Male Anopheles mosquitoes secrete a specific transglutaminase (AgTG3) into their seminal fluids. AgTG3 crosslinks a subrate protein called Plugin, producing a gelatinous 'mating plug' that is imprtant for proper sperm storage by the female. We have reconstituted this reaction in vitro through heterologous expression, purification and biophysical analysis of both enzyme and substrate protein. Activity of AgTG3 is Ca2+- but not GTP-dependent, and several crosslinked Plugin peptides were identified by mass spectrometry indicating a putative site of interaction between Plugin monomers. Formation of the A. gambiae mating plug is a potential target for controling mosquito populations via a 'sterile insect technique'.

Sex and the mosquito: Characterization of<i> Anopheles gambiae</i> seminal transglutaminase and its native substrate Plugin

244th National Meeting (2012)

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Sex and the mosquito: Characterization of Anopheles gambiae seminal transglutaminase and its native substrate Plugin