Download Effect of drugs on the pulsation rate of Lumbricus variegatus

Effect of drugs on the blood vessel pulsation rate of Lumbricus variegatus.
Purpose:
The purpose of this lab is to determine the effects of certain drugs on the pulsation rate of the
blackworm Lumbricus variegatus.
Introduction:
Lumbricus variegatus is a freshwater oligochaete found in stagnant waters where they feed on
small organisms and decaying organic matter. The worm rarely reproduces sexually; rather the
worm multiplies by fragmentation and regeneration. The worm has a closed circulatory system
and a prominent dorsal blood vessel that can be easily observed under the microscope. Ths worm
can be used a a model to determine the effects of different drugs on the circulatory system.
Procedure:
To determine the effects of different drugs on the pulsation rate of the dorsal blood vessel, the
following set up can be done:
1. Determine baseline values by counting the pulsation rate of whole worm and cut worm.
Each group should record their data on a spreadsheet (or on the board).
2. Expose the two groups of worms in varying concentration of selected drug (caffeine,
nicotine, acetylcholine, etc.). Count the pulsation rate and record data on a spreadsheet
(or on the board).
Expected Outcome:
1. Calculate the mean pulsation rate of whole and cut worm.
2. Calculate the mean pulsation rate of worm exposed to various drugs of varying
concentration.
3. Graph data sets for each drug and compare with base values.
References:
Dorsal Blood Vessel Pulsation http://www.eeob.iastate.edu/faculty/DrewesC/htdocs/INTANIMA-LvDBV-mid.htm
Note: Data collected from classes in the last two years will be uploaded later.