Anticoagulant resistance linked to the Tyr139Phe mutation discovered in Czech house mice.
A recent study reveals the presence of the Tyr139Phe mutation associated with widespread anticoagulant resistance, emphasizing the need for revised pest control methods.
Despite the widespread use of anticoagulants for pest control, instances of resistant rodent populations are raising concerns among researchers. A new study has shed light on this issue by identifying the Tyr139Phe mutation within the VKORC1 gene among house mice (Mus musculus musculus) across the Czech Republic. This discovery marks significant progress, as it highlights the prevalence of genetic resistance occurring within this region's rodent populations.
Anticoagulant rodenticides have been the go-to solution for controlling commensal rodent pests since their introduction, but they pose risks such as secondary poisoning and developing resistance. This study emphasizes the consequences of these challenges, especially as rodent populations adapt to prolonged exposure to such chemicals.
For many years, attention has predominantly focused on Western European house mouse populations (Mus musculus domesticus), leaving Eastern European variants less explored until now. Researchers sampled house mice from various sites, including farms and grain stores, to analyze the genetic factors contributing to their survival against anticoagulant treatments, leading to the identification of the Tyr139Phe mutation.
Significantly, the study found this mutation prevalent, detected in 80.2% of the 86 individuals sampled. This is particularly alarming, considering the mutation's implication for controlling resistant mouse populations and maintaining effective rodenticide use.
Research efforts culminated between 2018 and 2023, with lab studies validating the mutation's resistance capabilities using bromadiolone-based baits. The findings affirmed, "All resistant homozygous individuals survived, whereas all susceptible mice died, with a mean survival of 6.9 days."
The study also contributed to the broader scientific conversation, as stated by the authors, "This study provides not only the first record of AR resistance in house mice in the Czech Republic but also the first evidence of the differences of the VKORC1 genotype of the Eastern European house mouse subspecies." These findings necessitate fresh perspectives on rodent control strategies.
Exploring the distribution of VKORC1 mutations, the researchers identified additional synonymous mutations specific to the M. m. musculus subspecies, indicating any genetic variation not previously documented within the Eastern European rodent populations.
This research is of great importance as resistant rodents can survive longer and may carry trace residues of the anticoagulants, raising risks for wildlife predators. Such variations complicate pest management strategies and highlight the need for monitoring resistance development.
Researchers now call for adaptations to rodenticide strategies moving forward, asserting the necessity to reassess the efficacy of commonly used rodenticides like bromadiolone for the Czech house mouse populations as their resistance compounds proliferate. These genetic insights serve as the cornerstone for developing targeted pest management practices.
Overall, this study sheds light on the increasing resistance among rodents to anticoagulant rodenticides, combining genetic analysis with ecological monitoring. The results not only fill geographical gaps but also signal the broader urgency of reassessing rodent pest control practices across Europe.
Addressing the challenge of rodenticide resistance requires innovative solutions and flexible strategies, aiming to balance agricultural productivity and public health safety. The findings from this research underline the need to pave the way for more effective management of resistant house mouse populations, fostering safer ecosystems for both humans and wildlife.