Transovarial transmission of a core virome in the Chagas disease vector Rhodnius prolixus

Triatomine assassin bugs comprise hematophagous insect vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi , the causative agent Chagas disease. Although microbiome these species has been investigated to some extent, only one virus infecting Triatoma infestans identified date. Here, we describe for first time seven (+) single-strand RNA viruses (RpV1-7) Rhodnius prolixus a primary vector disease in Central and South America. We show that RpVs belong Iflaviridae Permutotetraviridae Solemoviridae are vertically transmitted from mothers progeny via transovarial transmission. Consistent with this, all RpVs, except RpV2 is related entomopathogenic Slow bee paralysis virus, established persistent infections our R . colony. Furthermore, ovaries express 22-nucleotide viral siRNAs (vsiRNAs), but not piRNAs, originate processing dsRNA intermediates during replication RpVs. Interestingly, permutotetraviruses sobemoviruses display shared pools vsiRNAs might provide basis cross-immunity system. The maternally deposited eggs, where they likely contribute reduce load protect developing embryos. Our results unveil complex core virome begin shed light on RNAi-based antiviral defenses triatomines.