Molecular basis of olfaction in kissing bugs

Abstract

Kissing bugs act as vectors of Chagas disease. As in other insects, olfaction mediates relevant kissing bug behaviours, such as host seeking, and the response to sexual and alarm pheromones. The objective of this chapter is to review the current knowledge on genetic, transcriptomic and functional aspects of triatomine olfactory receptors, and to cover the perspectives about molecular studies on kissing bug olfaction. Rhodnius prolixus is the only species of kissing bug whose genome has been sequenced and annotated. Nonetheless, molecular studies on odorant and ionotropic receptors of this species are still scarce. In the last few years, sequences from several other hemipterans have become available. While this information will aid in understanding the evolution of R. prolixus olfactory receptors, sequences from other kissing bugs will be required to identify specific lineages within triatomines, and new candidates for functional genetic studies. As in other non-model insects, the main challenge in sensory ecology of kissing bugs is to determine the relationship between stimuli and receptor. RNA-Seq experiments, heterologous expression systems, gene silencing techniques and in silico approaches are alternatives that could be used to advance in this field. A better understanding of the molecular basis of triatomine olfaction could help to improve vector control strategies.