D3187: Phenotypic response of Wolbachia pipientis in supplemented cell-free culture media

Wolbachia pipientis, a promising alternative to conventional methods of vector control, is an obligate intracellular bacterium found in >55% of insects, as well as filarial nematodes and terrestrial crustaceans. Developing a methodology to culture Wolbachia outside of its host cell will facilitate the transinfection of novel hosts and the genetic transformation of Wolbachia for investigation novel insect and disease control strategies, while also contributing to a better understanding of Wolbachia metabolism and Wolbachia-induced reproductive modifications. Here we have systematically tested the effect of pH, casamino acid concentration, and cell extracts on the phenotypic response of Wolbachia in a cell free media. Increased Wolbachia survivorship was observed at certain supplementation levels; however, no there was no Wolbachia replication. Further systematic testing is needed to determine additional media components and conditions that will support Wolbachia survivorship and replication outside of its host cell.