Wolbachiainfected

Wolbachia are a group of intracellular bacteria in the genus Wolbachia that commonly infect arthropods and some nematodes. Wolbachia-infected organisms harbor these endosymbionts in their cells, often within specialized tissues such as bacteriocytes. The bacteria are typically transmitted from mother to offspring through the cytoplasm of eggs, with occasional horizontal transfer reported between species.

Across many insect species, Wolbachia induce reproductive alterations such as cytoplasmic incompatibility, feminization of genetic males, parthenogenesis, or male killing. These manipulations can promote the spread of Wolbachia through populations and can influence host population dynamics. The effects are strain- and host-dependent and are not universally harmful to the host.

In arthropods, certain Wolbachia strains can reduce host susceptibility to viral infections by blocking pathogen replication, a feature that has spurred interest in vector-control strategies. In filarial nematodes, Wolbachia are essential mutualists; the bacteria contribute to the worm's nutrition and development, and antibiotics targeting Wolbachia can sterilize or kill adult worms, providing a therapeutic approach to diseases such as lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis.

Applications in public health include releasing Wolbachia-infected insects to suppress disease transmission or to replace native populations with disease-refractory lines, aiming to reduce pathogens such as dengue and Zika. Ongoing research assesses ecological safety, the stability of Wolbachia infections in wild populations, and potential effects on non-target species.