文摘
Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels respond to diverse stimuli and function as primary regulators of sensory information such as olfaction and auditory. TRP proteins are activated by several chemicals and secondary messengers to modulate communications between cell to cell as well as to recognize some environmental changes. Here we report on the identification and localization of the Aedes aegypti homolog of the TRPV channel proteins that is conserved to other insect species based on comparison of amino acids sequences similarities. Transcripts of two TRPV proteins homologous to Drosophila TRPV proteins (Nan and Iav) were ubiquitously expressed in the whole tissues such as antennae, maxillary palps, proboscis, legs, and body of the mosquito. Indeed, TRPV channel family members were localized in sensilla chaetica and sensilla basiconica on the antennae as well as ciliary segment of Johnston's organs. Taken together, we infer that TRPV channels of Aedes aegypti may function as both a sound sensor involved in detection of sound signals and as a chemical sensor responding attractants or repellent compounds allowing them to respond to the appearance of predators or other environmental chemical cues at a distance with behaviors crucial for survival.