Anin vitroinvestigation of dynamic processes occurring in the schistosome tegument, using compounds known to disrupt secretory processes

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Abstract
The structure of the schistosome tegument can be changed by in vitro incubation of worms in medium containing chemicals selected for their ability to disrupt secretion in other cell systems. The observed structural changes support the hypothesis that the function of the discoid granules is to maintain the integrity of the tegument ground substance. They further support the idea that the multilaminate vesicles and/or their contents are incorporated into or on to the worm surface as part of a mechanism of surface turnover. Vesicle life appears to be similar to that estimated for other trematodes and in cestodes. In addition the worm surface appears to be replaced more rapidly than the worm acquires and loses its disguise of host antigens. It is suggested that the surface channels of the tegument may be a variable feature, and that transfer of fluids between environment and interstitial spaces may occur across the tegument.