Targeting the Asian Citrus Psyllid Feeding Mechanism as a Means of Blocking Psyllid Feeding on Citrus

Targeting the Asian Citrus Psyllid Feeding Mechanism as a Means of Blocking Psyllid Feeding on Citrus

Report Date: 05/06/2014
Project: 330   Year: 2013
Category: ACP Vector
Author: Robert Shatters
Sponsor: Citrus Research and Development Foundation

Continued proteome analysis of isolated psyllid salivary sheaths was conducted using a more complete psyllid protein database. This analysis was performed through collaboration with Dr. Michelle Cilia, Research Molecular Biologist USDA-ARS, BioIPM Research Unit and Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research that has allowed the identification of a candidate enzyme that may be involved in the sheath polymerization process. The identified gene encoding the protein was then identified in the psyllid genome showing that it is indeed of psyllid origin. Further analysis of sheath formation showed that inhibitors of this enzyme blocked sheath formation. This research has allowed us to understand the nature of the sheath polymerization process and this knowledge has opened the door for natural product screening to identify natural product inhibitors to sheath formation.


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