Finding DNA Viruses in Mosquitoes
Author Information
Author(s): Ma Maijuan, Huang Yong, Gong Zhengda, Zhuang Lu, Li Cun, Yang Hong, Tong Yigang, Liu Wei, Cao Wuchun
Primary Institution: State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, China
Hypothesis
Can high throughput sequencing of small RNAs identify viral agents in wild-caught mosquitoes?
Conclusion
The study demonstrates that high throughput sequencing of small RNA is effective for identifying DNA viruses in wild-caught mosquitoes.
Supporting Evidence
- The study identified a non-enveloped single-stranded DNA densovirus in Culex pipiens molestus mosquitoes.
- More than 80% of the viral transcripts were covered by small viral RNAs.
- The small RNA sequencing approach can detect both RNA and DNA viruses.
Takeaway
Scientists found a way to use special technology to discover viruses in mosquitoes, which can help us understand and control diseases they might spread.
Methodology
Next Generation Sequencing was used to extract RNA from different mosquito species, followed by bioinformatic analyses and PCR confirmation.
Limitations
The underlying mechanism of small viral RNA biogenesis remains unclear.
Participant Demographics
Wild-caught mosquitoes from South China.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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