Effects of nickel exposure and acute pesticide intoxication on acetylcholinesterase, catalase and glutathione S-transferase activity and glucose absorption in the digestive tract of Helix aspersa (Pulmonata, Helicidae)

The activity of detoxifying enzymes and glucose absorption were measured in the digestive tract of Helix aspersa exposed to nickel. Nickel decreased CAT activity and, in the lower concentration, inhibited intestinal absorption of glucose. Elevated AChE activity and unchanged GST activity indicate diversity in enzymatic response to nickel. Nickel at higher concentration, destroying the intestinal wall integrity, caused high glucose influx. Nickel pre-treatment augmented the response to a single diazinon application. AChE activity was greatly reduced compared with nickel-untreated snails. The reduction in CAT activity was similar in both groups. Glucose absorption remained unchanged.

Keywords: AChE activity, acetylcholinesterase, GST, glutathione S-transferase, CAT, catalase, glucose absorption, Helix aspersa, nickel exposure, diazinon, pesticides, snails, acute pesticide intoxication, detoxifying enzymes