Honors College Theses
Publication Date
4-15-2025
Major
Biology (B.S.B.)
Release Option
Open Access
Faculty Mentor
Dr. J. Scott Harrison
Abstract
Although commonly referred to as the powerhouse of the cell, mitochondrial function is not limited to aerobic energy production. Mitochondria are involved in many important processes, including apoptosis regulation, calcium uptake and signaling, immune response, and embryonic development. Mitochondrial copy number (MCN) contributes to health and disease and can change in response to environmental or cellular conditions. The dynamics of mitochondrial copy number may provide insight into mechanisms of mitochondrial health, with higher numbers associated with greater mitochondrial membrane potential, respiratory enzyme functioning, and energy reserves. However, limited information is known about the use of mitochondria in Arthropods during development within the egg. In this study, we quantify mitochondrial copy number changes in the brown widow spider (Latrodectus geometricus) between sexes and in response to temperature stress using Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR). The sexual dimorphism study indicated that males had higher MCN than females. Temperature stress induced an early increase in MCN at 8 days, followed by a decline to pre-treatment levels by 34 days of exposure. Furthermore, hot temperature stress led to a greater increase in MCN than cold temperature stress at 8 days.
Recommended Citation
Vining, Victoria, "Temperature Stress and Sex Influence Mitochondrial Copy Number in the Brown Widow Spider" (2025). Honors College Theses. 1046.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/honors-theses/1046
