Potential induction of apoptosis and acetylcholinesterase inhibition in Aedes mosquitoes by Streptomyces-derived ethyl acetate extract

The use of Streptomyces secondary metabolites for mosquito control has recently received positive attention. Accordingly, this study was performed to elucidate the cellular, genomic and biochemical responses of Aedes mosquitoes to Streptomyces sp. KSF103 ethyl acetate (EA) extract, a mixture previously characterized for its potential bioactivity. Through flow-cytometry based apoptosis assay, EA extract elicited apoptosis-mediated cell death in C6/36 cells of Aedes albopictus. Microarray analysis on Ae. aegypti larvae and adults revealed the potential involvement of tropomodulin and sestrin, which was validated by quantitative real-time RT-PCR, suggesting apoptosis induction in response to the EA extract. Functional analysis suggested that MAPK and Notch signaling pathways are linked to apoptosis. On the other hand, biochemical assays demonstrated acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition in both larvae and adults, suggesting the toxicity disrupted their nervous system. In conclusion, this study has revealed the promising bioactivities of a Streptomyces-derived insecticide, providing insights into the mechanisms involved and emphasizing its potential significance in mosquito control.