Date of Award

Spring 5-4-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Chemistry

First Advisor

Dr. Matthew Rouhier

Abstract

As the health burden of mosquito-borne illnesses worsens, there is an urgent need to develop new and more effective insecticides. The mosquito excretory system is highly specialized and therefore may serve as a potential insecticide target. The movement of ions by the Malpighian tubules from the hemolymph to the primary urine is critical to eliminate the large amount of salt and water taken in by the mosquito during a blood meal. Here we describe the discovery of a unique molecule, Thioflavin T, that is fatal (LD50 = 422 fmol) and prevents urine excretion when injected at concentrations of 0.50 and 0.75 mM. Through toxicology and urine assay experiments, the significant effects of Thioflavin T on urine and ion excretion were characterized. This study also establishes a foundation for studying the in vivo effects of known transporter inhibitors such as bumetanide and niflumic acid. Our data suggests Thioflavin T may be categorized as a new class of diuretic inhibitor. Further research may elucidate Thioflavin T’s specific mechanism of action and contribute to the development of novel insecticides.

Rights Statement

All rights reserved. This copy is provided to the Kenyon Community solely for individual academic use. For any other use, please contact the copyright holder for permission.

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Available for download on Friday, November 05, 2027

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