Triatoma Virus Pathogenicity in Laboratory Colonies of Triatoma infestans (Hemiptera: Reduviidae)

Abstract

In a survey of wild populations of Triatoma infestans (Klug) in Argentina, 10% were infected with Triatoma virus (TrV). The virus also was detected in a laboratory colony 18 mo after being established, with infection rates up to 100%. Mortality rate was 97.6% in nymphs and the molting process was inhibited, thereby increasing development time. Because the virus was detected in colony nymphs. TrV may be transmitted vertically. However, the higher infection rate in the colony compared with natural populations also indicates other route(s) of transmission.

Direct methods for detecting picorna-like virus from dead and alive Triatomine insects

“…The former one would be of great importance for the spread of TrV among field populations and the latter one for the virus dissemination in laboratories and insectaries under rearing conditions (Muscio et al 1997). Coprophagy and cannibalism are modes of behaviour reported among triatomines in insectaries and they are the principal ways of introducing parasites such as Blastocrithidia triatomae into these bug populations (Schaub et al 1989).…”

“…Coprophagy and cannibalism are modes of behaviour reported among triatomines in insectaries and they are the principal ways of introducing parasites such as Blastocrithidia triatomae into these bug populations (Schaub et al 1989). These two horizontal transmission mechanisms would also account for virus infection (Muscio et al 1997). Therefore, it is necessary to check continuously insect colonies in order to detect early TrV infection.…”

“…Studies of viral pathogens in this species made the identification of Triatoma virus (TrV) possible ) and its potential use as a biological control was suggested (Muscio et al 1997). TrV was isolated from T. infestans and its biochemical and biophysical properties were investigated (Muscio et al 1987, Muscio 1988.…”

“…Some of the reported pathological effects of this virus were a high mortality rate, delayed development as a result of the affection of molting process and an important reduction in the fecundity (Muscio et al 1997, Rozas Dennis et al 1997a,b, Rozas Dennis & Cazzaniga 1997.…”

Triatomines intrahaemocoelic inoculation protocol: a useful tool to check infectivity in insects

“…Triatoma virus (TrV; Dicistroviridae: Cripavirus), is a small virus isolated from T. infestans [13] which inhibits the molting process, raises mortality in nymphs instars, and reduces longevity and fecundity in adults [14][15][16] thus, with interesting qualities to be considered as a potential triatomine control agent.…”