Differential gene expression analysis of cycle gene knockout Aedes aegypti mosquito
This study explores the impact of disrupting the circadian clock through a Cycle gene knockout (KO) on the transcriptome of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The investigation aims to uncover the resulting alterations in gene expression patterns and physiological processes. Transcriptome analysis was conducted on Cyc knockout (AeCyc-/-) and wild-type mosquitoes at four time points in a light-dark cycle. The study identified system-driven genes that exhibit rhythmic expression independently of the core clock machinery. Cyc disruption led to altered expression of essential clock genes, affecting metabolic processes, signaling pathways, stimulus responses and immune responses. Notably, gene ontology enrichment of odorant binding proteins, indicating the clock's role in sensory perception. The absence of Cyc also impacted various regulation of metabolic and cell cycle processes was observed in all time points. Overall design: we performed RNA-seq on a Cyc-/- Ae. aegypti line (AeCyc-/-), lacking a functional circadian clock due to a mutation in the core clock gene. By comparing the transcriptomic profiles of Cyc-/- mosquitoes with wild-type (WT) individuals under a light-dark (LD) cycle, we elucidated the intricate network of genes and pathways influenced by the absence of a functional circadian clock. Understanding the molecular mechanisms governing their circadian rhythm and related physiological processes may offer valuable insights into regulating mosquito biology, vector competence, and contribute to innovative strategies for controlling mosquito populations and curtailing mosquito-borne diseases.