The energy metabolism of the leechHirudo medicinalis in anoxia and muscular work

摘要: The medical leech Hirudo medicinalis has only small reserves of glycogen (˜ 40 μmol/g fresh weight), but malate is present in comparatively high concentrations (8 to 10 μmol/gm weight) the tissues and blood. Leeches are able survive several days anoxia at 20°C. From onset level drops rapidly concomitantly concentration succinate rises converse manner. After initial phase, both metabolites do not change significantly. Then large quantities propionate accumulate which, part, also excreted into surrounding water. In contrast, continuous swimming causes lactate rise steeply dominant end product. There a modest decrease whereas does change. These distinct patterns metabolite arising muscular activity seem indicate that different modes energy metabolism used situations.