Abstract
Mosquito larvae depend on light detection for predator evasion and habitat selection; however, the molecular functions underlying larval photoreception remain largely unexplored. In this paper, we describe in detail the long-wavelength-sensitive opsin GPROP3 in Aedes mosquitoes by investigating its evolutionary conservation, expression patterns, and functional role in phototactic behavior. Using phylogenetic analyses, expression profiling across different developmental stages and tissues, and functional RNAi assays, we show that GPROP3 is required for larval negative phototaxis. These studies demonstrate stage-specific expression patterns and light-dependent subcellular dynamics and identify GPROP3 as a principal photosensor necessary for larval survival behaviors. These findings advance understanding of mosquito larval sensory systems and indicate their potential for vector control strategies targeting early developmental stages.
Funding
This work was supported by the EU within the NextGeneration EU-MUR PNRR Extended Partnership initiative on Emerging Infectious Diseases (Project no. PE00000007, INF-ACT) to MS. This study was also financially supported by the Insect Pest Control Subprogramme of the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture and the United States State Department in the frame of the “Enhance Agency’s Capacity to Provide Support to Member States to Control Aedes Mosquitoes as Vectors of Human Pathogens, Particularly Zika Virus, Using Integrated Vector Management Approaches with a Sterile Insect Technique Component” project.
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Varone, M., Di Lillo, P., Pollastro, R. et al. The GPROP3 gene controls larval negative phototaxis in Aedes albopictus (Skuse) and shows structural and regulatory conservation across invasive Aedes species.
Sci Rep (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-47356-2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-47356-2
Keywords
- Invasive mosquitoes
- Rhodopsin
- Larval phototaxis
- RNA interference
- Innovative vector control
Source: Ecology - nature.com
