Pathogen-Mediated Alterations of Insect Chemical Communication: From Pheromones to Behavior

Pathogens can influence the physiology and behavior of both animal and plant hosts in a manner that promotes their own transmission and dispersal. Recent research focusing on insects has revealed that these manipulations can extend to the production of pheromones, which are pivotal in chemical communication. This review provides an overview of the current state of research and available data concerning the impacts of bacterial, viral, fungal, and eukaryotic pathogens on chemical communication across different insect orders. While our understanding of the influence of pathogenic bacteria on host chemical profiles is still limited, viral infections have been shown to induce behavioral changes in the host, such as altered pheromone production, olfaction, and locomotion. Entomopathogenic fungi affect host chemical communication by manipulating cuticular hydrocarbons and pheromone production, while various eukaryotic parasites have been observed to influence insect behavior by affecting the production of pheromones and other chemical cues. The effects induced by these infections are explored in the context of the evolutionary advantages they confer to the pathogen. The molecular mechanisms governing the observed pathogen-mediated behavioral changes, as well as the dynamic and mutually influential relationships between the pathogen and its host, are still poorly understood. A deeper comprehension of these mechanisms will prove invaluable in identifying novel targets in the perspective of practical applications aimed at controlling detrimental insect species.

Automated summary

Pathogens can manipulate the physiology and behavior of animal and plant hosts to enhance their own transmission. Recent research on insects has shown that these manipulations extend to the production of pheromones, which play a critical role in chemical communication. This review provides an overview of the current research and data on the impacts of bacterial, viral, fungal, and eukaryotic pathogens on chemical communication in different insect orders. Viral infections have been found to induce behavioral changes in hosts, such as altered pheromone production, olfaction, and locomotion. Entomopathogenic fungi manipulate host chemical communication by affecting cuticular hydrocarbons and pheromone production, while various eukaryotic parasites influence insect behavior by affecting the production of pheromones and other chemical cues. Understanding the molecular mechanisms behind these pathogen-mediated behavioral changes and the dynamic relationships between pathogens and hosts is still limited. Further understanding of these mechanisms will be crucial in developing practical applications to control harmful insect species.