Thermotolerance and induction of HSP70 in Biomphalaria glabrata (Say, 1818)

Abstract

Thermotolerance is a temporary resistance against lethal temperatures. Induction of heat shock proteins (HSP), mainly HSP70, has been correlated to this response. Our research demonstrated the pre-exposure to sublethal temperatures of 30, 33 and 36 °C increased the survival of Biomphalaria glabrata to lethal temperature of 42 °C. This animal is a freshwater snail recognized as a suitable organism for experimental research. Additionally, it was observed an induction of HSP70 expression in digestive gland in all temperatures tested but not in ovotestis and head/foot tissues. Despite the higher expression of HSP70 had been detected at 30 °C, the animals exposed to 33 °C presented the highest survival. Our results indicate the increase of HSP70 is involved in the resistance to lethal temperature in B. glabrata as well other proteins.