Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
2840838 Journal of Insect Physiology 2011 8 Pages PDF
Abstract

In this study, we analyzed a small scale transcriptome of salivary glands in sugar fed female mosquitoes. Thirty five percent of the transcripts could not be assigned a function. Some of them may code for salivary gland specific products involved in sugar feeding. We identified and characterized two new putative cDNAs encoding a sugar transporter and a cAMP generating DAPIT (Diabetes-Associated proteins in insulin sensitive tissues). Down regulation of these two cDNAs in response to blood feeding suggest that both AsST and AsDAPIT salivary genes may specifically be involved in the facilitation of sugar metabolism and energy production. The inability to absorb or digest sugar may cause organ failure, improper functioning of nervous system, behavioral disorder and death. Further functional characterization of theses putative transcripts is under investigation to examine their role in the mosquito salivary glands.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Salivary proteins are under intense selection of evolution. ► Their expression depends on physiological requirements and availability of the food. ► The subtraction protocols enabled us to identify rare genes that were unnoticed in previous studies.

Related Topics
Life Sciences Agricultural and Biological Sciences Insect Science
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