Sukhanova I. Genetic Differences of Silkworm Races and Hybrids as Regards Resistance to Diseases, cellular Immunity, and Heterosis

. Object of research: The nature of the resistance of silkworm races and heterositic hybrids to diseases and the role of cell protective mechanism in its realization. Purpose: The role of heterosis and other genetic factors in forming the functional activity level of the silkworm phagocytosis system under various exposure to stressing effects and the nature of genetic differences in the resistance of silkworm races and hybrids to diseases. Methods used: Genetic, cytoimmunological, hematological, microbiological, of sericulture, of analysis of variance methods. Theoretical and practical results: The diversification of present knowledge of the correlation of heterosis and homeostasis system functioning of heterositic silkworm hybrids, as well as of the determination of its resistance to diseases. Two scientific and on methods recommendations and one practical recommendation have been developed and transferred for production purposes. Novelty: New manifestations of the effect of heterosis of silkworm hybr ids have been established, which represent the growth of functional activity of the phagocytosis system and an increased ability of heterositic genotypes to maintain immune homeostasis. A trustworthy positive correlation between the resistance of silkworm races and heterositic hybrids to diseases, their non-specific resistance, and total phagocytic activity of caterpillar hemocytes has been revealed. Field of application: Educational process in genetics, immunogenetics, and insect immunity of educational establishments of biological and agricultural profiles; in the selection process and veterinary practice of sericulture.