The effect of atmospheric pollution on α-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase activity in the satin moth (Leucoma salicis (L.)).

The purpose of this study was to investigate how various combinations of atmospheric pollutants may affect α-GPDH activity in the satin moth. Enzyme activity was measured in crude larva and pupa as well as in hoogenates from the fat body and thoracic muscles of adults. The insects were divided into five groups and treated with dust (containing heavy metals) and gaseous pollutants (SO2, NOx) in different concentrations. Specific activity of α-GPDH was the highest in thoracic muscles of adult satin moth and was significantly higher in males, regardless of their origin. Low concentration of SO2 caused stimulation of enzyme activity but simultaneous action of SO2, NOx and heavy metal containing dust with accompanied acid precipitation caused inhibition of α-GPDH activity, probably as the result of sulphite bounds with pyridine and flavin nucleotides.