Using RNAi to search for genes important for Varroa destructor survival and reproduction

The varroa mite, Varroa destructor, is the worst pest of the Western honey bee (Apis mellifera) and responsible for declines in honey bee populations worldwide. In this study we used RNA interference (RNAi) technology to disrupt the life cycle of varroa mites by either causing death or causing a reduction in reproduction.  We tested the genes of Daughterless (Da), Proteasome 26S subunit 4 (Pros26.4), Ribosomal protein L8 (RpL8), Ribosomal protein L11 (RpL11), Ribosomal protein P0 (RpP0), and Ribosomal protein S13 (RpS13), all of which have shown to play roles in survival or reproduction in other tick species.  dsRNA of Pts26.4 and Da genes caused a significantly reduction in mite survival compared to the GFP control.  RPL8, RPL11, RPP0 and RPS13 seem to affect reproduction in Varroa destructor. In conclusion, we have discovered four genes important for mite reproduction and two genes important for mite survival.