Induction of glutathione S-transferase activity in Triatoma infestans.

Several synthetic pesticides and allelochemicals used to treat Triatoma infestans adults by topic application showed some degree of cytosolic glutathione S-transferase (GST) induction. General inducers of detoxication systems such as phenobarbital and 3-methylcholantrene topically applied on T. infestans resulted in no GST induction. Meanwhile, general insecticide synergist such as piperonyl butoxide (160 micrograms/insect) increased the GST-activity in the range of 120-140%. Insects injected with reduced glutathione (300 mg/insect) presented at the forth day elevated GST activity.