Differences in the number of hemocytes in the snail host Biomphalaria tenagophila, resistant and susceptible to Schistosoma mansoni infection.

The relationships between schistosomiasis and its intermediate host, mollusks of the genus Biomphalaria, have been a concern for decades. It is known that the vector mollusk shows different susceptibility against parasite infection, whose occurrence depends on the interaction between the forms of trematode larvae and the host defense cells. These cells are called amebocytes or hemocytes and are responsible for the recognition of foreign bodies and for phagocytosis and cytotoxic reactions.

[Reverse hybridization and sequencing for genotyping the hepatitis C virus].

Introduction: The methods for genotyping the hepatitis C virus have been much discussed. The aim of this study was to compare the methodologies of reverse hybridization and direct sequencing for genotyping the hepatitis C virus.

Methods: Ninety-one plasma samples from patients attended at the Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University, were used.