catalyses the production of hydrogen peroxide, a known cytotoxic component of the oxidative burst used in defence against pathogens. In our laboratory population of B.

Effects of Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (sod1) genotype and genetic background on growth, reproduction and defense in Biomphalaria glabrata.

Resistance of the snail Biomphalaria glabrata to the trematode Schistosoma mansoni is correlated with allelic variation at copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (sod1). We tested whether there is a fitness cost associated with carrying the most resistant allele in three outbred laboratory populations of snails. These three populations were derived from the same base population, but differed in average resistance.

Host susceptibility is altered by light intensity after exposure to parasites.

Translating research advances to natural systems using experimental laboratory studies is often difficult because of the variability between the natural environment and experimental conditions. Because environmental conditions have a large effect on an organism's physiology, responses to stressors like nutrient limitation, temperature, oxygen deprivation, predation, and parasite/pathogen infection are likely to be context dependent. Therefore, it is essential to examine the impact the study environment has on the experimental outcome.