A gene for an extended phenotype

Science. 2011 Sep 9;333(6048):1401. doi: 10.1126/science.1209199.

Abstract

Manipulation of host behavior by parasites and pathogens has been widely observed, but the basis for these behaviors has remained elusive. Gypsy moths infected by a baculovirus climb to the top of trees to die, liquefy, and "rain" virus on the foliage below to infect new hosts. The viral gene that manipulates climbing behavior of the host was identified, providing evidence of a genetic basis for the extended phenotype.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Behavior, Animal
  • Gene Deletion
  • Genes, Viral*
  • Glucosyltransferases / genetics*
  • Glucosyltransferases / metabolism
  • Larva / physiology
  • Larva / virology
  • Moths / physiology*
  • Moths / virology*
  • Motor Activity
  • Nucleopolyhedroviruses / genetics*
  • Nucleopolyhedroviruses / physiology
  • Phenotype
  • Viral Proteins / genetics
  • Viral Proteins / metabolism

Substances

  • Viral Proteins
  • Glucosyltransferases
  • ecdysteroid UDP-glucosyltransferase