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Aedes aegypti miRNA-33 modulates permethrin induced toxicity by regulating VGSC transcripts
Tristan D Kubik1, Trey K Snell1, Karla Saavedra-Rodriguez1
1Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Campus Delivery 1685, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA.
Scientific Reports
|April 1, 2021
Summary
A genetic change in pre-miR-33 is linked to permethrin resistance in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. This microRNA regulates voltage-gated sodium channel expression, impacting insecticide effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Entomology
- Genetics of Insecticide Resistance
Background:
- Aedes aegypti mosquitoes transmit arboviruses like Zika and dengue.
- Permethrin spraying targets voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) but resistance is increasing.
- Understanding permethrin resistance mechanisms is crucial for vector control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the molecular basis of permethrin resistance in Aedes aegypti.
- To identify genetic factors contributing to insecticide resistance.
- To explore the role of microRNA in regulating insecticide target sites.
Main Methods:
- Genetic association mapping of pre-miR-33 polymorphisms.
- Overexpression of pre-miR-33 isoforms in mosquito strains.
- Analysis of VGSC transcript and protein levels.
- Exome-capture gDNA deep sequencing and gene set enrichment analysis.
Main Results:
- A G:C polymorphism in pre-miR-33 was associated with permethrin resistance.
- Overexpression of the G-pre-miR-33 isoform decreased VGSC expression.
- Permethrin-resistant mosquitoes showed lower VGSC protein levels.
- Transport genes were significantly selected in resistant mosquito populations.
Conclusions:
- miR-33 plays a role in regulating VGSC expression, contributing to permethrin resistance.
- A network of heritable traits, including microRNA regulation, determines insecticide resistance.
- Findings may inform strategies to overcome permethrin resistance in Aedes aegypti.
