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Immunolocalization of deformed wing virus particles within the mite Varroa destructor
Ma Teresa Santillán-Galicia1,2, Raffaella Carzaniga3, Brenda V Ball2
1School of Biosciences, The University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, UK.
Abstract:
Deformed wing virus (DWV) induces wing deformation when bees are infected during their pupal development. Field observations and laboratory experiments suggest that the mite Varroa destructor is a vector of the virus. Moreover, it has been stated that DWV replicates within this mite. In order to understand the role of V. destructor in the transmission of DWV, the objective of this work was to locate the sites of retention and/or replication of DWV within the mite by immunohistochemistry. There was no evidence that DWV was replicating in the mite as no tissues showed specific antibody binding to DWV. Also, there were no specific structures that could be suggested as retention sites. DWV was found only in the midgut lumen of V. destructor in structures resembling large, dense spheres, which were presumably faecal pellets.
Insights
Deformed wing virus (DWV) does not replicate within the Varroa destructor mite. Researchers found no evidence of DWV replication or retention sites in the mite, suggesting it acts solely as a virus vector.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Entomology
- Insect Pathology
- Virology
Background:
- Deformed wing virus (DWV) causes significant wing deformities in honey bees, particularly when infection occurs during pupal development.
- The mite Varroa destructor is strongly suspected to be a vector for DWV, with some studies suggesting viral replication within the mite.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential sites of Deformed wing virus (DWV) replication and/or retention within the parasitic mite Varroa destructor.
- To clarify the role of V. destructor in the transmission dynamics of DWV.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry was employed to detect the presence of DWV within the tissues of Varroa destructor mites.
- Microscopic examination was conducted to identify specific antibody binding indicative of viral replication or specialized retention structures.
Main Results:
- No evidence of DWV replication was found in any mite tissues, as indicated by the absence of specific antibody binding.
- No specialized structures suggestive of viral retention sites were identified within the mite.
- DWV was detected exclusively within the lumen of the mite's midgut, associated with structures presumed to be fecal pellets.
Conclusions:
- The Varroa destructor mite does not appear to replicate or retain Deformed wing virus (DWV) within its tissues.
- DWV is present in the mite's midgut lumen, likely within ingested material or fecal matter, rather than replicating or being actively retained.
- These findings suggest that Varroa destructor primarily acts as a mechanical vector for DWV, transmitting the virus without supporting its replication.
