Nutrient absorption nematodes

The external surfaces of parasitic helminths, termed the tegument in cestodes and trematodes, and the cuticle in nematodes, are adapted to serve a wide range of biological functions. Though most research has focused on structural aspects or their roles in immune evasion (Chapter 16) and nutrient absorption, the external surfaces of helminths also serve important roles in locomotion, excretion and regulation of electrochemical and osmotic gradients. 

Nutrient absorption. Transcuticular absorption of glucose, amino acids and other nutrients has been demonstrated in all filarial nematodes examined (91). In most filariae, the cuticle is the principal site of nutrient absorption in vitro, with very little occurring across the intestine. Several observations support this conclusion (i) microfilariae of most species possess a non-functional gut (ii) the hypodermis contains enzymes associated with amino acid transport whereas the intestine often does not and... 

---