Localization of Deformed Wing Virus in Honey Bees
Author Information
Author(s): Fievet Julie, Tentcheva Diana, Gauthier Laurent, de Miranda Joachim, Cousserans François, Colin Marc Edouard, Bergoin Max
Primary Institution: Laboratoire de Pathologie Comparée des Invertébrés EPHE, UMR 1231 Biologie Intégrative et Virologie des Insectes INRA, Université Montpellier II
Hypothesis
The study investigates the localization of deformed wing virus (DWV) infection in the reproductive organs of honey bee queens and drones.
Conclusion
DWV infection is widespread in the bodies of honey bee queens and drones, affecting their reproductive organs and potentially impairing fertility.
Supporting Evidence
- DWV was detected in 67% of asymptomatic egg-laying queens and 78% of drones collected at emergence.
- The highest DWV RNA loads in drones were found in the testis and digestive tract.
- In queens, the ovaries had the largest DWV RNA load.
- The presence of DWV in sperm suggests a possible sexual transmission route.
Takeaway
The deformed wing virus can infect many parts of honey bees, including their reproductive organs, which might make it harder for them to have babies.
Methodology
The study used in situ hybridization and immunohistology on paraffin-embedded sections, along with quantitative RT-PCR to analyze tissue samples.
Limitations
The study did not successfully localize DWV in the queen digestive tract and ovaries despite detecting DWV RNA.
Participant Demographics
The study involved asymptomatic egg-laying queens and drones collected at different stages.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.88
Statistical Significance
p = 0.88
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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