EFFECTS OF 8-METHOXYPSORALEN PLUS NEAR-ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT ON THE NEMATODE

Abstract— Effects of 8-methoxypsoralen plus near-UV light on the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans were studied as a novel example of photosensitized actions at the individual level. Either the eggs or the worms were illuminated with near-UV light in the presence of 8-methoxypsoralen. The treatment decreased hatchability of the eggs depending on light fluence and concentration of the sensitizer. Inhibition of growth and premature death were observed when the larvae in the second stage were illuminated in the presence of 8-methoxypsoralen. When young adults were treated before the beginning of egg-laying, they grew to lay eggs, but the total number of eggs deposited per hermaphrodite was decreased and the life span was shortened.