Molecular Monitoring of Knockdown Resistance in Head Louse (Phthiraptera: Pediculidae) Populations in Iran

Abstract Knockdown resistance (kdr) is a common mechanism of insecticide in head lice to the conventionally used pyrethroid pediculosis and can be result various amino acid substitutions within voltage-sensitive sodium channel (VSSC). In this study, 54 sequences from varied specimens were investigated monitor well-known mutations probable new mutations. The Pediculus humanus capitis de Geer collected 13 provinces Iran. stored 70% ethanol until DNA extraction PCR amplification ~900-bp fragment VSSC. analyzed using different bioinformatics software for detection kdr additional potentially associated with lice. There six an old (haplotype I) haplotypes Iranian louse population. K794E, F815I, N818D reported first time. P813H mutation was most prevalent substitution eight provinces. Among 53 sequences, 26 (49%) homozygous susceptible, 27 (51%) heterozygotes. Thus, 51% Iran harbored only allele. exact test Hardy–Weinberg (H–W) equilibrium showed that genotype frequencies differed significantly expectation East-Azerbaijan Tehran Moreover, these populations had inbreeding coefficient (Fis) <0, indicating excess This observation suggests are currently under active selective pressure. For rest populations, H–W expectations harmony. results current study highlight molecular techniques accurate genotypes before their establishment Accurate resistant seems helpful decision-making on control programs monitoring management.