Evaluation of Isotope (32)P Method to Mark Culex pipiens (Diptera: Culicidae) in a Laboratory.
BACKGROUND
The aim of the current study was to develop a marking technique as an internal marker to mark post blood meal mosquitoes by using stable phosphate isotope (32)P and determine the optimal concentration of it.


METHODS
An isotonic physiological saline solution, containing different concentration of radioactive isotope (32)P-labeled disodium phosphate (Na2H(32)PO4) was injected into rabbits via the jugular vein in the laboratory. Emerged Cx. pipiens were marked after feeding on rabbit. At the same time, the labeled conditions of emerged Cx. pipiens were also measured by placing feces of No. 6 rabbit into containers with mosquito larvae and pupae inside.


RESULTS
According to the label condition of Cx. pipiens after taking blood and the effect of different dosage Na2H(32)PO4 on rabbit health, the optimal concentration of radioactive isotope was determined, that is, 0.1211 mCi/kg. By placing feces of No. 6 rabbit into containers with mosquito larvae and pupae inside, the emerged mosquitoes were also labeled. Therefore, feeding mosquitoes on the animal injected with radioactive Na2H(32)PO4 was more practical for detecting and tracing mosquitoes.


CONCLUSIONS
The method was less time-consuming, more sensitive and safer. This marking method will facilitate post-bloodmeal studies of mosquitoes and other blood-sucking insects.
Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Collaborative Innovation Center for the Origin and Control of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Taishan Medical University, Taian, Shandong 271000, China.
Chongxing
C
Zhang
Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
Guihong
G
Shi
Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
Yuqiang
Y
Zhao
Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
Dongmei
D
Yan
Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
Huaiju
H
Li
Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
Hongmei
H
Liu
Department of Plant Production Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok 10520, Thailand.
Itsanun
I
Wiwatanaratanabutr
Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
Maoqing
M
Gong
Culex pipiens; Mark; Rabbit; Radioactive isotope