The transcription factor Krüppel homolog 1 (Kr-h1) is crucial in multiple reproductive processes of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, including previtellogenesis, vitellogenesis, and oogenesis. This study explores the interaction between Kr-h1 and its potential associated proteins (KAPs), with a specific focus on the dimerization partner (DP-1), and how this interaction regulates gene expression pathways critical for mosquito reproduction. Utilizing RNA interference (RNAi), the research identifies DP-1 as a significant regulator of follicle growth post-eclosion (PE), highlighting its vital role in the mosquito reproductive regulatory pathway. The experimental approach included RNAi-mediated knockdown of DP-1, accompanied by evaluations using quantitative PCR (qPCR), Western blotting (WB), co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), follicle length measurement, and egg counting to assess the role of DP-1 in reproductive functions. For the first time, the inhibition of DP-1 expression was found to significantly impede A. aegypti follicular development. The elucidation of the mechanistic roles of Kr-h1 and DP-1 provides valuable insights that could lead to innovative strategies for mosquito population control and effective disease vector management. / Master of Science in Life Sciences / Mosquitoes can spread serious insect-borne diseases such as dengue, Zika, and malaria, etc. These diseases can infect hundreds of millions of individual and cause around a million of death annually. This study focuses on a specific mosquito species, Aedes aegypti, which is a major carrier of these diseases. To manage their populations and reduce the spread of these diseases, scientists are constantly seeking new methods to control their reproduction. Chemical insecticides are one of the most efficient and widely used strategies. However, these insecticides face significant challenges, including the development of resistance in mosquito populations and the potential damage to non-target species to affect the ecosystem. To address this issue, the development of new insecticides is crucial. We can identify new targets to pave the way to research novel effective insecticides. Inside mosquitoes, there are various proteins that help control their ability to reproduce. One of these proteins is called Krüppel homolog 1 (Kr-h1). Kr-h1 plays a crucial role in the development and reproductive processes of mosquitoes. Our research looked at how Kr-h1 interacts with other types of protein to control mosquito reproduction. Through various experiments, including gene expression analysis and protein studies, we found that DP-1 is essential for the proper development of mosquito eggs. This insight helps us understand more about the biological processes and hormonal pathways during mosquito reproduction, therefore provide greater opportunity to develop insecticides to reduce their populations and the spread of the diseases they carry.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:VTETD/oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/120672 |
| Date | 15 July 2024 |
| Creators | Zhang, Liyan |
| Contributors | Biochemistry, Zhu, Jinsong, Lahondere, Chloe Aude, Tu, Zhijian |
| Publisher | Virginia Tech |
| Source Sets | Virginia Tech Theses and Dissertation |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
| Format | ETD, application/pdf |
| Rights | In Copyright, http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ |
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