| Abstract |
Insect cell lines are convenient and powerful tools that were initially
used in viral propagation, optimization of viral pesticides, cell-virus
interactions, and recombinant protein productions. The most commonly used
cell lines were initiated from embryonic tissues, nervous system, and
ovarian tissues. Although the midgut is known as the main entry of
pathogens and pest control chemicals, few cell lines have been established
from midgut tissues of economically important pests. My project focused on
establishing midgut cell lines from four select species, including western
corn rootworm, southern green stinkbug, green stinkbug, and fall armyworm.
I in total initiated 317 cell cultures from the four insect species, of
these 21 promising cell cultures are still being carefully maintained. I
established two midgut cell lines from the fall armyworm that are
continuously replicating. Additionally, experiences and new insights of
cell culture initiations from western corn rootworm and (southern) green
stinkbug were gained. Characterization of the two SfMG cell lines verified
their identities belonging to S. frugiperda. The doubling time of the two
cell lines indicate they are relatively fast replicating. I optimized the
cell cytotoxicity assay based on cell sensitivity and linear relationship
for use in future toxin-screening assays.
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