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Expression of mosquitocidal toxin genes in a gas-vacuolated strain of Ancylobacter aquaticus
W H Yap1, T Thanabalu, A G Porter
1Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, National University of Singapore.
Abstract:
A series of plasmids bearing the binary toxin genes of Bacillus sphaericus 2297 or 2317.3, the 100-kDa toxin gene of B. sphaericus SSII-1, or the 130-kDa (cryIVB) toxin gene of Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis were constructed and introduced into Ancylobacter aquaticus by electroporation. The transformed A. aquaticus cells exhibited significant toxicity towards mosquito larvae, demonstrating a potential use of recombinant A. aquaticus for biological control of mosquitoes.
Insights
Engineered Ancylobacter aquaticus bacteria express Bacillus insecticidal toxin genes. These recombinant bacteria show potent toxicity against mosquito larvae, offering a novel biological control strategy.
Area of Science:
- Microbial Genetics
- Biotechnology
- Pest Control
Background:
- Mosquito-borne diseases pose significant global health challenges.
- Current mosquito control methods face issues with resistance and environmental impact.
- Bacillus thuringiensis and Bacillus sphaericus toxins are effective but require specific delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To engineer Ancylobacter aquaticus as a delivery vehicle for insecticidal toxins.
- To assess the efficacy of recombinant A. aquaticus against mosquito larvae.
- To explore the potential of genetically modified A. aquaticus for biological mosquito control.
Main Methods:
- Construction of plasmids containing binary toxin genes from Bacillus sphaericus strains (2297, 2317.3) and Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis (130-kDa cryIVB gene).
- Introduction of these plasmids into Ancylobacter aquaticus via electroporation.
- Evaluation of the larvicidal activity of transformed A. aquaticus against mosquito larvae.
Main Results:
- Successful transformation of Ancylobacter aquaticus with various Bacillus toxin genes.
- Transformed A. aquaticus strains demonstrated significant toxicity towards mosquito larvae.
- The engineered bacteria effectively targeted and killed mosquito larvae in laboratory settings.
Conclusions:
- Recombinant Ancylobacter aquaticus expressing Bacillus insecticidal toxins are effective larvicides.
- Genetically modified A. aquaticus presents a promising platform for developing novel biological mosquito control agents.
- This approach offers a sustainable alternative for managing mosquito populations and reducing disease transmission.