The cytochrome P450 CYP6P4 is responsible for the high pyrethroid resistance in knockdown resistance-free Anopheles arabiensis

Beta-cypermethrin-induced stress response and ABC transporter-mediated detoxification in Tetrahymena thermophila

β-Cypermethrin (β-CYP), a synthetic pyrethroid pesticide, is widely used for insect management. However, it also affects non-target organisms and pollutes aquatic ecosystems. Tetrahymena thermophila, a unicellular ciliated protist found in fresh water, is in direct contact with aquatic environments and sensitive to environmental changes. The proliferation of T. thermophila was inhibited and the cellular morphology changed under β-CYP stress. The intracellular ROS level significantly increased, and SOD activity gradually rose with increasing β-CYP concentrations. Under 25 mg/L β-CYP stress, 687 genes were up-regulated, primarily enriched in the organic cyclic compound binding and heterocyclic compound binding pathways. These include 8 ATP-binding cassette transporters (ABC) family genes, 2 cytochrome P450 monooxygenase genes, and 2 glutathione peroxidase related genes. Among of them, ABCG14 knockdown affected cellular proliferation under β-CYP stress. In contrast, overexpression of ABCG14 enhanced cellular tolerance to β-CYP. The results demonstrated that Tetrahymena tolerates high β-CYP concentration stress through various detoxification mechanisms, with ABCG14 playing a crucial role in detoxification of β-CYP.

A cub and sushi domain-containing protein with esterase-like activity confers insecticide resistance in the Indian malaria vector Anopheles stephensi

Chemical insecticides (organophosphates and pyrethroids) in the form of IRS (Indoor Residual Sprays) and LLINs (Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets) are the cornerstone for vector control, globally. However, their incessant use has resulted in widespread development of resistance in mosquito vectors, warranting continuous monitoring and investigation of the underlying mechanisms of resistance. Here, we identified a previously uncharacterized- Cub and Sushi Domain containing Insecticide Resistance (CSDIR) protein and generated evidence for its role in mediating insecticide resistance in the Anopheles stephensi. A strong binding affinity of the CSDIR protein towards different classes of insecticide molecules-malathion (KD 6.43 μM) and deltamethrin (KD 46.7 μM) were demonstrated using MD simulation studies and Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) experiments. Further, the recombinant CSDIR913-1190 protein exhibited potent esterase-like activity (α-naphthyl acetate (α-NA)- 1.356 ± 0.262 mM/min/mg and β-naphthyl acetate (β -NA)- 1.777 ± 0.220 mM/min/mg). Interestingly, dsRNA-mediated gene silencing of the CSDIR transcripts caused >60% mortality in resistant An. stephensi upon 1-h exposure to deltamethrin and malathion insecticides, compared to the control group. A significant reduction in the esterase-like activity was also observed against α-NA (p = 0.004) and β-NA (p = 0.025) in CSDIR silenced mosquitoes compared to the control group. Using computational analysis and experimental data, our results provided significant evidence of the involvement of the CSDIR protein in mediating insecticide resistance in Anopheles mosquitoes. Thereby making the CSDIR protein, a novel candidate for exploration of novel insecticide molecules. These data would also be helpful in further understanding the development of metabolic resistance by the Anopheles vector.

Identification and functional validation of P450 genes associated with pyrethroid resistance in the malaria vector Anopheles sinensis (Diptera Culicidae)

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s), a multifunctional protein superfamily, are one of three major classes of detoxification enzymes. However, the diversity and functions of P450 genes from pyrethroid-resistant populations of Anopheles sinensis have not been fully explored. In this study, P450 genes associated with pyrethroid resistance were systematically screened using RNA-seq in three field pyrethroid-resistant populations (AH-FR, CQ-FR, YN-FR) and one laboratory resistant strain (WX-LR) at developmental stages, tissues, and post blood-meal in comparison to the laboratory susceptible strain (WX-LS) in An. sinensis. Importantly, the expression of significantly upregulated P450s was verified using RT-qPCR, and the function of selected P450s in pyrethroid detoxification was determined with RNA interference using four laboratory pyrethroid-resistant strains (WX-LR, AH-LR, CQ-LR, YN-LR). Sixteen P450 genes were significantly upregulated in at least one field-resistant population, and 44 were significantly upregulated in different developmental stages, tissues or post blood-meal. A total of 19 P450s were selected to verify their association with pyrethroid resistance, and four of them (AsCYP6P3v1, AsCYP6P3v2, AsCYP9J10, and AsCYP9K1) demonstrated significant upregulation in laboratory pyrethroid-resistant strains using RT-qPCR. Knockdown of these four genes all significantly reduced pyrethroid resistance and increased the mortality by 57.19% (AsCYP6P3v1 and AsCYP6P3v2 knockdown group), 38.39% (AsCYP9K1 knockdown group) and 48.87% (AsCYP9J10 knockdown group) in An. sinensis by RNAi, which determined the pyrethroid detoxification function of these four genes. This study revealed the diversity of P450 genes and provided functional evidence for four P450s in pyrethroid detoxification in An. sinensis for the first time, which increases our understanding of the pyrethroid resistance mechanism, and is of potential value for pyrethroid resistance detection and surveillance.

Functional Validation of Endogenous Redox Partner Cytochrome P450 Reductase Reveals the Key P450s CYP6P9a/-b as Broad Substrate Metabolizers Conferring Cross-Resistance to Different Insecticide Classes in Anopheles funestus

The versatility of cytochrome P450 reductase (CPR) in transferring electrons to P450s from other closely related species has been extensively exploited, e.g., by using An. gambiae CPR (AgCPR), as a homologous surrogate, to validate the role of An. funestus P450s in insecticide resistance. However, genomic variation between the AgCPR and An. funestus CPR (AfCPR) suggests that the full metabolism spectrum of An. funestus P450s might be missed when using AgCPR. To test this hypothesis, we expressed AgCPR and AfCPR side-by-side with CYP6P9a and CYP6P9b and functionally validated their role in the detoxification of insecticides from five different classes. Major variations were observed within the FAD- and NADP-binding domains of AgCPR and AfCPR, e.g., the coordinates of the second FAD stacking residue AfCPR-Y456 differ from that of AgCPR-His456. While no significant differences were observed in the cytochrome c reductase activities, when co-expressed with their endogenous AfCPR, the P450s significantly metabolized higher amounts of permethrin and deltamethrin, with CYP6P9b-AfCPR membrane metabolizing α-cypermethrin as well. Only the CYP6P9a-AfCPR membrane significantly metabolized DDT (producing dicofol), bendiocarb, clothianidin, and chlorfenapyr (bioactivation into tralopyril). This demonstrates the broad substrate specificity of An. funestus CYP6P9a/-b, capturing their role in conferring cross-resistance towards unrelated insecticide classes, which can complicate resistance management.

Detection of insecticide resistance markers in Anopheles funestus from the Democratic Republic of the Congo using a targeted amplicon sequencing panel

Vector control strategies have been successful in reducing the number of malaria cases and deaths globally, but the spread of insecticide resistance represents a significant threat to disease control. Insecticide resistance has been reported across Anopheles (An.) vector populations, including species within the An. funestus group. These mosquitoes are responsible for intense malaria transmission across sub-Saharan Africa, including in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a country contributing > 12% of global malaria infections and mortality events. To support the continuous efficacy of vector control strategies, it is essential to monitor insecticide resistance using molecular surveillance tools. In this study, we developed an amplicon sequencing ("Amp-seq") approach targeting An. funestus, and using multiplex PCR, dual index barcoding, and next-generation sequencing for high throughput and low-cost applications. Using our Amp-seq approach, we screened 80 An. funestus field isolates from the DRC across a panel of nine genes with mutations linked to insecticide resistance (ace-1, CYP6P4, CYP6P9a, GSTe2, vgsc, and rdl) and mosquito speciation (cox-1, mtND5, and ITS2). Amongst the 18 non-synonymous mutations detected, was N485I, in the ace-1 gene associated with carbamate resistance. Overall, our panel represents an extendable and much-needed method for the molecular surveillance of insecticide resistance in An. funestus populations.

Cytochrome P450 CYP6DB3 was involved in thiamethoxam and imidacloprid resistance in Bemisia tabaci Q (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae)

High level resistance for a variety of insecticides has emerged in Bemisia tabaci, a globally notorious insect. Neonicotinoid insecticides have been applied widely to control B. tabaci. Whether a differentially expressed gene CYP6DB3 discovered from transcriptome data of B. tabaci is involved in the resistance to neonicotinoid insecticides remains unclear. In the study, CYP6DB3 expression was significantly up-regulated in both thiamethoxam- and imidacloprid-resistant strains relative to the susceptive strains. We also found that CYP6DB3 expression was up-regulated after B. tabaci adults were exposed to thiamethoxam and imidacloprid. Moreover, knocking down CYP6DB3 expression via feeding corresponding dsRNA significantly reduced CYP6DB3 mRNA levels by 34.1%. Silencing CYP6DB3 expression increased the sensitivity of B. tabaci Q adults against both thiamethoxam and imidacloprid. Overexpression of CYP6DB3 gene reduced the toxicity of imidacloprid and thiamethoxam to transgenic D. melanogaster. In addition, metabolic studies showed that CYP6DB3 can metabolize 24.41% imidacloprid in vitro. Collectively, these results strongly support that CYP6DB3 plays an important role in the resistance of B. tabaci Q to imidacloprid and thiamethoxam. This work will facilitate a deeper insight into the part of cytochrome P450s in the evolution of insecticide resistance and provide a theoretical basis for the development of new integrated pest resistance management.

Phenotypic resistance to pyrethroid associated to metabolic mechanism in Vgsc-L995F-resistant Anopheles gambiae malaria mosquitoes

Background: The indiscriminate use of insecticides in agriculture and public health lead to a selection of resistance mechanisms in malaria vectors compromising vector control tools and strategies. This study investigated the metabolic response in the Vgsc-L995F Anopheles gambiae Tiassalé resistance strain after long-term exposure of larvae and adults to deltamethrin insecticide. Methods:  Vgsc-L995F An. gambiae Tiassalé strain larvae were exposed over 20 generations to deltamethrin (LS) and adults to PermaNet 2.0 (AS) and combining exposure at larvae and adult stages (LAS) and compared to unexposed (NS) group. All four groups were subjected to the standard World Health Organization (WHO) susceptibility tube tests using deltamethrin (0.05%), bendiocarb (0.1%) and malathion (5%). Vgsc-L995F/S knockdown-resistance ( kdr) mutation frequency was screened using multiplex assays based on Taqman real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Additionally, expression levels of detoxification enzymes associated to pyrethroid resistance, including CYP4G16, CYP6M2, CYP6P1, CYP6P3, CYP6P4, CYP6Z1 and CYP9K1, and glutathione S-transferase GSTe2 were measured. Results: Our results indicated that deltamethrin resistance was a response to insecticide selection pressure in LS, AS and LAS groups, while susceptibility was observed in NS group. The vectors showed varied mortality rates with bendiocarb and full susceptibility to malathion throughout the selection with LS, AS and LAS groups. Vgsc-L995F mutation stayed at high allelic frequency level in all groups with a frequency between 87% and 100%. Among the overexpressed genes, CYP6P4 gene was the most overexpressed in LS, AS and LAS groups. Conclusion: Long-term exposure of larvae and adults of Vgsc-L995F resistant- An. gambiae Tiassalé strain to deltamethrin and PermaNet 2.0 net induced resistance to deltamethrin under a significant effect of cytochromes P450 detoxification enzymes. These outcomes highlight the necessity of investigating metabolic resistance mechanisms in the target population and not solely kdr resistance mechanisms prior the implementation of vector control strategies for a better impact.

Phenotypic resistance to pyrethroid associated to metabolic mechanism in Vgsc-L995F-resistant Anopheles gambiae malaria mosquitoes

Background: The indiscriminate use of insecticides in agriculture and public health lead to a selection of resistance mechanisms in malaria vectors compromising vector control tools and strategies. This study investigated the metabolic response in the Vgsc-L995F Anopheles gambiae Tiassalé resistance strain after long-term exposure of larvae and adults to deltamethrin insecticide. Methods: We exposed, over 20 generations, Vgsc-L995F An. gambiae Tiassalé strain larvae to deltamethrin (LS) and adults to PermaNet 2.0 (AS) and combining exposure at larvae and adult stages (LAS) and compared to unexposed (NS) group. All four groups were subjected to the standard World Health Organization (WHO) susceptibility tube tests using deltamethrin (0.05%), bendiocarb (0.1%) and malathion (5%). Vgsc-L995F/S knockdown-resistance (kdr) mutation frequency was screened using multiplex assays based on Taqman real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Additionally, expression levels of detoxification enzymes associated to pyrethroid resistance, including CYP4G16, CYP6M2, CYP6P1, CYP6P3, CYP6P4, CYP6Z1 and CYP9K1, and glutathione S-transferase GSTe2 were measured. Results: Our results indicated that deltamethrin resistance was a response to insecticide selection pressure in LS, AS and LAS groups, while susceptibility was observed in NS group. The vectors showed varied mortality rates with bendiocarb and full susceptibility to malathion throughout the selection with LS, AS and LAS groups. Vgsc-L995F mutation stayed at high allelic frequency level in all groups with a frequency between 87% and 100%. Among the overexpressed genes, CYP6P4 gene was the most overexpressed in LS, AS and LAS groups. Conclusion: Long-term exposure of larvae and adults of Vgsc-L995F resistant-An. gambiae Tiassalé strain to deltamethrin and PermaNet 2.0 net induced resistance to deltamethrin under a significant effect of cytochromes P450 detoxification enzymes. These outcomes highlight the necessity of investigating metabolic resistance mechanisms in the target population and not solely kdr resistance mechanisms prior the implementation of vector control strategies for a better impact.

The duplicated P450s CYP6P9a/b drive carbamates and pyrethroids cross-resistance in the major African malaria vector Anopheles funestus

Cross-resistance to insecticides in multiple resistant malaria vectors is hampering resistance management. Understanding its underlying molecular basis is critical to implementation of suitable insecticide-based interventions. Here, we established that the tandemly duplicated cytochrome P450s, CYP6P9a/b are driving carbamate and pyrethroid cross-resistance in Southern African populations of the major malaria vector Anopheles funestus. Transcriptome sequencing revealed that cytochrome P450s are the most over-expressed genes in bendiocarb and permethrin-resistant An. funestus. The CYP6P9a and CYP6P9b genes are overexpressed in resistant An. funestus from Southern Africa (Malawi) versus susceptible An. funestus (Fold change (FC) is 53.4 and 17 respectively), while the CYP6P4a and CYP6P4b genes are overexpressed in resistant An. funestus in Ghana, West Africa, (FC is 41.1 and 17.2 respectively). Other up-regulated genes in resistant An. funestus include several additional cytochrome P450s (e.g. CYP9J5, CYP6P2, CYP6P5), glutathione-S transferases, ATP-binding cassette transporters, digestive enzymes, microRNA and transcription factors (FC<7). Targeted enrichment sequencing strongly linked a known major pyrethroid resistance locus (rp1) to carbamate resistance centering around CYP6P9a/b. In bendiocarb resistant An. funestus, this locus exhibits a reduced nucleotide diversity, significant p-values when comparing allele frequencies, and the most non-synonymous substitutions. Recombinant enzyme metabolism assays showed that both CYP6P9a/b metabolize carbamates. Transgenic expression of CYP6P9a/b in Drosophila melanogaster revealed that flies expressing both genes were significantly more resistant to carbamates than controls. Furthermore, a strong correlation was observed between carbamate resistance and CYP6P9a genotypes with homozygote resistant An. funestus (CYP6P9a and the 6.5kb enhancer structural variant) exhibiting a greater ability to withstand bendiocarb/propoxur exposure than homozygote CYP6P9a_susceptible (e.g Odds ratio = 20.8, P<0.0001 for bendiocarb) and heterozygotes (OR = 9.7, P<0.0001). Double homozygote resistant genotype (RR/RR) were even more able to survive than any other genotype combination showing an additive effect. This study highlights the risk that pyrethroid resistance escalation poses to the efficacy of other classes of insecticides. Available metabolic resistance DNA-based diagnostic assays should be used by control programs to monitor cross-resistance between insecticides before implementing new interventions.

In Vitro and In Vivo Validation of CYP6A14 and CYP6N6 Participation in Deltamethrin Metabolic Resistance in Aedes albopictus

The extensive use of chemical insecticides for public health and agricultural purposes has increased the occurrence and development of insecticide resistance. This study used transcriptome sequencing to screen 10 upregulated metabolic detoxification enzyme genes from Aedes albopictus resistant strains. Of these, CYP6A14 and CYP6N6 were found to be substantially overexpressed in the deltamethrin-induced expression test, indicating their role in deltamethrin resistance in Ae. albopictus. Furthermore, the corresponding 60-kDa recombinant proteins, CYP6A14 and CYP6N6, were successfully expressed using the Escherichia coli expression system. Enzyme activity studies revealed that CYP6A14 (5.84 U/L) and CYP6N6 (6.3 U/L) have cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzyme activity. In vitro, the metabolic analysis revealed that the recombinant proteins degraded deltamethrin into 1-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine and 2',2'-dibromo-2'-deoxyguanosine. Subsequently, the CYP450 genes in larvae of Ae. albopictus were silenced by RNA interference technology to study deltamethrin resistance in vivo. The silencing of CYP6A14 and CYP6N6 increased the mortality rate of mosquitoes without affecting their survival time, spawning quantity, hatching rate, and other normal life activities. Altogether, CYP6A14 and CYP6N6 belong to the CYP6 family and mutually increase deltamethrin resistance in Ae. albopictus.

Multiple-P450 Gene Co-Up-Regulation in the Development of Permethrin Resistance in the House Fly, Musca domestica

This paper reports a study conducted at the whole transcriptome level to characterize the P450 genes involved in the development of pyrethroid resistance, utilizing expression profile analyses of 86 cytochrome P450 genes in house fly strains with different levels of resistance to pyrethroids/permethrin. Interactions among the up-regulated P450 genes and possible regulatory factors in different autosomes were examined in house fly lines with different combinations of autosomes from a resistant house fly strain, ALHF. Eleven P450 genes that were significantly up-regulated, with levels > 2-fold those in the resistant ALHF house flies, were in CYP families 4 and 6 and located on autosomes 1, 3 and 5. The expression of these P450 genes was regulated by trans- and/or cis-acting factors, especially on autosomes 1 and 2. An in vivo functional study indicated that the up-regulated P450 genes also conferred permethrin resistance in Drosophila melanogaster transgenic lines. An in vitro functional study confirmed that the up-regulated P450 genes are able to metabolize not only cis- and trans-permethrin, but also two metabolites of permethrin, PBalc and PBald. In silico homology modeling and the molecular docking methodology further support the metabolic capacity of these P450s for permethrin and substrates. Taken together, the findings of this study highlight the important function of multi-up-regulated P450 genes in the development of insecticide resistance in house flies.

Genetic Diversity of Cytochrome P450s CYP6M2 and CYP6P4 Associated with Pyrethroid Resistance in the Major Malaria Vectors Anopheles coluzzii and Anopheles gambiae from Yaoundé, Cameroon

Assessing the genetic diversity of metabolic resistance genes, such as cytochrome P450s, helps to understand the dynamics and evolution of resistance in the field. Here, we analyzed the polymorphisms of CYP6M2 and CYP6P4, associated with pyrethroid resistance in Anopheles coluzzii and Anopheles gambiae, to detect potential resistance markers. Field-caught resistant mosquitos and susceptible lab strains were crossed, and F4 was exposed to permethrin for 15 min and 90 min to discriminate highly susceptible (HS) and highly resistant (HR) mosquitos, respectively. Significant permethrin mortality reduction was observed after pre-exposure to PBO, suggesting the gene involvement of P450s. qPCR analysis revealed significant overexpression of CYP6M2 (FC = 19.57 [95% CI 13.96-25.18] for An. coluzzii; 10.16 [7.86-12.46] for An. gambiae) and CYP6P4 (FC = 6.73 [6.15-7.30] An. coluzzii; 23.62 [26.48-20.76] An. gambiae). Full-gene and ≈1 kb upstream were sequenced. For CYP6M2, the upstream region shows low diversity in HR and HS (overall Hd = 0.49, π = 0.018), whereas the full-gene shows allelic-variation but without evidence of ongoing selection. CYP6P4 upstream region showed a lower diversity in HR (Hd = 0.48) than HS (Hd = 0.86) of An. gambiae. These results highlighted that CYP6P4-associated resistance is potentially driven by modification in upstream region. However, further work is needed to determine the real causative variants that will help design rapid detection tools.

Marked Effects of Larval Salt Exposure on the Life History and Gut Microbiota of the Malaria Vector Anopheles merus (Diptera: Culicidae)

Anopheles merus can breed in a range of saltwater concentrations. The consequences of this ability on the life history of adult An. merus are poorly understood. This study examined the effects of exposure to 0, 2.1875, 4.375, 8.75, and 17.5 g/L of sodium chloride on An. merus. The effects on larval development, adult longevity, fertility, and fecundity, as well as deltamethrin tolerance were examined. The effect of larval salt exposure on the expression of defensin-1 in adults was examined by quantitative Real-Time PCR. Finally, the effect of the larval salt concentration on microbial dynamics was assessed by 16S Next Generation Sequencing. High concentrations of saltwater increased larval development time and number of eggs laid, as well as deltamethrin tolerance. Larval exposure to salt also reduced the expression of defensin-1. The exposure also had a significant effect on microbial diversity in larvae and adults. The diversity of larvae decreased once adults emerged. Salt-tolerant bacterial genera predominated in larvae but were absent in adults. High salt concentrations resulted in greater abundance of Plasmodium-protective genera in adults. Although this study was conducted on a laboratory strain of An. merus, these data suggest that osmoregulation has a significant effect on the life history of the species with potential epidemiological consequences.

Functional characterization of CYP6G4 from the house fly in propoxur metabolism and resistance

The house fly (Musca domestica L.) (Diptera: Muscidae) is a global vector that can transmit >250 human and animal diseases. The control of house flies has heavily relied on the application of various chemical insecticides. The carbamate insecticide propoxur has been widely used for the control of house flies, and resistance to propoxur has been documented in many house fly populations worldwide. Previous studies have identified several propoxur resistance-conferring mutations in the target protein acetylcholinesterase; however, the molecular basis for metabolic resistance to propoxur remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the involvement of CYP6G4, a cytochrome P450 overexpressed in many insecticide resistant populations of Musca domestica, in propoxur metabolism and resistance by using combined approaches of recombinant protein-based insecticide metabolism and the Drosophila GAL4/UAS transgenic system. The recombinant CYP6G4 and its redox partners (NADPH-dependent cytochrome P450 reductase and cytochrome b5) were functionally expressed in Escherichia coli. Metabolism experiments showed that CYP6G4 was able to transform propoxur with a turnover rate of around 0.79 min^-1. Six metabolites were putatively identified, suggesting that CYP6G4 could metabolize propoxur via hydroxylation, O-depropylation and N-demethylation. Moreover, bioassay results showed that ectopic overexpression of CYP6G4 in fruit flies significantly increased their tolerance to propoxur. Our in vivo and in vitro data convincingly demonstrate that CYP6G4 contributes to propoxur metabolism and resistance.

Multi-omics analysis identifies a CYP9K1 haplotype conferring pyrethroid resistance in the malaria vector Anopheles funestus in East Africa

Metabolic resistance to pyrethroids is a menace to the continued effectiveness of malaria vector controls. Its molecular basis is complex and varies geographically across Africa. Here, we used a multi‐omics approach, followed‐up with functional validation to show that a directionally selected haplotype of a cytochrome P450, CYP9K1 is a major driver of resistance in Anopheles funestus. A PoolSeq GWAS using mosquitoes alive and dead after permethrin exposure, from Malawi and Cameroon, detected candidate genomic regions, but lacked consistency across replicates. Targeted sequencing of candidate resistance genes detected several SNPs associated with known pyrethroid resistance QTLs. The most significant SNPs were in the cytochrome P450 CYP304B1 (Cameroon), CYP315A1 (Uganda) and the ABC transporter gene ABCG4 (Malawi). However, when comparing field resistant mosquitoes to laboratory susceptible, the pyrethroid resistance locus rp1 and SNPs around the ABC transporter ABCG4 were consistently significant, except for Uganda where SNPs in the P450 CYP9K1 was markedly significant. In vitro heterologous metabolism assays with recombinant CYP9K1 revealed that it metabolises type II pyrethroid (deltamethrin; 64% depletion) but not type I (permethrin; 0%), while moderately metabolising DDT (17%). CYP9K1 exhibited reduced genetic diversity in Uganda underlying an extensive selective sweep. Furthermore, a glycine to alanine (G454A) amino acid change in CYP9K1 was fixed in Ugandan mosquitoes but not in other An. funestus populations. This study sheds further light on the evolution of metabolic resistance in a major malaria vector by implicating more genes and variants that can be used to design field‐applicable markers to better track resistance Africa‐wide.

Contribution of multiple overexpressed carboxylesterase genes to indoxacarb resistance in Spodoptera litura

BACKGROUND

As an important family of detoxification enzymes, carboxylesterases (CarEs) have important roles in the development of insecticide resistance in almost all agricultural pests. Previous studies have suggested that enhancement of CarE activity is an important mechanism mediating indoxacarb resistance in Spodoptera litura, and several CarE genes have been found to be overexpressed in indoxacarb-resistant strains. However, the functions of these CarE genes in indoxacarb resistance needs to be further investigated.

RESULTS

The synergist triphenyl phosphate effectively reduced the resistance of S. litura to indoxacarb, suggesting an involvement of CarEs in indoxacarb resistance. Among seven identified S. litura CarE genes (hereafter SlituCOE), six were overexpressed in two indoxacarb-resistant strains, but there were no significant differences in gene copy number. Knockdown of SlituCOE009 and SlituCOE050 enhanced indoxacarb sensitivity in both susceptible and resistant strains, whereas knockdown of SlituCOE090, SlituCOE093 and SlituCOE074 enhanced indoxacarb sensitivity in only the resistant strain. Knockdown of the sixth gene, SlituCOE073, did not have any effect. Furthermore, simultaneous knockdown of the five SlituCOE genes had a greater effect on increasing indoxacarb sensitivity than silencing them individually. By contrast, overexpression of the five SlituCOE genes individually in Drosophila melanogaster significantly decreased the toxicity of indoxacarb to transgenic fruit flies. Furthermore, modeling and docking analysis indicated that the catalytic pockets of SlituCOE009 and SlituCOE074 were ideally shaped for indoxacarb and N-decarbomethoxylated metabolite (DCJW), but the binding affinity for DCJW was stronger than for indoxacarb.

CONCLUSION

This study reveals that multiple overexpressed CarE genes are involved in indoxacarb resistance in S. litura.

Composition of mosquito fauna and insecticide resistance status of Anopheles gambiae sensu lato in Itang special district, Gambella, Southwestern Ethiopia

Background

Anopheles arabiensis, member species of the Anopheles gambiae complex, is the primary vector of malaria and is widely distributed in Ethiopia. Anopheles funestus, Anopheles pharoensis and Anopheles nili are secondary vectors occurring with limited distribution in the country. Indoor residual spraying (IRS) and long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) are pillars for the interventions against malaria control and elimination efforts in Ethiopia. However, the emergence and widespread of insecticide resistance in An. gambiae sensu lato (s.l.), might compromise the control efforts of the country. The aim of this study was to investigate composition of mosquito fauna and insecticide resistance status of An. gambiae s.l. in Itang special district ( woreda), Gambella, southwestern Ethiopia.

Methods

Adult mosquitoes were sampled from September 2020 to February 2021 using the CDC light trap and pyrethrum spray catch (PSC). CDC light traps were placed in three selected houses for two consecutive days per month to collect mosquitoes indoor and outdoor from 6:00 P.M. to 06:00 A.M. and PSC was used to collect indoor resting mosquitoes from ten selected houses once in a month from October 2020 to February 2021. Moreover, mosquito larvae were also collected from different breeding sites and reared to adults to assess susceptibility status of populations of An. gambiae s.l. in the study area. Susceptibility tests were conducted on two to three days old non blood fed female An. gambiae s.l. using insecticide impregnated papers with deltamethrin (0.05%), alpha-cypermethrin (0.05%), propoxur (0.1%), pirimiphos-methyl (0.25%) and bendiocarb (0.1%) following World Health Organization (WHO) standard susceptibility test procedure. Molecular diagnostics were done for the identification of member species of An. gambiae s.l. and detection of knockdown resistance (kdr) allele using species specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and allele specific PCR.

Results

In total, 468 adult mosquitoes were collected from different houses. Culex mosquitoes were the most dominant (80.4%) followed by Anopheles mosquitoes. Three species of Anopheles (Anopheles coustani, An. pharoensis, and An. gambiae s.l.) were identified, of which An. coustani was the dominant (8.1%) species. Higher number of mosquitoes (231) were collected outdoor by CDC light traps. Out of 468 adult mosquitoes, 294 were blood fed, 46 were half-gravid and gravid whereas the remaining 128 were unfed. WHO bioassay tests revealed that the populations of An. gambiae s.l. in the study area are resistant against alpha-cypermethrin and deltamethrin, but susceptible to bendiocarb, pirimiphos-methyl and propoxur. Of the total 86 An. gambiae s.l. specimens assayed, 79 (92%) successfully amplified and identified as An. arabiensis. West African kdr (L1014F) mutation was detected with high kdr allele frequency ranging from 67 to 88%.

Conclusion

The detection of target site mutation, kdr L1014F allele, coupled with the phenotypic resistance against alpha-cypermethrin and deltamethrin call for continuous resistance monitoring.

Biochemical profiling of functionally expressed CYP6P9 variants of the malaria vector Anopheles funestus with special reference to cytochrome b5 and its role in pyrethroid and coumarin substrate metabolism

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s) are well studied enzymes catalyzing the oxidative metabolism of xenobiotics in insects including mosquitoes. Their duplication and upregulation in agricultural and public health pests such as anopheline mosquitoes often leads to an enhanced metabolism of insecticides which confers resistance. In the laboratory strain Anopheles funestus FUMOZ-R the duplicated P450s CYP6P9a and CYP6P9b are highly upregulated and proven to confer pyrethroid resistance. Microsomal P450 activity is regulated by NADPH cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (CPR) required for electron transfer, whereas the modulatory role of cytochrome b₅ (CYB5) on insect P450 activity is less clear. In previous studies CYP6P9a and CYP6P9b were recombinantly expressed in tandem with An. gambiae CPR using E. coli-expression systems and CYB5 added to the reaction mix to enhance activity. However, the precise role of CYB5 on substrate turn-over when combined with CYP6P9a and CYP6P9b remains poorly investigated, thus one objective of our study was to address this knowledge gap. In contrast to the CYP6P9 variants, the expression levels of both CYB5 and CPR were not upregulated in the pyrethroid resistant FUMOZ-R strain when compared to the susceptible FANG strain, suggesting no immediate regulatory role of these genes in pyrethroid resistance in FUMOZ-R. Here, for the first time we recombinantly expressed CYP6P9a and CYP6P9b from An. funestus in a baculovirus expression system using High-5 insect cells. Co-expression of each enzyme with CPR from either An. gambiae or An. funestus did not reveal noteworthy differences in catalytic capacity. Whereas the co-expression of An. funestus CYB5 - tested at different multiplicity of infection (MOI) ratios - resulted in a significantly higher metabolization of coumarin substrates as measured by fluorescence assays. This was confirmed by Michaelis-Menten kinetics using the most active substrate, 7-benzyloxymethoxy-4-trifluoromethylcoumarin (BOMFC). We observed a similar increase in coumarin substrate turnover by adding human CYB5 to the reaction mix. Finally, we compared by UPLC-MS/MS analysis the depletion rate of deltamethrin and the formation of 4'OH-deltamethrin by recombinantly expressed CYP6P9a and CYP6P9b with and without CYB5 and detected no difference in the extent of deltamethrin metabolism. Our results suggest that co-expression (or addition) of CYB5 with CYP6P9 variants, recombinantly expressed in insect cells, can significantly enhance their metabolic capacity to oxidize coumarins, but not deltamethrin.

Evaluation of tolerance to λ-cyhalothrin and response of detoxification enzymes in silkworms reared on artificial diet

A representative silkworm rearing mode of Ⅰ-Ⅲ instars reared on artificial diet and Ⅳ-Ⅴ instars reared on fresh mulberry leaves has been recognized in some sericultural areas of China. Under this rearing mode, silkworms are prone to be poisoned by pesticide residues on mulberry leaves at the Ⅳ and Ⅴ instar stages. As one of the most widely applied insecticides, λ-cyhalothrin was used to study the insecticide tolerance of silkworm reared on artificial diet (referred as the AD group). Our results showed that the newly ecdysized Ⅳ instar larvae in the AD group were less tolerant to λ-cyhalothrin compared to the mulberry leaves reared group (referred as the ML group). After continuous exposure to trace λ-cyhalothrin, the weight gain and the survival rate of silkworms were significantly lower in the AD group than those in the ML group, even though compensatory growth was observed in the control of the AD group. Histopathology and ultrastructure of fat body showed that λ-cyhalothrin induced more severe cell injuries in the AD group, such as shrunken nucleus, dilatation of endoplasmic reticulum, and mitochondrial swelling. The transcription levels of detoxification related genes (CYP4M5, CYP6AB4, CarE2, CarE5, GSTe1 and GSTe3) and the enzyme activities of P450s, CarEs and GSTs were inducible by trace λ-cyhalothrin in a time-specific manner, and the data showed that the response of P450 enzyme activity was retarded in the AD group, indicating a potential reason for a higher sensitivity to λ-cyhalothrin. Our results provided a new clue for the study of the relationship between feed nutrition and detoxification ability, and also provided an important reference for the development of modern silkworm rearing mode.

Functionally characterized arthropod pest and pollinator cytochrome P450s associated with xenobiotic metabolism

The cytochrome P450 family (P450s) of arthropods includes diverse enzymes involved in endogenous essential physiological functions and in the oxidative metabolism of xenobiotics, insecticides and plant allelochemicals. P450s can also establish insecticide selectivity in bees and pollinators. Several arthropod P450s, distributed in different phylogenetic groups, have been associated with xenobiotic metabolism, and some of them have been functionally characterized, using different in vitro and in vivo systems. The purpose of this review is to summarize scientific publications on arthropod P450s from major insect and mite agricultural pests, pollinators and Papilio sp, which have been functionally characterized and shown to metabolize xenobiotics and/or their role (direct or indirect) in pesticide toxicity or resistance has been functionally validated. The phylogenetic relationships among these P450s, the functional systems employed for their characterization and their xenobiotic catalytic properties are presented, in a systematic approach, including critical aspects and limitations. The potential of the primary P450-based metabolic pathway of target and non-target organisms for the development of highly selective insecticides and resistance-breaking formulations may help to improve the efficiency and sustainability of pest control.

Transcriptomic analysis of resistance and short-term induction response to pyrethroids, in Anopheles coluzzii legs

BACKGROUND

Insecticide-treated bed nets and indoor residual spraying comprise the major control measures against Anopheles gambiae sl, the dominant vector in sub-Saharan Africa. The primary site of contact with insecticide is through the mosquitoes' legs, which represents the first barrier insecticides have to bypass to reach their neuronal targets. Proteomic changes and leg cuticle modifications have been associated with insecticide resistance that may reduce the rate of penetration of insecticides. Here, we performed a multiple transcriptomic analyses focusing on An. coluzzii legs.

RESULTS

Firstly, leg-specific enrichment analysis identified 359 genes including the pyrethroid-binder SAP2 and 2 other chemosensory proteins, along with 4 ABCG transporters previously shown to be leg enriched. Enrichment of gene families included those involved in detecting chemical stimuli, including gustatory and ionotropic receptors and genes implicated in hydrocarbon-synthesis. Subsequently, we compared transcript expression in the legs of a highly resistant strain (VK7-HR) to both a strain with very similar genetic background which has reverted to susceptibility after several generations without insecticide pressure (VK7-LR) and a lab susceptible population (NG). Two hundred thirty-two differentially expressed genes (73 up-regulated and 159 down-regulated) were identified in the resistant strain when compared to the two susceptible counterparts, indicating an over-expression of phase I detoxification enzymes and cuticular proteins, with decrease in hormone-related metabolic processes in legs from the insecticide resistant population. Finally, we analysed the short-term effect of pyrethroid exposure on An. coluzzii legs, comparing legs of 1 h-deltamethrin-exposed An. coluzzii (VK7-IN) to those of unexposed mosquitoes (VK7-HR) and identified 348 up-regulated genes including those encoding for GPCRs, ABC transporters, odorant-binding proteins and members of the divergent salivary gland protein family.

CONCLUSIONS

The data on An. coluzzii leg-specific transcriptome provides valuable insights into the first line of defense in pyrethroid resistant and short-term deltamethrin-exposed mosquitoes. Our results suggest that xenobiotic detoxification is likely occurring in legs, while the enrichment of sensory proteins, ABCG transporters and cuticular genes is also evident. Constitutive resistance is primarily associated with elevated levels of detoxification and cuticular genes, while short-term insecticide-induced tolerance is linked with overexpression of transporters, GPCRs and GPCR-related genes, sensory/binding and salivary gland proteins.

A whole transcriptomic approach provides novel insights into the molecular basis of organophosphate and pyrethroid resistance in Anopheles arabiensis from Ethiopia

The development of insecticide resistance in malaria vectors is of increasing concern in Ethiopia because of its potential implications for vector control failure. To better elucidate the specificity of resistance mechanisms and to facilitate the design of control strategies that minimize the likelihood of selecting for cross-resistance, a whole transcriptomic approach was used to explore gene expression patterns in a multi-insecticide resistant population of Anopheles arabiensis from Oromia Region, Ethiopia. This field population was resistant to the diagnostic doses of malathion (average mortality of 71.9%) and permethrin (77.4%), with pools of survivors and unexposed individuals analyzed using Illumina RNA-sequencing, alongside insecticide susceptible reference strains. This population also demonstrated deltamethrin resistance but complete susceptibility to alpha-cypermethrin, bendiocarb and propoxur, providing a phenotypic basis for detecting insecticide-specific resistance mechanisms. Transcriptomic data revealed overexpression of genes including cytochrome P450s, glutathione-s-transferases and carboxylesterases (including CYP4C36, CYP6AA1, CYP6M2, CYP6M3, CYP6P4, CYP9K1, CYP9L1, GSTD3, GSTE2, GSTE3, GSTE4, GSTE5, GSTE7 and two carboxylesterases) that were shared between malathion and permethrin survivors. We also identified nineteen highly overexpressed cuticular-associated proteins (including CYP4G16, CYP4G17 and chitinase) and eighteen salivary gland proteins (including D7r4 short form salivary protein), which may be contributing to a non-specific resistance phenotype by either enhancing the cuticular barrier or promoting binding and sequestration of insecticides, respectively. These findings provide novel insights into the molecular basis of insecticide resistance in this lesser well-characterized major malaria vector species.

The cytochrome P450 CYP325A is a major driver of pyrethroid resistance in the major malaria vector Anopheles funestus in Central Africa

The overexpression and overactivity of key cytochrome P450s (CYP450) genes are major drivers of metabolic resistance to insecticides in African malaria vectors such as Anopheles funestus s.s. Previous RNAseq-based transcription analyses revealed elevated expression of CYP325A specific to Central African populations but its role in conferring resistance has not previously been demonstrated. In this study, RT-qPCR consistently confirmed that CYP325A is highly over-expressed in pyrethroid-resistant An. funestus from Cameroon, compared with a control strain and insecticide-unexposed mosquitoes. A synergist bioassay with PBO significantly recovered susceptibility for permethrin and deltamethrin indicating P450-based metabolic resistance. Analyses of the coding sequence of CYP325A Africa-wide detected high-levels of polymorphism, but with no predominant alleles selected by pyrethroid resistance. Geographical amino acid changes were detected notably in Cameroon. In silico homology modelling and molecular docking simulations predicted that CYP325A binds and metabolises type I and type II pyrethroids. Heterologous expression of recombinant CYP325A and metabolic assays confirmed that the most-common Cameroonian haplotype metabolises both type I and type II pyrethroids with depletion rate twice that the of the DR Congo haplotype. Analysis of the 1 kb putative promoter of CYP325A revealed reduced diversity in resistant mosquitoes compared to susceptible ones, suggesting a potential selective sweep in this region. The establishment of CYP325A as a pyrethroid resistance metabolising gene further explains pyrethroid resistance in Central African populations of An. funestus. Our work will facilitate future efforts to detect the causative resistance markers in the promoter region of CYP325A to design field applicable DNA-based diagnostic tools.

Overabundance of Asaia and Serratia Bacteria Is Associated with Deltamethrin Insecticide Susceptibility in Anopheles coluzzii from Agboville, Côte d'Ivoire

Insecticide resistance among mosquito species is now a pervasive phenomenon that threatens to jeopardize global malaria vector control efforts. Evidence of links between the mosquito microbiota and insecticide resistance is emerging, with significant enrichment of insecticide degrading bacteria and enzymes in resistant populations. Using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, we characterized and compared the microbiota of Anopheles coluzzii in relation to their deltamethrin resistance and exposure profiles. Comparisons between 2- and 3-day-old deltamethrin-resistant and -susceptible mosquitoes demonstrated significant differences in microbiota diversity. Ochrobactrum, Lysinibacillus, and Stenotrophomonas genera, each of which comprised insecticide-degrading species, were significantly enriched in resistant mosquitoes. Susceptible mosquitoes had a significant reduction in alpha diversity compared to resistant individuals, with Asaia and Serratia dominating microbial profiles. There was no significant difference in deltamethrin-exposed and -unexposed 5- to 6-day-old individuals, suggesting that insecticide exposure had minimal impact on microbial composition. Serratia and Asaia were also dominant in 5- to 6-day-old mosquitoes, which had reduced microbial diversity compared to 2- to 3-day-old mosquitoes. Our findings revealed significant alterations of Anopheles coluzzii microbiota associated with deltamethrin resistance, highlighting the potential for identification of novel microbial markers for insecticide resistance surveillance. qPCR detection of Serratia and Asaia was consistent with 16S rRNA sequencing, suggesting that population-level field screening of bacterial microbiota may be feasibly integrated into wider resistance monitoring, if reliable and reproducible markers associated with phenotype can be identified.

IMPORTANCE Control of insecticide-resistant vector populations remains a significant challenge to global malaria control and while substantial progress has been made elucidating key target site mutations, overexpressed detoxification enzymes and alternate gene families, the contribution of the mosquito microbiota to phenotypic insecticide resistance has been largely overlooked. We focused on determining the effects of deltamethrin resistance intensity on Anopheles coluzzii microbiota and identifying any microbial taxa associated with phenotype. We demonstrated a significant reduction in microbial diversity between deltamethrin-resistant and -susceptible mosquitoes. Insecticide degrading bacterial species belonging to Ochrobactrum, Lysinibacillus, and Stenotrophomonas genera were significantly enriched in resistant mosquitoes, while Asaia and Serratia dominated microbial profiles of susceptible individuals. Our results revealed significant alterations of Anopheles coluzzii microbiota associated with deltamethrin resistance, highlighting the potential for identification of novel microbial markers for surveillance and opportunities for designing innovative control techniques to prevent the further evolution and spread of insecticide resistance.

Short-term metabolic resistance inductive effect of different agrochemical groups on Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes

Background: In order to assess the impact of the different groups of agricultural pesticides used in Côte d'Ivoire on the increase of mosquitoes resistance to insecticides, the expression profiles of 7 P450 cytochromes and one GSTE2 of Anopheles gambiae involved in mosquito resistance to insecticides were studied. The goal of this study was to determine the effect of short exposure of mosquito larvae to different groups of agricultural pesticides on mosquito resistance. Methods: Three groups of pesticides were selected: (i) agricultural insecticide solutions, (ii) non-insecticide pesticide solutions (a mixture of herbicides and fungicides), and (iii) a mixture of the first two. A fourth non-pesticide solution was used as a control. Four groups of each stage 2 larvae (strain Kisumu, male and female) were exposed to 20% concentrated solution for 24 hours. Susceptibility tests for dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and Deltamethrin were carried out on adults aged 2-5 days. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was performed to quantify the expression of eight metabolic genes involved in mosquito resistance to insecticides.  Results: Susceptibility to DDT showed a similar increase in the time required to knock down 50% of mosquitoes (kdt50) in l colonies exposed to insecticides and non-insecticides compared to the control colony. As for deltamethrin, kdt50 was higher in the colonies exposed to insecticides and the pesticide mixture compared to the colony exposed to non-insecticides. Of all the genes studied in all colonies, except for CYP6P1 induced only in the colony consisting of the pesticide mixture, no genes were induced. Conclusions: This study confirmed that induction is influenced by the duration, the concentration of the solution and the type of xenobiotic used as an inducer. The overexpression of CYP6P1 confirmed the inductive effect that a short exposure of mosquito larvae to agricultural pesticides could have.

Full-length transcriptome analysis of Spodoptera frugiperda larval brain reveals detoxification genes

Background

Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith), commonly known as fall armyworm (FAW), is one of the most destructive agricultural pests in the world and has posed a great threat to crops. The improper use of insecticides has led to rapid development of resistance. However, the genetic data available for uncovering the insecticide resistance mechanisms are scarce.

Methods

In this study, we used PacBio single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing aimed at revealing the full-length transcriptome profiling of the FAW larval brain to obtain detoxification genes.

Results

A total of 18,642 high-quality transcripts were obtained with an average length of 2,371 bp, and 11,230 of which were successfully annotated in six public databases. Among these, 5,692 alternative splicing events were identified.

Intraspecific Transcriptome Variation and Sex-Biased Expression in Anopheles arabiensis

The magnitude and functional patterns of intraspecific transcriptional variation in the anophelines, including those of sex-biased genes underlying sex-specific traits relevant for malaria transmission, remain understudied. As a result, how changes in expression levels drive adaptation in these species is poorly understood. We sequenced the female, male, and larval transcriptomes of three populations of Anopheles arabiensis from Burkina Faso. One-third of the genes were differentially expressed between populations, often involving insecticide resistance-related genes in a sample type-specific manner, and with the females showing the largest number of differentially expressed genes. At the genomic level, the X chromosome appears depleted of differentially expressed genes compared with the autosomes, chromosomes harboring inversions do not exhibit evidence for enrichment of such genes, and genes that are top contributors to functional enrichment patterns of population differentiation tend to be clustered in the genome. Further, the magnitude of variation for the sex expression ratio across populations did not substantially differ between male- and female-biased genes, except for some populations in which male-limited expressed genes showed more variation than their female counterparts. In fact, female-biased genes exhibited a larger level of interpopulation variation than male-biased genes, both when assayed in males and females. Beyond uncovering the extensive adaptive potential of transcriptional variation in An. Arabiensis, our findings suggest that the evolutionary rate of changes in expression levels on the X chromosome exceeds that on the autosomes, while pointing to female-biased genes as the most variable component of the An. Arabiensis transcriptome.

Pyrethrin-resembling pyrethroids are metabolized more readily than heavily modified ones by CYP9As from Helicoverpa armigera

The cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera, is a polyphagous pest threatening many economically important crops worldwide. Until recently, synthetic pyrethroids remain in wide use for controlling pest insects including the cotton bollworm. Understanding the metabolic mechanism of pyrethroids in a given pest can provide significant implication for a smart choice of insecticides, and such information is useful for the development of novel selective and safe insecticides. In this study, we used complexes of recombinant H. armigera cytochrome P450 CYP9A and NADPH-dependent cytochrome P450 reductase to investigate the capacity of three CYP9A paralogs in the transformation of seven structurally different pyrethroids by metabolism assays. The results showed that the three paralogous CYP9As were able to metabolize multiple pyrethroids. Interestingly, all the three CYP9As transformed pyrethrin-resembling pyrethroids (e.g. bioallethrin) more efficiently than the heavily modified ones (e.g. bifenthrin). These findings suggest that herbivorous insects can cope with synthetic insecticides using their physiological systems that initially evolved to survive exposure to the defensive chemicals in their host plants, adding support to the pre-adaptation hypothesis.

Short-term metabolic resistance inductive effect of different agrochemical groups on Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes

Background: In order to assess the impact of the different groups of agricultural pesticides used in Côte d'Ivoire on the increase of mosquitoes resistance to insecticides, the expression profiles of 7 P450 cytochromes and one GSTE2 of Anopheles gambiae involved in mosquito resistance to insecticides were studied. The goal of this study was to determine the effect of short exposure of mosquito larvae to different groups of agricultural pesticides on mosquito resistance. Methods: Three groups of pesticides were selected: (i) agricultural insecticide solutions, (ii) none-insecticide pesticide solutions (a mixture of herbicides and fungicides), and (iii) a mixture of the first two. A fourth non-pesticide solution was used as a control. Four groups of each stage 2 larvae (strain Kisumu, male and female) were exposed to 20% concentrated solution for 24 hours. Susceptibility tests for dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and Deltamethrin were carried out on adults aged 2-5 days. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was performed to quantify the expression of eight metabolic genes involved in mosquito resistance to insecticides.  Results: Susceptibility to DDT showed a similar increase in the time required to knock down 50% of mosquitoes (kdt50) in l colonies exposed to insecticides and none-insecticides compared to the control colony. As for deltamethrin, kdt50 was higher in the colonies exposed to insecticides and the pesticide mixture compared to the colony exposed to none-insecticides. Of all the genes studied in all colonies, except for CYP6P1 induced only in the colony consisting of the pesticide mixture, no genes were induced. Conclusions: This study confirmed that induction is influenced by the duration, the concentration of the solution and the type of xenobiotic used as an inducer. The overexpression of CYP6P1 confirmed the inductive effect that a short exposure of mosquito larvae to agricultural pesticides could have.

Full length sequencing reveals novel transcripts of detoxification genes along with related alternative splicing events and lncRNAs in Phyllotreta striolata

The striped flea beetle, Phyllotreta striolata (Fabricius), damages crops in the Brassicaceae. The genetic data for this pest are insufficient to reveal its insecticide resistance mechanisms or to develop molecular markers for resistance monitoring. We used PacBio Iso-Seq technology to sequence the full-length transcriptome of P. striolata. After isoform sequence clustering and removal of redundant transcripts, a total of 41,293 transcripts were obtained, and 35,640 of these were annotated in the database of gene products. Structure analysis uncovered 4,307 alternative splicing events, and 3,836 sequences were recognized as lncRNAs. Transcripts with the complete coding region of important detoxification enzymes were further classified. There were 57 transcripts of P450s distributed in CYP2, CYP3, CYP4, and Mito CYP clades, 29 transcripts of ESTs from 4 functional groups, 17 transcripts of GSTs classified into 5 families, 51 transcripts of ABCs distributed in 6 families, and 19 transcripts of UGTs. Twenty-five lncRNAs were predicted to be regulators of these detoxification genes. Full-length transcriptome sequencing is an efficient method for molecular study of P. striolata and it is also useful for gene function analysis.

Assessing cross-resistance within the pyrethroids in terms of their interactions with key cytochrome P450 enzymes and resistance in vector populations

Background

It is important to understand whether the potential impact of pyrethroid resistance on malaria control can be mitigated by switching between different pyrethroids or whether cross-resistance within this insecticide class precludes this approach.

Methods

Here we assess the relationships among pyrethroids in terms of their binding affinity to, and depletion by, key cytochrome P450 enzymes (hereafter P450s) that are known to confer metabolic pyrethroid resistance in Anopheles gambiae (s.l.) and An. funestus, in order to identify which pyrethroids may diverge from the others in their vulnerability to resistance. We then investigate whether these same pyrethroids also diverge from the others in terms of resistance in vector populations.

Results

We found that the type I and II pyrethroids permethrin and deltamethrin, respectively, are closely related in terms of binding affinity to key P450s, depletion by P450s and resistance within vector populations. Bifenthrin, which lacks the common structural moiety of most pyrethroids, diverged from the other pyrethroids tested in terms of both binding affinity to key P450s and depletion by P450s, but resistance to bifenthrin has rarely been tested in vector populations and was not analysed here. Etofenprox, which also lacks the common structural moiety of most pyrethroids, diverged from the more commonly deployed pyrethroids in terms of binding affinity to key P450s and resistance in vector populations, but did not diverge from these pyrethroids in terms of depletion by the P450s. The analysis of depletion by the P450s indicated that etofenprox may be more vulnerable to metabolic resistance mechanisms in vector populations. In addition, greater resistance to etofenprox was found across Aedes aegypti populations, but greater resistance to this compound was not found in any of the malaria vector species analysed. The results for pyrethroid depletion by anopheline P450s in the laboratory were largely not repeated in the findings for resistance in malaria vector populations.

Conclusion

Importantly, the prevalence of resistance to the pyrethroids α-cypermethrin, cyfluthrin, deltamethrin, λ-cyhalothrin and permethrin was correlated across malaria vector populations, and switching between these compounds as a tool to mitigate against pyrethroid resistance is not advised without strong evidence supporting a true difference in resistance.

FastD: Fast detection of insecticide target-site mutations and overexpressed detoxification genes in insect populations from RNA-Seq data

Target-site mutations and detoxification gene overexpression are two major mechanisms conferring insecticide resistance. Molecular assays applied to detect these resistance genetic markers are time-consuming and with high false-positive rates. RNA-Seq data contains information on the variations within expressed genomic regions and expression of detoxification genes. However, there is no corresponding method to detect resistance markers at present. Here, we collected 66 reported resistance mutations of four insecticide targets (AChE, VGSC, RyR, and nAChR) from 82 insect species. Next, we obtained 403 sequences of the four target genes and 12,665 sequences of three kinds of detoxification genes including P450s, GSTs, and CCEs. Then, we developed a Perl program, FastD, to detect target-site mutations and overexpressed detoxification genes from RNA-Seq data and constructed a web server for FastD (http://www.insect-genome.com/fastd). The estimation of FastD on simulated RNA-Seq data showed high sensitivity and specificity. We applied FastD to detect resistant markers in 15 populations of six insects, Plutella xylostella, Aphis gossypii, Anopheles arabiensis, Musca domestica, Leptinotarsa decemlineata and Apis mellifera. Results showed that 11 RyR mutations in P. xylostella, one nAChR mutation in A. gossypii, one VGSC mutation in A. arabiensis and five VGSC mutations in M. domestica were found to be with frequency difference >40% between resistant and susceptible populations including previously confirmed mutations G4946E in RyR, R81T in nAChR and L1014F in VGSC. And 49 detoxification genes were found to be overexpressed in resistant populations compared with susceptible populations including previously confirmed detoxification genes CYP6BG1, CYP6CY22, CYP6CY13, CYP6P3, CYP6M2, CYP6P4 and CYP4G16. The candidate target-site mutations and detoxification genes were worth further validation. Resistance estimates according to confirmed markers were consistent with population phenotypes, confirming the reliability of this program in predicting population resistance at omics-level.

Cytochrome P450-based metabolic insecticide resistance in Anopheles and Aedes mosquito vectors: Muddying the waters

Despite the substantial progress achieved in the characterization of cytochrome P450 (CYP) -based resistance mechanisms in mosquitoes, a number of questions remain unanswered. These include: (i) the regulation and physiology of resistance conferring CYPs; (ii) the actual contribution of CYPs in resistance alone or in combination with other detoxification partners or other resistance mechanisms; (iii) the association between overexpression levels and allelic variation, with the catalytic activity and the intensity of resistance and (iv) the true value of molecular diagnostics targeting CYP markers, for driving decision making in the frame of Insecticide Resistance Management applications. Furthermore, the translation of CYP - based insecticide resistance research in mosquitoes into practical applications, is being developed, but it is not fully exploited, as yet. Examples include the production of high throughput platforms for screening the liability (stability) or inhibition potential of novel insecticidal leads and synergists (add-ons), as well as the exploration of the negative cross resistance concept (i.e. detoxification of certain insecticides, but activation of others pro-insecticides). The goal of this review is to critically summarise the current knowledge and the gaps of the CYP-based metabolic insecticide resistance in Anopheles and Aedes mosquito vectors. The progress and limitations of the protein and the reverse/forward genetic approaches, the understanding and importance of molecular and physiological aspects, as well as the current and future exploitation routes of CYP research are discussed.

Anopheles metabolic proteins in malaria transmission, prevention and control: a review

The increasing resistance to currently available insecticides in the malaria vector, Anopheles mosquitoes, hampers their use as an effective vector control strategy for the prevention of malaria transmission. Therefore, there is need for new insecticides and/or alternative vector control strategies, the development of which relies on the identification of possible targets in Anopheles. Some known and promising targets for the prevention or control of malaria transmission exist among Anopheles metabolic proteins. This review aims to elucidate the current and potential contribution of Anopheles metabolic proteins to malaria transmission and control. Highlighted are the roles of metabolic proteins as insecticide targets, in blood digestion and immune response as well as their contribution to insecticide resistance and Plasmodium parasite development. Furthermore, strategies by which these metabolic proteins can be utilized for vector control are described. Inhibitors of Anopheles metabolic proteins that are designed based on target specificity can yield insecticides with no significant toxicity to non-target species. These metabolic modulators combined with each other or with synergists, sterilants, and transmission-blocking agents in a single product, can yield potent malaria intervention strategies. These combinations can provide multiple means of controlling the vector. Also, they can help to slow down the development of insecticide resistance. Moreover, some metabolic proteins can be modulated for mosquito population replacement or suppression strategies, which will significantly help to curb malaria transmission.

Synthesis, insecticidal activity, resistance, photodegradation and toxicity of pyrethroids (A review)

Pyrethroids are a class of highly effective, broad-spectrum, less toxic, biodegradable synthetic pesticides. However, despite the extremely wide application of pyrethroids, there are many problems, such as insecticide resistance, lethal/sub-lethal toxicity to mammals, aquatic organisms or other beneficial organisms. The objectives of this review were to cover the main structures, synthesis, steroisomers, mechanisms of action, anti-mosquito activities, resistance, photodegradation and toxicities of pyrethroids. That was to provide a reference for synthesizing or screening novel pyrethroids with low insecticide resistance and low toxicity to beneficial organisms, evaluating the environmental pollution of pyrethroids and its metabolites. Besides, pyrethroids are mainly used for the control of vectors such as insects, and the non-target organisms are mammals, aquatic organisms etc. While maintaining the insecticidal activity is important, its toxic effects on non-target organisms should be also considered. Pyrethroid resistance is present not only in insect mosquitoes but also in environmental microorganisms, which results in anti-pyrethroids resistance (APR) strains. Besides, photodegradation product dibenzofurans is harmful to mammals and environment. Additionally, pyrethroid metabolites may have higher hormonal interference than the parents. Particularly, delivery of pyrethroids in nanoform can reduce the discharge of more toxic substances (such as organic solvents, etc.) to the environment.

Monitoring and molecular profiling of contemporary insecticide resistance status of malaria vectors in Guinea-Bissau

Despite reduction in the prevalence of malaria, Guinea-Bissau (GB) is still widely affected by the disease that is primarily vectored by Anopheles gambiae s.l. mosquitoes. Monitoring mosquito susceptibility and investigating the insecticide resistance status is an integral part of malaria control actions. Here, mosquito populations from five regions of GB: Bafatá, Bissau, Buba, Cacheu and Gabu were monitored for species ID and insecticide resistance, using diagnostic and intensity WHO bioassays, as well as molecular assays. Phenotypic and molecular identification of species showed the presence of An. gambiae s.s. (S form), An. coluzzii (M form) and An. arabiensis, as well as rare An. arabiensis/ An. gambiae hybrids. Resistance to permethrin and deltamethrin was found in all Anopheles populations assayed, with the intensity of resistance for permethrin being moderate to high, as confirmed by bioassays performed at concentration intensities of 5X and 10X. Consistent to these findings, molecular analysis showed a higher frequency of knock-down resistance (kdr) mutations (L1014F, L1014S, reaching > 90% in some areas) compared to previous studies in the same region, as well as detected for the first time the presence of the super kdr mutation (N1575Y) in GB. The "iAche" (G119S) resistance mutation was also found in GB in low frequencies (up to 12.41%). Additionally, the synergistic PBO-permethrin bioassays suggested partial involvement of non target (metabolic and/or reduced penetration) resistance mechanism. Expression analysis of known pyrethroid metabolisers indicated the slight overexpression and possible association of the cytochrome P450s CYP6Z1, CYP4G16 with the pyrethroid resistance phenotype. The findings should guide future evidence-based resistance management strategies in GB.

Linking Morphology, Toxicokinetic, and Toxicodynamic Traits of Aquatic Invertebrates to Pyrethroid Sensitivity

Pyrethroid insecticides are known to be highly toxic to most aquatic nontarget organisms, but little is known about the mechanisms causing some species to be highly sensitive while others are hardly affected by the pyrethroids. The aim of the present study was to measure the sensitivity (EC₅₀-values) of 10 aquatic invertebrates toward a 24 h pulse of the pyrethroid cypermethrin and subsequently test if the difference in sensitivity could be explained by measured morphological and physiological traits and modeled toxicokinetic (TK) and toxicodynamic (TD) parameters. Large differences were observed for the measured uptake and elimination kinetics, with bioconcentration factors (BCFs) ranging from 53 to 2337 at the end of the exposure. Similarly, large differences were observed for the TDs, and EC₅₀-values after 168 h varied 120-fold. Modeling the whole organism cypermethrin concentrations indicated compartmentation into a sorbed fraction and two internal fractions: a bioavailable and non-bioavailable internal fraction. Strong correlations between surface/volume area and the TK parameters (sorption and uptake rate constants and the resulting BCF) were found, but none of the TK parameters correlated with sensitivity. The only parameter consistently correlating with sensitivity across all species was the killing rate constant of the GUTS-RED-SD model (the reduced general unified threshold models of survival assuming stochastic death), indicating that sensitivity toward cypermethrin is more related to the TD parameters than to TK parameters.

Insecticide Resistance Mechanisms in Triatoma infestans (Reduviidae: Triatominae): The Putative Role of Enhanced Detoxification and Knockdown Resistance (kdr) Allele in a Resistant Hotspot From the Argentine Chaco

Chagas disease affects around 6 million people in the world, and in Latin America, it is mainly transmitted by the kissing bug. Chemical control of the vector with pyrethroid insecticides has been the most frequently used tool to reduce the disease incidence. Failures of field control have been detected in areas of the Argentinian Gran Chaco that correlate with high levels of insecticide resistance. Here, we provide evidence of the mechanisms involved in the resistance to insecticides of field populations of T. infestans from General Güemes Department (Chaco Province, Argentina). The biochemical analysis suggests the increase in the activity of the degradative enzymes P450 oxidases and esterases as a minor contributive mechanism in low-resistance populations. The molecular study revealed high frequencies of the kdr L925I mutation at the voltage-gated sodium channel as responsible for the high resistance ratios detected. This knowledge contributes to the generation of comprehensive vector control strategies that reduce the incidence of the disease.

First report of AChE1 (G119S) mutation and multiple resistance mechanisms in Anopheles gambiae s.s. in Nigeria

Susceptibility and PBO synergist bioassays were done using 3-5 days old female Anopheles mosquito collected from Lagos State, Nigeria with WHO test papers DDT (4%), permethrin (0.75%), Bendiocarb (1%) and PBO (4%) according to standard procedures. The activities of cytochrome P450s, glutathione S-transferase and carboxylesterases were determined using biochemical assays. The presence of kdr-w, kdr-e and Ace-1R mutations were examined using molecular assays. Resistance to DDT and permethrin in An gambiae s.s from the four Local Government Areas (LGAs) was recorded while suspected resistance to bendiocarb was recorded in mosquitoes from Alimosho and Kosofe LGAs. PBO synergist reduced the knockdown time and also recorded significantly (P < 0.05) higher 24 hrs percentage mortality compared to non-synergized bioassays. Increased activities of detoxifying enzymes was recorded in wild mosquito compared to the insecticides susceptible laboratory strain and this was significant (P < 0.05) in P450s, esterase α and β. Kdr-w was detected in An. gambiae s.s from all the LGAs, kdr-e (L1014S) was detected in Alimosho, Kosofe and Ibeju-Lekki, while the Ace-1R gene was detected in Alimosho and Kosofe. Results from this study provide evidence for resistance of An. gambiae from Lagos State to multiple classes of neurotoxic insecticides with multiple resistance mechanisms to these insecticides.

A cytochrome P450 allele confers pyrethroid resistance on a major African malaria vector, reducing insecticide-treated bednet efficacy

Metabolic resistance to insecticides such as pyrethroids in mosquito vectors threatens control of malaria in Africa. Unless it is managed, recent gains in reducing malaria transmission could be lost. To improve monitoring and assess the impact of insecticide resistance on malaria control interventions, we elucidated the molecular basis of pyrethroid resistance in the major African malaria vector, Anopheles funestus We showed that a single cytochrome P450 allele (CYP6P9a_R) in A. funestus reduced the efficacy of insecticide-treated bednets for preventing transmission of malaria in southern Africa. Expression of key insecticide resistance genes was detected in populations of this mosquito vector throughout Africa but varied according to the region. Signatures of selection and adaptive evolutionary traits including structural polymorphisms and cis-regulatory transcription factor binding sites were detected with evidence of selection due to the scale-up of insecticide-treated bednet use. A cis-regulatory polymorphism driving the overexpression of the major resistance gene CYP6P9a allowed us to design a DNA-based assay for cytochrome P450-mediated resistance to pyrethroid insecticides. Using this assay, we tracked the spread of pyrethroid resistance and found that it was almost fixed in mosquitoes from southern Africa but was absent from mosquitoes collected elsewhere in Africa. Furthermore, a field study in experimental huts in Cameroon demonstrated that mosquitoes carrying the resistance CYP6P9a_R allele survived and succeeded in blood feeding more often than did mosquitoes that lacked this allele. Our findings highlight the need to introduce a new generation of insecticide-treated bednets for malaria control that do not rely on pyrethroid insecticides.

Knockdown of NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase and CYP6MS1 increases the susceptibility of Sitophilus zeamais to terpinen-4-ol

Terpinen-4-ol showed highly insecticidal activity to stored-grain pest Sitophilus zeamais, and cytochrome P450s were strongly induced in response to terpinen-4-ol fumigation. Understanding of the function of P450 enzyme system in the susceptibility to terpinen-4-ol in S. zeamais will benefit the potential application of terpinen-4-ol in controlling stored-grain pests. In the present study, the synergist piperonyl butoxide increased the toxicity of terpinen-4-ol to S. zeamais, with a synergism ratio of 3.5-fold. Two isoforms of NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase (SzCPR) were identified, with the difference at the N-terminal. SzCPR contained an N-terminal membrane anchor, FMN, FAD, and NADP binding domains. Expression levels of SzCPR were upregulated by tea tree oil (TTO) and its main constituent terpinen-4-ol under different concentrations and time periods. RNAi was generated for S. zeamais by feeding adults dsRNA and the knockdown of SzCPR increased the susceptibility of S. zeamais to terpinen-4-ol, with higher mortality of adults than control under terpinen-4-ol fumigation. Further RNAi analysis showed that P450 gene CYP6MS1 mediated the susceptibility of S. zeamais to terpinen-4-ol. These results revealed that cytochrome P450 enzyme system, especially CYP6MS1 participated in the susceptibility of S. zeamais to terpinen-4-ol. The findings provided a foundation to clarify the metabolic mechanisms of terpinen-4-ol in stored-grain pests.

Cross-resistance profiles of malaria mosquito P450s associated with pyrethroid resistance against WHO insecticides

Extensive use of pyrethroids for malaria control in Africa has led to widespread pyrethroid resistance in the two major African vectors of malaria An. gambiae and An. funestus. This is often associated with constitutively elevated levels of cytochrome P450s involved with pyrethroid metabolism and detoxification. P450s have the capacity to metabolise diverse substrates, which raises concerns about their potential to cause cross-resistance. A bank of seven recombinant P450s from An. gambiae (CYPs 6M2, 6P2, 6P3, 6P4, 6P5, 9J5) and An. funestus (CYP6P9a) commonly associated with pyrethroid resistance were screened against twelve insecticides representing the five major classes of insecticides recommended by WHO for malaria control; permethrin, etofenprox and bifenthrin (type I pyrethroids), deltamethrin, lambda cyhalothrin and cypermethrin (type II pyrethroids), DDT (organochlorine), bendiocarb (carbamate), malathion, pirimiphos methyl and fenitrothion (organophosphates) and pyriproxyfen (juvenile hormone analogue). DDT was not metabolised by the P450 panel, while bendiocarb was only metabolised by CYP6P3. Pyrethroids and pyriproxyfen were largely susceptible to metabolism by the P450 panel, as were organophosphates, which are activated by P450s. Primiphos-methyl is increasingly used for malaria control. Examination of the pirimiphos-methyl metabolites generated by CYP6P3 revealed both the active pirimiphos-methyl-oxon form and the inactive oxidative cleavage product 2-diethylamino-6-hydroxy-4-methylpyrimidine. The inhibition profile of CYPs 6M2, 6P2, 6P3, 6P9a and 9J5 was also examined using diethoxyfluorescein (DEF) as the probe substrate. Bendiocarb was the weakest inhibitor with IC₅₀ > 100 μM across the P450 panel, while CYP6M2 showed strongest inhibition by malathion (IC₅₀ 0.7 μM). The results suggest that P450s present at elevated levels in two major Anopheline vectors of malaria in Africa have the capacity to metabolise a diverse range of pyrethroid and organophosphate insecticides as well as pyriproxyfen that could impact vector control.

Review of malaria situation in Cameroon: technical viewpoint on challenges and prospects for disease elimination

Malaria still has a devastating impact on public health and welfare in Cameroon. Despite the increasing number of studies conducted on disease prevalence, transmission patterns or treatment, there are to date, not enough studies summarising findings from previous works in order to identify gaps in knowledge and areas of interest where further evidence is needed to drive malaria elimination efforts. The present study seeks to address these gaps by providing a review of studies conducted so far on malaria in Cameroon since the 1940s to date. Over 250 scientific publications were consulted for this purpose. Although there has been increased scale-up of vector control interventions which significantly reduced the morbidity and mortality to malaria across the country from a prevalence of 41% of the population reporting at least one malaria case episode in 2000 to a prevalence of 24% in 2017, the situation is not yet under control. There is a high variability in disease endemicity between epidemiological settings with prevalence of Plasmodium parasitaemia varying from 7 to 85% in children aged 6 months to 15 years after long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) scale-up. Four species of Plasmodium have been recorded across the country: Plasmodium falciparum, P. malariae, P. ovale and P. vivax. Several primate-infecting Plasmodium spp. are also circulating in Cameroon. A decline of artemisinin-based combinations therapeutic efficacy from 97% in 2006 to 90% in 2016 have been reported. Several mutations in the P. falciparum chloroquine resistance (Pfcrt) and P. falciparum multidrug resistance 1 (Pfmdr1) genes conferring resistance to either 4-amino-quinoleine, mefloquine, halofanthrine and quinine have been documented. Mutations in the Pfdhfr and Pfdhps genes involved in sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine are also on the rise. No mutation associated with artemisinin resistance has been recorded. Sixteen anopheline species contribute to malaria parasite transmission with six recognized as major vectors: An. gambiae, An. coluzzii, An. arabiensis, An. funestus, An. nili and An. moucheti. Studies conducted so far, indicated rapid expansion of DDT, pyrethroid and carbamate resistance in An. gambiae, An. coluzzii, An. arabiensis and An. funestus threatening the performance of LLINs. This review highlights the complex situation of malaria in Cameroon and the need to urgently implement and reinforce integrated control strategies in different epidemiological settings, as part of the substantial efforts to consolidate gains and advance towards malaria elimination in the country.

NPC1161B, an 8-Aminoquinoline Analog, Is Metabolized in the Mosquito and Inhibits Plasmodium falciparum Oocyst Maturation

Malaria is a major global health threat, with nearly half the world’s population at risk of infection. Given the recently described delayed clearance of parasites by artemisinin-combined therapies, new antimalarials are needed to facilitate the global effort toward elimination and eradication. NPC1161 is an 8-aminoquinoline that is derived from primaquine with an improved therapeutic profile compared to the parent compound. The (R)-(−) enantiomer (NPC1161B) has a lower effective dose that results in decreased toxic side effects such as hemolysis compared to the (S)-(+)-enantiomer, making it a promising compound for consideration for clinical development. We explored the effect of NPC1161B on Plasmodium falciparum oocyst and sporozoite development to evaluate its potential transmission-blocking activity viz. its ability to cure mosquitoes of an ongoing infection. When mosquitoes were fed NPC1161B 4 days after P. falciparum infection, we observed that total oocyst numbers were not affected by NPC1161B treatment. However, the sporozoite production capacity of the oocysts was impaired, and salivary gland sporozoite infections were completely blocked, rendering the mosquitoes non-infectious. Importantly, NPC1161B did not require prior liver metabolism for its efficacy as is required in mammalian systems, suggesting that an alternative metabolite is produced in the mosquito that is active against the parasite. We performed liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS)/MS analysis of methanol extracts from the midguts of mosquitoes fed on an NPC1161B (434.15 m/z)-treated blood meal and identified a compound with a mass of 520.2 m/z, likely a conjugate of NPC1161B or an oxidized metabolite. These findings establish NPC1161B, and potentially its metabolites, as transmission-blocking candidates for the treatment of P. falciparum.

Identification of permethrin and etofenprox cross-tolerance in Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (Acari: Ixodidae)

BACKGROUND

The brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (Latreille; Acari: Ixodidae), is a peridomestic ectoparasite of dogs and occasionally humans. In some populations, lack of integrated pest management practices and overuse of pesticides has resulted in high levels of resistance to multiple active ingredients. In this study, we established the etofenprox discriminating concentration (DC) and three additional screening concentrations to evaluate resistance status. Using mortality results, cross-resistance was investigated in brown dog tick populations from five geographically disparate regions, including Asia, Africa, Europe, North America, and the Caribbean, following exposure to the DC for both etofenprox and permethrin separately. Subsequently, using both larval packet tests and molecular methods, etofenprox resistance was investigated.

RESULTS

The etofenprox DC was set at 0.51%, which allows for the rapid screening of peridomestic brown dog tick populations for resistance to this active ingredient. Cross-tolerance to two sodium channel-inhibiting pesticides, permethrin and etofenprox, was observed in one population.

CONCLUSION

Our study has provided a single etofenprox concentration that can be used in larval packet tests to determine resistance status in collected peridomestic brown dog ticks, which is particularly important when a single to a few engorged adult ticks are provided for evaluation. Although metabolic resistance is presumed to be the primary resistance mechanism, a sodium channel mutation also confers tolerance to etofenprox at the DC. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

Status of Insecticide Resistance and Its Mechanisms in Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles coluzzii Populations from Forest Settings in South Cameroon

A key factor affecting malaria vector control efforts in Cameroon is the rapid expansion of insecticide resistance in Anopheles gambiae s.l (An. gambiae) populations; however, mechanisms involved in insecticide resistance in forest mosquito populations are still not well documented yet. The present study was conducted to screen molecular mechanisms conferring insecticide resistance in An. gambiae s.l. populations from the South Cameroon forest region. WHO bioassays were conducted with F0 An. gambiae females aged three to four days from forest (Sangmelima, Nyabessan, and Mbandjock) and urban sites (Yaoundé (Bastos and Nkolondom)), against pyrethroids (permethrin 0.75% and deltamethrin 0.05%) and carbamates (bendiocarb 0.1%). Members of the An. Gambiae s.l. species complex were identified using molecular diagnostic tools. TaqMan assays were used to screen for target site mutations. The expression profiles of eight genes implicated in insecticide resistance were assessed using RT-qPCR. Cuticle hydrocarbon lipids were measured to assess their potential implication in insecticide resistance. Both An. Gambiae and An. coluzzii were detected. An. gambiae was highly prevalent in Sangmelima, Nyabessan, Mbandjock, and Nkolondom. An. coluzzii was the only species found in the Yaoundé city center (Bastos). Low mortality rate to both pyrethroids and bendiocarb was recorded in all sites. High frequency of L1014F allele (75.32–95.82%) and low frequencies of L1014S (1.71–23.05%) and N1575Y (5.28–12.87%) were recorded. The G119S mutation (14.22–35.5%) was detected for the first time in An. gambiae populations from Cameroon. This mutation was rather absent from An. coluzzii populations. The detoxification genes Cyp6m2, Cyp9k1, Cyp6p4, Cyp6z1, as well as Cyp4g16 which catalyzes epicuticular hydrocarbon biosynthesis, were found to be overexpressed in at least one population. The total cuticular hydrocarvbon content, a proxy of cuticular resistance, did not show a pattern associated with pyrethroid resistance in these populations. The rapid emergence of multiple resistance mechanisms in An. Gambiae s.l. population from the South Cameroon forest region is of big concern and could deeply affect the sustainability of insecticide-based interventions strategies in this region.

Metabolism of selected model substrates and insecticides by recombinant CYP6FD encoded by its gene predominately expressed in the brain of Locusta migratoria

The migratory locust, Locusta migartoria, is a major agricultural insect pest and its resistance to insecticides is becoming more prevalent. Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYPs) are important enzymes for biotransformations of various endogenous and xenobiotic substances. These enzymes play a major role in developing insecticide resistance in many insect species. In this study, we heterologously co-expressed a CYP enzyme (CYP6FD1) and cytochrome P450 reductase (CPR) from L. migartoria in Sf9 insect cells. The recombinant enzymes were assayed for metabolic activity towards six selected model substrates (luciferin-H, luciferin-Me, luciferin-Be, luciferin-PFBE, luciferin-CEE and 7-ethoxycoumarin), and four selected insecticides (deltamethrin, chlorpyrifos, carbaryl and methoprene). Recombinant CYP6FD1 showed activity towards 7-ethoxycoumarin and luciferin-Me, but no detectable activity towards the other luciferin derivatives. Furthermore, the enzyme efficiently oxidized deltamethrin to hydroxydeltamethrin through an aromatic hydroxylation in a time-dependent manner. However, the enzyme did not show any detectable activity towards the other three insecticides. Our results provide direct evidence that CYP6FD1 is capable of metabolizing deltamethrin. This work is a step towards a more complete characterization of the catalytic capabilities of CYP6FD1 and other xenobiotic metabolizing CYP enzymes in L. migratoria.

Transcriptomic analysis of insecticide resistance in the lymphatic filariasis vector Culex quinquefasciatus

Culex quinquefasciatus plays an important role in transmission of vector-borne diseases of public health importance, including lymphatic filariasis (LF), as well as many arboviral diseases. Currently, efforts to tackle C. quinquefasciatus vectored diseases are based on either mass drug administration (MDA) for LF, or insecticide-based interventions. Widespread and intensive insecticide usage has resulted in increased resistance in mosquito vectors, including C. quinquefasciatus. Herein, the transcriptome profile of Ugandan bendiocarb-resistant C. quinquefasciatus was explored to identify candidate genes associated with insecticide resistance. High levels of insecticide resistance were observed for five out of six insecticides tested, with the lowest mortality (0.97%) reported to permethrin, while for DDT, lambdacyhalothrin, bendiocarb and deltamethrin the mortality rate ranged from 1.63-3.29%. Resistance to bendiocarb in exposed mosquitoes was marked, with 2.04% mortality following 1 h exposure and 58.02% after 4 h. Genotyping of the G119S Ace-1 target site mutation detected a highly significant association (p < 0.0001; OR = 25) between resistance and Ace1-119S. However, synergist assays using the P450 inhibitor PBO, or the esterase inhibitor TPP resulted in markedly increased mortality (to ≈80%), suggesting a role of metabolic resistance in the resistance phenotype. Using a novel, custom 60 K whole-transcriptome microarray 16 genes significantly overexpressed in resistant mosquitoes were detected, with the P450 Cyp6z18 showing the highest differential gene expression (>8-fold increase vs unexposed controls). These results provide evidence that bendiocarb resistance in Ugandan C. quinquefasciatus is mediated by both target-site mechanisms and over-expression of detoxification enzymes.

Escalation of Pyrethroid Resistance in the Malaria Vector Anopheles funestus Induces a Loss of Efficacy of Piperonyl Butoxide-Based Insecticide-Treated Nets in Mozambique

BACKGROUND

Insecticide resistance poses a serious threat to insecticide-based interventions in Africa. There is a fear that resistance escalation could jeopardize malaria control efforts. Monitoring of cases of aggravation of resistance intensity and its impact on the efficacy of control tools is crucial to predict consequences of resistance.

METHODS

The resistance levels of an Anopheles funestus population from Palmeira, southern Mozambique, were characterized and their impact on the efficacy of various insecticide-treated nets established.

RESULTS

A dramatic loss of efficacy of all long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs), including piperonyl butoxide (PBO)-based nets (Olyset Plus), was observed. This An. funestus population consistently (2016, 2017, and 2018) exhibited a high degree of pyrethroid resistance. Molecular analyses revealed that this resistance escalation was associated with a massive overexpression of the duplicated cytochrome P450 genes CYP6P9a and CYP6P9b, and also the fixation of the resistance CYP6P9a_R allele in this population in 2016 (100%) in contrast to 2002 (5%). However, the low recovery of susceptibility after PBO synergist assay suggests that other resistance mechanisms could be involved.

CONCLUSIONS

The loss of efficacy of pyrethroid-based LLINs with and without PBO is a concern for the effectiveness of insecticide-based interventions, and action should be taken to prevent the spread of such super-resistance.

Genome-wide gene expression profiling reveals that cuticle alterations and P450 detoxification are associated with deltamethrin and DDT resistance in Anopheles arabiensis populations from Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Vector control is the main intervention in malaria control and elimination strategies. However, the development of insecticide resistance is one of the major challenges for controlling malaria vectors. Anopheles arabiensis populations in Ethiopia showed resistance against both DDT and the pyrethroid deltamethrin. Although an L1014F target-site resistance mutation was present in the voltage gated sodium channel of investigated populations, the levels of resistance indicated the presence of additional resistance mechanisms. In this study, we used genome-wide transcriptome profiling by RNAseq to assess differentially expressed genes between three deltamethrin and DDT resistant An. arabiensis field populations - Asendabo, Chewaka and Tolay - and two susceptible strains - Sekoru and Mozambique.

RESULTS

Both RNAseq analysis and RT-qPCR showed that a glutathione-S-transferase, gstd3, and a cytochrome P450 monooxygenase, cyp6p4, were significantly overexpressed in the group of resistant populations compared to the susceptible strains, suggesting that the enzymes they encode play a key role in metabolic resistance against deltamethrin or DDT. Furthermore, a gene ontology enrichment analysis showed that expression changes of cuticle related genes were strongly associated with insecticide resistance. Although this did not translate in increased thickness of the procuticle, a higher cuticular hydrocarbon content was observed in a resistant population.

CONCLUSION

Our transcriptome sequencing of deltamethrin and DDT resistant An. arabiensis populations from Ethiopia suggests non-target site resistance mechanisms and paves the way for further investigation of the role of cuticle composition in insecticide resistance of malaria vectors. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.