Sequencing and comparative analysis of genes involved in feeding preference in the Calliphoridae family (Diptera: Calliphoridae)

Abstract

The order Diptera is one of the most diversified orders of insects and it is important for human and animal health, as it includes several species of parasites and vectors. The Calliphoridae family is a good example for investigating of the evolution of parasitism since this lifestyle has evolved independently at least three times in its evolutionary history. The condition caused by the Calliphoridae species is known as myiasis, which is the infestation of vertebrates by dipterous larvae which feed on dead or living tissues of the host. Within this family, the genera Chrysomya and Cochliomyia include both parasitic species (primary myiasis) and necrophagous (secondary myiasis). The study of genes involved in feeding habits, previously characterized in model species, will generate insights into the evolution of parasitism within the Calliphoridae family. This study is also of potential applied interest as can reveal new targets in order to control the infestation of ectoparasites, which is highly desirable as there have been reported cases of resistance to the current methods. Therefore, the objectives of this project include the sequencing of the coding sequence of five genes (for, mvl, cyp6g2, gdh e s6k) in parasitic and necrophagous species of the genera Chrysomya and Cochliomyia, and analyze whether the different feeding habits are correlated to change in function of their products and/or in their expression.(AU)