Parasitoid wasp venom manipulates host innate behavior via subtype-specific dopamine receptor activation

Area of Science:

• Neurobiology
• Insect Behavior
• Venom Pharmacology

Background:

• Jewel wasps alter American cockroach behavior via venom, not paralysis.
• Venom targets the central complex (CX), inducing grooming and hypokinesia.
• Dopamine in venom is implicated, but receptor subtype roles are unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate the roles of D1-like and D2-like dopamine receptors in jewel wasp venom-induced behaviors.
• Focus on understanding the mechanisms behind grooming and hypokinesia in stung cockroaches.

Main Methods:

• Employed a pharmacological approach using dopamine receptor agonists and antagonists.
• Conducted focal injections into the central complex (CX) of American cockroaches.
• Assessed behavioral changes, specifically grooming and hypokinesia, following injections.

Main Results:

• Strong evidence implicates D1-like dopamine receptors in mediating venom-induced grooming behavior.
• Dopamine signaling is demonstrated to be necessary for the induction of long-lasting hypokinesia.
• Specific receptor subtypes' roles in complex behavioral manipulation are elucidated.

Conclusions:

• D1-like dopamine receptors are crucial for the grooming response in envenomated cockroaches.
• Dopamine signaling pathways are essential for the development of venom-induced hypokinesia.
• This research clarifies the neurochemical basis of jewel wasp's host manipulation.