OBJECTIVETo screen DENV-2 binding proteins from Aedes albopictus and Culex. quinquefasciatus.

METHODSThe total proteins of Aedes albopictus and Culex. quinquefasciatus in different developmental stages were prepared and analyzed with SDS-12% polyacrylamide gel. After electrophoresis the proteins were transferred using Mini Trans-Blot Electrophoretic Transfer Cell (Bio-Rad ) to a nitrocellulose membrane. Virus overlay protein-binding assay (VOPBA) was carried out using anti-dengue virus 1-4 monoclonal antibody.

RESULTSIn Aedes albopictus, VOPBA detected DEN-2 binding molecules of 25 000, 35 000, and 50 000 in larvae samples, molecules of 35 000 and 50 000 in pupae samples, a 50 000 molecule in male mosquito samples, and molecules of 35 000 and 50 000 in female mosquito samples. DENV-2 binding protein of 35 000 was found in the larvae, pupae, and female mosquitoes, but not in male mosquitoes. In Culex. Quinquefasciatus, VOPBA detected a molecule of 100 000 in larvae samples, molecules of 40 000, 100 000, and around 50 000 (48 000 and 60 000) in pupae samples, and molecules of 40 000 and 100 000 in male mosquitoes and female mosquito samples.

CONCLUSIONSeveral proteins capable of binding DENV are found in Aedes albopictus and Culex. quinquefasciatus in different development stages. The 35 000 molecule expressed in Aedes albopictus as a putative receptor protein may be related to virus tropism in mosquito tissues.