Wolbachia-mediated reduction in the glutamate receptor mGluR promotes female promiscuity and bacterial spread
Ontology highlight
ABSTRACT: The molecular mechanisms by which parasites mediate host behavioral changes remain largely unexplored. Here, we examine Drosophila melanogaster infected with Wolbachia, a symbiont transmitted through the maternal germline, and find Wolbachia infection increases female receptivity to male courtship and hybrid mating. Wolbachia colonize regions of the larval and adult female brain controlling sense perception and behavior. Quantitative global proteomics identified 177 differentially abundant proteins in infected female larval brains. Genetic alteration of the levels of three of these proteins in adults, the metabotropic glutamate receptor mGluR, the transcription factor TfAP-2, and the odorant binding protein Obp99b, each mimicked the effect of Wolbachia on female receptivity. Furthermore, >700 Wolbachia proteins were detected in infected brains. Through abundance and molecular modeling analyses, we distinguished several Wolbachia-produced proteins as potential effectors. These results identify networks of host and Wolbachia proteins that modify behavior to promote mating success and aid the spread of Wolbachia.
INSTRUMENT(S): Orbitrap Fusion Lumos
ORGANISM(S): Drosophila Melanogaster (fruit Fly)
TISSUE(S): Brain
SUBMITTER:
Tim Karr
LAB HEAD: Tim Karr
PROVIDER: PXD058588 | Pride | 2025-04-04
REPOSITORIES: Pride
ACCESS DATA