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Chen W, Guo J, Liu Y, Champer J. Population suppression by release of insects carrying a dominant sterile homing gene drive targeting doublesex in Drosophila. Nat Commun 2024; 15:8053. [PMID: 39277611 PMCID: PMC11401859 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-52473-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/17/2024] Open
Abstract
CRISPR homing gene drives can suppress pest populations by targeting female fertility genes, converting wild-type alleles into drive alleles in the germline of drive heterozygotes. fsRIDL (female-specific Release of Insects carrying a Dominant Lethal) is a self-limiting population suppression strategy involving continual release of transgenic males carrying female lethal alleles. Here, we propose an improved pest suppression system called "Release of Insects carrying a Dominant-sterile Drive" (RIDD), combining performance characteristics of homing drive and fsRIDL. We construct a split RIDD system in Drosophila melanogaster by creating a 3-gRNA drive disrupting the doublesex female exon. Drive alleles bias their inheritance in males, while drive alleles and resistance alleles formed by end-joining cause dominant female sterility. Weekly releases of RIDD males progressively suppressed and eventually eliminated cage populations. Modeling shows that RIDD is substantially stronger than SIT and fsRIDL. RIDD is also self-limiting, potentially allowing targeted population suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weizhe Chen
- Center for Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- PTN program, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jialiang Guo
- Center for Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- PTN program, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yiran Liu
- Center for Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jackson Champer
- Center for Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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2
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Zhu J, Chen J, Liu Y, Xu X, Champer J. Population suppression with dominant female-lethal alleles is boosted by homing gene drive. BMC Biol 2024; 22:201. [PMID: 39256812 PMCID: PMC11389273 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-024-02004-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methods to suppress pest insect populations using genetic constructs and repeated releases of male homozygotes have recently been shown to be an attractive alternative to older sterile insect techniques based on radiation. Female-specific lethal alleles have substantially increased power, but still require large, sustained transgenic insect releases. Gene drive alleles bias their own inheritance to spread throughout populations, potentially allowing population suppression with a single, small-size release. However, suppression drives often suffer from efficiency issues, and the most well-studied type, homing drives, tend to spread without limit. RESULTS In this study, we show that coupling female-specific lethal alleles with homing gene drive allowed substantial improvement in efficiency while still retaining the self-limiting nature (and thus confinement) of a lethal allele strategy. Using a mosquito model, we show the required release sizes for population elimination in a variety of scenarios, including different density growth curves, with comparisons to other systems. Resistance alleles reduced the power of this method, but these could be overcome by targeting an essential gene with the drive while also providing rescue. A proof-of-principle demonstration of this system in Drosophila melanogaster was effective in both biasing its inheritance and achieving high lethality among females that inherit the construct in the absence of antibiotic. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our study shows that substantial improvements can be achieved in female-specific lethal systems for population suppression by combining them with various types of gene drive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyu Zhu
- Center for Bioinformatics, Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jingheng Chen
- Center for Bioinformatics, Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Yiran Liu
- Center for Bioinformatics, Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Xuejiao Xu
- Center for Bioinformatics, Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jackson Champer
- Center for Bioinformatics, Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
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3
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Miranda LS, Rudd SR, Mena O, Hudspeth PE, Barboza-Corona JE, Park HW, Bideshi DK. The Perpetual Vector Mosquito Threat and Its Eco-Friendly Nemeses. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:182. [PMID: 38534451 DOI: 10.3390/biology13030182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Mosquitoes are the most notorious arthropod vectors of viral and parasitic diseases for which approximately half the world's population, ~4,000,000,000, is at risk. Integrated pest management programs (IPMPs) have achieved some success in mitigating the regional transmission and persistence of these diseases. However, as many vector-borne diseases remain pervasive, it is obvious that IPMP successes have not been absolute in eradicating the threat imposed by mosquitoes. Moreover, the expanding mosquito geographic ranges caused by factors related to climate change and globalization (travel, trade, and migration), and the evolution of resistance to synthetic pesticides, present ongoing challenges to reducing or eliminating the local and global burden of these diseases, especially in economically and medically disadvantaged societies. Abatement strategies include the control of vector populations with synthetic pesticides and eco-friendly technologies. These "green" technologies include SIT, IIT, RIDL, CRISPR/Cas9 gene drive, and biological control that specifically targets the aquatic larval stages of mosquitoes. Regarding the latter, the most effective continues to be the widespread use of Lysinibacillus sphaericus (Ls) and Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis (Bti). Here, we present a review of the health issues elicited by vector mosquitoes, control strategies, and lastly, focus on the biology of Ls and Bti, with an emphasis on the latter, to which no resistance has been observed in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Silva Miranda
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
| | - Sarah Renee Rudd
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
- Integrated Biomedical Graduate Studies, and School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
| | - Oscar Mena
- Undergraduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
| | - Piper Eden Hudspeth
- Undergraduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
| | - José E Barboza-Corona
- Departmento de Alimentos, Posgrado en Biociencias, Universidad de Guanajuato Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, Irapuato 36500, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Hyun-Woo Park
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
- Undergraduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
| | - Dennis Ken Bideshi
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
- Undergraduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
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4
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Pignataro E, Pini F, Barbanente A, Arnesano F, Palazzo A, Marsano RM. Flying toward a plastic-free world: Can Drosophila serve as a model organism to develop new strategies of plastic waste management? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 914:169942. [PMID: 38199375 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.169942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The last century was dominated by the widespread use of plastics, both in terms of invention and increased usage. The environmental challenge we currently face is not just about reducing plastic usage but finding new ways to manage plastic waste. Recycling is growing but remains a small part of the solution. There is increasing focus on studying organisms and processes that can break down plastics, offering a modern approach to addressing the environmental crisis. Here, we provide an overview of the organisms associated with plastics biodegradation, and we explore the potential of harnessing and integrating their genetic and biochemical features into a single organism, such as Drosophila melanogaster. The remarkable genetic engineering and microbiota manipulation tools available for this organism suggest that multiple features could be amalgamated and modeled in the fruit fly. We outline feasible genetic engineering and gut microbiome engraftment strategies to develop a new class of plastic-degrading organisms and discuss of both the potential benefits and the limitations of developing such engineered Drosophila melanogaster strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia Pignataro
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari "Aldo Moro" via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy.
| | - Francesco Pini
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari "Aldo Moro" via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Barbanente
- Department of Chemistry, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy.
| | - Fabio Arnesano
- Department of Chemistry, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy.
| | - Antonio Palazzo
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari "Aldo Moro" via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy.
| | - René Massimiliano Marsano
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari "Aldo Moro" via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy.
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Sun X, Wang X, Shi K, Lyu X, Sun J, Raikhel AS, Zou Z. Leucine aminopeptidase1 controls egg deposition and hatchability in male Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Nat Commun 2024; 15:106. [PMID: 38168045 PMCID: PMC10762072 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44444-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Aedes aegypti are vectors for several arboviruses infecting hundreds of millions of people annually. Controlling mosquito populations by regulating their reproduction is a potential strategy to minimize viral transmission in the absence of effective antiviral therapies or vaccines. Here, we demonstrate that leucine aminopeptidase1 (LAP1), detected by a SWATH-MS-based proteomic screen of female spermathecae, is a crucial determinant in mosquito population expansion. Mitochondrial defects and aberrant autophagy of sperm in LAP1 mutant males (LAP1-/-), prepared using CRISPR/Cas9 system, result in a reduction of reproduction in wild-type females that mated with them. The fitness of LAP1-/- males is strong enough to efficiently transmit genetic changes to mosquito populations through a low number of hatchable offspring. Thus, LAP1-/- males represent an opportunity to suppress mosquito populations and further studies should be undertaken to characterize LAP1's suitability for gene drive usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xueli Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Kai Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiangyang Lyu
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jian Sun
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Alexander S Raikhel
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Zhen Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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Wang M, Ding F, Wang H, Li L, Dai Y, Sun Z, Li N. Versatile generation of precise gene edits in bovines using SEGCPN. BMC Biol 2023; 21:226. [PMID: 37864194 PMCID: PMC10589966 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01677-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gene knockout and knock-in have been widely performed in large farm animals based on genome editing systems. However, many types of precise gene editing, including targeted deletion, gene tagging, and large gene fragment replacement, remain a challenge in large farm animals. RESULTS Here, we established versatile self-excising gene-targeting technology in combination with programmable nucleases (SEGCPN) to efficiently generate various types of precise gene editing in bovine. First, we used this versatile method to successfully generate bovine embryos with point mutations and 11-bp deletions at the MSTN locus. Second, we successfully generated bulls with EGFP labeling at the SRY locus. Finally, we successfully generated humanized cows in which the endogenous 18-kb α-casein gene was replaced with a 2.6-kb human α-lactalbumin gene. CONCLUSIONS In summary, our new SEGCPN method offers unlimited possibilities for various types of precise gene editing in large animals for application both in agriculture and disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China
- Beijing Capital Agribusiness Future Biotechnology Co., Ltd, No. 75 Bingjiaokou Hutong, Beijing, 100088, China
| | - Fangrong Ding
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Haiping Wang
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Ling Li
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yunping Dai
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - ZhaoLin Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China.
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China.
- Beijing Capital Agribusiness Future Biotechnology Co., Ltd, No. 75 Bingjiaokou Hutong, Beijing, 100088, China.
| | - Ning Li
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China.
- Beijing Capital Agribusiness Future Biotechnology Co., Ltd, No. 75 Bingjiaokou Hutong, Beijing, 100088, China.
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7
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Lu HZ, Sui Y, Lobo NF, Fouque F, Gao C, Lu S, Lv S, Deng SQ, Wang DQ. Challenge and opportunity for vector control strategies on key mosquito-borne diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1207293. [PMID: 37554733 PMCID: PMC10405932 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1207293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Mosquito-borne diseases are major global health problems that threaten nearly half of the world's population. Conflicting resources and infrastructure required by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic have resulted in the vector control process being more demanding than ever. Although novel vector control paradigms may have been more applicable and efficacious in these challenging settings, there were virtually no reports of novel strategies being developed or implemented during COVID-19 pandemic. Evidence shows that the COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically impacted the implementation of conventional mosquito vector measures. Varying degrees of disruptions in malaria control and insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spray (IRS) distributions worldwide from 2020 to 2021 were reported. Control measures such as mosquito net distribution and community education were significantly reduced in sub-Saharan countries. The COVID-19 pandemic has provided an opportunity for innovative vector control technologies currently being developed. Releasing sterile or lethal gene-carrying male mosquitoes and novel biopesticides may have advantages that are not matched by traditional vector measures in the current context. Here, we review the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on current vector control measures from 2020 to 2021 and discuss the future direction of vector control, taking into account probable evolving conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Zheng Lu
- Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pathogen Biology, the Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, the Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yuan Sui
- Brown School, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Neil F. Lobo
- Malaria Elimination Initiative, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, United States
| | - Florence Fouque
- Research for Implementation Unit, The Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Chen Gao
- Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Shenning Lu
- Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai, China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, China
- National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, China
| | - Shan Lv
- Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai, China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, China
- National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, China
- School of Global Health, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Sheng-Qun Deng
- Department of Pathogen Biology, the Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, the Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Duo-Quan Wang
- Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai, China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, China
- National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, China
- School of Global Health, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Wong ML, Zulzahrin Z, Vythilingam I, Lau YL, Sam IC, Fong MY, Lee WC. Perspectives of vector management in the control and elimination of vector-borne zoonoses. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1135977. [PMID: 37025644 PMCID: PMC10070879 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1135977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The complex transmission profiles of vector-borne zoonoses (VZB) and vector-borne infections with animal reservoirs (VBIAR) complicate efforts to break the transmission circuit of these infections. To control and eliminate VZB and VBIAR, insecticide application may not be conducted easily in all circumstances, particularly for infections with sylvatic transmission cycle. As a result, alternative approaches have been considered in the vector management against these infections. In this review, we highlighted differences among the environmental, chemical, and biological control approaches in vector management, from the perspectives of VZB and VBIAR. Concerns and knowledge gaps pertaining to the available control approaches were discussed to better understand the prospects of integrating these vector control approaches to synergistically break the transmission of VZB and VBIAR in humans, in line with the integrated vector management (IVM) developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) since 2004.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Li Wong
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Zulhisham Zulzahrin
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Indra Vythilingam
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yee Ling Lau
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - I-Ching Sam
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mun Yik Fong
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Wenn-Chyau Lee
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- A*STAR Infectious Diseases Labs (A*STAR ID Labs), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
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Allman MJ, Lin YH, Joubert DA, Addley-Cook J, Mejía-Torres MC, Simmons CP, Flores HA, Fraser JE. Enhancing the scalability of Wolbachia-based vector-borne disease management: time and temperature limits for storage and transport of Wolbachia-infected Aedes aegypti eggs for field releases. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:108. [PMID: 36934294 PMCID: PMC10024388 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05724-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Introgression of the bacterial endosymbiont Wolbachia into Aedes aegypti populations is a biocontrol approach being used to reduce arbovirus transmission. This requires mass release of Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes. While releases have been conducted using a variety of techniques, egg releases, using water-soluble capsules containing mosquito eggs and larval food, offer an attractive method due to its potential to reduce onsite resource requirements. However, optimisation of this approach is required to ensure there is no detrimental impact on mosquito fitness and to promote successful Wolbachia introgression. METHODS We determined the impact of storage time and temperature on wild-type (WT) and Wolbachia-infected (wMel or wAlbB strains) Ae. aegypti eggs. Eggs were stored inside capsules over 8 weeks at 18 °C or 22 °C and hatch rate, emergence rate and Wolbachia density were determined. We next examined egg quality and Wolbachia density after exposing eggs to 4-40 °C to determine how eggs may be impacted if exposed to extreme temperatures during shipment. RESULTS Encapsulating eggs for 8 weeks did not negatively impact egg viability or resulting adult emergence and Wolbachia density compared to controls. When eggs were exposed to temperatures within 4-36 °C for 48 h, their viability and resulting adult Wolbachia density were maintained; however, both were significantly reduced when exposed to 40 °C. CONCLUSIONS We describe the time and temperature limits for maintaining viability of Wolbachia-infected Ae. aegypti eggs when encapsulated or exposed to extreme temperatures. These findings could improve the efficiency of mass releases by providing transport and storage constraints to ensure only high-quality material is utilised during field releases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan J. Allman
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Institute of Vector-borne Diseases, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800 Australia
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800 Australia
| | - Ya-Hsun Lin
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857World Mosquito Program, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800 Australia
| | - D. Albert Joubert
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857World Mosquito Program, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800 Australia
| | - Jessica Addley-Cook
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857World Mosquito Program, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800 Australia
| | - Maria Camila Mejía-Torres
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857World Mosquito Program, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800 Australia
| | - Cameron P. Simmons
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Institute of Vector-borne Diseases, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800 Australia
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857World Mosquito Program, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800 Australia
| | - Heather A. Flores
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Institute of Vector-borne Diseases, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800 Australia
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800 Australia
| | - Johanna E. Fraser
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Institute of Vector-borne Diseases, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800 Australia
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800 Australia
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10
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Yan Y, Hosseini B, Scheld A, Pasham S, Rehling T, Schetelig MF. Effects of antibiotics on the in vitro expression of tetracycline-off constructs and the performance of Drosophila suzukii female-killing strains. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:876492. [PMID: 36865029 PMCID: PMC9971817 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.876492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic control strategies such as the Release of Insects Carrying a Dominant Lethal (RIDL) gene and Transgenic Embryonic Sexing System (TESS) have been demonstrated in the laboratory and/or deployed in the field. These strategies are based on tetracycline-off (Tet-off) systems which are regulated by antibiotics such as Tet and doxycycline (Dox). Here, we generated several Tet-off constructs carrying a reporter gene cassette mediated by a 2A peptide. Different concentrations (0.1, 10, 100, 500, and 1,000 μg/mL) and types (Tet or Dox) of antibiotics were used to evaluate their effects on the expression of the Tet-off constructs in the Drosophila S2 cells. One or both of the two concentrations, 100 and 250 μg/mL, of Tet or Dox were used to check the influence on the performances of a Drosophila suzukii wild-type strain and female-killing (FK) strains employing TESS. Specifically, the Tet-off construct for these FK strains contains a Drosophila suzukii nullo promoter to regulate the tetracycline transactivator gene and a sex-specifically spliced pro-apoptotic gene hid Ala4 to eliminate females. The results suggested that the in vitro expression of the Tet-off constructs was controlled by antibiotics in a dose-dependent manner. ELISA experiments were carried out identifying Tet at 34.8 ng/g in adult females that fed on food supplemented with Tet at 100 μg/mL. However, such method did not detect Tet in the eggs produced by antibiotic-treated flies. Additionally, feeding Tet to the parents showed negative impact on the fly development but not the survival in the next generation. Importantly, we demonstrated that under certain antibiotic treatments females could survive in the FK strains with different transgene activities. For the strain V229_M4f1 which showed moderate transgene activity, feeding Dox to fathers or mothers suppressed the female lethality in the next generation and feeding Tet or Dox to mothers generated long-lived female survivors. For the strain V229_M8f2 which showed weak transgene activity, feeding Tet to mothers delayed the female lethality for one generation. Therefore, for genetic control strategies employing the Tet-off system, the parental and transgenerational effects of antibiotics on the engineered lethality and insect fitness must be carefully evaluated for a safe and efficient control program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Yan
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany,*Correspondence: Ying Yan,
| | - Bashir Hosseini
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Annemarie Scheld
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Srilakshmi Pasham
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Tanja Rehling
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Marc F. Schetelig
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany,Liebig Centre for Agroecology and Climate Impact Research, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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11
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Pinch M, Bendzus-Mendoza H, Hansen IA. Transcriptomics analysis of ethanol treatment of male Aedes aegypti reveals a small set of putative radioprotective genes. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1120408. [PMID: 36793417 PMCID: PMC9922702 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1120408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) is based on releasing sterilized male insects into wild insect populations to compete for mating with wild females. Wild females mated with sterile males will produce inviable eggs, leading to a decline in population of that insect species. Sterilization with ionizing radiation (x-rays) is a commonly used mechanism for sterilization of males. Since irradiation can cause damage to both, somatic and germ cells, and can severely reduce the competitiveness of sterilized males relative to wild males, means to minimize the detrimental effects of radiation are required to produce sterile, competitive males for release. In an earlier study, we identified ethanol as a functional radioprotector in mosquitoes. Methods: Here, we used Illumina RNA-seq to profile changes in gene expression of male Aedes aegypti mosquitoes fed on 5% ethanol for 48 hours prior to receiving a sterilizing x-ray dose, compared to males fed on water prior to sterilization. Results: RNA-seq revealed a robust activation of DNA repair genes in both ethanol-fed and water-fed males after irradiation, but surprisingly few differences in gene expression between ethanol-fed and water-fed males regardless of radiation treatment. Discussion: While differences in gene expression due to ethanol exposure were minimal, we identified a small group of genes that may prime ethanol-fed mosquitoes for improved survivability in response to sterilizing radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Pinch
- Department of Biology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
| | - Harley Bendzus-Mendoza
- Department of Computer Science, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
| | - Immo A Hansen
- Department of Biology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
- Institute of Applied Biosciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
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12
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The size of larval rearing container modulates the effects of diet amount and larval density on larval development in Aedes aegypti. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280736. [PMID: 36696416 PMCID: PMC9876358 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Mass-rearing of mosquitoes under laboratory conditions is an important part of several new control techniques that rely on the release of males to control mosquito populations. While previous work has investigated the effect of larval density and diet amount on colony productivity, the role of the size of the container in which larval development takes place has been relatively ignored. We investigated the role of container size in shaping life history and how this varied with density and food availability in Aedes aegypti, an important disease vector and target of mass-rearing operations. For each treatment combination, immature development time and survival and adult body size and fecundity were measured, and then combined into a measure of productivity. We additionally investigated how larval aggregation behaviour varied with container size. Container size had important effects on life history traits and overall productivity. In particular, increasing container size intensified density and diet effects on immature development time. Productivity was also impacted by container size when larvae were reared at high densities (1.4 larva/ml). In these treatments, the productivity metric of large containers was estimated to be significantly lower than medium or small containers. Regardless of container size, larvae were more likely to be observed at the outer edges of containers, even when this led to extremely high localized densities. We discuss how container size and larval aggregation responses may alter the balance of energy input and output to shape development and productivity.
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Ghosh D, Kokane S, Savita BK, Kumar P, Sharma AK, Ozcan A, Kokane A, Santra S. Huanglongbing Pandemic: Current Challenges and Emerging Management Strategies. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:plants12010160. [PMID: 36616289 PMCID: PMC9824665 DOI: 10.3390/plants12010160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Huanglongbing (HLB, aka citrus greening), one of the most devastating diseases of citrus, has wreaked havoc on the global citrus industry in recent decades. The culprit behind such a gloomy scenario is the phloem-limited bacteria "Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus" (CLas), which are transmitted via psyllid. To date, there are no effective long-termcommercialized control measures for HLB, making it increasingly difficult to prevent the disease spread. To combat HLB effectively, introduction of multipronged management strategies towards controlling CLas population within the phloem system is deemed necessary. This article presents a comprehensive review of up-to-date scientific information about HLB, including currently available management practices and unprecedented challenges associated with the disease control. Additionally, a triangular disease management approach has been introduced targeting pathogen, host, and vector. Pathogen-targeting approaches include (i) inhibition of important proteins of CLas, (ii) use of the most efficient antimicrobial or immunity-inducing compounds to suppress the growth of CLas, and (iii) use of tools to suppress or kill the CLas. Approaches for targeting the host include (i) improvement of the host immune system, (ii) effective use of transgenic variety to build the host's resistance against CLas, and (iii) induction of systemic acquired resistance. Strategies for targeting the vector include (i) chemical and biological control and (ii) eradication of HLB-affected trees. Finally, a hypothetical model for integrated disease management has been discussed to mitigate the HLB pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilip Ghosh
- Plant Virology Laboratory, ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute, Nagpur 440033, India
- Correspondence: (D.G.); (A.K.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Sunil Kokane
- Plant Virology Laboratory, ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute, Nagpur 440033, India
| | - Brajesh Kumar Savita
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, India
| | - Pranav Kumar
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, India
| | - Ashwani Kumar Sharma
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, India
- Correspondence: (D.G.); (A.K.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Ali Ozcan
- Vocational School of Technical Sciences, Karamanoglu Mehmetbey University, 70200 Karaman, Turkey
- Scientific and Technological Studies Application and Research Center, Karamanoglu Mehmetbey University, 70200 Karaman, Turkey
| | - Amol Kokane
- Plant Virology Laboratory, ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute, Nagpur 440033, India
| | - Swadeshmukul Santra
- Departments of Chemistry, Nano Science Technology Center, and Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32816, USA
- Correspondence: (D.G.); (A.K.S.); (S.S.)
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14
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Wen D, Ding LS, Zhang Y, Li X, Zhang X, Yuan F, Zhao T, Zheng A. Suppression of flavivirus transmission from animal hosts to mosquitoes with a mosquito-delivered vaccine. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7780. [PMID: 36526630 PMCID: PMC9755785 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35407-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic viruses circulate in the natural reservoir and sporadically spill over into human populations, resulting in endemics or pandemics. We previously found that the Chaoyang virus (CYV), an insect-specific flavivirus (ISF), is replication-defective in vertebrate cells. Here, we develope a proof-of-concept mosquito-delivered vaccine to control the Zika virus (ZIKV) within inaccessible wildlife hosts using CYV as the vector. The vaccine is constructed by replacing the pre-membrane and envelope (prME) proteins of CYV with those of ZIKV, assigned as CYV-ZIKV. CYV-ZIKV replicates efficiently in Aedes mosquitoes and disseminates to the saliva, with no venereal or transovarial transmission observed. To reduce the risk of CYV-ZIKV leaking into the environment, mosquitoes are X-ray irradiated to ensure 100% infertility, which does not affect the titer of CYV-ZIKV in the saliva. Immunization of mice via CYV-ZIKV-carrying mosquito bites elicites robust and persistent ZIKV-specific immune responses and confers complete protection against ZIKV challenge. Correspondingly, the immunized mice could no longer transmit the challenged ZIKV to naïve mosquitoes. Therefore, immunization with an ISF-vectored vaccine via mosquito bites is feasible to induce herd immunity in wildlife hosts of ZIKV. Our study provides a future avenue for developing a mosquito-delivered vaccine to eliminate zoonotic viruses in the sylvatic cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wen
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China
| | - Limin S. Ding
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China
| | - Yanan Zhang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoye Li
- grid.462338.80000 0004 0605 6769College of life sciences, Henan Normal University, 45300 Xinxiang, China
| | - Xing Zhang
- grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419College of life sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049 Beijing, China
| | - Fei Yuan
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China
| | - Tongbiao Zhao
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Aihua Zheng
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China
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Arham AF, Hasim NA, Mokhtar MI, Zainal N, Rusly NS, Amin L, Saifuddeen SM, Mustapa MAC, Mahadi Z. The Lesser of Two Evils: Application of Maslahah-Mafsadah Criteria in Islamic Ethical-Legal Assessment of Genetically Modified Mosquitoes in Malaysia. JOURNAL OF BIOETHICAL INQUIRY 2022; 19:587-598. [PMID: 36350531 DOI: 10.1007/s11673-022-10216-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The release of over 6,000 genetically modified mosquitoes (GMM) into uninhabited Malaysian forests in 2010 was a frantic step on the part of the Malaysian government to combat the spread of dengue fever. The field trial was designed to control and reduce the dengue vector by producing offspring that die in the early developmental stage, thus decreasing the local Aedes aegypti population below the dengue transmission threshold. However, the GMM trials were discontinued in Malaysia despite being technologically feasible. The lack of systematic studies in terms of cost-benefit analysis, questionable research efficacy and safety-related concerns might have contributed to the termination of the field trial. Hence, this research aims to evaluate the feasibility of GMM release in Malaysia by using a holistic approach based on an Islamic ethical-legal assessment under the maslahah-mafsadah (benefit-risk) concept. Three main strategies based on the maslahah-mafsadah concept approach have been applied: 1) an evidence-based approach, 2) an impact-based approach and, 3) a priority approach. The analysis concluded that GMM could be categorised as zanniyyah (probable). GMM is a promising alternative for dengue control, but many issues must be addressed before its widespread adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Firdhaus Arham
- Pusat Pengajian Citra Universiti, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, 43600, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Nur Asmadayana Hasim
- Pusat Pengajian Citra Universiti, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, 43600, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
- The Institute of Islam Hadhari, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, 43600, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Istajib Mokhtar
- Department of Science and Technology Studies, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nurhafiza Zainal
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Noor Sharizad Rusly
- Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, 43600, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Latifah Amin
- Pusat Pengajian Citra Universiti, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, 43600, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
- The Institute of Islam Hadhari, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, 43600, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Shaikh Mohd Saifuddeen
- Centre for Science and Environment Studies, Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia, (IKIM), No. 2, Langgak Tunku Off Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim, 50480, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Academy of Islamic Civilisation, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, UTM, 81310, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
| | | | - Zurina Mahadi
- Pusat Pengajian Citra Universiti, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, 43600, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
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16
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Tussey DA, Linthicum KJ, Hahn DA. Does severe hypoxia during irradiation of Aedes aegypti pupae improve sterile male performance? Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:446. [DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05577-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti, vectors several pathogens responsible for human diseases. As a result, this mosquito species is a priority for control by mosquito control districts in Florida. With insecticide resistance development becoming a concern, alternative control strategies are needed for Ae. aegypti. Sterile insect technique (SIT) is an increasingly popular option that is being explored as a practical area-wide control method. However, questions about sterile male performance persist. The objectives of this study were to determine the extent to which hypoxia exposure prior to and during irradiation effects the longevity, activity and mating competitiveness of sterile male Ae. aegypti.
Methods
Male longevity was monitored and analyzed using Cox regression. Mosquito activity was recorded by an infrared beam sensor rig that detected movement. Competing models were created to analyze movement data. Fecundity and fertility were measured in females mated with individual males by treatment and analyzed using one-way ANOVAs. Mating competition studies were performed to compare both hypoxia and normoxia treated sterile males to fertile males. Competitiveness of groups was compared using Fried’s competitiveness index.
Results
First, we found that subjecting Ae. aegypti pupae to 1 h of severe hypoxia (< 1 kPa O2) did not directly increase mortality. One hour of hypoxia was found to prevent decreases in longevity of irradiated males compared to males irradiated in normoxic conditions. Exposure to hypoxia prior to irradiation did not significantly improve activity of sterile males except at the highest doses of radiation. Hypoxia did significantly increase the required dose of radiation to achieve > 95% male sterility compared to males irradiated under normoxic conditions. Males sterilized after an hour in hypoxic conditions were significantly more competitive against fertile males compared to males irradiated under normoxic conditions despite requiring a higher dose of radiation to achieve sterility.
Conclusions
Hypoxia was found to greatly improve key performance metrics in sterile male Ae. aegypti without any significant drawbacks. Little work other than increasing the target dose for sterility needs to be conducted to incorporate hypoxia into SIT programs. These results suggest that SIT programs should consider including hypoxia in their sterile male production workflow.
Graphical Abstract
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17
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Sychla A, Feltman NR, Hutchison WD, Smanski MJ. Modeling-informed Engineered Genetic Incompatibility strategies to overcome resistance in the invasive Drosophila suzukii. FRONTIERS IN INSECT SCIENCE 2022; 2:1063789. [PMID: 38468757 PMCID: PMC10926386 DOI: 10.3389/finsc.2022.1063789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Engineered Genetic Incompatibility (EGI) is an engineered extreme underdominance genetic system wherein hybrid animals are not viable, functioning as a synthetic speciation event. There are several strategies in which EGI could be leveraged for genetic biocontrol of pest populations. We used an agent-based model of Drosophila suzukii (Spotted Wing Drosophila) to determine how EGI would fare with high rates of endemic genetic resistance alleles. We discovered a surprising failure mode wherein field-generated females convert an incompatible male release program into a population replacement gene drive. Local suppression could still be attained in two seasons by tailoring the release strategy to take advantage of this effect, or alternatively in one season by altering the genetic design of release agents. We show in this work that data from modeling can be utilized to recognize unexpected emergent phenomena and a priori inform genetic biocontrol treatment design to increase efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Sychla
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
- Biotechnology Institute, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
| | - Nathan R. Feltman
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
- Biotechnology Institute, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
| | - William D. Hutchison
- Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
| | - Michael J. Smanski
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
- Biotechnology Institute, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
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Garrood WT, Cuber P, Willis K, Bernardini F, Page NM, Haghighat-Khah RE. Driving down malaria transmission with engineered gene drives. Front Genet 2022; 13:891218. [PMID: 36338968 PMCID: PMC9627344 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.891218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The last century has witnessed the introduction, establishment and expansion of mosquito-borne diseases into diverse new geographic ranges. Malaria is transmitted by female Anopheles mosquitoes. Despite making great strides over the past few decades in reducing the burden of malaria, transmission is now on the rise again, in part owing to the emergence of mosquito resistance to insecticides, antimalarial drug resistance and, more recently, the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in the reduced implementation efficiency of various control programs. The utility of genetically engineered gene drive mosquitoes as tools to decrease the burden of malaria by controlling the disease-transmitting mosquitoes is being evaluated. To date, there has been remarkable progress in the development of CRISPR/Cas9-based homing endonuclease designs in malaria mosquitoes due to successful proof-of-principle and multigenerational experiments. In this review, we examine the lessons learnt from the development of current CRISPR/Cas9-based homing endonuclease gene drives, providing a framework for the development of gene drive systems for the targeted control of wild malaria-transmitting mosquito populations that overcome challenges such as with evolving drive-resistance. We also discuss the additional substantial works required to progress the development of gene drive systems from scientific discovery to further study and subsequent field application in endemic settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- William T. Garrood
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Piotr Cuber
- Department of Molecular Biology, Core Research Laboratories, Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katie Willis
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Federica Bernardini
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nicole M. Page
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Raban R, Gendron WAC, Akbari OS. A perspective on the expansion of the genetic technologies to support the control of neglected vector-borne diseases and conservation. FRONTIERS IN TROPICAL DISEASES 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2022.999273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic-based technologies are emerging as promising tools to support vector population control. Vectors of human malaria and dengue have been the main focus of these development efforts, but in recent years these technologies have become more flexible and adaptable and may therefore have more wide-ranging applications. Culex quinquefasciatus, for example, is the primary vector of avian malaria in Hawaii and other tropical islands. Avian malaria has led to the extinction of numerous native bird species and many native bird species continue to be threatened as climate change is expanding the range of this mosquito. Genetic-based technologies would be ideal to support avian malaria control as they would offer alternatives to interventions that are difficult to implement in natural areas, such as larval source reduction, and limit the need for chemical insecticides, which can harm beneficial species in these natural areas. This mosquito is also an important vector of human diseases, such as West Nile and Saint Louis encephalitis viruses, so genetic-based control efforts for this species could also have a direct impact on human health. This commentary will discuss the current state of development and future needs for genetic-based technologies in lesser studied, but important disease vectors, such as C. quinquefasciatus, and make comparisons to technologies available in more studied vectors. While most current genetic control focuses on human disease, we will address the impact that these technologies could have on both disease and conservation focused vector control efforts and what is needed to prepare these technologies for evaluation in the field. The versatility of genetic-based technologies may result in the development of many important tools to control a variety of vectors that impact human, animal, and ecosystem health.
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Dilani PVD, Dassanayake RS, Tyagi BK, Gunawardene YINS. The impact of transgenesis on mosquito fitness: A review. FRONTIERS IN INSECT SCIENCE 2022; 2:957570. [PMID: 38468772 PMCID: PMC10926467 DOI: 10.3389/finsc.2022.957570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Transgenic mosquitoes developed by genetic manipulation, offer a promising strategy for the sustainable and effective control of mosquito-borne diseases. This strategy relies on the mass release of transgenic mosquitoes into the wild, where their transgene is expected to persist in the natural environment, either permanently or transiently, within the mosquito population. In such circumstances, the fitness of transgenic mosquitoes is an important factor in determining their survival in the wild. The impact of transgene expression, insertional mutagenesis, inbreeding depression related to laboratory adaptation, and the hitchhiking effect involved in developing homozygous mosquito lines can all have an effect on the fitness of transgenic mosquitoes. Therefore, real-time estimation of transgene-associated fitness cost is imperative for modeling and planning transgenic mosquito release programs. This can be achieved by directly comparing fitness parameters in individuals homozygous or hemizygous for the transgene and their wild-type counterparts, or by cage invasion experiments to monitor the frequency of the transgenic allele over multiple generations. Recent advancements such as site-specific integration systems and gene drives, provide platforms to address fitness issues in transgenic mosquitoes. More research on the fitness of transgenic individuals is required to develop transgenic mosquitoes with a low fitness cost.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Brij Kishore Tyagi
- Sponsored Research & Industrial Centre, VIT University, Vellore (TN), India
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Leung S, Windbichler N, Wenger EA, Bever CA, Selvaraj P. Population replacement gene drive characteristics for malaria elimination in a range of seasonal transmission settings: a modelling study. Malar J 2022; 21:226. [PMID: 35883100 PMCID: PMC9327287 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-022-04242-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gene drives are a genetic engineering method where a suite of genes is inherited at higher than Mendelian rates and has been proposed as a promising new vector control strategy to reinvigorate the fight against malaria in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS Using an agent-based model of malaria transmission with vector genetics, the impacts of releasing population-replacement gene drive mosquitoes on malaria transmission are examined and the population replacement gene drive system parameters required to achieve local elimination within a spatially-resolved, seasonal Sahelian setting are quantified. The performance of two different gene drive systems-"classic" and "integral"-are evaluated. Various transmission regimes (low, moderate, and high-corresponding to annual entomological inoculation rates of 10, 30, and 80 infectious bites per person) and other simultaneous interventions, including deployment of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and passive healthcare-seeking, are also simulated. RESULTS Local elimination probabilities decreased with pre-existing population target site resistance frequency, increased with transmission-blocking effectiveness of the introduced antiparasitic gene and drive efficiency, and were context dependent with respect to fitness costs associated with the introduced gene. Of the four parameters, transmission-blocking effectiveness may be the most important to focus on for improvements to future gene drive strains because a single release of classic gene drive mosquitoes is likely to locally eliminate malaria in low to moderate transmission settings only when transmission-blocking effectiveness is very high (above ~ 80-90%). However, simultaneously deploying ITNs and releasing integral rather than classic gene drive mosquitoes significantly boosts elimination probabilities, such that elimination remains highly likely in low to moderate transmission regimes down to transmission-blocking effectiveness values as low as ~ 50% and in high transmission regimes with transmission-blocking effectiveness values above ~ 80-90%. CONCLUSION A single release of currently achievable population replacement gene drive mosquitoes, in combination with traditional forms of vector control, can likely locally eliminate malaria in low to moderate transmission regimes within the Sahel. In a high transmission regime, higher levels of transmission-blocking effectiveness than are currently available may be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Leung
- Institute for Disease Modeling, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Nikolai Windbichler
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, UK
| | - Edward A Wenger
- Institute for Disease Modeling, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Caitlin A Bever
- Institute for Disease Modeling, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Prashanth Selvaraj
- Institute for Disease Modeling, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, WA, USA.
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Larval mosquito management and risk to aquatic ecosystems: A comparative approach including current tactics and gene-drive Anopheles techniques. Transgenic Res 2022; 31:489-504. [PMID: 35798930 PMCID: PMC9489571 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-022-00315-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Genetic engineering of mosquitoes represents a promising tactic for reducing human suffering from malaria. Gene-drive techniques being developed that suppress or modify populations of Anopheles gambiae have the potential to be used with, or even possibly obviate, microbial and synthetic insecticides. However, these techniques are new and therefore there is attendant concern and uncertainty from regulators, policymakers, and the public about their environmental risks. Therefore, there is a need to assist decision-makers and public health stewards by assessing the risks associated with these newer mosquito management tactics so the risks can be compared as a basis for informed decision making. Previously, the effect of gene-drive mosquitoes on water quality in Africa was identified as a concern by stakeholders. Here, we use a comparative risk assessment approach for the effect of gene-drive mosquitoes on water quality in Africa. We compare the use of existing larvicides and the proposed genetic techniques in aquatic environments. Based on our analysis, we conclude that the tactic of gene-drive Anopheles for malaria management is unlikely to result in risks to aquatic environments that exceed current tactics for larval mosquitoes. As such, these new techniques would likely comply with currently recommended safety standards.
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Current Status of Mosquito Handling, Transporting and Releasing in Frame of the Sterile Insect Technique. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13060532. [PMID: 35735869 PMCID: PMC9224830 DOI: 10.3390/insects13060532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The sterile insect technique (SIT) and its related technologies are considered to be a powerful weapon for fighting against mosquitoes. As an important part of the area-wide integrated pest management (AW-IPM) programs, SIT can help reduce the use of chemical pesticides for mosquito control, and consequently, the occurrence of insecticide resistance. The mosquito SIT involves several important steps, including mass rearing, sex separation, irradiation, packing, transportation, release and monitoring. To enable the application of SIT against mosquitoes to reduce vector populations, the Joint Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Centre (previously called Division) of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture (hereinafter called Joint FAO/IAEA Centre) and its Insects Pest Control sub-program promoted a coordinated research project (CRP) entitled "Mosquito handling, transport, release and male trapping methods" to enhance the success of SIT. This article summarizes the existing explorations that are critical to the handling and transporting of male mosquitoes, offers an overview of detailed steps in SIT and discusses new emerging methods for mosquito releases, covering most processes of SIT.
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24
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da Silva MR, Lugão PHG, Prezoto F, Chapiro G. Modeling the impact of genetically modified male mosquitoes in the spatial population dynamics of Aedes aegypti. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9112. [PMID: 35650219 PMCID: PMC9160293 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-12764-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The mosquito Aedes aegypti is the primary vector of diseases such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever. Improving control techniques requires a better understanding of the mosquito’s life cycle, including spatial population dynamics in endemic regions. One of the most promising techniques consists of introducing genetically modified male mosquitoes. Several models proposed to describe this technique present mathematical issues or rely on numerous parameters, making their application challenging to real-world situations. We propose a model describing the spatial population dynamics of the Aedes aegypti in the presence of genetically modified males. This model presents some mathematical improvements compared to the literature allowing deeper mathematical analysis. Moreover, this model relies on few parameters, which we show how to obtain or estimate from the literature. Through numerical simulations, we investigate the impacts of environmental heterogeneity, the periodicity of genetically modified male releases, and released genetically modified males quantity on the population dynamics of Aedes aegypti. The main results point to that the successful application of this vector control technique relies on releasing more than a critical amount of modified males with a frequency exceeding a specific critical value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monalisa R da Silva
- Laboratory of Applied Mathematics (LAMAP), Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil.,Computational Modeling Graduate Program, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil.,Federal Institute of the Southeast of Minas Gerais, Santos Dumont, MG, Brazil
| | - Pedro H G Lugão
- Computational Modeling Graduate Program - National Laboratory for Scientific Computing (LNCC), Petrópolis, RJ, Brazil
| | - Fábio Prezoto
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Grigori Chapiro
- Laboratory of Applied Mathematics (LAMAP), Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil.
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25
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Bouyer J, Maiga H, Vreysen MJB. Assessing the efficiency of Verily's automated process for production and release of male Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes. Nat Biotechnol 2022; 40:1441-1442. [PMID: 35618926 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-022-01324-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jérémy Bouyer
- Insect Pest Control Sub-programme, Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, Vienna, Austria. .,CIRAD, UMR ASTRE CIRAD-INRA « Animals, Health, Territories, Risks and Ecosystems», Campus international de Baillarguet, Montpellier, France.
| | - Hamidou Maiga
- Insect Pest Control Sub-programme, Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marc J B Vreysen
- Insect Pest Control Sub-programme, Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, Vienna, Austria
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26
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Elimination of a closed population of the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti, through releases of self-limiting male mosquitoes. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010315. [PMID: 35576193 PMCID: PMC9135344 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Establishment of novel mosquito control technologies such as the use of genetically engineered insects typically involves phased testing to generate robust data-sets that support its safe and effective use as a vector control tool. In this study, we demonstrate the ability of the transgenic self-limiting OX513A Aedes aegypti strain to suppress a wild type Ae. aegypti population in an outdoor containment facility in India. OX513A is a genetically engineered Ae. aegypti strain with a repressible dominant self-limiting gene. When male adult OX513A mate with wild female adults, a single copy of the self-limiting gene is inherited by all the progeny, leading to death of >95% of progeny during larval/pupal development. A wild-type population of Ae. aegypti was established and stabilized during a 14 week period in five paired field cage units, each consisting of control and treatment cages, followed by weekly releases of OX513A male adults to suppress the target population. The successive introductions of OX513A male adults led to a consistent decline in wild type numbers eventually resulting in the elimination of Ae. aegypti from all treated cages within 10 to 15 weeks of release. This study demonstrates that Ae. aegypti elimination may be a realistic and achievable target in relatively isolated environments. Aedes aegypti L. species is the primary vector responsible for transmission of the dengue virus worldwide including chikungunya, yellow fever and Zika virus. The experiment presented in the manuscript represents a study undertaken to demonstrate suppression of the wild type Ae. aegypti population in large outdoor field cages with natural exposure to the environment (physically-contained field cage facility) by sustained releases of male adults of OX513A Ae. aegypti strain. This investigation is a phase-2 contained study as per the World Health Organization guidelines for evaluation of genetically modified organisms and was recommended by the Indian regulatory board. This experiment demonstrates suppression of wild type Ae. aegypti population by sustained releases of OX513A male adults in a contained facility. The prospect of the project is to demonstrate and implement the technology for controlling/suppression of the Ae. aegypti vector in the open field environment.
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Trash to Treasure: How Insect Protein and Waste Containers Can Improve the Environmental Footprint of Mosquito Egg Releases. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11030373. [PMID: 35335697 PMCID: PMC8950251 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11030373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Release and subsequent establishment of Wolbachia-infected Aedes aegypti in native mosquito populations has successfully reduced mosquito-borne disease incidence. While this is promising, further development is required to ensure that this method is scalable and sustainable. Egg release is a beneficial technique that requires reduced onsite resources and increases community acceptance; however, its incidental ecological impacts must be considered to ensure sustainability. In this study, we tested a more environmentally friendly mosquito rearing and release approach through the encapsulation of diet and egg mixtures and the subsequent utilization of waste containers to hatch and release mosquitoes. An ecologically friendly diet mix was specifically developed and tested for use in capsules, and we demonstrated that using either cricket or black soldier fly meal as a substitute for beef liver powder had no adverse effects on fitness or Wolbachia density. We further encapsulated both the egg and diet mixes and demonstrated no loss in viability. To address the potential of increased waste generation through disposable mosquito release containers, we tested reusing commonly found waste containers (aluminum and tin cans, PET, and glass bottles) as an alternative, conducting a case study in Kiribati to assess the concept’s cultural, political, and economic applicability. Our results showed that mosquito emergence and fitness was maintained with a variety of containers, including when tested in the field, compared to control containers, and that there are opportunities to implement this method in the Pacific Islands in a way that is culturally considerate and cost-effective.
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Nignan C, Poda BS, Sawadogo SP, Maïga H, Dabiré KR, Gnankine O, Tripet F, Roux O, Diabaté A. Local adaptation and colonization are potential factors affecting sexual competitiveness and mating choice in Anopheles coluzzii populations. Sci Rep 2022; 12:636. [PMID: 35022496 PMCID: PMC8755725 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-04704-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The mating behaviour of the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae complex is an important aspect of its reproduction biology. The success of mosquito release programmes based on genetic control of malaria crucially depends on competitive mating between both laboratory-reared and wild individuals, and populations from different localities. It is known that intrinsic and extrinsic factors can influence the mating success. This study addressed some of the knowledge gaps about factors influcencing mosquito mating success. In semi-field conditions, the study compared the mating success of three laboratory-reared and wild allopatric An. coluzzii populations originating from ecologically different locations in Burkina Faso. Overall, it was found that colonization reduced the mating competitiveness of both males and females compared to that of wild type individuals. More importly, females were more likely to mate with males of their own population of origin, be it wild or colonised, suggesting that local adaptation affected mate choice. The observations of mating behaviour of colonized and local wild populations revealed that subtle differences in behaviour lead to significant levels of population-specific mating. This is the first study to highlight the importance of local adaptation in the mating success, thereby highlighting the importance of using local strains for mass-rearing and release of An. coluzzii in vector control programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Nignan
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de La Santé (IRSS), Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.
- Laboratoire d'Entomologie Fondamentale Et Appliquée, Unité de Formation Et de Recherche en Sciences de La Vie Et de La Terre (UFR-SVT), Université Ouaga I Pr. Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
| | - Bèwadéyir Serge Poda
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de La Santé (IRSS), Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
- Laboratoire d'Entomologie Fondamentale Et Appliquée, Unité de Formation Et de Recherche en Sciences de La Vie Et de La Terre (UFR-SVT), Université Ouaga I Pr. Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- MIVEGEC, IRD, CNRS, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Hamidou Maïga
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de La Santé (IRSS), Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Kounbobr Roch Dabiré
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de La Santé (IRSS), Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Olivier Gnankine
- Laboratoire d'Entomologie Fondamentale Et Appliquée, Unité de Formation Et de Recherche en Sciences de La Vie Et de La Terre (UFR-SVT), Université Ouaga I Pr. Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Frédéric Tripet
- Centre for Applied Entomology and Parasitology, School of Life Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Olivier Roux
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de La Santé (IRSS), Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
- MIVEGEC, IRD, CNRS, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Abdoulaye Diabaté
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de La Santé (IRSS), Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
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Siddall A, Harvey-Samuel T, Chapman T, Leftwich PT. Manipulating Insect Sex Determination Pathways for Genetic Pest Management: Opportunities and Challenges. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:867851. [PMID: 35837548 PMCID: PMC9274970 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.867851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex determination pathways in insects are generally characterised by an upstream primary signal, which is highly variable across species, and that regulates the splicing of a suite of downstream but highly-conserved genes (transformer, doublesex and fruitless). In turn, these downstream genes then regulate the expression of sex-specific characteristics in males and females. Identification of sex determination pathways has and continues to be, a critical component of insect population suppression technologies. For example, "first-generation" transgenic technologies such as fsRIDL (Female-Specific Release of Insects carrying Dominant Lethals) enabled efficient selective removal of females from a target population as a significant improvement on the sterile insect technique (SIT). Second-generation technologies such as CRISPR/Cas9 homing gene drives and precision-guided SIT (pgSIT) have used gene editing technologies to manipulate sex determination genes in vivo. The development of future, third-generation control technologies, such as Y-linked drives, (female to male) sex-reversal, or X-shredding, will require additional knowledge of aspects of sexual development, including a deeper understanding of the nature of primary signals and dosage compensation. This review shows how knowledge of sex determination in target pest species is fundamental to all phases of the development of control technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Siddall
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Harvey-Samuel
- Arthropod Genetics, The Pirbright Institute, Pirbright, United Kingdom
| | - Tracey Chapman
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Philip T Leftwich
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
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Gusmano MK, Kaebnick GE, Maschke KJ, Neuhaus CP, Wills BC. Public Deliberation about Gene Editing in the Wild. Hastings Cent Rep 2021; 51 Suppl 2:S2-S10. [PMID: 34905246 DOI: 10.1002/hast.1314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Genetic editing technologies have long been used to modify domesticated nonhuman animals and plants. Recently, attention and funding have also been directed toward projects for modifying nonhuman organisms in the shared environment-that is, in the "wild." Interest in gene editing nonhuman organisms for wild release is motivated by a variety of goals, and such releases hold the possibility of significant, potentially transformative benefit. The technologies also pose risks and are often surrounded by a high uncertainty. Given the stakes, scientists and advisory bodies have called for public engagement in the science, ethics, and governance of gene editing research in nonhuman organisms. Most calls for public engagement lack details about how to design a broad public deliberation, including questions about participation, how to structure the conversations, how to report on the content, and how to link the deliberations to policy. We summarize the key design elements that can improve broad public deliberations about gene editing in the wild.
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Lalyer CR, Sigsgaard L, Giese B. Ecological vulnerability analysis for suppression of Drosophila suzukii by gene drives. Glob Ecol Conserv 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2021.e01883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Dobson SL. When More is Less: Mosquito Population Suppression Using Sterile, Incompatible and Genetically Modified Male Mosquitoes. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:1980-1986. [PMID: 33704487 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjab025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The current review of the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) is motivated by new technologies and the recent renaissance of male release field trials, which is driving an evolution in mosquito control and regulation. Practitioners that are releasing male mosquitoes would do well to learn from past successes and failures, including political and public engagement complications. With examples that include nuanced integrations of the different technologies, e.g., combinations of Wolbachia and irradiation, it is critical that scientists understand and communicate accurately about the technologies, including their evolving management by different regulatory agencies in the USA. Some male release approaches are considered 'pesticides' and regulated by federal and state agencies, while other male release approaches are unregulated. It is important to consider how the new technologies fit with the more 'traditional' chemical applications of adulticides and larvicides. The economics of male release programs are substantially different from traditional control costs, which can be a challenge to their adoption by abatement districts. However, there is substantial need to overcome these complications and challenges, because the problem with invasive mosquitoes grows ever worse with factors that include insecticide resistance, globalization and climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen L Dobson
- Department of Entomology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- MosquitoMate, Inc., Lexington, KY
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33
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Benedict MQ. Sterile Insect Technique: Lessons From the Past. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:1974-1979. [PMID: 33629719 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjab024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
When E.F. Knipling conceived of the release of sexually sterile insects to suppress wild populations, he laid down several fundamental qualities that characterized suitable target species-some of which mosquitoes generally violate-including high reproductive rates and large population numbers. Regardless of this, their global importance in public health has led numerous research teams to attempt to use the mosquito sterile insect technique against several species. Because of the degree of financial commitment required for suppression programs, most releases have consisted of preliminary investigations of male performance, population characteristics, and production methods. Those that have accomplished suppression provide important insights regarding the challenges of production, dispersal, and immigration. Insights gained from these studies remain relevant today, regardless of the genetic control technology being applied. In this article, I highlight studies that were notable for the insights that were gained, the intrinsic difficulties that mosquitoes present, and synthesize these into recommendations for successful applications of the sterile insect technique and newer technologies to mosquitoes.
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Wang GH, Gamez S, Raban RR, Marshall JM, Alphey L, Li M, Rasgon JL, Akbari OS. Combating mosquito-borne diseases using genetic control technologies. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4388. [PMID: 34282149 PMCID: PMC8290041 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24654-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue and malaria, pose significant global health burdens. Unfortunately, current control methods based on insecticides and environmental maintenance have fallen short of eliminating the disease burden. Scalable, deployable, genetic-based solutions are sought to reduce the transmission risk of these diseases. Pathogen-blocking Wolbachia bacteria, or genome engineering-based mosquito control strategies including gene drives have been developed to address these problems, both requiring the release of modified mosquitoes into the environment. Here, we review the latest developments, notable similarities, and critical distinctions between these promising technologies and discuss their future applications for mosquito-borne disease control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guan-Hong Wang
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Stephanie Gamez
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Robyn R Raban
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - John M Marshall
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Innovative Genomics Institute, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Luke Alphey
- Arthropod Genetics, The Pirbright Institute, Pirbright, UK
| | - Ming Li
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Jason L Rasgon
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- The Center for Infectious Disease Dynamics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Omar S Akbari
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA.
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Effect of cage size on Aedes albopictus wing length, survival and egg production. Heliyon 2021; 7:e07381. [PMID: 34222702 PMCID: PMC8242996 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e07381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Aedes albopictus is currently the most widespread invasive mosquito species in the world. It has paramount medical importance since females are efficient vectors of important viruses affecting humans. The development of alternative control strategies to complement control measures has become an imperative and involves the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT). Research to improve the productivity of mass-rearing, as well as the quality of mass-reared males is of essential importance for the success of SIT. Methods This study compared the influence of three differently sized cages for Ae. albopictus mass-rearing on wing length, adult survival and egg production during 20 generations of colonization. Plexiglas cages of 40x40x40 cm (C1), 100 × 20 × 100 cm (C2) and 100 × 65 × 100 cm (C3) were loaded with equal adult density, and sex ratio of 1:1. An open source image processing and analysis programme (ImageJ) was used for the wing measurement and egg counting. Results In all tested cages, we identified two periods separated by the generation showing the minimum value of each considered parameter (wing length, adult survival and egg production). The wing length and adult survival passed through the phases of initial decrease to about intermediate colonization time, and increased afterwards. Fecundity was steady during the first period and increased in the second one. Cage C1 demonstrated not only the best values for all parameters but also the smallest decrease in the initial phase. Recovering of the caged mosquitoes in the second half of the study was higher in cages C1 and C2, than in C3. Conclusions C1 provided the least negative selection pressure on wing length, adult survival and egg production for reared Ae. albopictus. Anyhow, since maximising mosquito density by exploiting the minimum space is a priority in mosquito mass-rearing, C2 might be a better choice for better fitting the space of mass-rearing rooms.
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Tallapragada M, Hardy BW, Lybrand E, Hallman WK. Impact of Abstract Versus Concrete Conceptualization of Genetic Modification (GM) Technology on Public Perceptions. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2021; 41:976-991. [PMID: 32984992 DOI: 10.1111/risa.13591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Based on the scholarship of abstract/concrete cognition, mental schema, and the integrated model of behavior change, this study found that using concrete over abstract language increased support for specific genetically modified (GM) applications and GM in general, and improved intentions to purchase products containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs). An online survey with an embedded 3 × 2 experiment was conducted using a national sample of U.S. adults (N = 1,470). Participants were randomly assigned to conditions that varied in abstract/concrete conceptualization of GMOs and were prompted to assess GM risk and benefit perceptions with respect to human health and the environment. Regardless of whether they assessed risks or benefits, participants who assessed GMOs through concrete terms compared to abstract terms showed an increase in positive emotions, which in turn increased their support for specific GM applications and GM in general, and their intentions to buy products with GMOs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghnaa Tallapragada
- Department of Advertising and Public Relations, Klein College of Media and Communication, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Bruce W Hardy
- Department of Communication and Social Influence, Klein College of Media and Communication, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Evan Lybrand
- Oak Ridge Institute of Science and Education fellowship program, NIOSH National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - William K Hallman
- Department of Human Ecology, School of Environmental & Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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Wang M, Sun Z, Ding F, Wang H, Li L, Li X, Zheng X, Li N, Dai Y, Wu C. Efficient TALEN-mediated gene knockin at the bovine Y chromosome and generation of a sex-reversal bovine. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:5415-5425. [PMID: 34047803 PMCID: PMC8257526 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03855-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Functional elucidation of bovine Y-chromosome genes requires available genome editing technologies. Meanwhile, it has yet to be proven whether the bovine Sry gene is the main or single factor involved in the development of the male phenotype in bovine. Here, we efficiently knocked out four Y-linked genes (Sry, ZFY, DDX3Y, and EIF2S3Y) in bovine fetal fibroblasts (BFFs) with transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) individually. Furthermore, we used TALEN-mediated gene knockin at the Sry gene and generated a sex-reversal bovine by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). The resulting bovine had only one ovary and was sterile. We demonstrate, for the first time, that the Sry gene is an important sex-determining gene in bovine. Our method lays a solid foundation for detecting the biology of the bovine Y chromosome, as it may provide an alternative biological model system for the study of mammalian sex determination, and new methods for the practical application in agricultural, especially for sex predetermination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China.,College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - ZhaoLin Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China. .,College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China. .,Beijing Capital Agribusiness Future Biotechnology Co, 75 Bingjiaokou Hutong, Ltd, 100088, No, China.
| | - Fangrong Ding
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Haiping Wang
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Ling Li
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xue Li
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xianjin Zheng
- Cattle Breeding Research Institute of Beijing Shunxin Xinyuan Co, 3 Anping Street, LtdShunyi District, 101318, No, China
| | - Ning Li
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Yunping Dai
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Changxin Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Xilu, Beijing, 100193, China
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Chae K, Valentin C, Dawson C, Jakes E, Myles KM, Adelman ZN. A knockout screen of genes expressed specifically in Ae. aegypti pupae reveals a critical role for stretchin in mosquito flight. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 132:103565. [PMID: 33716097 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2021.103565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Aedes aegypti is a critical vector for transmitting Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever viruses to humans. Genetic strategies to limit mosquito survival based upon sex distortion or disruption of development may be valuable new tools to control Ae. aegypti populations. We identified six genes with expression limited to pupal development; osi8 and osi11 (Osiris protein family), CPRs and CPF (cuticle protein family), and stretchin (a muscle protein). Heritable CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene knockout of these genes did not reveal any defects in pupal development. However, stretchin-null mutations (strnΔ35/Δ41) resulted in flightless mosquitoes with an abnormal open wing posture. The inability of adult strnΔ35/Δ41 mosquitoes to fly restricted their escape from aquatic rearing media following eclosion, and substantially reduced adult survival rates. Transgenic strains which contain the EGFP marker gene under the control of strn regulatory regions (0.8 kb, 1.4 kb, and 2.2 kb upstream, respectively), revealed the gene expression pattern of strn in muscle-like tissues in the thorax during late morphogenesis from L4 larvae to young adults. We demonstrated that Ae. aegypti pupae-specific strn is critical for adult mosquito flight capability and a key late-acting lethal target for mosquito-borne disease control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keun Chae
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Collin Valentin
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Chanell Dawson
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Emma Jakes
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Kevin M Myles
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Zach N Adelman
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
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Viktorov AG. Genetic Methods of Insect Control: History and Current State. RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL INVASIONS 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s2075111721020119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Bellini R, Carrieri M, Balestrino F, Puggioli A, Malfacini M, Bouyer J. Field Competitiveness of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) Irradiated Males in Pilot Sterile Insect Technique Trials in Northern Italy. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:807-813. [PMID: 33179753 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Vector-borne diseases account for 17% of infectious diseases, leading to more than one million deaths each year. Mosquitoes are responsible for 90% of the casualties and alternative control methods to insecticides are urgently needed, especially against Aedes vectors. Aedes albopictus is a particularly important species, causing major public health problems because it is a vector of several arboviruses and has a strong invasive behavior. Various genetic control methods have been proposed to be integrated into the management strategies of Aedes species, among which the sterile insect technique (SIT), which proved efficient against various insect pests and vectors. However, the ability of released irradiated sterile male mosquitoes to compete with their wild counterparts and induce sterility in wild females, which is critical to the success of this strategy, remained poorly defined. Here, we assessed the field competitiveness of Ae. albopictus irradiated male using data from eight release trials implemented in Northern Italy for 3 yr. Sterile males were capable of inducing a good level of sterility in the wild female population, however, with high variability in time and space. The field competitiveness of the released males was strongly negatively correlated with the ratio of sterile to wild males. This should be taken into consideration when designing future programs to suppress field populations of Aedes mosquitoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romeo Bellini
- Sanitary Entomology and Zoology Department, Centro Agricoltura Ambiente "G. Nicoli", IAEA Collaborating Center, Via Sant'Agata 835, Crevalcore, Italy
| | - Marco Carrieri
- Sanitary Entomology and Zoology Department, Centro Agricoltura Ambiente "G. Nicoli", IAEA Collaborating Center, Via Sant'Agata 835, Crevalcore, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Balestrino
- Sanitary Entomology and Zoology Department, Centro Agricoltura Ambiente "G. Nicoli", IAEA Collaborating Center, Via Sant'Agata 835, Crevalcore, Italy
| | - Arianna Puggioli
- Sanitary Entomology and Zoology Department, Centro Agricoltura Ambiente "G. Nicoli", IAEA Collaborating Center, Via Sant'Agata 835, Crevalcore, Italy
| | - Marco Malfacini
- Sanitary Entomology and Zoology Department, Centro Agricoltura Ambiente "G. Nicoli", IAEA Collaborating Center, Via Sant'Agata 835, Crevalcore, Italy
| | - Jeremy Bouyer
- Insect Pest Control Laboratory, NAFA Joint FAO/IAEA Division of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, FAO/IAEA Agriculture and Biotechnology Laboratories, Seibersdorf, Austria
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Abstract
The review considers the main stages in the development of genetic method of insect control: 1) The idea of A.S. Serebrovsky, who suggested releasing males with non-viable translocations into nature; 2) "Z-lethal" method of V.A. Strunnikov for control of harmful Lepidoptera, which consists in the release of males carrying two non-allelic recessive mutations in the sex Z-chromosomes into nature; 3) Sterile insect technique (SIT) used widely in practice in the second half of the XX-th century; 4) Genetically engineered biotechnology RIDL (Release of Insects carrying a Dominant Lethal) used in practice to control the invasive mosquito Aedes aegypti , the vector of Zika viruses and yellow fever. It is generalized that the main opponent of the genetic method of insect control is natural selection, which supports females, choosing natural rather than sterile or "genetically modified" males on mating. It follows from the above that genetic methods of control can be effective only in control of invasive species have not spread widely yet.
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Rahman RU, Cosme LV, Costa MM, Carrara L, Lima JBP, Martins AJ. Insecticide resistance and genetic structure of Aedes aegypti populations from Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0008492. [PMID: 33591988 PMCID: PMC7909666 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Vector control largely relies on neurotoxic chemicals, and insecticide resistance (IR) directly threatens their effectiveness. In some cases, specific alleles cause IR, and knowledge of the genetic diversity and gene flow among mosquito populations is crucial to track their arrival, rise, and spread. Here we evaluated Aedes aegypti populations’ susceptibility status, collected in 2016 from six different municipalities of Rio de Janeiro state (RJ), to temephos, pyriproxyfen, malathion, and deltamethrin. We collected eggs of Ae. aegypti in Campos dos Goytacazes (Cgy), Itaperuna (Ipn), Iguaba Grande (Igg), Itaboraí (Ibr), Mangaratiba (Mgr), and Vassouras (Vsr). We followed the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines and investigated the degree of susceptibility/resistance of mosquitoes to these insecticides. We used the Rockefeller strain as a susceptible positive control. We genotyped the V1016I and F1534C knockdown resistance (kdr) alleles using qPCR TaqMan SNP genotyping assay. Besides, with the use of Ae. aegypti SNP-chip, we performed genomic population analyses by genotyping more than 15,000 biallelic SNPs in mosquitoes from each population. We added previous data from populations from other countries to evaluate the ancestry of RJ populations. All RJ Ae. aegypti populations were susceptible to pyriproxyfen and malathion and highly resistant to deltamethrin. The resistance ratios for temephos was below 3,0 in Cgy, Ibr, and Igg populations, representing the lowest rates since IR monitoring started in this Brazilian region. We found the kdr alleles in high frequencies in all populations, partially justifying the observed resistance to pyrethroid. Population genetics analysis showed that Ae. aegypti revealed potential higher migration among some RJ localities and low genetic structure for most of them. Future population genetic studies, together with IR data in Ae aegypti on a broader scale, can help us predict the gene flow within and among the Brazilian States, allowing us to track the dynamics of arrival and changes in the frequency of IR alleles, and providing critical information to improving vector control program. Monitoring of insecticide resistance (IR) is mandatory for the effectiveness of vector control programs. We investigate six populations of Aedes aegypti regarding their IR status towards insecticides previously or currently in use, their frequency of IR alleles and resistance ratio, their genetic ancestry and structure, and the gene flow. We observed that Ae. aegypti populations from RJ are becoming susceptible to the larvicide organophosphate temephos. The resistance ratios of temephos are lower among populations where gene flow might be occurring. All RJ populations are highly resistant to deltamethrin, partially explained by the high frequency of kdr alleles. Besides, all populations are susceptible to pyriproxyfen’s insect growth regulator and the organophosphate malathion. Population genomic analyses using more than 15,000 SNPs identified three potential genetic clusters within RJ populations, with higher gene flow to and out of the touristic region called Região dos Lagos. IR data, together with knowledge of the genetic structure and gene flow among different mosquito populations, can help with vector control program decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafi Ur Rahman
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Controle de Artrópodes Vetores, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/ FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Luciano Veiga Cosme
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, United States of America
| | - Monique Melo Costa
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Controle de Artrópodes Vetores, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/ FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Luana Carrara
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Controle de Artrópodes Vetores, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/ FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - José Bento Pereira Lima
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Controle de Artrópodes Vetores, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/ FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ademir Jesus Martins
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Controle de Artrópodes Vetores, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/ FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Entomologia Molecular, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Koskinioti P, Augustinos AA, Carvalho DO, Misbah-ul-Haq M, Pillwax G, de la Fuente LD, Salvador-Herranz G, Herrero RA, Bourtzis K. Genetic sexing strains for the population suppression of the mosquito vector Aedes aegypti. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20190808. [PMID: 33357054 PMCID: PMC7776939 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2019.0808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Aedes aegypti is the primary vector of arthropod-borne viruses including dengue, chikungunya and Zika. Vector population control methods are reviving to impede disease transmission. An efficient sex separation for male-only releases is crucial for area-wide mosquito population suppression strategies. Here, we report on the construction of two genetic sexing strains using red- and white-eye colour mutations as selectable markers. Quality control analysis showed that the Red-eye genetic sexing strains (GSS) is better and more genetically stable than the White-eye GSS. The introduction of an irradiation-induced inversion (Inv35) increases genetic stability and reduces the probability of female contamination of the male release batches. Bi-weekly releases of irradiated males of both the Red-eye GSS and the Red-eye GSS/Inv35 fully suppressed target laboratory cage populations within six and nine weeks, respectively. An image analysis algorithm allowing sex determination based on eye colour identification at the pupal stage was developed. The next step is to automate the Red-eye-based genetic sexing and validate it in pilot trials prior to its integration in large-scale population suppression programmes. This article is part of the theme issue 'Novel control strategies for mosquito-borne diseases'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiota Koskinioti
- Insect Pest Control Laboratory, Joint FAO/IAEA Programme of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, Seibersdorf, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Antonios A. Augustinos
- Insect Pest Control Laboratory, Joint FAO/IAEA Programme of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, Seibersdorf, Vienna, Austria
| | - Danilo O. Carvalho
- Insect Pest Control Laboratory, Joint FAO/IAEA Programme of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, Seibersdorf, Vienna, Austria
| | - Muhammad Misbah-ul-Haq
- Insect Pest Control Laboratory, Joint FAO/IAEA Programme of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, Seibersdorf, Vienna, Austria
- Nuclear Institute for Food and Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Gulizar Pillwax
- Insect Pest Control Laboratory, Joint FAO/IAEA Programme of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, Seibersdorf, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lucia Duran de la Fuente
- Insect Pest Control Laboratory, Joint FAO/IAEA Programme of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, Seibersdorf, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gustavo Salvador-Herranz
- Departamento de Expresión Gráfica, Proyectos y Urbanismo, Universidad CEU Cardenal Herrera, Valencia, Spain
| | - Rafael Argilés Herrero
- Insect Pest Control Section, Joint FAO/IAEA Programme of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, Wagramerstrasse 5, PO Box 100, 1400 Vienna, Austria
| | - Kostas Bourtzis
- Insect Pest Control Laboratory, Joint FAO/IAEA Programme of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, Seibersdorf, Vienna, Austria
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44
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Leftwich PT, Spurgin LG, Harvey-Samuel T, Thomas CJE, Paladino LC, Edgington MP, Alphey L. Genetic pest management and the background genetics of release strains. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2020; 376:20190805. [PMID: 33357053 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2019.0805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic pest management (GPM) methods involve releasing modified versions of a pest species to mate with wild pests in the target area. Proposed for a wide range of applications in public health, agriculture and conservation, most progress has been made with pest insects. Offspring of the released modified insects and wild pests carry the modification-which might be transgenes, artificially introduced Wolbachia or genetic damage from radiation, for example-but they also carry a complete haploid genome from their laboratory-reared parent, as well as one from their wild parent. Unless these F1 hybrids are completely unable to reproduce, further mating will lead to introgression of DNA sequences from the release strain into the wild population. We discuss issues around strain selection and the potential consequences of such introgression. We conclude that such introgression is probably harmless in almost all circumstances, and could, in theory, provide specific additional benefits to the release programme. We outline population monitoring approaches that could be used, going forward, to determine how background genetics may affect GPM. This article is part of the theme issue 'Novel control strategies for mosquito-borne diseases'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip T Leftwich
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Lewis G Spurgin
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7TJ, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Luke Alphey
- Arthropod Genetics, The Pirbright Institute, Pirbright GU24 0NF, UK
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The Antiviral Small-Interfering RNA Pathway Induces Zika Virus Resistance in Transgenic Aedes aegypti. Viruses 2020; 12:v12111231. [PMID: 33142991 PMCID: PMC7692394 DOI: 10.3390/v12111231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The resurgence of arbovirus outbreaks across the globe, including the recent Zika virus (ZIKV) epidemic in 2015–2016, emphasizes the need for innovative vector control methods. In this study, we investigated ZIKV susceptibility to transgenic Aedes aegypti engineered to target the virus by means of the antiviral small-interfering RNA (siRNA) pathway. The robustness of antiviral effector expression in transgenic mosquitoes is strongly influenced by the genomic insertion locus and transgene copy number; we therefore used CRISPR/Cas9 to re-target a previously characterized locus (Chr2:321382225) and engineered mosquitoes expressing an inverted repeat (IR) dsRNA against the NS3/4A region of the ZIKV genome. Small RNA analysis revealed that the IR effector triggered the mosquito’s siRNA antiviral pathway in bloodfed females. Nearly complete (90%) inhibition of ZIKV replication was found in vivo in both midguts and carcasses at 7 or 14 days post-infection (dpi). Furthermore, significantly fewer transgenic mosquitoes contained ZIKV in their salivary glands (p = 0.001), which led to a reduction in the number of ZIKV-containing saliva samples as measured by transmission assay. Our work shows that Ae. aegypti innate immunity can be co-opted to engineer mosquitoes resistant to ZIKV.
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46
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Evaluation of Rearing Parameters of a Self-Limiting Strain of the Mediterranean Fruit Fly, Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae). INSECTS 2020; 11:insects11100663. [PMID: 32992468 PMCID: PMC7601659 DOI: 10.3390/insects11100663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The Mediterranean fruit fly (medfly), Ceratitis capitata, is a significant pest of stone and pome fruit that causes considerable economic losses worldwide. Current control is primarily based on insecticides, which are often mixed with protein baits. Oxitec has developed a self-limiting medfly strain (OX3864A) that demonstrates conditional female-specific mortality in the early life stages. Sustained release of OX3864A males offers medfly control, which should lead to substantial economic benefits in area-wide programmes. In the current study, the optimum quantities of mature and immature stages of the strain are assessed under semi-mass production. Moreover, the rearing and quality control limitations related to the production of this strain are provided. The data here demonstrate that the egg hatch rate can reach >85% under optimum rearing conditions. However, this depends on the number of pupae loaded in a cage and their ages. The suggested pupal density ranges between 14,000 and 18,000 pupae per cage to provide optimum egg production. In parallel, the embryo densities of 1.25-1.5 mL/kg larval Tet+ diet are recommended for strain propagation, while embryo densities of 1.25-2.0 mL/kg larval Tet- diet are suggested for male-only pupal production.
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47
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Amos BA, Ritchie SA, Cardé RT. Attraction Versus Capture II: Efficiency of the BG-Sentinel Trap Under Semifield Conditions and Characterizing Response Behaviors of Male Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae). JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 57:1539-1549. [PMID: 32363393 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Aedes aegypti (L.) is an important vector of viruses causing dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever and as such presents a serious threat to public health in tropical regions. Control programs involving 'rear and release' of modified male Ae. aegypti are underway and require effective trapping methods for surveillance of both the released insects and the impacted wild mosquito population. The BG-Sentinel trap (BGS) is widely used in Ae. aegypti surveillance but its level of efficiency, that is, what proportion of the mosquitoes encountering the trap are captured, is unknown. This is especially true for male mosquitoes, the behavior of which is incompletely understood. We tested the efficiency of two versions of the BGS for capturing male Ae. aegypti under semifield conditions with and without CO2 and a human skin odor mimic lure and with these baits combined. A navy-blue BGS trap emitting CO2 and a human skin odor mimic captured 18% of the released male Ae. aegypti, with a capture efficiency of 9 % (of the total encounters with the trap). Male Ae. aegypti had multiple encounters with the BGS that did not result in capture; they crossed over the trap entrance without being captured or landed on the sides of the trap. Swarming behavior around the BGS was also recorded, even when only a visual cue was present. Understanding male Ae. aegypti behaviors during an encounter with the BGS can inform improvement of trap design and therefore capture efficiency for surveillance in control programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brogan A Amos
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA
| | - Scott A Ritchie
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Smithfield, QLD, Australia
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Smithfield, QLD, Australia
| | - Ring T Cardé
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA
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48
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Santos VSV, Pereira BB. Low toxicity and high efficacy in use of novel approaches to control Aedes aegypti. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2020; 23:243-254. [PMID: 32515686 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2020.1776655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Arthropod-borne viruses are a group of etiologic agents accounting for different incapacitating diseases that progress to severe and lethal forms in animal and human targets consequently representing a significant burden on public health and global economies. Although attempts were undertaken to combat Aedes aegypti, the primary urban mosquito vector of several life-threatening diseases, the misuse of chemical pesticides, development of resistance, and toxicity on non-target species still need to be overcome. In this context, it is imperative for development of long-lasting, novel approaches envisioning effective control of Aedes aegypti, mainly in endemic regions. Thus, the present review was undertaken to describe safe and eco-friendly approaches as potential weapons against Aedes aegypti. Accordingly, the findings discussed indicated that biological larvicides and genetic engineering technologies constitute noteworthy alternatives of future mosquito-borne arbovirus disease control efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Santana Vieira Santos
- Department of Environmental Health, Laboratory of Environmental Health, Federal University of Uberlândia, Santa Mônica Campus , Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Department of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Institute of Biotechnology, Umuarama Campus , Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Boscolli Barbosa Pereira
- Department of Environmental Health, Laboratory of Environmental Health, Federal University of Uberlândia, Santa Mônica Campus , Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Department of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Institute of Biotechnology, Umuarama Campus , Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Rodrigues-Alves ML, Melo-Júnior OADO, Silveira P, Mariano RMDS, Leite JC, Santos TAP, Soares IS, Lair DF, Melo MM, Resende LA, da Silveira-Lemos D, Dutra WO, Gontijo NDF, Araujo RN, Sant'Anna MRV, Andrade LAF, da Fonseca FG, Moreira LA, Giunchetti RC. Historical Perspective and Biotechnological Trends to Block Arboviruses Transmission by Controlling Aedes aegypti Mosquitos Using Different Approaches. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:275. [PMID: 32656216 PMCID: PMC7325419 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.00275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Continuous climate changes associated with the disorderly occupation of urban areas have exposed Latin American populations to the emergence and reemergence of arboviruses transmitted by Aedes aegypti. The magnitude of the financial and political problems these epidemics may bring to the future of developing countries is still ignored. Due to the lack of effective antiviral drugs and vaccines against arboviruses, the primary measure for preventing or reducing the transmission of diseases depends entirely on the control of vectors or the interruption of human-vector contact. In Brazil the first attempt to control A. aegypti took place in 1902 by eliminating artificial sites of eproduction. Other strategies, such as the use of oviposition traps and chemical control with dichlorodiphenyltrichlorethane and pyrethroids, were successful, but only for a limited time. More recently, biotechnical approaches, such as the release of transgenics or sterile mosquitoes and the, development of transmission blocking vaccines, are being applied to try to control the A. aegypti population and/or arbovirus transmission. Endemic countries spend about twice as much to treat patients as they do on the prevention of mosquito-transmitted diseases. The result of this strategy is an explosive outbreak of arboviruses cases. This review summarizes the social impacts caused by A. aegypti-transmitted diseases, mainly from a biotechnological perspective in vector control aimed at protecting Latin American populations against arboviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Luiza Rodrigues-Alves
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Otoni Alves de Oliveira Melo-Júnior
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Silveira
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Reysla Maria da Silveira Mariano
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Jaqueline Costa Leite
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Thaiza Aline Pereira Santos
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ingrid Santos Soares
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Daniel Ferreira Lair
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Marília Martins Melo
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lucilene Aparecida Resende
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Denise da Silveira-Lemos
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Departamento de Medicina, Universidade José Do Rosário Vellano, UNIFENAS, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Walderez Ornelas Dutra
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Nelder de Figueiredo Gontijo
- Laboratório de Fisiologia de Insetos Hematófagos, Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Nascimento Araujo
- Laboratório de Fisiologia de Insetos Hematófagos, Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Mauricio Roberto Viana Sant'Anna
- Laboratório de Fisiologia de Insetos Hematófagos, Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luis Adan Flores Andrade
- Laboratório de Virologia Básica e Aplicada, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Flávio Guimarães da Fonseca
- Laboratório de Virologia Básica e Aplicada, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luciano Andrade Moreira
- Laboratório de Mosquitos Vetores: Endossimbiontes e Interação Patógeno-Vetor, Instituto René Rachou, Fiocruz, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Rodolfo Cordeiro Giunchetti
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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50
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Zhao Y, Schetelig MF, Handler AM. Genetic breakdown of a Tet-off conditional lethality system for insect population control. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3095. [PMID: 32555259 PMCID: PMC7303202 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-16807-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetically modified conditional lethal strains have been created to improve the control of insect pest populations damaging to human health and agriculture. However, understanding the potential for the genetic breakdown of lethality systems by rare spontaneous mutations, or selection for inherent suppressors, is critical since field release studies are in progress. This knowledge gap was addressed in a Drosophila tetracycline-suppressible embryonic lethality system by analyzing the frequency and structure of primary-site spontaneous mutations and second-site suppressors resulting in heritable survivors from 1.2 million zygotes. Here we report that F1 survivors due to primary-site deletions and indels occur at a 5.8 × 10−6 frequency, while survival due to second-site maternal-effect suppressors occur at a ~10−5 frequency. Survivors due to inherent lethal effector suppressors could result in a resistant field population, and we suggest that this risk may be mitigated by the use of dual redundant, albeit functionally unrelated, lethality systems. Insect population control using conditional lethal systems could break down due to spontaneous mutations that render the system ineffective. Here the authors analyse the structure and frequency of such mutations in Drosophila and suggest the use of dual lethality systems to mitigate their survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zhao
- State Key Lab for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Biology Resources, Guangxi University, 100 Daxuedong Road, 530005, Nanning, Guangxi, China.,Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, USDA/ARS, 1700 SW 23rd Drive, Gainesville, FL, 32608, USA
| | - Marc F Schetelig
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus-Liebig University Gießen, Winchesterstr. 2, 35394, Gießen, Germany
| | - Alfred M Handler
- Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, USDA/ARS, 1700 SW 23rd Drive, Gainesville, FL, 32608, USA.
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