ENZYME INDUCTION BY AIR POLLUTANTS ON RESPIRATORY TISSUES OF FUNAMBULUS PENNANTI (WRONGH.)
R.K. GAUTAM *
SCHOOL OF ENTOMOLOGY, ST. JOHN'S COLLEGE, AGRA. 282 002.
S.V.S. RANA *
SCHOOL OF ENTOMOLOGY, ST. JOHN'S COLLEGE, AGRA. 282 002.
V.P. AGRAWAL *
SCHOOL OF ENTOMOLOGY, ST. JOHN'S COLLEGE, AGRA. 282 002.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Effect of three principal air pollutants (CO, SO, and NO) on the activity of few enzymes (alkaline and acid phosphatases, 5-nucleotidase, lipase, phosphamidase and peroxidase) have been analysed histochemically in the lungs of F. pennanti Inhibited alkaline phosphatase reaction suggests damage to plasma membrane. Lysosomal damage is evident from depleted acid phosphatase reaction. Loss of 5-nucleotidase shows proliferation of cells, injury to endoplasmic reticulum and the plasma membrane. Inhibited lipase reaction thus observed, to reflect decreased phospholipid synthesis, essential to maintain proper surface tension. Probably these air pollutants also change the half life of enzymes.