Transport of H(+), Na(+) and K(+) across the posterior midgut of blood-fed mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti)

Autor(es): Pacey Evan K,O'Donnell Michael J


Resumo: Following ingestion of a blood meal, the adult female mosquito undergoes a massive diuresis during which Na(+), Cl(-) and water are secreted at high rates by the Malpighian tubules. In the hours following completion of diuresis, digestion of the K(+)-rich blood cells provides a source of energy as well as amino acids for proteins in the developing eggs. Although the transport of inorganic ions by the Malpighian tubules of blood-fed mosquitoes has been extensively characterized, relatively little is known of the epithelial transport mechanisms responsible for movement of Na(+), H(+), and K(+) across the posterior midgut. In this paper we have used the Scanning Ion-selective Electrode Technique (SIET) to measure the basal (unstimulated) rates of transport of K(+), Na(+) and H(+) across the isolated posterior midgut at intervals after the blood meal. We have also measured luminal concentrations of Na(+) and K(+) and the transepithelial electrical potential at the same time points and have calculated the electrochemical potentials for Na(+), K(+) and H(+) across the midgut. SIET measurements reveal absorption (lumen to bath) of Na(+) and H(+) and secretion of K(+) for the first 2h after blood-feeding. By 24h after the meal, absorption of Na(+) and H(+) remains active while there is an electrochemical gradient favouring absorption of K(+). Inhibition by ouabain and Ba(2+) suggest a role for the Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase and K(+) channels in absorption of Na(+) and K(+), respectively. Inhibition of H(+) absorption by acetazolamide implicates carbonic anhydrase in transepithelial H(+) transport.


Palavras-Chave: Blood-feeding, Epithelial transport, Midgut, Mosquito, Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase


Imprenta: Journal of Insect Physiology, v. 61, p. 42-50, 2014


Identificador do objeto digital: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2013.12.008


Descritores: Aedes aegypti - Cell ; Aedes aegypti - Proteins


Data de publicação: 2014