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Plasmid stability in Bacillus sphaericus 2362 during recycling in mosquito larvae
R W Seyler1, A A Yousten, W F Burke
1Biology Department, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg 24061-0406.
Journal of Invertebrate Pathology
|November 11, 1991
Summary
Bacillus sphaericus strains carrying plasmids recycled in mosquito larvae. While most plasmids remained stable, pLDT117 showed instability, with lost plasmids being replaced by the native large plasmid.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Insect Pathology
Background:
- Bacillus sphaericus is a bacterium used for mosquito control.
- Understanding plasmid stability is crucial for genetic engineering applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the stability of recombinant plasmids in Bacillus sphaericus during recycling in Culex quinquefasciatus larvae.
Main Methods:
- Transformation of Bacillus sphaericus with pUB110, pLDT103, and pLDT117 plasmids.
- Culturing transformed bacteria in Culex quinquefasciatus larvae to observe recycling.
- Monitoring plasmid stability through segregation analysis.
Main Results:
- Bacillus sphaericus strains successfully recycled in mosquito larvae.
- pUB110 and pLDT103 plasmids demonstrated high stability (100% and 99.2%).
- pLDT117 exhibited significant segregational instability (23%), with lost plasmids replaced by the native large plasmid.
Conclusions:
- Plasmid stability in Bacillus sphaericus varies depending on plasmid size and genetic makeup.
- Segregational instability of pLDT117 may be influenced by its size or interaction with the native plasmid.
- Further research is needed to optimize plasmid stability for enhanced biocontrol efficacy.