Oyster-MSX interactions: Alterations in hemolymph enzyme activities in Crassostrea virginica during the course of Minchinia nelsoni disease development

Hemolymph enzyme activities were investigated during the course of Minchinia nelsoni (MSX) disease development in Crassostrea virginica. Aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and phosphohexose isomerase activities increase significantly during the gill lesion stage of MSX disease. Enzyme activities are not significantly elevated during the general infection stage of MSX disease. The alteration of hemolymph enzyme activity is discussed with respect to host metabolism and possible humoral defense mechanisms.