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NEW DELHI: A groundbreaking study led by microbiome researchers at Penn State has revealed the intricate mechanisms by which a widespread bacteria called Wolbachia, in combination with a virus, manipulates sperm in male insects. The study, published in the journal Science, offers crucial insights that could revolutionize techniques for controlling populations of agricultural pests and disease-carrying insects, such as those transmitting Zika and dengue to humans.
Led by Professor Seth Bordenstein, director of the One Health Microbiome Center at Penn State, the research sheds light on Wolbachia’s ability to hijack sperm, rendering them lethal to fertilized eggs of females lacking the same microbial combination. This phenomenon increases the prevalence of Wolbachia and the virus in insect populations, presenting opportunities for targeted population control.
“Wolbachia, a prevalent bacteria found in approximately 50% of insect species, harbors genes from a virus known as prophage WO, enabling it to manipulate sperm and propagate through insect populations,” explained Professor Bordenstein. “By understanding the underlying mechanisms of this microbial interaction, we can refine techniques to manage insect populations and mitigate the spread of harmful diseases.”
The study found that when male and female insects both carry Wolbachia, successful reproduction occurs, allowing the bacteria to spread. However, when a male with Wolbachia mates with a female lacking the bacteria, the sperm become lethal to fertilized eggs, driving the selection of offspring with Wolbachia and the virus.
“This system, termed cytoplasmic incompatibility, has significant implications for controlling insect populations,” added Professor Bordenstein. “By releasing males with Wolbachia into areas with susceptible populations, we can suppress pest populations and reduce the transmission of diseases like Zika and dengue.”
The study elucidated how Wolbachia’s prophage WO genes disrupt sperm development, leading to male sterility and embryonic inviability. By cleaving messenger molecules known as long non-coding RNA, the virus proteins interfere with critical stages of sperm development, impacting their function and viability.
“Our findings provide a blueprint for enhancing existing pest control methods and developing novel approaches without reliance on Wolbachia or virus proteins,” said Dr. Rupinder Kaur, assistant research professor at Penn State and co-leader of the research team. “Understanding these mechanisms not only offers insights for insect population control but also sheds light on sterility challenges in humans.”
The study, conducted in collaboration with researchers from Lehigh University and Vanderbilt University, was supported by funding from the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. National Science Foundation, and Penn State.
The discoveries made in this study have the potential to revolutionize pest control strategies and advance our understanding of reproductive biology across species, paving the way for more targeted and effective interventions in the fight against insect-borne diseases.
