EFFECTS OF CADMIUM IN Apis mellifera: POSSIBLE ROLE OF HIVE COLLAPSE

In previous researches we studied the role of Cadmium-induced damage in several biological systems. In Mammalians (and in particular in Humans) we demonstrated that Cadmium toxicity affects liver, kidney, central nervous system and endocrine system. To better evaluate its possible role in immunosuppression, this in vivo study is focused on Apis mellifera immunologic system: indeed, the immune system fall is considered the main responsible of the worldwide collapse of this species and probably, it is the result of a number of contributing factors. A possible stressor is represented by environmental pollution and in particular heavy metals. Our preliminary results show a substantial immunosuppression in Cadmium exposed bees, suggesting that in polluted areas the hives may have difficulties in dealing with pests and pathogens that threaten them. Severe morphological disarrangement was also detectable in fat bodies, the organs involved in the immunologic response of Apis mellifera and producing the antimicrobial peptides.