Ultrastructural and neuropharmacological findings in the nerve/muscle system of a digenean (Cercaria caribbea LXXI Cable)

ABSTRACT

The surface morphology and organization of the neuromuscular system in Cercaria caribbea LXXI are investigated using scanning and transmission electron microscopy, respectively. Direct and indirect (sarconeural) nerve-muscle junctions are identified in the cercarial tail. Synaptic vesicles at the direct neuromuscular junction suggest cholinergic and aminoacidergic transmission. Those at the sarconeural junctions suggest catecholaminergic and/or serotonergic transmission. Acetylcholinesterase and non-specific cholinesterases were found in high concentrations in the proximal and distal tail. Flourescence histochemistry showed primary catecholamines and 5-HT in the body and tail. 5-HT in the tail may represent a slowly depleted store, perhaps associated with energy availability and utilization. (AU)