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Bourne ME, Lucas-Barbosa D, Verhulst NO. Host location by arthropod vectors: are microorganisms in control? CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2024; 65:101239. [PMID: 39067510 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2024.101239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Vector-borne microorganisms are dependent on their arthropod vector for their transmission to and from vertebrates. The 'parasite manipulation hypothesis' states that microorganisms are likely to evolve manipulations of such interactions for their own selective benefit. Recent breakthroughs uncovered novel ecological interactions initiated by vector-borne microorganisms, which are linked to different stages of the host location by their arthropod vectors. Therefore, we give an actualised overview of the various means through which vector-borne microorganisms impact their vertebrate and arthropod hosts to ultimately benefit their own transmission. Harnessing the directionality and underlying mechanisms of these interactions driven by vector-borne microorganisms may provide tools to reduce the spread of pathogenic vector-borne microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchel E Bourne
- National Centre for Vector Entomology, Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse and Medical Faculty, University of Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 266A, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Dani Lucas-Barbosa
- National Centre for Vector Entomology, Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse and Medical Faculty, University of Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 266A, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland; Research Institute of Organic Agriculture FiBL, Ackerstrasse 113, 5070 Frick, Switzerland
| | - Niels O Verhulst
- National Centre for Vector Entomology, Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse and Medical Faculty, University of Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 266A, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland.
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Bang WJ, Seol A, Shin S. Insights from multigene analysis: first report of a Southeast Asian Mosquito, Aedes (Mucidus) laniger (Diptera: Culicidae) on Jeju Island from Korea. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:386. [PMID: 39267122 PMCID: PMC11395179 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06373-8] [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: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Certain mosquitoes are known as dominant vectors worldwide, and transmit infectious diseases. The expansion of mosquito habitats due to climate change and increased human activities poses a significant health threat by facilitating the spread of various non-native infectious diseases. This study focused on the detection of the Southeast Asian mosquito species, Aedes (Mucidus) laniger (Wiedemann, 1820) on Jeju Island, the southernmost region of the Republic of Korea (ROK), highlighting the potential risks associated with the spread of vector-borne diseases, particularly emphasizing the elevated likelihood of invasion by Southeast Asian mosquitoes. METHODS Field surveys were conducted in August 2023 on Jeju Island. Adult mosquitoes were collected using BG-sentinel traps and identified to the species level using taxonomic keys. Morphological and molecular analyses were employed to confirm species designations. Molecular data, including mitochondrial and nuclear genes, were used for phylogenetic analysis, which was performed to compare and identify among recorded subgenera in ROK. Species distribution modeling for Ae. laniger was performed to predict potential habitats using R package 'BIOMOD2'. RESULTS The two specimens of Ae. laniger were collected for the first time on Jeju Island. Morphological and molecular analyses confirmed the identity of this species within the subgenus Mucidus and validated the first record of this species in the ROK. We employed a simple multigene phylogenetic analysis to confirm a new mosquito record at the genus and subgenus levels, finally validating the consistency between morphological identification and molecular phylogenetic outcomes. Furthermore, we have updated the taxonomic keys for the genus Aedes in the ROK, and revised mosquito lists for Jeju Island, incorporating the inclusion of Ae. laniger. On the basis of species distribution modeling, the area of suitable habitat for Ae. laniger is expected to expand due to climate change, but this change did not appear to be meaningful in East Asia. CONCLUSIONS This case offers the first report of the Southeast Asian mosquito, Ae. laniger, in the ROK. The detection of this species on Jeju Island suggests the potential establishment of a breeding population their habitat and raises concerns about further expansion into the Korean Peninsula. Considering the annual occurrence of mosquito-borne disease cases in the Southeast Asia, it is essential to conduct monitoring not only in Jeju Island, where Ae. laniger has been identified, but also across the entire Korean Peninsula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woo Jun Bang
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
- Comparative Medicine Disease Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Ara Seol
- Warm Temperate and Subtropical Forest Research Center, National Institute of Forest Science, Jeju, 63582, Republic of Korea
| | - Seunggwan Shin
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
- Comparative Medicine Disease Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
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da Silva FS, do Nascimento BLS, Cruz ACR, da Silva SP, Aragão CF, Dias DD, Silva LHDSE, Reis LAM, Reis HCF, Chagas LLD, Rosa Jr. JW, Vieira DBR, Brandão RCF, Medeiros DBDA, Nunes Neto JP. Sequencing and Description of the Mitochondrial Genome of Orthopodomyia fascipes (Diptera: Culicidae). Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:874. [PMID: 39062653 PMCID: PMC11276460 DOI: 10.3390/genes15070874] [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: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The genus Orthopodomyia Theobald, 1904 (Diptera: Culicidae) comprises 36 wild mosquito species, with distribution largely restricted to tropical and temperate areas, most of which are not recognized as vectors of epidemiological importance due to the lack of information related to their bionomy and involvement in the cycle transmission of infectious agents. Furthermore, their evolutionary relationships are not completely understood, reflecting the scarcity of genetic information about the genus. Therefore, in this study, we report the first complete description of the mitochondrial genome of a Neotropical species representing the genus, Orthopodomyia fascipes Coquillet, 1906, collected in the Brazilian Amazon region. Using High Throughput Sequencing, we obtained a mitochondrial sequence of 15,598 bp, with an average coverage of 418.5×, comprising 37 functional subunits and a final portion rich in A + T, corresponding to the control region. The phylogenetic analysis, using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference based on the 13 protein-coding genes, corroborated the monophyly of Culicidae and its two subfamilies, supporting the proximity between the tribes Orthopodomyiini and Mansoniini, partially disagreeing with previous studies based on the use of molecular and morphological markers. The information generated in this study contributes to a better understanding of the taxonomy and evolutionary history of the genus and other groups of Culicidae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fábio Silva da Silva
- Graduate Program in Parasitary Biology in the Amazon Region, Center of Biological and Health Sciences, State University of Pará, Belém 66095-663, Brazil; (F.S.d.S.); (A.C.R.C.); (D.D.D.); (L.H.d.S.e.S.); (L.A.M.R.); (H.C.F.R.); (D.B.d.A.M.)
- Evandro Chagas Institute—IEC/MS/SVSA, Department of Arbovirology and Hemorragic Fevers, Ananindeua 67030-000, Brazil; (B.L.S.d.N.); (S.P.d.S.); (C.F.A.); (L.L.d.C.); (J.W.R.J.); (D.B.R.V.); (R.C.F.B.)
| | - Bruna Laís Sena do Nascimento
- Evandro Chagas Institute—IEC/MS/SVSA, Department of Arbovirology and Hemorragic Fevers, Ananindeua 67030-000, Brazil; (B.L.S.d.N.); (S.P.d.S.); (C.F.A.); (L.L.d.C.); (J.W.R.J.); (D.B.R.V.); (R.C.F.B.)
| | - Ana Cecília Ribeiro Cruz
- Graduate Program in Parasitary Biology in the Amazon Region, Center of Biological and Health Sciences, State University of Pará, Belém 66095-663, Brazil; (F.S.d.S.); (A.C.R.C.); (D.D.D.); (L.H.d.S.e.S.); (L.A.M.R.); (H.C.F.R.); (D.B.d.A.M.)
- Evandro Chagas Institute—IEC/MS/SVSA, Department of Arbovirology and Hemorragic Fevers, Ananindeua 67030-000, Brazil; (B.L.S.d.N.); (S.P.d.S.); (C.F.A.); (L.L.d.C.); (J.W.R.J.); (D.B.R.V.); (R.C.F.B.)
| | - Sandro Patroca da Silva
- Evandro Chagas Institute—IEC/MS/SVSA, Department of Arbovirology and Hemorragic Fevers, Ananindeua 67030-000, Brazil; (B.L.S.d.N.); (S.P.d.S.); (C.F.A.); (L.L.d.C.); (J.W.R.J.); (D.B.R.V.); (R.C.F.B.)
| | - Carine Fortes Aragão
- Evandro Chagas Institute—IEC/MS/SVSA, Department of Arbovirology and Hemorragic Fevers, Ananindeua 67030-000, Brazil; (B.L.S.d.N.); (S.P.d.S.); (C.F.A.); (L.L.d.C.); (J.W.R.J.); (D.B.R.V.); (R.C.F.B.)
| | - Daniel Damous Dias
- Graduate Program in Parasitary Biology in the Amazon Region, Center of Biological and Health Sciences, State University of Pará, Belém 66095-663, Brazil; (F.S.d.S.); (A.C.R.C.); (D.D.D.); (L.H.d.S.e.S.); (L.A.M.R.); (H.C.F.R.); (D.B.d.A.M.)
- Evandro Chagas Institute—IEC/MS/SVSA, Department of Arbovirology and Hemorragic Fevers, Ananindeua 67030-000, Brazil; (B.L.S.d.N.); (S.P.d.S.); (C.F.A.); (L.L.d.C.); (J.W.R.J.); (D.B.R.V.); (R.C.F.B.)
| | - Lucas Henrique da Silva e Silva
- Graduate Program in Parasitary Biology in the Amazon Region, Center of Biological and Health Sciences, State University of Pará, Belém 66095-663, Brazil; (F.S.d.S.); (A.C.R.C.); (D.D.D.); (L.H.d.S.e.S.); (L.A.M.R.); (H.C.F.R.); (D.B.d.A.M.)
- Evandro Chagas Institute—IEC/MS/SVSA, Department of Arbovirology and Hemorragic Fevers, Ananindeua 67030-000, Brazil; (B.L.S.d.N.); (S.P.d.S.); (C.F.A.); (L.L.d.C.); (J.W.R.J.); (D.B.R.V.); (R.C.F.B.)
| | - Lúcia Aline Moura Reis
- Graduate Program in Parasitary Biology in the Amazon Region, Center of Biological and Health Sciences, State University of Pará, Belém 66095-663, Brazil; (F.S.d.S.); (A.C.R.C.); (D.D.D.); (L.H.d.S.e.S.); (L.A.M.R.); (H.C.F.R.); (D.B.d.A.M.)
- Evandro Chagas Institute—IEC/MS/SVSA, Department of Arbovirology and Hemorragic Fevers, Ananindeua 67030-000, Brazil; (B.L.S.d.N.); (S.P.d.S.); (C.F.A.); (L.L.d.C.); (J.W.R.J.); (D.B.R.V.); (R.C.F.B.)
| | - Hanna Carolina Farias Reis
- Graduate Program in Parasitary Biology in the Amazon Region, Center of Biological and Health Sciences, State University of Pará, Belém 66095-663, Brazil; (F.S.d.S.); (A.C.R.C.); (D.D.D.); (L.H.d.S.e.S.); (L.A.M.R.); (H.C.F.R.); (D.B.d.A.M.)
- Evandro Chagas Institute—IEC/MS/SVSA, Department of Arbovirology and Hemorragic Fevers, Ananindeua 67030-000, Brazil; (B.L.S.d.N.); (S.P.d.S.); (C.F.A.); (L.L.d.C.); (J.W.R.J.); (D.B.R.V.); (R.C.F.B.)
| | - Liliane Leal das Chagas
- Evandro Chagas Institute—IEC/MS/SVSA, Department of Arbovirology and Hemorragic Fevers, Ananindeua 67030-000, Brazil; (B.L.S.d.N.); (S.P.d.S.); (C.F.A.); (L.L.d.C.); (J.W.R.J.); (D.B.R.V.); (R.C.F.B.)
| | - José Wilson Rosa Jr.
- Evandro Chagas Institute—IEC/MS/SVSA, Department of Arbovirology and Hemorragic Fevers, Ananindeua 67030-000, Brazil; (B.L.S.d.N.); (S.P.d.S.); (C.F.A.); (L.L.d.C.); (J.W.R.J.); (D.B.R.V.); (R.C.F.B.)
| | - Durval Bertram Rodrigues Vieira
- Evandro Chagas Institute—IEC/MS/SVSA, Department of Arbovirology and Hemorragic Fevers, Ananindeua 67030-000, Brazil; (B.L.S.d.N.); (S.P.d.S.); (C.F.A.); (L.L.d.C.); (J.W.R.J.); (D.B.R.V.); (R.C.F.B.)
| | - Roberto Carlos Feitosa Brandão
- Evandro Chagas Institute—IEC/MS/SVSA, Department of Arbovirology and Hemorragic Fevers, Ananindeua 67030-000, Brazil; (B.L.S.d.N.); (S.P.d.S.); (C.F.A.); (L.L.d.C.); (J.W.R.J.); (D.B.R.V.); (R.C.F.B.)
| | - Daniele Barbosa de Almeida Medeiros
- Graduate Program in Parasitary Biology in the Amazon Region, Center of Biological and Health Sciences, State University of Pará, Belém 66095-663, Brazil; (F.S.d.S.); (A.C.R.C.); (D.D.D.); (L.H.d.S.e.S.); (L.A.M.R.); (H.C.F.R.); (D.B.d.A.M.)
- Evandro Chagas Institute—IEC/MS/SVSA, Department of Arbovirology and Hemorragic Fevers, Ananindeua 67030-000, Brazil; (B.L.S.d.N.); (S.P.d.S.); (C.F.A.); (L.L.d.C.); (J.W.R.J.); (D.B.R.V.); (R.C.F.B.)
| | - Joaquim Pinto Nunes Neto
- Graduate Program in Parasitary Biology in the Amazon Region, Center of Biological and Health Sciences, State University of Pará, Belém 66095-663, Brazil; (F.S.d.S.); (A.C.R.C.); (D.D.D.); (L.H.d.S.e.S.); (L.A.M.R.); (H.C.F.R.); (D.B.d.A.M.)
- Evandro Chagas Institute—IEC/MS/SVSA, Department of Arbovirology and Hemorragic Fevers, Ananindeua 67030-000, Brazil; (B.L.S.d.N.); (S.P.d.S.); (C.F.A.); (L.L.d.C.); (J.W.R.J.); (D.B.R.V.); (R.C.F.B.)
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Singh R, Sanscrainte ND, Estep AS, González K, Bernal XE. Rearing and Shipping of Uranotaenia lowii, a Frog-Biting Mosquito. Bio Protoc 2024; 14:e4996. [PMID: 38873019 PMCID: PMC11166534 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4996] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Many studies on mosquito biology rely on laboratory-reared colonies, emphasizing the need for standardized protocols to investigate critical aspects such as disease biology, mosquito behavior, and vector control methods. While much knowledge is derived from anthropophilic species from genera like Anopheles, Aedes, and Culex, there is a growing interest in studying mosquitoes that feed on non-human hosts. This interest stems from the desire to gain a deeper understanding of the evolution of diverse host range use and host specificity. However, there is currently a limited number of comprehensive protocols for studying such species. Considering this gap, we present a protocol for rearing Uranotaenia lowii, a mosquito species specialized in feeding on anuran amphibians by eavesdropping on host-emitted sound cues. Additionally, we provide instructions for successfully shipping live specimens to promote research on this species and similar ones. This protocol helps fill the current gap in comprehensive guidelines for rearing and maintaining colonies of anuran host-biting mosquitoes. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers seeking to establish colonies of mosquito species from the Uranotaeniini tribe. Ultimately, this protocol may facilitate research on the evolutionary ecology of Culicidae, as this family has recently been proposed to have originated from a frog-feeding ancestor. Key features • Rearing and maintenance of colonies of non-human host-biting mosquitoes that feed on frogs using host-emitted acoustic cues. • Provides shipping guidelines aimed to enhance the establishment of colonies by new research groups and specimen exchanges between labs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richa Singh
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Neil D. Sanscrainte
- Fly and Mosquito Research Unit, Center for Medical, Agricultural & Veterinary Entomology, Agricultura Research Service, USDA, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Alden S. Estep
- Fly and Mosquito Research Unit, Center for Medical, Agricultural & Veterinary Entomology, Agricultura Research Service, USDA, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - K. González
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Ximena E. Bernal
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panamá, República de Panamá
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5
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Saraiva JF, Furtado NVR, Maitra A, Carvalho DP, Galardo AKR, Lima JBP. Trends of Mansonia (Diptera, Culicidae, Mansoniini) in Porto Velho: Seasonal patterns and meteorological influences. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0303405. [PMID: 38718006 PMCID: PMC11078429 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Entomological research is vital for shaping strategies to control mosquito vectors. Its significance also reaches into environmental management, aiming to prevent inconveniences caused by non-vector mosquitoes like the Mansonia Blanchard, 1901 mosquito. In this study, we carried out a five-year (2019-2023) monitoring of these mosquitoes at ten sites in Porto Velho, Rondônia, using SkeeterVac SV3100 automatic traps positioned between the two hydroelectric complexes on the Madeira River. Throughout this period, we sampled 153,125 mosquitoes, of which the Mansonia genus accounted for 54% of the total, indicating its prevalence in the region. ARIMA analysis revealed seasonal patterns of Mansonia spp., highlighting periods of peak density. Notably, a significant decreasing trend in local abundance was observed from July 2021 (25th epidemiological week) until the end of the study. Wind speed was observed to be the most relevant meteorological factor influencing the abundance of Mansonia spp. especially in the Joana D'Arc settlement, although additional investigation is needed to comprehensively analyze other local events and gain a deeper understanding of the ecological patterns of this genus in the Amazon region.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Ferreira Saraiva
- Medical Entomology Laboratory, Instituto de Pesquisas Científicas e Tecnológicas do Estado do Amapá –IEPA, Macapá, Amapá, Brazil
| | - Nercy Virginia Rabelo Furtado
- Medical Entomology Laboratory, Instituto de Pesquisas Científicas e Tecnológicas do Estado do Amapá –IEPA, Macapá, Amapá, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Tropical Medicine, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ahana Maitra
- Department of Pharmacy–Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Allan Kardec Ribeiro Galardo
- Medical Entomology Laboratory, Instituto de Pesquisas Científicas e Tecnológicas do Estado do Amapá –IEPA, Macapá, Amapá, Brazil
| | - José Bento Pereira Lima
- Laboratory of Biology, Control, and Surveillance of Insect Vectors (LaBiCoVIV), Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Filipović I, Marshall JM, Rašić G. Finding divergent sequences of homomorphic sex chromosomes via diploidized nanopore-based assembly from a single male. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.29.582759. [PMID: 38464271 PMCID: PMC10925256 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.29.582759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Although homomorphic sex chromosomes can have non-recombining regions with elevated sequence divergence between its complements, such divergence signals can be difficult to detect bioinformatically. If found in genomes of e.g. insect pests, these sequences could be targeted by the engineered genetic sexing and control systems. Here, we report an approach that can leverage long-read nanopore sequencing of a single XY male to identify divergent regions of homomorphic sex chromosomes. Long-read data are used for de novo genome assembly that is diploidized in a way that maximizes sex-specific differences between its haploid complements. We show that the correct assembly phasing is supported by the mapping of nanopore reads from the male's haploid Y-bearing sperm cells. The approach revealed a highly divergent region (HDR) near the centromere of the homomorphic sex chromosome of Aedes aegypti, the most important arboviral vector, for which there is a great interest in creating new genetic control tools. HDR is located ~5Mb downstream of the known male-determining locus on chromosome 1 and is significantly enriched for ovary-biased genes. While recombination in HDR ceased relatively recently (~1.4 MYA), HDR gametologs have divergent exons and introns of protein coding genes, and most lncRNA genes became X-specific. Megabases of previously invisible sex-linked sequences provide new putative targets for engineering the genetic systems to control this deadly mosquito. Broadly, our approach expands the toolbox for studying cryptic structure of sex chromosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Filipović
- Mosquito Genomics, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston QLD 4006, Australia
- The University of Queensland, School of Biological Sciences, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - John M Marshall
- Divisions of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Gordana Rašić
- Mosquito Genomics, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston QLD 4006, Australia
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7
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Blom R, Krol L, Langezaal M, Schrama M, Trimbos KB, Wassenaar D, Koenraadt CJM. Blood-feeding patterns of Culex pipiens biotype pipiens and pipiens/molestus hybrids in relation to avian community composition in urban habitats. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:95. [PMID: 38424573 PMCID: PMC10902945 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06186-9] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Culex pipiens sensu stricto (s.s.) is considered the primary vector of Usutu virus and West Nile virus, and consists of two morphologically identical but behaviourally distinct biotypes (Cx. pipiens biotype pipiens and Cx. pipiens biotype molestus) and their hybrids. Both biotypes are expected to differ in their feeding behaviour, and pipiens/molestus hybrids are presumed to display intermediate feeding behaviour. However, the evidence for distinct feeding patterns is scarce, and to date no studies have related differences in feeding patterns to differences in host abundance. METHODS Mosquitoes were collected using CO2-baited traps. We collected blood-engorged Cx. pipiens/torrentium specimens from 12 contrasting urban sites, namely six city parks and six residential areas. Blood engorged Cx. pipiens/torrentium mosquitoes were identified to the species and biotype/hybrid level via real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). We performed blood meal analysis via PCR and Sanger sequencing. Additionally, avian host communities were surveyed via vocal sounds and/or visual observation. RESULTS We selected 64 blood-engorged Cx. pipiens/torrentium mosquitoes of which we successfully determined the host origin of 55 specimens. Of these, 38 belonged to biotype pipiens, 14 were pipiens/molestus hybrids and the identity of three specimens could not be determined. No blood-engorged biotype molestus or Cx. torrentium specimens were collected. We observed no differences in feeding patterns between biotype pipiens and pipiens/molestus hybrids across different habitats. Avian community composition differed between city parks and residential areas, whereas overall avian abundance did not differ between the two habitat types. CONCLUSIONS Our results show the following: (1) Cx. pipiens s.s. feeding patterns did not differ between city parks and residential areas, regardless of whether individuals were identified as biotype pipiens or pipiens/molestus hybrids. (2) We detected differences in host availability between city parks and residential areas. (3) We show that in both urban habitat types, biotype pipiens and pipiens/molestus hybrids fed on both mammalian and avian hosts. This underscores the potential role in arbovirus transmission of biotype pipiens and pipiens/molestus hybrids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rody Blom
- Laboratory of Entomology, Plant Sciences Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Louie Krol
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Deltares, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Melissa Langezaal
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten Schrama
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Krijn B Trimbos
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Daan Wassenaar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Constantianus J M Koenraadt
- Laboratory of Entomology, Plant Sciences Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Ribeiro TM, Espíndola A. Integrated phylogenomic approaches in insect systematics. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2024; 61:101150. [PMID: 38061460 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2023.101150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
The increased accessibility of genomic and imaging methods, and the improved access to ecological, spatial, and other natural history-related data is allowing for insect systematics to grow and find answers to central evolutionary and taxonomic questions. Today, integrated studies in insect phylogenomics and systematics are combining natural history, behavior, developmental biology, morphology, fossils, geographic range data, and ecological interactions. This integration is contributing to the clarification of evolutionary relationships, and the recognition of the role played by these factors on the evolution of insects. Future work should continue to build on these advances, seeking to further increase open-access databasing and support for natural history research, as well as expand its analytical palettes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taís Ma Ribeiro
- Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, 4112 Plant Sciences Building, 4291 Fieldhouse Dr., College Park, MD 20742-4454, USA
| | - Anahí Espíndola
- Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, 4112 Plant Sciences Building, 4291 Fieldhouse Dr., College Park, MD 20742-4454, USA.
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Estevez-Castro CF, Rodrigues MF, Babarit A, Ferreira FV, de Andrade EG, Marois E, Cogni R, Aguiar ERGR, Marques JT, Olmo RP. Neofunctionalization driven by positive selection led to the retention of the loqs2 gene encoding an Aedes specific dsRNA binding protein. BMC Biol 2024; 22:14. [PMID: 38273313 PMCID: PMC10809485 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-024-01821-4] [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: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mosquito borne viruses, such as dengue, Zika, yellow fever and Chikungunya, cause millions of infections every year. These viruses are mostly transmitted by two urban-adapted mosquito species, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. Although mechanistic understanding remains largely unknown, Aedes mosquitoes may have unique adaptations that lower the impact of viral infection. Recently, we reported the identification of an Aedes specific double-stranded RNA binding protein (dsRBP), named Loqs2, that is involved in the control of infection by dengue and Zika viruses in mosquitoes. Preliminary analyses suggested that the loqs2 gene is a paralog of loquacious (loqs) and r2d2, two co-factors of the RNA interference (RNAi) pathway, a major antiviral mechanism in insects. RESULTS Here we analyzed the origin and evolution of loqs2. Our data suggest that loqs2 originated from two independent duplications of the first double-stranded RNA binding domain of loqs that occurred before the origin of the Aedes Stegomyia subgenus, around 31 million years ago. We show that the loqs2 gene is evolving under relaxed purifying selection at a faster pace than loqs, with evidence of neofunctionalization driven by positive selection. Accordingly, we observed that Loqs2 is localized mainly in the nucleus, different from R2D2 and both isoforms of Loqs that are cytoplasmic. In contrast to r2d2 and loqs, loqs2 expression is stage- and tissue-specific, restricted mostly to reproductive tissues in adult Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus. Transgenic mosquitoes engineered to express loqs2 ubiquitously undergo developmental arrest at larval stages that correlates with massive dysregulation of gene expression without major effects on microRNAs or other endogenous small RNAs, classically associated with RNA interference. CONCLUSIONS Our results uncover the peculiar origin and neofunctionalization of loqs2 driven by positive selection. This study shows an example of unique adaptations in Aedes mosquitoes that could ultimately help explain their effectiveness as virus vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos F Estevez-Castro
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, 31270-901, Brazil
- CNRS UPR9022, Inserm U1257, Université de Strasbourg, 67084, Strasbourg, France
| | - Murillo F Rodrigues
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403-5289, USA
| | - Antinéa Babarit
- CNRS UPR9022, Inserm U1257, Université de Strasbourg, 67084, Strasbourg, France
| | - Flávia V Ferreira
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Elisa G de Andrade
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, 31270-901, Brazil
- CNRS UPR9022, Inserm U1257, Université de Strasbourg, 67084, Strasbourg, France
| | - Eric Marois
- CNRS UPR9022, Inserm U1257, Université de Strasbourg, 67084, Strasbourg, France
| | - Rodrigo Cogni
- Department of Ecology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-090, Brazil
| | - Eric R G R Aguiar
- Department of Biological Science, Center of Biotechnology and Genetics, State University of Santa Cruz, Ilhéus, 45662-900, Brazil
| | - João T Marques
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, 31270-901, Brazil.
- CNRS UPR9022, Inserm U1257, Université de Strasbourg, 67084, Strasbourg, France.
| | - Roenick P Olmo
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, 31270-901, Brazil.
- CNRS UPR9022, Inserm U1257, Université de Strasbourg, 67084, Strasbourg, France.
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Ryazansky SS, Chen C, Potters M, Naumenko AN, Lukyanchikova V, Masri RA, Brusentsov II, Karagodin DA, Yurchenko AA, Dos Anjos VL, Haba Y, Rose NH, Hoffman J, Guo R, Menna T, Kelley M, Ferrill E, Schultz KE, Qi Y, Sharma A, Deschamps S, Llaca V, Mao C, Murphy TD, Baricheva EM, Emrich S, Fritz ML, Benoit JB, Sharakhov IV, McBride CS, Tu Z, Sharakhova MV. The chromosome-scale genome assembly for the West Nile vector Culex quinquefasciatus uncovers patterns of genome evolution in mosquitoes. BMC Biol 2024; 22:16. [PMID: 38273363 PMCID: PMC10809549 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-024-01825-0] [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: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding genome organization and evolution is important for species involved in transmission of human diseases, such as mosquitoes. Anophelinae and Culicinae subfamilies of mosquitoes show striking differences in genome sizes, sex chromosome arrangements, behavior, and ability to transmit pathogens. However, the genomic basis of these differences is not fully understood. METHODS In this study, we used a combination of advanced genome technologies such as Oxford Nanopore Technology sequencing, Hi-C scaffolding, Bionano, and cytogenetic mapping to develop an improved chromosome-scale genome assembly for the West Nile vector Culex quinquefasciatus. RESULTS We then used this assembly to annotate odorant receptors, odorant binding proteins, and transposable elements. A genomic region containing male-specific sequences on chromosome 1 and a polymorphic inversion on chromosome 3 were identified in the Cx. quinquefasciatus genome. In addition, the genome of Cx. quinquefasciatus was compared with the genomes of other mosquitoes such as malaria vectors An. coluzzi and An. albimanus, and the vector of arboviruses Ae. aegypti. Our work confirms significant expansion of the two chemosensory gene families in Cx. quinquefasciatus, as well as a significant increase and relocation of the transposable elements in both Cx. quinquefasciatus and Ae. aegypti relative to the Anophelines. Phylogenetic analysis clarifies the divergence time between the mosquito species. Our study provides new insights into chromosomal evolution in mosquitoes and finds that the X chromosome of Anophelinae and the sex-determining chromosome 1 of Culicinae have a significantly higher rate of evolution than autosomes. CONCLUSION The improved Cx. quinquefasciatus genome assembly uncovered new details of mosquito genome evolution and has the potential to speed up the development of novel vector control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergei S Ryazansky
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
- Department of Molecular Genetics of Cell, NRC "Kurchatov Institute", Moscow, Russia
| | - Chujia Chen
- Genetics, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology Program, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Mark Potters
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, USA
| | - Anastasia N Naumenko
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
- Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Varvara Lukyanchikova
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
- Group of Genomic Mechanisms of Development, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Novosibirsk, Russia
- Laboratory of Structural and Functional Genomics, Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Reem A Masri
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Ilya I Brusentsov
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
- Laboratory of Cell Differentiation Mechanisms, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Dmitriy A Karagodin
- Laboratory of Cell Differentiation Mechanisms, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Andrey A Yurchenko
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Vitor L Dos Anjos
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Yuki Haba
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Noah H Rose
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Jinna Hoffman
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20894, USA
| | - Rong Guo
- Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Theresa Menna
- Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Melissa Kelley
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Emily Ferrill
- County of San Diego Vector Control Program, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Karen E Schultz
- Mosquito and Vector Management District of Santa Barbara County, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Yumin Qi
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, USA
| | - Atashi Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, USA
| | | | | | - Chunhong Mao
- Biocomplexity Institute & Initiative University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Terence D Murphy
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20894, USA
| | - Elina M Baricheva
- Laboratory of Cell Differentiation Mechanisms, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Scott Emrich
- Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Megan L Fritz
- Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Joshua B Benoit
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Igor V Sharakhov
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
- Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Tomsk State University, Tomsk, Russia
| | - Carolyn S McBride
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Zhijian Tu
- Genetics, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology Program, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, USA
- Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Maria V Sharakhova
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
- Laboratory of Cell Differentiation Mechanisms, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Novosibirsk, Russia.
- Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
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Kuno G. Mechanisms of Yellow Fever Transmission: Gleaning the Overlooked Records of Importance and Identifying Problems, Puzzles, Serious Issues, Surprises and Research Questions. Viruses 2024; 16:84. [PMID: 38257784 PMCID: PMC10820296 DOI: 10.3390/v16010084] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
In viral disease research, few diseases can compete with yellow fever for the volume of literature, historical significance, richness of the topics and the amount of strong interest among both scientists and laypersons. While the major foci of viral disease research shifted to other more pressing new diseases in recent decades, many critically important basic tasks still remain unfinished for yellow fever. Some of the examples include the mechanisms of transmission, the process leading to outbreak occurrence, environmental factors, dispersal, and viral persistence in nature. In this review, these subjects are analyzed in depth, based on information not only in old but in modern literatures, to fill in blanks and to update the current understanding on these topics. As a result, many valuable facts, ideas, and other types of information that complement the present knowledge were discovered. Very serious questions about the validity of the arbovirus concept and some research practices were also identified. The characteristics of YFV and its pattern of transmission that make this virus unique among viruses transmitted by Ae. aegypti were also explored. Another emphasis was identification of research questions. The discovery of a few historical surprises was an unexpected benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goro Kuno
- Formerly at the Division of Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA
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