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Ferrari A, Polidori C. Temperature differently affects body pigmentation of the paper wasp Polistes dominula along an urban and a wider geographical gradient. J Therm Biol 2024; 121:103840. [PMID: 38552445 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2024.103840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
In insects, different pigments, such as melanins and pterins, are involved in thermoregulation. The degree of melanisation often varies along geographical gradients, according to the so-called thermal melanism hypothesis, i.e. darker forms are found in colder places because they can warm up more quickly. Similarly, pterins work as heat sinks and thus are expected to be more abundant in colder sites. Cities, which are warmer than surrounding areas (Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect), might also be expected to influence pigmentation, although studies are lacking. Here, we sampled workers of the social paper wasp Polistes dominula (Christ, 1791) (Vespidae) across an urbanisation gradient in an Italian metropolis and used iNaturalist pictures of this species across Italy to study pigmentation patterns at both urban and larger geographical scales. We found a lower yellow intensity of abdominal spots at warmer locations. Scanning Electron Microscopy strongly suggested that yellow colouration is due xanthopterin, known to be the heat sink molecule in other social vespids. Thus, wasps from warmer (i.e., urban) environments are likely to have fewer xanthopterin granules, in line with the lack of need for heat storage due to the local thermal gradient (UHI effect). At the country level, we found that wasps at higher latitudes had smaller yellow spots on the thorax and only two spots instead of four at higher altitudes, in full accordance with the thermal melanism hypothesis. In conclusion, climatic conditions seem to affect insect colour patterns both along urban and wider geographical gradients, although colour changes may affect different body parts and pigments likely according to different needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ferrari
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy (ESP), University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo Polidori
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy (ESP), University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133, Milan, Italy.
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2
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Nolasco M, Mariano DOC, Pimenta DC, Biondi I, Branco A. Proteomic analyses of venom from a Spider Hawk, Pepsis decorata. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2023; 29:e20220090. [PMID: 37965483 PMCID: PMC10642949 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2022-0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The composition of the venom from solitary wasps is poorly known, although these animals are considered sources of bioactive substances. Until the present moment, there is only one proteomic characterization of the venom of wasps of the family Pompilidae and this is the first proteomic characterization for the genus Pepsis. Methods To elucidate the components of Pepsis decorata venom, the present work sought to identify proteins using four different experimental conditions, namely: (A) crude venom; (B) reduced and alkylated venom; (C) trypsin-digested reduced and alkylated venom, and; (D) chymotrypsin-digested reduced and alkylated venom. Furthermore, three different mass spectrometers were used (Ion Trap-Time of Flight, Quadrupole-Time of Flight, and Linear Triple Quadruple). Results Proteomics analysis revealed the existence of different enzymes related to the insect's physiology in the venom composition. Besides toxins, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), hyaluronidase, and Kunitz-type inhibitors were also identified. Conclusion The data showed that the venom of Pepsis decorata is mostly composed of proteins involved in the metabolism of arthropods, as occurs in parasitic wasps, although some classical toxins were recorded, and among them, for the first time, ACE was found in the venom of solitary wasps. This integrative approach expanded the range of compounds identified in protein analyses, proving to be efficient in the proteomic characterization of little-known species. It is our understanding that the current work will provide a solid base for future studies dealing with other Hymenoptera venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matheus Nolasco
- Graduate Program in Biotechnology, Department of Biological Sciences, State University of Feira de Santana, Feira de Santana, BA, Brazil
| | - Douglas O. C. Mariano
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel C. Pimenta
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ilka Biondi
- Laboratory of Venomous Animals and Herpetology. Biology Department, State University of Feira de Santana - UEFS, Feira de Santana, BA, Brazil
| | - Alexsandro Branco
- Phytochemistry Laboratory, Health Department, State University of Feira de Santana - UEFS, Feira de Santana, BA, Brazil
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Bea RDLS, Frawley E, Shen Q, Moyo S, Thelven JM, North L. Synthesized peptide analogs from Eumenes pomiformis (Hymenoptera: Eumenidae) venom reveals their antibiotic and pesticide activity potential. Toxicon 2023; 224:107032. [PMID: 36690087 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2023.107032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
One natural antimicrobial peptide (EpVP2a, Eumenes pomiformis Venom Peptide 2a) found in the venom of a potter wasp (Eumenes pomiformis) and six analogs were synthesized and tested to compare their antimicrobial, antifungal, pesticide, and hemolytic activity with the wild type. Our results indicated that while the original peptide and the synthetic analogs had no antifungal activity or anti-bacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the original peptide and the analog with substitution of the aspartic acid on the sequence by a lysine (EpVP2a-D2K2) had activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis. This same analog also shows significant insecticide activity. The analog with substitution of lysine with a slightly smaller ornithine had activity against E. coli and B. subtilis. All analogs show low hemolytic activity compared to the natural peptide. The peptide with a reverse sequence to the natural one (EpVp2a Retro) shows low helix structure which can also explain why it has no antibacterial activity and low hemolytic activity. Circular dichroism spectra show that these peptides form an alpha helix structure and their amino acid positions predict an amphipathic nature.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elaine Frawley
- Department of Biology, Rhodes College, Memphis, TN 38112, USA
| | - Qian Shen
- Department of Biology, Rhodes College, Memphis, TN 38112, USA
| | - Sydney Moyo
- Department of Biology and Program in Environmental Studies and Sciences, Rhodes College, Memphis, TN 38112, USA
| | - Jeremy M Thelven
- Department of Chemistry, North Carolina State University. Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Lily North
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Arizona. Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
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Marques da Fonseca A, Freire da Silva A, Barbosa da Silva FL, Caluaco BJ, Gaieta EM, Nunes da Rocha M, Colares RP, Sobczak JF, Marinho GS, Dos Santos HS, Marinho ES. Isolation, characterization and in silico study of propenamide alkaloids from Hymenoepmecis bicolor poison against active μ-opioid receptor. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:14621-14637. [PMID: 36815273 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2183043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Some insects produce venoms to defend against predators and directly interact with opioid receptors. In the present study, it was identified two alkaloids in the wasp venom species Hymenoepimecis bicolor. It was demonstrated that these could act as potential inhibitors of opioid receptors through their robust affinity to the receptors. The interaction profile was given to opioid receptors (μOR), with 60% of targets similar to alkaloid 1, with 0.25 probability, and 46.7% of targets similar to alkaloid 2, with a probability 0.17 of affinity as a target, which is considered signaling macromolecules and can mediate the most potent analgesic and addictive properties of opiate alkaloids. Notably, both alkaloids showed -7.6 kcal/mol affinity to the morphine agonies through six residues, Gly124, Asp147, Trp293, Ile296, Ile322, and Tyr326. These observations suggest further research on opioid receptors using in vitro studies of possible therapeutic applications.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aluísio Marques da Fonseca
- Institute of Exact Sciences and Nature, University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Redenção, CE, Brazil
| | - Ananias Freire da Silva
- Institute of Engineering and Sustainable Development, University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusofonia, Redenção, CE, Brazil
| | - Francisco Lennon Barbosa da Silva
- Institute of Engineering and Sustainable Development, University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusofonia, Redenção, CE, Brazil
| | - Bernardino Joaquim Caluaco
- Institute of Exact Sciences and Nature, University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Redenção, CE, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Menezes Gaieta
- Institute of Exact Sciences and Nature, University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Redenção, CE, Brazil
| | - Matheus Nunes da Rocha
- Faculty of Philosophy Dom Aureliano Matos, State University of Ceará, Limoeiro do Norte, CE, Brazil
| | - Regilany Paulo Colares
- Institute of Exact Sciences and Nature, University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Redenção, CE, Brazil
| | - Jober Fernando Sobczak
- Institute of Exact Sciences and Nature, University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Redenção, CE, Brazil
| | - Gabrielle Silva Marinho
- Faculty of Philosophy Dom Aureliano Matos, State University of Ceará, Limoeiro do Norte, CE, Brazil
| | | | - Emmanuel Silva Marinho
- Faculty of Philosophy Dom Aureliano Matos, State University of Ceará, Limoeiro do Norte, CE, Brazil
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Ruwanpathirana P, Priyankara D. Clinical manifestations of wasp stings: a case report and a review of literature. Trop Med Health 2022; 50:82. [PMID: 36307881 PMCID: PMC9615201 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-022-00475-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Wasp stinging, a neglected tropical entity can have a myriad of local and systemic effects. We present a case of multi-organ injury following multiple wasp stings and a review of literature on the systemic manifestations of wasp stings.
Case presentation A 48-year-old Sri Lankan male who suffered multiple wasp stings, developed an anaphylactic shock with respiratory failure, which was treated with adrenaline and mechanical ventilation. Within the next 2 days the patient developed acute fulminant hepatitis, stage III acute kidney injury, rhabdomyolysis, haemolysis and thrombocytopenia. The patient was treated in the intensive care unit with ionopressors and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). Haemoadsorbant therapy was used in adjunct with CRRT. There was a gradual recovery of the organ functions over the 1st week. However, the patient succumbed to fungal sepsis on the 16th day despite treatment. We conducted a literature review to identify the various clinical manifestations of wasp stinging. Wasp venom contains enzymes, amines, peptides and other compounds. These proteins can cause type 1 hypersensitive reactions ranging from local skin irritation to anaphylactic shock. Furthermore, the toxins can cause direct organ injury or delayed hypersensitivity reactions. The commonly affected organs are the kidneys, liver, and muscles. The effect on the haematological system manifests as coagulopathy and/or cytopenia. The heart, nervous system, lungs, intestines and skin can be affected rarely. Treatment is mainly supportive. Conclusion In conclusion, wasp envenomation can result in multi-organ injury and attention should be paid in doing further research and establishing evidence-based treatment practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pramith Ruwanpathirana
- Medical Intensive Unit, National Hospital Sri Lanka, 435/11, Thimbirigasyaya Road, Colombo 05, Sri Lanka.
| | - Dilshan Priyankara
- Medical Intensive Unit, National Hospital Sri Lanka, 435/11, Thimbirigasyaya Road, Colombo 05, Sri Lanka
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Cai ZY, Xu BP, Zhang WH, Peng HW, Xu Q, Yu HB, Chu QG, Zhou SS. Acute respiratory distress syndrome following multiple wasp stings treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: A case report. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:11122-11127. [PMID: 36338203 PMCID: PMC9631122 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i30.11122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is necessary for clinicians to be aware of a rare but possible acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) complication caused by multiple wasp stings. Severe ARDS has a high mortality rate but no specific pharmacotherapies have been identified to date. This case study presents the first case of severe ARDS caused by multiple wasp stings, treated successfully with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). It also emphasizes the effectiveness of early ECMO treatment for severe ARDS with persistent hypoxemia.
CASE SUMMARY A 24-year-old woman was admitted to the emergency department after being stung by more than 10 wasps within a 30-min period, with clinical symptoms of multiple rashes, dizziness, chest tightness, nausea, and vomiting. On the 2nd day of admission, the patient developed progressive dyspnea. The patient was diagnosed with ARDS based on clinical manifestations and lung computed tomography (CT) scan. Because of the progressive dyspnea, the intensive care unit physician performed endotracheal intubation and continued to provide ventilator support, but the patient’s respiratory distress worsened, as indicated by the ratio of arterial partial pressure of oxygen to fraction of inspired oxygen. Veno-venous ECMO was initiated for 6 d. On day 7 of admission, ECMO was stopped. On the 11th day of admission, CT scan of the lungs revealed significant reduction of ground-glass opacities and consolidations. After about 2 wk, the patient recovered completely from ARDS and was discharged to home. At the 2-mo follow-up, the patient was in good health with no recurrence of dyspnea nor chest tightness.
CONCLUSION ARDS complication caused by multiple wasp stings may be fatal when mechanical ventilation becomes dangerous due to persistent hypoxemia and despite optimization of ARDS management. We propose that the early implementation of ECMO is a relatively effective treatment, although the evidence is relatively limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Yin Cai
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Traditional Chinese Hospital of Lu'an Affiliated to Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lu'an 237000, Anhui Province, China
| | - Bao-Ping Xu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Traditional Chinese Hospital of Lu'an Affiliated to Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lu'an 237000, Anhui Province, China
| | - Wei-Hao Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Traditional Chinese Hospital of Lu'an Affiliated to Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lu'an 237000, Anhui Province, China
| | - Huai-Wen Peng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Traditional Chinese Hospital of Lu'an Affiliated to Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lu'an 237000, Anhui Province, China
| | - Qing Xu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Traditional Chinese Hospital of Lu'an Affiliated to Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lu'an 237000, Anhui Province, China
| | - Huai-Bin Yu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Traditional Chinese Hospital of Lu'an Affiliated to Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lu'an 237000, Anhui Province, China
| | - Quan-Gen Chu
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230031, Anhui Province, China
| | - Shu-Sheng Zhou
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, Anhui Province, China
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7
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Wang R, Gao D, Yu F, Han J, Yuan H, Hu F. Phospholipase A 2 inhibitor varespladib prevents wasp sting-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Toxicon 2022; 215:69-76. [PMID: 35724947 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to clarify whether varespladib, a phospholipase A2 (PLA2) inhibitor, can be used as a therapeutic agent for wasp sting-induced acute kidney injury (AKI). Rats were divided into control, AKI, and AKI + varespladib groups. The AKI model was established by subcutaneously injecting wasp venom at five different sites in rats. Varespladib treatment showed a significant inhibitory effect on wasp venom PLA2in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, we observed that varespladib decreased the levels of rhabdomyolysis and hemolysis markers compared with that in the AKI group. Histopathological changes in the kidney decreased significantly, and rat serum creatinine levels were reduced after varespladib administration. The significantly regulated genes in the kidney of the AKI group were mostly involved in inflammatory response pathway, and the administration of varespladib remarkably attenuated the expression of these genes. Therefore, varespladib inhibited wasp sting-induced functional and pathological damage to the kidneys. We propose that the PLA2 inhibitor varespladib protects the kidney tissue in a wasp sting-induced AKI model by inhibiting PLA2 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wang
- School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430065, China; Department of Nephrology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, 441000, China
| | - Dan Gao
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, 441000, China
| | - Fanglin Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, 441000, China
| | - Jiamin Han
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, 441000, China
| | - Hai Yuan
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, 441000, China.
| | - Fengqi Hu
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, 441000, China.
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Park HJ, Brooks DI, Chavarria CS, Wu RL, Mikita CP, Beakes DE. Combining Discordant Serum IgE and Skin Testing Improves Diagnostic and Therapeutic Accuracy for Hymenoptera Venom Hypersensitivity Immunotherapy. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract 2021; 10:837-843.e3. [PMID: 34534718 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2021.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diagnosis of patients with hymenoptera venom hypersensitivity consists of elucidating clinical symptoms suggestive of systemic reaction (SR) and then confirmation of sensitization via intradermal skin testing (IDST) first and serum IgE assays such as ImmunoCAP (ICAP) as a complementary modality of diagnosis. OBJECTIVE Determine the concordance between ICAP and IDST in patients with a clinical history suggestive of hymenoptera venom SR. Determine whether venom immunotherapy would change on the basis of IDST versus ICAP results. METHODS A prospective diagnostic study was designed to test the concordance between IDST and ICAP venom testing in the diagnosis of hymenoptera venom hypersensitivity. This study entailed testing both IDST and ICAP for 5 hymenoptera venoms (honey bee, wasp, yellow jacket, yellow hornet, and white-faced hornet) in both a case group with SR to hymenoptera venom (N = 70) and a control group without SR (N = 51). RESULTS Significant discordance was observed between positive IDST and ICAP results for any of the 5 hymenoptera venoms (McNemar test, P = .001). In the case group, there was significant discordance for wasp (P < .0001), yellow jacket (P = .002), and white-faced hornet (P = .02). More than 47% of the case patients would have different venom immunotherapy prescriptions if ICAP and IDST had been performed during initial diagnosis versus IDST alone. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows significant discordance between IDST and ICAP; however, they are complementary. On the basis of our data, we propose ICAP testing first followed by IDST for ICAP-negative venoms as an alternative and efficient diagnostic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun J Park
- Department of Allergy and Immunology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Md.
| | - Daniel I Brooks
- Department of Research Programs, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Md
| | - Christopher S Chavarria
- Department of Allergy and Immunology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Md
| | - Richard L Wu
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md
| | - Cecilia P Mikita
- Department of Allergy and Immunology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Md
| | - Douglas E Beakes
- Department of Allergy and Immunology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Md
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Jensen T, Walker AA, Nguyen SH, Jin AH, Deuis JR, Vetter I, King GF, Schmidt JO, Robinson SD. Venom chemistry underlying the painful stings of velvet ants (Hymenoptera: Mutillidae). Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:5163-5177. [PMID: 33970306 PMCID: PMC11072429 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03847-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Velvet ants (Hymenoptera: Mutillidae) are a family of solitary parasitoid wasps that are renowned for their painful stings. We explored the chemistry underlying the stings of mutillid wasps of the genus Dasymutilla Ashmead. Detailed analyses of the venom composition of five species revealed that they are composed primarily of peptides. We found that two kinds of mutillid venom peptide appear to be primarily responsible for the painful effects of envenomation. These same peptides also have defensive utility against invertebrates, since they were able to incapacitate and kill honeybees. Both act directly on cell membranes where they directly increase ion conductivity. The defensive venom peptides of Dasymutilla bear a striking similarity, in structure and mode of action, to those of the ant Myrmecia gulosa (Fabricius), suggesting either retention of ancestral toxins, or convergence driven by similar life histories and defensive selection pressures. Finally, we propose that other highly expressed Dasymutilla venom peptides may play a role in parasitisation, possible in delay or arrest of host development. This study represents the first detailed account of the composition and function of the venoms of the Mutillidae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timo Jensen
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Andrew A Walker
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Son H Nguyen
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Ai-Hua Jin
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Jennifer R Deuis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Irina Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Glenn F King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | | | - Samuel D Robinson
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia.
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10
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Muller JDAI, Lencina JDS, Souza MIL, Mortari MR, Toffoli-Kadri MC. Macrophage activation in vitro by Parachartergus fraternus venom. Toxicon 2021; 198:48-53. [PMID: 33940047 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2021.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Parachartergus fraternus wasp induces inflammation with a predominance of mononuclear cells, that can acquire macrophage functions at the sting site, amplifying the response. These cells can be activated by venomous animals and are involved in destruction of injurious agents and release of inflammatory mediators. The objective of this work was to evaluate the activity of P. fraternus venom (Pfv) on isolated murine macrophage function. The cells were obtained from peritoneal cavity of Swiss male mice and incubated with Pfv (2.5, 5 and 10 μg/mL). Cytotoxicity was determined using MTT assay. Adhesion and detachment were evaluated using violet crystal dye. Spreading was evaluated based on morphological parameters. Phagocytosis was performed with opsonized zymosan. Production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and nitric oxide (NO) were quantified using the phenol red and Griess assays, respectively. Pfv at concentrations evaluated was not cytotoxic in MTT assay and did not cause macrophage detachment in cell culture plates. However, it increased adhesion of macrophage, spreading and phagocytosis of opsonized zymosan, as well as induced production of H2O2 and NO. Therefore, Pfv induces macrophage activation in vitro and the response of these cells can be correlated with the previously reported inflammatory process triggered by this wasp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jéssica de Araujo Isaias Muller
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Inflammation, FACFAN/Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil; PhD Student of the Multicenter Program of Post-Graduation in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, INBIO/Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Joyce Dos Santos Lencina
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Inflammation, FACFAN/Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil; Master of Science Student of the Program of Post-Graduation in Pharmacy, FACFAN/ Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Maria Inês Lenz Souza
- Laboratory of Biophysiopharmacology, INBIO/ Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, CB/University of Brasilia, Brazil
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Svenson GJ, Rodrigues HM. A novel form of wasp mimicry in a new species of praying mantis from the Amazon rainforest, Vespamantoida wherleyi gen. nov. sp. nov. (Mantodea, Mantoididae). PeerJ 2019; 7:e7886. [PMID: 31656699 PMCID: PMC6812689 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.7886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A wasp mimicking praying mantis (Mantodea) of the early evolving Mantoididae family was discovered in 2013 at a research station near the Amazon River in Northern Peru. This adult specimen exhibited a striking bright red/orange and black coloration pattern that was undocumented in all known praying mantis species. We tested the status of this new specimen using external morphology, male genital dissections, and geographic distribution. Our findings demonstrate the specimen to represent a new species, Vespamantoida wherleyi gen. nov. sp. nov., that is closely allied with a recently described species, Mantoida toulgoeti Roy, 2010, both of which are included within the newly erected genus. To support our actions, we present high resolution images of museum preserved and living specimens, morphological illustrations, a generic-level distribution map, and recorded video of the behavior of the holotype taken in the field at the time of collection. The bright red/orange coloration contrasted with black markings, the general appearance of a hymenopteran that includes a narrowed wasp waist, and the locomotory patterns and antennal movements mark this newly discovered species as unique among all hymenopteran mimicking Mantoididae as well as all other praying mantises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin J. Svenson
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology, Cleveland Museum of Natural History, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Henrique M. Rodrigues
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology, Cleveland Museum of Natural History, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
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12
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Abstract
The ability of animals to learn and remember is an important adaptation for coping with environmental changes. The fitness benefits provided by these cognitive skills, in conjunction with social behaviours, contribute to the success of social insects. How these abilities are shared among the different castes and the long-term persistence of memory are now being elucidated in diverse systems, work that should shed light on general principles underlying cognitive evolution. Here, we provide the first evidence of olfactory learning and long-term olfactory memory in all three castes of an Asian hornet, Vespa velutina Using the first proboscis extension reflex assay developed for hornets or wasps, we found that all hornet castes could learn and remember odours associated with a food reward. Moreover, long-lasting memory was retained without significant decay in gynes (virgin queens) and drones even up to 30 days (workers did not survive for 30 days). Drones learned and remembered simple odorant molecules and gyne sex pheromone with equal facility. These results increase our understanding of the outstanding cognitive abilities of social insects and suggest the likely importance of long-lasting memory in different castes of the same species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwen Gong
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, China.,Southeast Asia Biodiversity Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Science, Menglun 666300, China
| | - Ken Tan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, China .,Southeast Asia Biodiversity Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Science, Menglun 666300, China
| | - James C Nieh
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Ecology, Behavior, and Evolution, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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13
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Arvidson R, Kaiser M, Lee SS, Urenda JP, Dail C, Mohammed H, Nolan C, Pan S, Stajich JE, Libersat F, Adams ME. Parasitoid Jewel Wasp Mounts Multipronged Neurochemical Attack to Hijack a Host Brain. Mol Cell Proteomics 2019; 18:99-114. [PMID: 30293061 PMCID: PMC6317478 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.ra118.000908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The parasitoid emerald jewel wasp Ampulex compressa induces a compliant state of hypokinesia in its host, the American cockroach Periplaneta americana through direct envenomation of the central nervous system (CNS). To elucidate the biochemical strategy underlying venom-induced hypokinesia, we subjected the venom apparatus and milked venom to RNAseq and proteomics analyses to construct a comprehensive "venome," consisting of 264 proteins. Abundant in the venome are enzymes endogenous to the host brain, including M13 family metalloproteases, phospholipases, adenosine deaminase, hyaluronidase, and neuropeptide precursors. The amphipathic, alpha-helical ampulexins are among the most abundant venom components. Also prominent are members of the Toll/NF-κB signaling pathway, including proteases Persephone, Snake, Easter, and the Toll receptor ligand Spätzle. We find evidence that venom components are processed following envenomation. The acidic (pH∼4) venom contains unprocessed neuropeptide tachykinin and corazonin precursors and is conspicuously devoid of the corresponding processed, biologically active peptides. Neutralization of venom leads to appearance of mature tachykinin and corazonin, suggesting that the wasp employs precursors as a prolonged time-release strategy within the host brain post-envenomation. Injection of fully processed tachykinin into host cephalic ganglia elicits short-term hypokinesia. Ion channel modifiers and cytolytic toxins are absent in A. compressa venom, which appears to hijack control of the host brain by introducing a "storm" of its own neurochemicals. Our findings deepen understanding of the chemical warfare underlying host-parasitoid interactions and in particular neuromodulatory mechanisms that enable manipulation of host behavior to suit the nutritional needs of opportunistic parasitoid progeny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Arvidson
- From the ‡Graduate Program in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521;; ¶Department of Molecular, Cell, and Systems Biology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521
| | - Maayan Kaiser
- §Department of Life Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Sang Soo Lee
- ¶Department of Molecular, Cell, and Systems Biology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521;; ‖Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of California, Riverside, California 92521
| | - Jean-Paul Urenda
- ¶Department of Molecular, Cell, and Systems Biology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521
| | - Christopher Dail
- ¶Department of Molecular, Cell, and Systems Biology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521
| | - Haroun Mohammed
- ¶Department of Molecular, Cell, and Systems Biology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521
| | - Cebrina Nolan
- **Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521
| | - Songqin Pan
- ‡‡Institute for Integrated Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521
| | - Jason E Stajich
- §§Department of Microbiology & Plant Pathology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521
| | - Frederic Libersat
- §Department of Life Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Michael E Adams
- From the ‡Graduate Program in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521;; ¶Department of Molecular, Cell, and Systems Biology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521;; ‖Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of California, Riverside, California 92521;; **Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521;; ‡‡Institute for Integrated Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521;; ¶Department of Molecular, Cell, and Systems Biology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521;.
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14
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Nowroozzadeh MH, Hamid A, Bolkheir A, Shirvani M, Maalhagh M. Corneal wasp sting: A case report and review of literature. J Curr Ophthalmol 2018; 31:95-97. [PMID: 30899854 PMCID: PMC6407084 DOI: 10.1016/j.joco.2018.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Revised: 02/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To report severe immunologic and toxic reaction due to corneal wasp sting that may cause catastrophic sight-threatening outcomes. Methods A 45-year-old man referred to the emergency room with corneal wasp sting of Vespa Orientalis. The authors review previous Medline literature about this topic. Results In our case, the response to frequent topical corticosteroid was dramatic, and at the seventh day after injury, all inflammatory responses in the anterior segment of the eye had been resolved. Conclusion Corneal wasp injury with Vespa Orientalis can cause severe inflammation of the cornea and the anterior segment. Topical corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adel Hamid
- Department of Ophthalmology, Poostchi Eye Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Alireza Bolkheir
- Department of Ophthalmology, Poostchi Eye Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Shirvani
- Department of Ophthalmology, Poostchi Eye Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehrnoosh Maalhagh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Poostchi Eye Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Department of Ophthalmology, Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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15
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Darwell CT, Segar ST, Cook JM. Conserved community structure and simultaneous divergence events in the fig wasps associated with Ficus benjamina in Australia and China. BMC Ecol 2018; 18:13. [PMID: 29615023 DOI: 10.1186/s12898-018-0167-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Localised patterns of species diversity can be influenced by many factors, including regional species pools, biogeographic features and interspecific interactions. Despite recognition of these issues, we still know surprisingly little about how invertebrate biodiversity is structured across geographic scales. In particular, there have been few studies of how insect communities vary geographically while using the same plant host. We compared the composition (species, genera) and functional structure (guilds) of the chalcid wasp communities associated with the widespread fig tree, Ficus benjamina, towards the northern (Hainan province, China) and southern (Queensland, Australia) edges of its natural range. Sequence data were generated for nuclear and mtDNA markers and used to delimit species, and Bayesian divergence analyses were used to test patterns of community cohesion through evolutionary time. Results Both communities host at least 14 fig wasp species, but no species are shared across continents. Community composition is similar at the genus level, with six genera shared although some differ in species diversity between China and Australia; a further three genera occur in only China or Australia. Community functional structure remains very similar in terms of numbers of species in each ecological guild despite community composition differing a little (genera) or a lot (species), depending on taxonomic level. Bayesian clustering analyses favour a single community divergence event across continents over multiple events for different ecological guilds. Molecular dating estimates of lineage splits between nearest inter-continental species pairs are broadly consistent with a scenario of synchronous community divergence from a shared “ancestral community”. Conclusions Fig wasp community structure and genus-level composition are largely conserved in a wide geographic comparison between China and Australia. Moreover, dating analyses suggest that the functional community structure has remained stable for long periods during historic range expansions. This suggests that ecological interactions between species may play a persistent role in shaping these communities, in contrast to findings in some comparable temperate systems. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12898-018-0167-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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16
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Diniz-Sousa R, Kayano AM, Caldeira CA, Simões-Silva R, Monteiro MC, Moreira-Dill LS, Grabner FP, Calderon LA, Zuliani JP, Stábeli RG, Soares AM. Biochemical characterization of a phospholipase A 2 homologue from the venom of the social wasp Polybia occidentalis. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2018; 24:5. [PMID: 29467796 PMCID: PMC5815181 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-018-0143-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Wasp venoms constitute a molecular reservoir of new pharmacological substances such as peptides and proteins, biological property holders, many of which are yet to be identified. Exploring these sources may lead to the discovery of molecules hitherto unknown. This study describes, for the first time in hymenopteran venoms, the identification of an enzymatically inactive phospholipase A2 (PLA2) from the venom of the social wasp Polybia occidentalis. Methods P. occidentalis venom was fractioned by molecular exclusion and reverse phase chromatography. For the biochemical characterization of the protein, 1D and 2D SDS-PAGE were performed, along with phospholipase activity assays on synthetic substrates, MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and sequencing by Edman degradation. Results The protein, called PocTX, was isolated using two chromatographic steps. Based on the phospholipase activity assay, electrophoresis and mass spectrometry, the protein presented a high degree of purity, with a mass of 13,896.47 Da and a basic pI. After sequencing by the Edman degradation method, it was found that the protein showed a high identity with snake venom PLA2 homologues. Conclusion This is the first report of an enzymatically inactive PLA2 isolated from wasp venom, similar to snake PLA2 homologues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela Diniz-Sousa
- Center for the Study of Biomolecules Applicable to Health (CEBio), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation - Rondônia (Fiocruz - Rondônia), Porto Velho, RO Brazil.,2Department of Medicine, Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR), Porto Velho, RO Brazil.,3Postgraduate Program in Experimental Biology (PGBIOEXP), Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR), Porto Velho, RO Brazil.,São Lucas University Center (UniSL), Porto Velho, RO Brazil
| | - Anderson M Kayano
- Center for the Study of Biomolecules Applicable to Health (CEBio), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation - Rondônia (Fiocruz - Rondônia), Porto Velho, RO Brazil.,2Department of Medicine, Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR), Porto Velho, RO Brazil
| | - Cleópatra A Caldeira
- Center for the Study of Biomolecules Applicable to Health (CEBio), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation - Rondônia (Fiocruz - Rondônia), Porto Velho, RO Brazil.,2Department of Medicine, Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR), Porto Velho, RO Brazil.,5Postgraduate Program in Biodiversity and Biotechnology, Bionorte Network, Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR), Porto Velho, RO Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Simões-Silva
- Center for the Study of Biomolecules Applicable to Health (CEBio), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation - Rondônia (Fiocruz - Rondônia), Porto Velho, RO Brazil.,2Department of Medicine, Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR), Porto Velho, RO Brazil
| | - Marta C Monteiro
- 6School of Pharmacy, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém, PA Brazil
| | - Leandro S Moreira-Dill
- Center for the Study of Biomolecules Applicable to Health (CEBio), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation - Rondônia (Fiocruz - Rondônia), Porto Velho, RO Brazil.,2Department of Medicine, Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR), Porto Velho, RO Brazil
| | - Fernando P Grabner
- Center for the Study of Biomolecules Applicable to Health (CEBio), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation - Rondônia (Fiocruz - Rondônia), Porto Velho, RO Brazil.,São Lucas University Center (UniSL), Porto Velho, RO Brazil
| | - Leonardo A Calderon
- Center for the Study of Biomolecules Applicable to Health (CEBio), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation - Rondônia (Fiocruz - Rondônia), Porto Velho, RO Brazil.,2Department of Medicine, Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR), Porto Velho, RO Brazil
| | - Juliana P Zuliani
- Center for the Study of Biomolecules Applicable to Health (CEBio), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation - Rondônia (Fiocruz - Rondônia), Porto Velho, RO Brazil.,2Department of Medicine, Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR), Porto Velho, RO Brazil
| | - Rodrigo G Stábeli
- Center for the Study of Biomolecules Applicable to Health (CEBio), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation - Rondônia (Fiocruz - Rondônia), Porto Velho, RO Brazil.,7Department of Medicine, UFSCar, São Carlos, Center of Translational Medicine, Fiocruz - SP, and School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andreimar M Soares
- Center for the Study of Biomolecules Applicable to Health (CEBio), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation - Rondônia (Fiocruz - Rondônia), Porto Velho, RO Brazil.,2Department of Medicine, Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR), Porto Velho, RO Brazil.,São Lucas University Center (UniSL), Porto Velho, RO Brazil
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17
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Payne CLR, Evans JD. Nested Houses: Domestication dynamics of human- wasp relations in contemporary rural Japan. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2017; 13:13. [PMID: 28178988 PMCID: PMC5299655 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-017-0138-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Domestication is an important and contested concept. Insects are used as food worldwide, and while some have been described as domesticated and even 'semi-domesticated', the assumptions and implications of this designation are not clear. The purpose of this paper is to explore these aspects of insect domestication, and broader debates in domestication studies, through the case of edible wasps in central rural Japan. METHODS Both authors conducted ethnographic fieldwork with communities in central rural Japan. Fieldwork comprised participant observation, semi-structured interviews, quantitative surveys and a review of resources including the personal and public records of wasp collectors. RESULTS The practice of keeping wasps in hive boxes has historical roots and has changed significantly within living memory. Current attempts to further develop the practice involve collectors' great efforts to keep new queens during their hibernation. Collectors have also tried, still without success, to keep wasps living within a human-made enclosure for their entire life cycle. These and other practices are costly in both time and money for collectors, who emphasise enjoyment as their primary motivation. At the same time, they also engage in practices such as pesticide use that they recognise as damaging to wasp ecology. CONCLUSIONS These practices can be understood to some extent in domesticatory terms, and in terms of care. We develop a framework for understanding domesticatory practices of insect care, discuss how this case contributes to ongoing debates within domestication studies, and recommend further research to be pursued.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte L. R. Payne
- Conservation Science Group, Department of Zoology, David Attenborough Building, New Museums Site, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3QY UK
| | - Joshua D. Evans
- Department of History and Philosophy of Science, Free School Lane, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3RH UK
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18
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Lateef A, Akande MA, Ojo SA, Folarin BI, Gueguim-Kana EB, Beukes LS. Paper wasp nest-mediated biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles for antimicrobial, catalytic, anticoagulant, and thrombolytic applications. 3 Biotech 2016; 6:140. [PMID: 28330212 PMCID: PMC4917500 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-016-0459-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using nest extract of paper wasp (Polistes sp) was investigated in this work. The AgNPs were characterized by UV–Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and evaluated for antibacterial, antifungal, dye degradation, blood anticoagulation, and blood clot dissolution (thrombolytic) activities. The crystalline polydispersed AgNPs with size range of 12.5–95.55 nm absorbed maximally at 428 nm and showed anisotropic structures of sphere, triangle, hexagon, rod, and rhombus. The FTIR data showed prominent peaks at 3426 and 1641 cm−1, which indicate the involvement of phenolics compounds and proteins in the synthesis of AgNPs. The prominence of Ag in the EDX spectra showed that indeed, AgNPs were formed. The AgNPs showed potent antibacterial activities (12–35 mm) against three multi-drug strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella granulomatis. While the growth of Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger was completely suppressed, the AgNPs produced growth inhibition of 75.61 % against Aspergillus fumigatus at 100 µg/ml. Furthermore, the AgNPs degraded malachite green to the tune of 93.1 %. The AgNPs also prevented coagulation of blood, while it completely dissolved preformed blood clots within 5 min showing the potent anticoagulation and thrombolytic activities. This study, which is the first of its kind to use nest extract of paper wasp for the synthesis of nanoparticles, has shown that the biosynthesized AgNPs could be deployed for biomedical and catalytic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agbaje Lateef
- Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology and Nanobiotechnology, Department of Pure and Applied Biology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, PMB 4000, Ogbomoso, Nigeria.
- Nanotechnology Research Group (NANO+), Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, PMB 4000, Ogbomoso, Nigeria.
| | - Monsurat A Akande
- Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology and Nanobiotechnology, Department of Pure and Applied Biology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, PMB 4000, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | - Sunday A Ojo
- Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology and Nanobiotechnology, Department of Pure and Applied Biology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, PMB 4000, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | - Bolaji I Folarin
- Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology and Nanobiotechnology, Department of Pure and Applied Biology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, PMB 4000, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | - Evariste B Gueguim-Kana
- Department of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, PieterMaritzburg, 3209, South Africa
| | - Lorika S Beukes
- Microscopy and Microanalysis Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, PieterMaritzburg, 3209, South Africa
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19
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Chirault M, Van de Zande L, Hidalgo K, Chevrier C, Bressac C, Lécureuil C. The spatio-temporal partitioning of sperm by males of the prospermatogenic parasitoid Nasonia vitripennis is in line with its gregarious lifestyle. J Insect Physiol 2016; 91-92:10-17. [PMID: 27269614 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2016.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Revised: 06/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Male fitness depends on the number of lifetime progeny of their mates and could be constrained by the chance of finding a mate, lifespan and temporal patterns of sperm production and allocation. Here, we used the parasitic wasp Nasonia vitripennis with a two-week lifespan and a gregarious lifestyle, to analyze how the reproductive system is organized to allocate spermatozoa over consecutive matings. Results show that spermatogenesis is synchronized and completed one day before emergence so that males emerge with a full sperm complement. We also found a regulation of spermatozoa transfer between testis and seminal vesicles that allows males to partition small ejaculates over multiple matings. Overall, this study shows that for N. vitripennis, male fertilization potential is determined (1) at the pupal stage, when spermatogenesis takes place to generate a complete life-long stock, (2) on emergence, when transport of spermatozoa from testes to seminal vesicles is initiated and (3) in adulthood, during which spermatozoa are partitioned over successive copulations. Such life history-traits are consistent with the gregarious lifestyle of N. vitripennis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlène Chirault
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte UMR 7261 CNRS - Université François-Rabelais, UFR Sciences et Techniques, Parc Grandmont, Tours, France
| | - Louis Van de Zande
- GELIFES (Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences), University of Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Kevin Hidalgo
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte UMR 7261 CNRS - Université François-Rabelais, UFR Sciences et Techniques, Parc Grandmont, Tours, France
| | - Claude Chevrier
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte UMR 7261 CNRS - Université François-Rabelais, UFR Sciences et Techniques, Parc Grandmont, Tours, France
| | - Christophe Bressac
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte UMR 7261 CNRS - Université François-Rabelais, UFR Sciences et Techniques, Parc Grandmont, Tours, France
| | - Charlotte Lécureuil
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte UMR 7261 CNRS - Université François-Rabelais, UFR Sciences et Techniques, Parc Grandmont, Tours, France.
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20
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Rungsa P, Incamnoi P, Sukprasert S, Uawonggul N, Klaynongsruang S, Daduang J, Patramanon R, Roytrakul S, Daduang S. Comparative proteomic analysis of two wasps venom, Vespa tropica and Vespa affinis. Toxicon 2016; 119:159-67. [PMID: 27288895 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2016.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2016] [Revised: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Vespid venom is composed of many bioactive compounds. The venom of the banded tiger wasp (Vespa affinis, or VA) and the great banded wasp (Vespa tropica, or VT)-which are locally found in the northeastern part of Thailand and are well known for their life-threatening venom potency-were comparatively studied in terms of potency, composition and biological activity. Clinical studies that included word-of-mouth information shared by traditional healers in local areas noted that the venom of VT is more potent than that of VA. Our previous study showed that the venom of VA is lower in potency (PD50 = 12.5 μg/g body weight) than that of VT (PD50 = 3 μg/g body weight). Analysis with the PAGE technique showed that these two venoms showed similar patterns of active proteins. Most protein spots were basic proteins at an isoelectric point (pI) ranging from 5 to 10, with molecular weights between 27 and 50 kDa. These spots were identified as hyaluronidase, phospholipase, antigen 5, dipeptidyl peptidase and albumin-like protein. The proportion of hyaluronidase was 2.5 times higher in VT than in VA. VT also showed higher hyaluronidase, phospholipase and dipeptidyl peptidase activities, suggesting that these components made VT venom more potent than VA venom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prapenpuksiri Rungsa
- Protein and Proteomics Research Center for Commercial and Industrial Purposes (ProCCI), Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Paroonkorn Incamnoi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Khon Kaen Campus, Khon Kaen 40000, Thailand
| | - Sophida Sukprasert
- Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus, Pathumthani 12120, Thailand
| | - Nunthawun Uawonggul
- Division of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Nakhon Phanom University, Nakhon Phanom 48000, Thailand
| | - Sompong Klaynongsruang
- Protein and Proteomics Research Center for Commercial and Industrial Purposes (ProCCI), Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Jureerut Daduang
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Rina Patramanon
- Protein and Proteomics Research Center for Commercial and Industrial Purposes (ProCCI), Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Sittiruk Roytrakul
- Genome Institute, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Sakda Daduang
- Protein and Proteomics Research Center for Commercial and Industrial Purposes (ProCCI), Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Division of Pharmacognosy and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
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21
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Ronnau M, Azevedo DO, Fialho MDCQ, Gonçlaves WG, Zanuncio JC, Serrão JE. Changes in follicular cells architecture during vitellogenin transport in the ovary of social Hymenoptera. Protoplasma 2016; 253:815-820. [PMID: 26077636 DOI: 10.1007/s00709-015-0843-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Vitellogenins are the major yolk proteins, synthesized in the fat body, released into the hemolymph and captured by the developing oocytes, but the mechanisms by which these proteins cross the follicular cell layer are still poorly understood. This study describes the actin distribution in follicular cells during vitellogenin transport to the oocyte in social Hymenoptera represented by bees Apis mellifera and Melipona quadrifasciata, the wasp Mischocyttarus cassununga and the ant Pachycondyla curvinodis. In oocytic chambers of vitellogenic follicles, vitellogenin was found within the follicular cells, perivitelline space and oocyte, indicating a transcellular route from the hemolymph to the perivitelline space. The cortical actin cytoskeleton in follicular cells underwent reorganization during transport of vitellogenin across this epithelium suggesting that in the ovary of social hymenopterans, vitellogenin delivery to oocytes requires a dynamic cytoskeletal rearrangement of actin filaments in the follicular cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milton Ronnau
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, 36570-000, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
- Department of Biology, Federal University of Paraná, Palotina, PR, Brazil
| | - Dihego Oliveira Azevedo
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, 36570-000, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
- Federal Insitute of Espírito Santo, Ibatiba, ES, Brazil
| | | | | | - José Cola Zanuncio
- Department of Entomology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - José Eduardo Serrão
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, 36570-000, Viçosa, MG, Brazil.
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22
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White SR, Kadavakollu S. Bradykinin in Hemipepsis ustulata: A novel method for safely milking wasps. Toxicon 2016; 117:49-52. [PMID: 26996494 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2016.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Revised: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Wasp venom characterization is of interest across multiple disciplines such as medicinal chemistry and evolutionary biology. A simple method is described herein to milk wasp venom without undue risks to the researcher. The wasps were immobilized by cooling for safe handling, restrained, and their venom was collected on parafilm. Bradykinin from Hemipepsis ustulata was identified by LC-MS/MS during method verification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn R White
- Western New Mexico University, Department of Chemistry, 1000 W. College Ave, Silver City, NM 88061, USA.
| | - Samuel Kadavakollu
- Western New Mexico University, Department of Chemistry, 1000 W. College Ave, Silver City, NM 88061, USA.
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23
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Tomlinson S, Phillips RD. Differences in metabolic rate and evaporative water loss associated with sexual dimorphism in thynnine wasps. J Insect Physiol 2015; 78:62-68. [PMID: 25935839 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2015.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2014] [Revised: 04/28/2015] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Species with sexual dimorphism provide powerful study systems for understanding adaptation to different lifestyles as it removes the potentially confounding effects of phylogeny. Thynnine wasps have a stark sexual dimorphism where males fly patrols in search of the flightless, predominantly fossorial females with which to mate. Using flow-through respirometry, we tested the prediction that the highly active males of the thynnine wasp Zaspilothynnus nigripes would have high metabolic rates (VCO2) relative to females. Further, the females, which spend more time underground, were predicted to exhibit lower evaporative water loss (EWL) than males. Metabolic rate of both sexes increased exponentially between 12 and 28 °C. As predicted, males had higher mass-corrected VCO2 at identical temperatures than females. Alternatively, there were no differences in the EWL at identical temperatures between sexes, suggesting that experiencing the same environmental conditions during mating may favour similar EWL. Interestingly, Z. nigripes were estimated to undergo a decrease in metabolism at approximately 30 °C. It is proposed that Z. nigripes persist despite sensitivity to high temperatures using a combination of behavioural strategies and emergence during a period of relatively benign climate that ameliorates the impacts of high temperatures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Tomlinson
- School of Animal Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia; Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, The Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority, Fraser Avenue, West Perth 6005, Australia.
| | - Ryan D Phillips
- Evolution, Ecology and Genetics, Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Canberra 0200, Australia; Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, The Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority, Fraser Avenue, West Perth 6005, Australia
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24
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Kaiser M, Libersat F. The role of the cerebral ganglia in the venom-induced behavioral manipulation of cockroaches stung by the parasitoid jewel wasp. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 218:1022-7. [PMID: 25687435 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.116491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 01/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The jewel wasp stings cockroaches and injects venom into their cerebral ganglia, namely the subesophageal ganglion (SOG) and supraesophageal ganglion (SupOG). The venom induces a long-term hypokinetic state, during which the stung cockroach shows little or no spontaneous walking. It was shown that venom injection to the SOG reduces neuronal activity, thereby suggesting a similar effect of venom injection in the SupOG. Paradoxically, SupOG-ablated cockroaches show increased spontaneous walking in comparison with control. Yet most of the venom in the SupOG of cockroaches is primarily concentrated in and around the central complex (CX). Thus the venom could chiefly decrease activity in the CX to contribute to the hypokinetic state. Our first aim was to resolve this discrepancy by using a combination of behavioral and neuropharmacological tools. Our results show that the CX is necessary for the initiation of spontaneous walking, and that focal injection of procaine to the CX is sufficient to induce the decrease in spontaneous walking. Furthermore, it was shown that artificial venom injection to the SOG decreases walking. Hence our second aim was to test the interactions between the SupOG and SOG in the venom-induced behavioral manipulation. We show that, in the absence of the inhibitory control of the SupOG on walking initiation, injection of venom in the SOG alone by the wasp is sufficient to induce the hypokinetic state. To summarize, we show that venom injection to either the SOG or the CX of the SupOG is, by itself, sufficient to decrease walking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maayan Kaiser
- Department of Life Sciences and the Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Frederic Libersat
- Department of Life Sciences and the Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
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25
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Khoobdel M, Tavassoli M, Salari M, Firozi F. The stinging Apidae and Vespidae (Hymenoptera: Apocrita) in Iranian islands, Qeshm, Abu-Musa, Great Tunb and Lesser Tunb on the Persian Gulf. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed 2014; 4:S258-62. [PMID: 25183092 DOI: 10.12980/apjtb.4.2014c1153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2013] [Accepted: 02/08/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the stinging flying Hymenoptera (Apidae and Vespidae) fauna in four Iranian Islands, Qeshm, Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb and Abu-Musa on the Persian Gulf. METHODS The flies were captured by used of Malaise trap, fly trap, bottle trap and insect net-hashing from March 2011 to July 2012. RESULTS In this study, 11 species of stinging Hymenoptera were reported for the first time in Persian Gulf region. CONCLUSIONS Some of this species such as Vespa orientalis and Polistes olivaceus are more common in the Persian Gulf islands and can cause clinical problem to islands resident and travelers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Khoobdel
- Health Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Tavassoli
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, Faculty of Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Salari
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, Faculty of Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fateme Firozi
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Biological Science, Shahid Beheshti University, G.C. Tehran, Iran
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26
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Schmidt JO. Evolutionary responses of solitary and social Hymenoptera to predation by primates and overwhelmingly powerful vertebrate predators. J Hum Evol 2014; 71:12-9. [PMID: 24666602 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhevol.2013.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2012] [Revised: 04/19/2013] [Accepted: 07/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Insects provide an important part of the diet of primates, including hominins. Investigations of insectivory in primates has focused primarily on the value of insects in the diet, and on the means of obtaining the insects, with little attention devoted to the predator-prey relationship itself and less to evolutionary aspects of insect defense against predatory vertebrates, including primates. Data indicate that, far from being a passive half of the relationship, insects in general, and stinging Hymenoptera in particular, are active participants that have greatly influenced the relationship. Predators have been a strong component of the selection pressure in the evolution of painful and toxic bee, wasp, and ant stings and these insects, in turn, have influenced hunting behavior and learning in at least higher primates. The special example of honey bees and humans is highlighted. Both humans and the bees have benefitted from a relationship that represents an unprecedented example of a predator-prey interaction evolving recently into facultative mutualism.
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