| abstract |
The present invention relates to Anopheles gambiae odorant receptor genes and methods for identifying odorant receptor genes. The invention provides nucleotide sequences of Anopheles gambiae odorant receptor genes, amino acid sequences of their encoded proteins (including peptides or polypeptides), and related products and methods. The nucleic acids of the invention may be operatively linked to promoter sequences and transformed into host cells. Methods of production of an odorant receptor protein (e.g., by recombinant means), and derivatives and analogs thereof, are provided. Antibodies to an odorant receptor protein, and derivatives and analogs thereof, are provided. Methods for identifying molecules that bind or modulate the activity of these odorant receptor genes are provided. Molecules found to bind or modulate the activity of odorant receptor genes may be formulated into pest control agents by providing a carrier. In a preferred embodiment, molecules that bind or modulate the activity of an odorant receptor gene from Anopheles gambiae but not others is desired. Methods to modify the insect behavior by modifying an odorant receptor are also provided. |