Elucidation of new functions of Wolbachia with a focus on host insect metamorphosis

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 22K20663
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Research Activity Start-up
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: 0703:Biology at organismal to population levels and anthropology, and related fields
• Research Institution: University of Fukui
• Principal Investigator: Miyata Mai 福井大学, 学術研究院工学系部門, 助教 (70946681)
• Project Period (FY): 2022-08-31 – 2024-03-31
• Keywords: ボルバキア / 生殖操作 / イラクサギンウワバ / 細胞質不和合

Outline of Final Research Achievements

In this study, I aimed to elucidate the mechanism by which antibiotic treatment of Wolbachia-infected individuals of Trichoplusia ni reduces their survival rate. Specifically, I conducted experiments based on the hypothesis that Wolbachia affects host insect molting and metamorphosis. First, I prepared two groups: one treated with tetracycline-containing feed to remove Wolbachia and another untreated group. Quantification of ecdysone in the larvae from each treatment was performed using the ELISA method, and the results revealed no change in ecdysone levels due to the tetracycline treatment.

Free Research Field

応用昆虫学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

イラクサは広食性を示す害虫種であり、世界中に分布が確認されている。ボルバキアを除去することで生存率が下がるという結果から、ボルバキアはイラクサの生存において重要な役割を果たしている可能性が高い。害虫種の生存において細胞内共生細菌が果たす役割を明らかにすることは、害虫の防除法の開発などの応用に繋がることが期待される。