Diversity and convergence of sodium channel mutations involved in resistance to pyrethroids

Pyrethroid insecticides target voltage-gated sodium channels, which are critical for electrical signaling in the nervous system. The intensive use of pyrethroids in controlling arthropod pests and disease vectors has led to many instances of pyrethroid resistance around the globe. In the past two decades, studies have identified a large number of sodium channel mutations that are associated with resistance to pyrethroids. The purpose of this review is to summarize both common and unique sodium channel mutations that have been identified in arthropod pests of importance to agriculture or human health. Identification of these mutations provides valuable molecular markers for resistance monitoring in the field and helped the discovery of the elusive pyrethroid receptor site(s) on the sodium channel.

Graphical abstractNaturally occurring sodium channel mutations that confer pyrethroid resistance in Xenopus oocytes.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Update the inventory of mutations associated with pyrethroid resistance. ► Discuss both their diversity and convergence among diverse arthropod pest species. ► Summarize progress on the elucidation of the pyrethroid receptor(s) on insect sodium channels.