A single-cell atlas of the <i>Culex tarsalis</i> midgut during West Nile virus infection.

ABSTRACT: The mosquito midgut functions as a key interface between pathogen and vector. However, studies of midgut physiology and virus infection dynamics are scarce, and in Culex tarsalis - an extremely efficient vector of West Nile virus (WNV) - nonexistent. We performed single-cell RNA sequencing on Cx. tarsalis midguts, defined multiple cell types, and determined whether specific cell types are more permissive to WNV infection. We identified 20 cell states comprising 8 distinct cell types, consistent with existing descriptions of Drosophila and Aedes aegypti midgut physiology. Most midgut cell populations were permissive to WNV infection. However, there were higher levels of WNV RNA (vRNA) in enteroendocrine cells, suggesting enhanced replication in this population. I

SUBMITTER: Fitzmeyer EA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11291174 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature