Wolbachia

Wolbachia is a genus of bacteria which infects arthropod species, including a high proportion of insects, as well as some nematodes. It is one of the world's most common parasitic microbes and is possibly the most common reproductive parasite in the biosphere. Its interactions with its hosts are often complex, and in some cases have evolved to be mutualistic rather than parasitic.

Characteristics

Wolbachia are gram-negative bacteria that range in size from 0.8 to 1.2 μm. They have a unique cell envelope that is composed of both a cell membrane and an outer membrane. The cell membrane is a phospholipid bilayer that surrounds the cytoplasm of the cell, while the outer membrane is a lipid bilayer that surrounds the cell membrane.

Host Interactions

Wolbachia can infect a wide range of hosts, including insects, arachnids, and nematodes. They are transmitted vertically from mother to offspring through the egg cytoplasm. In some cases, Wolbachia can manipulate the reproductive systems of their hosts in order to enhance their own transmission. This can include feminization of genetic males, parthenogenesis, killing of male offspring, and cytoplasmic incompatibility.

Research and Applications

Wolbachia has been the focus of much research due to its potential applications in disease control. For example, certain strains of Wolbachia can reduce the lifespan of mosquitoes, which can in turn reduce the transmission of diseases such as dengue fever, Zika virus, and malaria. In addition, Wolbachia can also be used to control agricultural pests.

See Also

• Endosymbiont
• Parasitism
• Insect
• Nematode

References

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