Abstract
Background: Triatoma rubrofasciata is an obligate hematophagous insect and a primary vector of Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas disease, with a widespread global distribution. In addition to Try. cruzi, T. rubrofasciata also serves as a vector for various other pathogens, including Try. lewisi, Try. conorhini, and Bartonella species. Despite its increasing epidemiological relevance in the transmission of multiple diseases, research on T. rubrofasciata remains limited. Results: Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were associated with growth, development, carbohydrate metabolism, and immunity. Notably, homeobox protein genes, including homeobox protein Nkx-6.2-like, homeobox protein abdominal-B isoform X1, homeobox protein Hox-A3-like, and Hox-B4-like, along with E3 ubiquitin protein ligase genes and sexual differentiation-related genes, such as male-specific lethal 1-like 1 isoform X3 (MSL), transformer-2 protein homolog beta-like isoform X2 (tra-2), and doublesex- and mab-3-related transcription factor A2-like (dsx), were highly expressed in the egg stage. Additionally, venom-related genes, including venom histidine phosphatase-like protein 1 and venom serine carboxypeptidase-like, were predominantly expressed in nymphal stages 4 and 5, while cytochrome P450 CYP425A1v2 exhibited high expression levels in the adult stages. Among these DEGs, we propose that homeobox protein genes, dsx, tra-2, and others may serve as candidate genes involved in growth, development, and sexual differentiation. This study provides valuable insights into gene expression dynamics during T. rubrofasciata development and establishes a foundation for future functional research on this species. Conclusions: In this study, we sequenced the complete developmental stages of T. rubrofasciata using HiSeq technology. Our findings offer novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying development and sex regulation in this species. Furthermore, the identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) may serve as potential targets for innovative pest control strategies.