Sex-Manipulating Microbes

We are a research team at the National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO), dedicated to exploring sex-manipulating microbes within arthropod cells and their impact on the evolution of arthropods. These symbiotic microbes manipulate host biology to their advantage, exemplifying what Richard Dawkins described as extended phenotypes. By investigating the mechanisms behind these interactions, we aim to unravel the intricacies of host-symbiont relationships and their evolutionary origins. A deeper understanding of these processes may pave the way for innovative strategies to manage insect pests or enhance the utility of beneficial insects.