Strain‐specific regulation of intracellularWolbachiadensity in multiply infected insects

• DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-294x.2003.02015.x
• Publication Date: 2004-02-27T10:26:17Z
• Authors: L. Mouton; H. Henri; M. Bouletreau; F. Vavre
• Keywords: Cytoplasmic incompatibility; Strain (injury)

Vertically transmitted symbionts suffer a severe reduction in numbers when they pass through host generations, resulting genetic homogeneity or even clonality of their populations. Wolbachia endosymbionts that induce cytoplasmic incompatibility hosts depart from this rule, because actively maintains multiple infection within hosts. Hosts and are thus probably under peculiar selective pressures must shape the way intracellular bacterial populations regulated. We studied density location adult Leptopilina heterotoma, haplodiploid wasp is parasitic on Drosophila naturally infected with three strains, but for which we also obtained one simply two doubly lines. Comparison these four lines by quantitative polymerase chain reaction using real-time detection system showed total varies according to status individuals, while specific each strain remains constant regardless presence other strains. This suggests strains do not compete another same individual, strain-specific regulatory mechanism operating. discuss mechanisms involved, how process might have evolved as response acting both partners.