Elucidating the Function of Krüppel Homolog 1 (Kr-h1) Associated Proteins (KAPs) in Aedes aegypti Reproduction Through RNA Interference-Mediated Downregulation

The transcription factor Krüppel homolog 1 (Kr-h1) is crucial in multiple reproductive processes of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, including previtellogenesis, vitellogenesis, and oogenesis. This study explores the interaction between Kr-h1 and its potential associated proteins (KAPs), with a specific focus on the dimerization partner (DP-1), and how this interaction regulates gene expression pathways critical for mosquito reproduction. Utilizing RNA interference (RNAi), the research identifies DP-1 as a significant regulator of follicle growth post-eclosion (PE), highlighting its vital role in the mosquito reproductive regulatory pathway. The experimental approach included RNAi-mediated knockdown of DP-1, accompanied by evaluations using quantitative PCR (qPCR), Western blotting (WB), co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), follicle length measurement, and egg counting to assess the role of DP-1 in reproductive functions. For the first time, the inhibition of DP-1 expression was found to significantly impede A. aegypti follicular development. The elucidation of the mechanistic roles of Kr-h1 and DP-1 provides valuable insights that could lead to innovative strategies for mosquito population control and effective disease vector management.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science in Life Sciences

Level thesis:degree_level

masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Biochemistry

Department dc:contributor.department

Biochemistry

Grantor dc:publisher

Virginia Tech

Year dc:date.issued

2024

Author dc:creator

• Zhang, Liyan

Chair dc:contributor.committeechair

• Zhu, Jinsong

Committee members dc:contributor.committeemember

• Lahondere, Chloe Aude
• Tu, Zhijian

• Mosquito
• Aedes aegypti
• Krüppel homolog 1 (Kr-h1)
• dimerization partner (DP-1)
• RNA interference (RNAi)
• Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP)
• embryogenesis

Statement dc:rights

• In Copyright

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

Language dc:language.iso

en

Dc Identifier Other

vt_gsexam:41150

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/120672