Effect of copper sulphate on alpha-ketoglutarate metabolism in the digestive gland of the snail host, Lymnaealuteola.

Significant drop in the size of fuel depots was noted in copper sulphate treated snails. Free amino acid levels dropped and lactate level increased. The effects of copper treatment on rates of fuel oxidation and ammonia production in the presence of exogenously added alpha-ketoglutarate were evaluated. 92% drop in Kg dh complex activity, 33% drop in Alanine amino transferase (ALAT) activity with 78% rise in Glucose-6-phosphatase activity were recorded. Results were discussed in relation to metal ion binding with proteins and its inhibitory effect on alpha Kg dh complex enzyme activity. Molluscicidal activity of copper was found to be due to metabolic block in the TCA cycle at the alpha-ketoglutarate level.