Characterization of the transcriptome of Dermatobia hominis and intra and interspecific comparison of genes involved in feeding behavior

• Grant number: 13/27085-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: April 01, 2014
• End date: December 31, 2014
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Parasitology - Entomology and Malacology of Parasites and Vectors
• Principal Investigator: Tatiana Teixeira Torres
• Grantee: Marina Santos Deszo
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The human botfly, Dermatobia hominis (Diptera: Oestridae), has several peculiar features in its biology, as feeding only in the larval stage and using a vector, usually another Diptera, to passively transport their eggs to a suitable host. Besides its interesting biology, D. hominis larvae are obligate parasites, infesting several mammals, mainly cattle. Botfly infestations cause a significant loss for the livestock industry. Given the biological and economical aspects of this parasite, it is interesting to study gene expression profiles of D. hominis, as gene regulation is a key process in the emergence of phenotypes. We propose the characterization of the human botfly transcriptome characterization, using RNA-seq. In addition, we will perform intra and interspecific comparisons of the expression profiles of genes putatively involved in feeding behavior. Hence, we will sequence D. hominis transcripts for larvae, adult females and adult males samples using the Illumina platform. Reads passing quality thresholds will be assembled into contigs and all contigs obtained will be annotated. Levels of expression of previously characterized genes involved in feeding behavior will be compared between the botfly and the New World screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax. With this study, we will gain knowledge regarding the mechanisms involved on several aspects of D. hominis biology. Such information will open a new perspective for further studies on pest control and on the evolution of feeding habits in Diptera. (AU)