Investigating the immunotoxic effects of fumagillin exposure in honey bees

The gut-infecting microsporidian species, Nosema apis and Nosema ceranae, are economically important pathogens of the honey bee, Apis mellifera. A popular drug, fumagillin, is registered for the treatment of Nosema infections, but the side effects of fumagillin exposure in honey bees are poorly studied. We investigated the effects of fumagillin exposure on immunocompetent honey bee hemocytes and discovered potentially immunotoxic outcomes. Following fumagillin exposure, honey bee hemocytes exhibit decreased reactive oxygen species production. Our results suggest fumagillin exposure may disrupt normal immune function in honey bees, potentially negating the benefits of Nosema suppression in situations where non-microsporidian pathogens are prevalent.