Virus-like particles in venom of Meteorus pulchricornis induce host hemocyte apoptosis

摘要: Ultrastructural studies on the reproductive tract and venom apparatus of a female braconid, Meteorus pulchricornis, revealed that parasitoid lacks calyx region in its oviduct, but possesses gland with two filaments reservoir filled white cloudy fluid. Its cell is concaved has lumen numerous granules. Transmisson electron microscopic (TEM) observation virus-like particles (VLPs) were produced cells. The particle observed M. pulchricornis (MpVLP) composed membranous envelopes different parts: high-density core whitish low-density part. VLPs also found assembling ultimately cell. Microvilli thrusting into seem to aid driving matured MpVLPs common duct filament. Injection non-parasitized Pseudaletia separata hosts induced apoptosis hemocytes, particularly granulocytes (GRs). Rate GRs peaked 48h after VLP injection. While large part GR population collapsed due caused by MpVLPs, plasmatocyte was minimally affected. capacity cause host's hemocytes further demonstrated decrease ( approximately 10-fold) ability host encapsulate fluorescent latex beads when present. Apparently, reduced encapsulation resulting from MpVLP-induced apoptosis.