Identification and expression of gene transcripts generated during an anti-parasitic response in Biomphalaria glabrata

In order to gain further insights into the molecular basis of gastropod anti-parasite immune responses, we investigated transcripts of Biomphalaria glabrata regulated during hemocytic encapsulation. Using a snail strain that is resistant to the parasite Echinostoma caproni, we performed suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) to construct cDNA libraries of transcripts more abundantly expressed in unexposed or parasite-exposed snails. After sequence analysis and quantitative PCR analysis of expression, we identified 10 candidates of particular interest. They belonged to various functional groups such as detoxification enzymes (GST, SOD), antimicrobial proteins (LBI/BPI), protease inhibitors (cystatins), calcium-binding proteins, or C-type lectins. In situ hybridization (ISH) analysis revealed that one overexpressed cystatin-like candidate is specifically expressed in hemocytes participating in parasite encapsulation or aggregating at the site of infection. Two other candidates (C-type lectin and a LBP/BPI) were expressed in the albumen gland, further supporting the role of this organ in immunity and/or host–parasite interaction.