1
|
Šofranková L, Baňas M, Pipová N, Majláth I, Kurimský J, Cimbala R, Zbojovský J, Šimo L, Majláthová V. Anthropogenic electromagnetic radiation alters the transcription levels of the genes encoding the SIFamide and myoinhibitory peptide and their receptors in Ixodes ricinus synganglion. Parasitol Res 2024; 123:306. [PMID: 39167261 PMCID: PMC11339154 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-024-08326-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
The research of the influences of man-made electromagnetic fields on tick physiology has been very sparse and long neglected since the pioneer studies published in 1996 and 2000. Once multiple behavioral tests confirmed an attraction and possible perception of electromagnetic fields in ticks, a new interest in this topic erupted in recent years. In this study, qRT-PCR is utilized to determine the changes in the mRNA transcript levels of neuropeptides SIFamide and myoinhibitory peptide (mip and sifa) and their representative receptors (mip-r1 and sifa-r1) in the synganglia of the tick Ixodes ricinus irradiated by 900 MHz radiofrequency electromagnetic field. It was determined that 40 V/m intensity has a significant suppressory effect on the transcript levels of all genes after at least 60 minutes of constant exposure in both sexes. Commonly occurring intensity of radiation in urban areas (2 V/m) produced an elevation in mRNA levels after various timespans in every gene. A significant decrease of transcript abundances was detected in females after one hour of exposure to 2 V/m. Results of this study widen the knowledge of EMF-induced alterations in the neurophysiology of I. ricinus, the most commonly distributed hard tick in Europe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lívia Šofranková
- Department of Animal Physiology, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, 04180, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Miroslav Baňas
- Department of Animal Physiology, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, 04180, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Natália Pipová
- Department of Animal Physiology, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, 04180, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Igor Majláth
- Department of Animal Physiology, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, 04180, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Juraj Kurimský
- Department of Electric Power Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engeneering and Informatics, Technical University of Košice, Mäsiarska 74, 04120, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Roman Cimbala
- Department of Electric Power Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engeneering and Informatics, Technical University of Košice, Mäsiarska 74, 04120, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Ján Zbojovský
- Department of Electric Power Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engeneering and Informatics, Technical University of Košice, Mäsiarska 74, 04120, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Ladislav Šimo
- Laboratoire de Santé Animale, Unitè Mixte de Recherche de Biologie Molèculaire et d'Immunologie Parasitaires (UMR BIPAR), École Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, INRAE, F-94700, Maisons-Alfort, ANSES, France
| | - Viktória Majláthová
- Department of Animal Physiology, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, 04180, Košice, Slovakia.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Perumalsamy N, Sharma R, Subramanian M, Nagarajan SA. Hard Ticks as Vectors: The Emerging Threat of Tick-Borne Diseases in India. Pathogens 2024; 13:556. [PMID: 39057783 PMCID: PMC11279560 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13070556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Hard ticks (Ixodidae) play a critical role in transmitting various tick-borne diseases (TBDs), posing significant global threats to human and animal health. Climatic factors influence the abundance, diversity, and vectorial capacity of tick vectors. It is imperative to have a comprehensive understanding of hard ticks, pathogens, eco-epidemiology, and the impact of climatic changes on the transmission dynamics of TBDs. The distribution and life cycle patterns of hard ticks are influenced by diverse ecological factors that, in turn, can be impacted by changes in climate, leading to the expansion of the tick vector's range and geographical distribution. Vector competence, a pivotal aspect of vectorial capacity, involves the tick's ability to acquire, maintain, and transmit pathogens. Hard ticks, by efficiently feeding on diverse hosts and manipulating their immunity through their saliva, emerge as competent vectors for various pathogens, such as viruses, parasites and bacteria. This ability significantly influences the success of pathogen transmission. Further exploration of genetic diversity, population structure, and hybrid tick vectors is crucial, as they play a substantial role in influencing vector competence and complicating the dynamics of TBDs. This comprehensive review deals with important TBDs in India and delves into a profound understanding of hard ticks as vectors, their biology, and the factors influencing their vector competence. Given that TBDs continue to pose a substantial threat to global health, the review emphasizes the urgency of investigating tick control strategies and advancing vaccine development. Special attention is given to the pivotal role of population genetics in comprehending the genetic diversity of tick populations and providing essential insights into their adaptability to environmental changes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Shriram Ananganallur Nagarajan
- Division of Vector Biology and Control, Indian Council of Medical Research—Vector Control Research Centre (ICMR-VCRC), Puducherry 605006, India; (N.P.); (R.S.); (M.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Marshall JP, Marinko E, To A, Morejon JL, Joshi R, Shea J, Gibbs AG, Meiselman MR. Circadian regulation of locomotion, respiration, and arousability in adult blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis). Sci Rep 2024; 14:14804. [PMID: 38926516 PMCID: PMC11208436 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65498-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis, is an ectoparasitic arachnid and vector for infectious diseases, including Lyme borreliosis. Here, we investigate the diurnal activity and respiration of wild-caught and lab-reared adult ticks with long-term video recording, multi-animal tracking and high-resolution respirometry. We find male and female ticks are in a more active, more arousable state during circadian night. We find respiration is augmented by light, with dark onset triggering more frequent bouts of discontinuous gas exchange and a higher overall volume of CO2 respired. Observed inactivity during the day meets the criteria of sleep: homeostatic in nature, rapidly reversible, a characteristic pose, and reduced arousal threshold. Our findings indicate that blacklegged ticks are in a distinct, heightened state of activity and arousability during night and in dark, suggesting this period may carry higher risk for tick bites and subsequent contraction of tick-borne diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jack P Marshall
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Emily Marinko
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Amber To
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Jilian L Morejon
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Ritika Joshi
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Jamien Shea
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Allen G Gibbs
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Matthew R Meiselman
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gebremedhin MB, Xu Z, Kuang C, Shumuye NA, Cao J, Zhou Y, Zhang H, Zhou J. Current Knowledge on Chemosensory-Related Candidate Molecules Potentially Involved in Tick Olfaction via Haller's Organ. INSECTS 2023; 14:294. [PMID: 36975979 PMCID: PMC10053194 DOI: 10.3390/insects14030294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Ticks are obligatory hematophagous ectoparasites and vectors of many animal and human pathogens. Chemosensation plays a significant role in tick communication with their environment, including seeking out blood meal hosts. Studies on the structure and function of Haller's organ and its components have improved our understanding regarding tick olfaction and its chemical ecology. Compared with the knowledge on insect olfaction, less is known about the molecular basis of olfaction in ticks. This review focused on the chemosensory-related candidate molecules likely involved in tick olfaction. Members of the ionotropic receptor family and a new class of odorant-binding proteins are now known to be involved in tick olfaction, which appear to differ from that of insects. These candidate molecules are more closely related to those of mites and spiders than to other arthropods. The amino acid sequences of candidate niemann-pick type C2 and microplusin-like proteins in ticks exhibit features indicating their potential role as binding proteins. In the future, more comprehensive pertinent research considering the existing shortcomings will be required to fully understand the molecular basis of tick olfactory chemoreception. This information may contribute to the development of new molecular-based control mechanisms to reduce tick populations and related disease transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mebrahtu Berhe Gebremedhin
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Zhengmao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Ceyan Kuang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Nigus Abebe Shumuye
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, National Animal Echinococcosis Para-Reference Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730046, China
| | - Jie Cao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Yongzhi Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Houshuang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Jinlin Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Otálora-Luna F, Dickens JC, Brinkerhoff J, Li AY. Behavior of Nymphs and Adults of the Black-Legged Tick Ixodes scapularis and the Lone Star Tick Ambylomma americanum in Response to Thermal Stimuli. INSECTS 2022; 13:130. [PMID: 35206704 PMCID: PMC8876853 DOI: 10.3390/insects13020130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ticks use chemical and thermal signals emitted by humans and other vertebrates to locate suitable hosts for a blood meal. Here, we study the behavior of black-legged Ixodes scapularis and the lone star ticks Amblyomma americanum exposed to heat sources held at temperatures near those of vertebrate hosts (32 °C). First, we used a locomotion compensator to test behavioral responses of ticks to an infrared light emitting diode (LED). The servosphere allowed us to measure parameters such as velocity, acceleration, linearity, and orientation. Then a heating element (Peltier) located in one of the extremes of a double-choice vertical rod (flying T), was employed to observe upward movement of the ticks toward such a heat source. While both species oriented toward the LED, only lone star ticks were attracted to the Peltier element while climbing upward. In conclusion, we showed that heat attracted ticks from short distances up to several centimeters on a the servosphere, and those responses differed between the two species of ticks on the flying T. We discuss our results in the context of the ecology of both tick species and their potential in tick survey and management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Otálora-Luna
- Department of Biology, School of Art & Sciences, University of Richmond, Richmond, VA 23173, USA; (J.C.D.); (J.B.)
| | - Joseph C. Dickens
- Department of Biology, School of Art & Sciences, University of Richmond, Richmond, VA 23173, USA; (J.C.D.); (J.B.)
| | - Jory Brinkerhoff
- Department of Biology, School of Art & Sciences, University of Richmond, Richmond, VA 23173, USA; (J.C.D.); (J.B.)
| | - Andrew Y. Li
- Invasive Insect Biocontrol & Behavior Laboratory, USDA, ARS, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Sombke A, Klann AE, Lipke E, Wolf H. Primary processing neuropils associated with the malleoli of camel spiders (Arachnida, Solifugae): a re-evaluation of axonal pathways. ZOOLOGICAL LETTERS 2019; 5:26. [PMID: 31388441 PMCID: PMC6679463 DOI: 10.1186/s40851-019-0137-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Arachnids possess highly specialized and unorthodox sense organs, such as the unique pectines of Scorpiones and the malleoli of Solifugae. While the external morphology, numbers, and shapes of sensory organs are widely used in taxonomic studies, little is known about the internal anatomy of these organs and their associated processing neuropils in the central nervous system. Camel spiders (Solifugae) possess pedipalps and first walking legs heavily endowed with sensory structures, as well as conspicuous malleoli located ventrally on the proximal fourth walking legs. Malleoli are fan-shaped organs that contain tens of thousands of presumptive chemoreceptor neurons, but mechanoreceptive structures are absent. RESULTS Here, we examine the organization of the synganglion based on microCT analysis, 3D reconstruction of serial paraffin sections, and backfill preparations to trace the malleolar pathway. The projection area of malleolar afferents is intriguingly located in the most anterior ventral nerve cord, located in between the pedipalpal neuromere hemispheres. However, malleolar axon bundles are separated by a thin soma layer that points to an anteriad projection of the fourth walking leg neuromere. A conspicuous projection neuron tract that may receive additional input from pedipalpal sensory organs connects the malleolar neuropil with the mushroom bodies in the protocerebrum. CONCLUSION Arthropod chemosensory appendages or organs and primary processing neuropils are typically located in the same segment, which also holds true in Solifugae, although the malleolar neuropil is partially shifted towards the pedipalpal neuromere. A comparison of the malleoli in Solifugae and the pectines in Scorpiones, and of their primary processing neuropils, reveals certain similarities, while striking differences are also evident. Similarities include the ventral arrangement of peg-shaped sensory structures on the respective segmental appendage, exposing dense arrays of chemoreceptive sensilla, and projections to a primary processing neuropil with glomerular subdivision. Differences are, e.g., the lack of mechanoreceptive afferents and an associated processing neuropil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andy Sombke
- University of Vienna, Department of Integrative Zoology, Althanstrasse 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Anja E. Klann
- Department of Forensic Molecular Genetics, University Medicine Greifswald, Institute of Legal Medicine, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Lipke
- German Air Force Center of Aerospace Medicine, 82256 Fürstenfeldbruck, Germany
| | - Harald Wolf
- Wallenberg Research Centre, Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study, 10 Marais Street, Stellenbosch, 7600 South Africa
- Present address: Institut für Neurobiologie, Universität Ulm, 89069 Ulm, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Guerrero FD, Kellogg A, Ogrey AN, Heekin AM, Barrero R, Bellgard MI, Dowd SE, Leung MY. Prediction of G protein-coupled receptor encoding sequences from the synganglion transcriptome of the cattle tick, Rhipicephalus microplus. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2016; 7:670-677. [PMID: 26922323 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2016.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2015] [Revised: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The cattle tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, is a pest which causes multiple health complications in cattle. The G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) super-family presents a candidate target for developing novel tick control methods. However, GPCRs share limited sequence similarity among orthologous family members, and there is no reference genome available for R. microplus. This limits the effectiveness of alignment-dependent methods such as BLAST and Pfam for identifying GPCRs from R. microplus. However, GPCRs share a common structure consisting of seven transmembrane helices. We present an analysis of the R. microplus synganglion transcriptome using a combination of structurally-based and alignment-free methods which supplement the identification of GPCRs by sequence similarity. TMHMM predicts the number of transmembrane helices in a protein sequence. GPCRpred is a support vector machine-based method developed to predict and classify GPCRs using the dipeptide composition of a query amino acid sequence. These two bioinformatic tools were applied to our transcriptome assembly of the cattle tick synganglion. Together, BLAST and Pfam identified 85 unique contigs as encoding partial or full length candidate cattle tick GPCRs. Collectively, TMHMM and GPCRpred identified 27 additional GPCR candidates that BLAST and Pfam missed. This demonstrates that the addition of structurally-based and alignment-free bioinformatic approaches to transcriptome annotation and analysis produces a greater collection of prospective GPCRs than an analysis based solely upon methodologies dependent upon sequence alignment and similarity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felix D Guerrero
- USDA-ARS, Knipling-Bushland US Livestock Insect Research Laboratory, 2700 Fredericksburg Rd., Kerrville, TX 78028, USA.
| | - Anastasia Kellogg
- The University of Texas at El Paso, 500W. University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Alexandria N Ogrey
- The University of Texas at El Paso, 500W. University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Andrew M Heekin
- USDA-ARS, Knipling-Bushland US Livestock Insect Research Laboratory, 2700 Fredericksburg Rd., Kerrville, TX 78028, USA
| | - Roberto Barrero
- Centre for Comparative Genomics, Murdoch University, Perth 6150, WA, Australia
| | - Matthew I Bellgard
- Centre for Comparative Genomics, Murdoch University, Perth 6150, WA, Australia
| | - Scot E Dowd
- Molecular Research DNA, 503 Clovis Rd., Shallowater, TX 79363, USA
| | - Ming-Ying Leung
- The University of Texas at El Paso, 500W. University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sombke A, Lipke E, Kenning M, Müller CH, Hansson BS, Harzsch S. Comparative analysis of deutocerebral neuropils in Chilopoda (Myriapoda): implications for the evolution of the arthropod olfactory system and support for the Mandibulata concept. BMC Neurosci 2012; 13:1-17. [PMID: 22214384 PMCID: PMC3320525 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-13-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2011] [Accepted: 01/03/2012] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Originating from a marine ancestor, the myriapods most likely invaded land independently of the hexapods. As these two evolutionary lineages conquered land in parallel but separately, we are interested in comparing the myriapod chemosensory system to that of hexapods to gain insights into possible adaptations for olfaction in air. Our study connects to a previous analysis of the brain and behavior of the chilopod (centipede) Scutigera coleoptrata in which we demonstrated that these animals do respond to volatile substances and analyzed the structure of their central olfactory pathway. Results Here, we examined the architecture of the deutocerebral brain areas (which process input from the antennae) in seven additional representatives of the Chilopoda, covering all major subtaxa, by histology, confocal laser-scan microscopy, and 3D reconstruction. We found that in all species that we studied the majority of antennal afferents target two separate neuropils, the olfactory lobe (chemosensory, composed of glomerular neuropil compartments) and the corpus lamellosum (mechanosensory). The numbers of olfactory glomeruli in the different chilopod taxa ranged from ca. 35 up to ca. 90 and the shape of the glomeruli ranged from spheroid across ovoid or drop-shape to elongate. Conclusion A split of the afferents from the (first) pair of antennae into separate chemosensory and mechanosensory components is also typical for Crustacea and Hexapoda, but this set of characters is absent in Chelicerata. We suggest that this character set strongly supports the Mandibulata hypothesis (Myriapoda + (Crustacea + Hexapoda)) as opposed to the Myriochelata concept (Myriapoda + Chelicerata). The evolutionary implications of our findings, particularly the plasticity of glomerular shape, are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andy Sombke
- Ernst Moritz Arndt University of Greifswald, Zoological Institute and Museum, Cytology and Evolutionary Biology, 17487 Greifswald, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Šimo L, Slovák M, Park Y, Žitňan D. Identification of a complex peptidergic neuroendocrine network in the hard tick, Rhipicephalus appendiculatus. Cell Tissue Res 2009; 335:639-55. [PMID: 19082627 PMCID: PMC3573535 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-008-0731-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2008] [Accepted: 10/29/2008] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptides are crucial regulators of development and various physiological functions but little is known about their identity, expression and function in vectors of pathogens causing serious diseases, such as ticks. Therefore, we have used antibodies against multiple insect and crustacean neuropeptides to reveal the presence of these bioactive molecules in peptidergic neurons and cells of the ixodid tick Rhipicephalus appendiculatus. These antibodies have detected 15 different immunoreactive compounds expressed in specific central and peripheral neurons associated with the synganglion. Most central neurons arborize in distinct areas of the neuropile or the putative neurohaemal periganglionic sheath of the synganglion. Several large identified neurons in the synganglion project multiple processes through peripheral nerves to form elaborate axonal arborizations on the surface of salivary glands or to terminate in the lateral segmental organs (LSO). Additional neuropeptide immunoreactivity has been observed in intrinsic secretory cells of the LSO. We have also identified two novel clusters of peripheral neurons embedded in the cheliceral and paraspiracular nerves. These neurons project branching axons into the synganglion and into the periphery. Our study has thus revealed a complex network of central and peripheral peptidergic neurons, putative neurohaemal and neuromodulatory structures and endocrine cells in the tick comparable with those found in insect and crustacean neuroendocrine systems. Strong specific staining with a large variety of antibodies also indicates that the tick nervous system and adjacent secretory organs are rich sources of diverse neuropeptides related to those identified in insects, crustaceans or even vertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ladislav Šimo
- Institute of Zoology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská Cesta 9, 84506 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506-4004, USA
| | - Mirko Slovák
- Institute of Zoology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská Cesta 9, 84506 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Yoonseong Park
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506-4004, USA
| | - Dušan Žitňan
- Institute of Zoology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská Cesta 9, 84506 Bratislava, Slovakia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hummel NA, Li AY, Witt CM. Serotonin-like immunoreactivity in the central nervous system of two ixodid tick species. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2007; 43:265-278. [PMID: 18040871 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-007-9120-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2007] [Accepted: 11/08/2007] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Immunocytochemistry was used to describe the distribution of serotonin-like immunoreactive (5HT-IR) neurons and neuronal processes in the central nervous system (CNS), the synganglion, of two ixodid tick species; the winter tick, Dermacentor albipictus and the lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum. 5HT-IR neurons were identified in the synganglion of both tick species. D. albipictus had a significantly higher number of 5HT-IR neurons than A. americanum. The labeling pattern and number of 5HT-IR neurons were significantly different between sexes in D. albipictus, but were not significantly different between sexes in A. americanum. 5HT-IR neurons that were located in the cortex of the synganglion projected processes into the neuropils, invading neuromeres in the supraesophageal ganglion including the protocerebrum, postero-dorsal, antero-dorsal and cheliceral neuromeres. In the subesophageal ganglion, dense 5HT-IR neuronal processes were found in the olfactory lobes, pedal, and opisthosomal neuromeres. Double-labeling with neurobiotin backfilled from the first leg damaged at the Haller's organ revealed serotoninergic neuronal processes surrounding the glomeruli in the olfactory lobes. The high number of the 5HT-IR neurons and the extensive neuronal processes present in various regions of the synganglion suggest that serotonin plays a significant role in tick physiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie A Hummel
- ARS, Knipling-Bushland US Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, USDA, 2700 Fredericksburg Road, Kerrville, TX 78028, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Tick neurobiology: recent advances and the post-genomic era. INVERTEBRATE NEUROSCIENCE 2007; 7:183-98. [DOI: 10.1007/s10158-007-0060-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2007] [Accepted: 10/10/2007] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
12
|
van Wijk M, Wadman WJ, Sabelis MW. Gross morphology of the central nervous system of a phytoseiid mite. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2006; 40:205-16. [PMID: 17242982 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-006-9039-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2006] [Accepted: 11/16/2006] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
The general morphology of the central nervous system is analysed in intact females of the predatory mite, Phytoseiulus persimilis (Acari: Phytoseiidae), using a nucleic acid label (YOYO-1) and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The somata of all cells that comprise the synganglion reside in the cortex. The cortex harbours an estimated total of 10,000 cells. The somata are densely packed in the cortex and cells residing in the inner cortex may only occupy about 1.8 microm. As in all Arachnida, the synganglion is divided in a sub- and a supra-oesophageal nervous mass. Both the cortex and the neuropil appear continuous between these two nervous masses. The sub-oesophageal nervous mass mainly consists of the four paired pedal ganglia that are each associated with a leg. The prominent olfactory lobes are ventrally associated with the first pedal ganglia. A small opisthosomal ganglion occupies the most caudal part of the sub-oesophageal ganglion. The rostral part of the supra-oesophageal nervous mass consists of the paired cheliceral and palpal ganglia. The supra-oesophageal ganglion is the largest ganglion in the supra-oesophageal nervous mass and unlike all other ganglia it is not associated with any of the major nerves. It is therefore more likely involved in secondary information processing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michiel van Wijk
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, Section Population Biology, University of Amsterdam, Kruislaan 320, 1098 SM, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhu XX, Zhang WY, Oliver JH. Immunocytochemical mapping of FMRFamide-like peptides in the argasid tick Ornithodoros parkeri and the ixodid tick Dermacentor variabilis. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 1995; 19:1-9. [PMID: 7621708 DOI: 10.1007/bf00051932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
FMRFamide-like immunoreactivity was studied in the argasid tick Ornithodoros parkeri and the ixodid tick Dermacentor variabilis using immunocytochemistry based on the peroxidase-antiperoxidase method. FMRFamide-like immunoreactive cells are widely distributed in various regions of the tick synganglion including protocerebral, cheliceral, stomodeal, palpal, pedal I-IV, and opisthosomal regions in both species. However, there is one layer of immunoreactive cells located on the dorsal surface of the postoesophageal part of the synganglion that is found only in D. variabilis. Besides the immunoreactivity within the cell body and its axons, the neuropile and the neural lamella (the extracellular sheath of the synganglion) are rich in immunoreactive materials. Some coxal muscles are innervated by the FMRFamide-like immunoreactive processes of the nerve from the pedal ganglion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- X X Zhu
- Institute of Arthropodology and Parasitology, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro 30460-8056, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Davis HH, Dotson EM, Oliver JH. Localization of insulin-like immunoreactivity in the synganglion of nymphal and adult Dermacentor variabilis (Acari: Ixodidae). EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 1994; 18:111-122. [PMID: 7628242 DOI: 10.1007/bf00055035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Immunocytochemical staining based on a peroxidase-antiperoxidase method showed neurosecretory cells (NSC) reactive to bovine insulin in five of 18 paraldehyde fuchsin-positive neurosecretory regions (NSR) in the synganglion of unfed adult Dermacentor variabilis. This is the first report of a neuropeptide in an ixodid tick. The insulin-specific immunoreactive cells included the posterior medial group of the protocerebral center, posterior group of dorsal opisthosomal center, anterior lateral group of the dorso-lateral cheliceral center, dorsal group of the frontal stomodeal center, and anterior group of the ventral palpal center. After feeding and mating, females no longer had immunoreactive cells in three of five NSR found in virgin, unfed females. However, two cells of the posterior group in dorsal opisthosomal center and anterior lateral group of the dorso-lateral cheliceral center remained immunoreactive throughout feeding. Fed, mated males continued to display immunoreactive cells in four of five NSR found in the virgin, unfed males. All developmental stages of nymphs examined had insulin-specific immunoreactive cells in two of the five NSR found in unfed adults, including two positively stained cells of the posterior group in dorsal opisthosomal center and anterior group of ventral palpal neurosecretory center.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H H Davis
- Department of Biology, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro 30460-8056, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|