Molecular insights into symbiotic microbe transmission in hemipteran insects.

Abstract

Most hemipteran insects are plant sap-feeders that maintain diverse symbionts, which are essential for their nutrition, development, and defense. Elucidating the mechanisms governing the symbiont transmission is fundamental to understanding ecological adaptations of these insects. This review synthesizes current molecular insights underlying symbiotic microbe transmission in hemipterans. We explore the diverse strategies that these insects acquire, maintain, and transmit their symbiotic microbes, with particular emphasis on the molecular determinants involved in these processes. The discussion encompasses the role of immune system modulation in facilitating symbiont accommodation, the molecular machinery responsible for symbiont packaging and transfer, and the influence of environmental factors on transmission fidelity. Furthermore, we highlight recent advances in identifying insect- and symbiont-derived molecules that mediate these interactions, providing a detailed perspective on the intricate molecular dialogue between host and symbiont. Overall, this review presents a comprehensive overview of the molecular landscape shaping symbiotic microbe transmission in hemipteran insects.