Insect P450 enzymes

Ecotoxicological multilevel-evaluation of the effects of fenbendazole exposure to Chironomus riparius larvae

Veterinary antibiotics may find their way into the aquatic environment through direct or indirect pathways due to their widespread use. Fenbendazole is a benzimidazole anthelmintic that is widely used in veterinary medicine. To evaluate the potential ecological risk of fenbendazole, we examined the molecular and biochemical responses of biomarker genes such as heat shock proteins (HSPs), cytochrome P450 (CYP450), glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) and hemoglobins (Hbs) in Chironomus riparius for long periods. The expression of HSP70, HSP40, HSP90 and CYP450 in C. riparius increased significantly after exposure to all concentrations of fenbendazole evaluated, while the levels of GST and HbA only increased in C. riparius exposed to relatively high concentrations of fenbendazole (30 microg L(-1)). HbB expression did not differ significantly between the control and treatment groups. Exposure to 30 microg L(-1) fenbendazole had significant effects on the survival, growth, sex balance of emergent adults and development of mouthpart deformity in C. riparius. These results should constitute an important contribution to the understanding of the toxicology of fenbendazole in C. riparius. Moreover, the responses of the biomarker genes also provide valuable information that will aid in understanding the effects of fenbendazole in aquatic ecosystems.

Transcriptional profiling of the sperm storage organs of Drosophila melanogaster

The occurrence of female sperm storage across taxa indicates the importance of this complex and dynamic process. Organs responsible for sperm storage (SSOs) and proteins expressed therein, are important in fundamental aspects of reproduction and could play a major role in evolutionary processes such as post-mating sexual selection. Given the essential role of SSOs, it is surprising that the process of sperm storage is so poorly understood. This study investigated the transcriptome of female Drosophila melanogaster SSOs (seminal receptacle and spermathecae). Spermathecae were enriched for proteases and metabolic enzymes while the seminal receptacle was enriched for genes involved in localization, signaling and ion transport. Differences in functional gene categories indicate that these organs play unique roles in sperm storage.

Mechanistic approach to understanding the toxicity of the azole fungicide triadimefon to a nontarget aquatic insect and implications for exposure assessment

Mechanistic and stereoselective based in vitro metabolism assays were utlilized to gain insight into the toxic mode of action of the 1,2,4-triazole fungicide, triadimefon, with black fly (Diptera: Simuliidae) larvae. Based on results from enzyme inhibitor studies, the metabolism of triadimefon in black fly larvae microsomes was found to occur predominantly via an oxidative P450-mediated pathway; triadimenol was formed via the stereoselective reduction of the prochiral carbonyl group of triadimefon. The relatively minor contribution of carbonyl reduction suggests that triadimefon may inhibit ecdysone 20-monooxygenase and disrupt insect molting hormone biosynthesis. 48-h LC50 tests for triadimefon and triadimenol with black fly larvae yielded median values (with 95% confidence intervals) of 6.1 (5.8-6.4) and 22.3 (20.3-24.1) mg/L respectively. The exposure of black fly larvae to sublethal concentrations of triadimefon resulted in increased microsomal P450 activity and affected the microsomal rates of both triadimefon depletion and triadimenol formation. In contrast to trout, black fly larvae produced a higher fraction of the more toxic triadimenol stereoisomers, which may explain in part why triadimefon exhibited a significantly greater toxicity with black fly larvae than trout. These results illustrate that while LC50 tests conducted with commercial triadimenol would presumably expose each organism to the same relative abundance of the four triadimenol stereoisomers, LC50 tests with triadimefon ultimately expose each organism to a unique set of triadimenol stereoisomers depending upon the organism's stereoselective metabolism.

Development of resistance to cyfluthrin and naphthalene among Daphnia magna

In this study, Daphnia magna were exposed to a pyrethroid insecticide (cyfluthrin) or a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (naphthalene) for 12 generations to evaluate development of resistance followed by a 12 generation recovery period. Twenty-four hour old D. magna were exposed to concentrations of each chemical resulting in 50-70% mortality to select for the least sensitive individuals. LC50 values, survival, reproductive output, and time to first brood in stressor-exposed and control D. magna were recorded for each generation. Significant changes in LC50 values were observed after 4 generations and then declined after 6-10 generations post-exposure. D. magna were 5 times less sensitive to cyfluthrin and 3 times less sensitive to naphthalene as compared to controls after 12 generations of exposure. There were no differences in survival, time to first brood, or total number of offspring produced between control and either of the resistant F13 D. magna. Cyfluthrin exposed D. magna exhibited cross-resistance to DDT and methyl parathion, and naphthalene resistant D. magna were less sensitive than controls to both pyrene and benz(a)anthracene. When the cytochrome P450 inhibitor piperonyl butoxide was used in conjunction with cyfluthrin and naphthalene the sensitivity of resistant and control D. magna were equal, suggesting P450s were responsible for conveying resistance. This study demonstrates that life history and organisms' capacity to develop resistance is important to consider ensuring accuracy of ecological risk assessments.

Molecular analysis of knock down resistance (kdr) mutation and distribution of kdr genotypes in a wild population of Culex quinquefasciatus from India

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the presence of knock down resistance (kdr) mutation, its frequency distribution in the principal vector of bancroftian filariasis, Culex quinquefasciatus from northeastern India, and to relate kdr genotypes with susceptibility and/or resistance to DDT and deltamethrin in this vectors.

METHODS

Adult female mosquitoes were collected by aspiration from human dwellings in two villages, Benganajuli and Rikamari, and two military establishments, Field Units I and II. Insecticide susceptibility tests were performed following WHO methods with 4% DDT and 0.05% deltamethrin. Molecular identification of kdr mutation and genotyping of kdr locus was performed by allele-specific PCR (AS-PCR) and direct sequencing in a subset of samples.

RESULTS

Mosquitoes were resistant to DDT and showed 11.9-41.2% mortality, whereas the knock down bioassay for deltamethrin suggests complete susceptibility to this insecticide in all study sites except Benganajuli. The result of AS-PCR confirmed the presence of three genotypes: susceptible (SS), resistant (RR) and heterozygous (SR) in the population. Genotype frequencies at kdr locus for DDT-resistant individuals conformed with the Hardy-Weinberg proportion, whereas DDT and deltamethrin susceptible individuals differed significantly (P < 0.05). The efficacy of AS-PCR in detecting the correct genotype was not encouraging.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report from India on kdr genotyping in C. quinquefasciatus, and it confirms the occurrence of kdr allele in this vector in northeastern India. This finding has serious implications for the filariasis control programmes in India.

Characterization of multiple CYP9A genes in the silkworm, Bombyx mori

Based on the advances in the silkworm genome project, a new genome-wide analysis of cytochrome P450 genes was performed, focusing mainly on gene duplication. All four CYP9A subfamily members from the silkworm, Bombyx mori, were cloned by RT-PCR and designated CYP9A19-CYP9A22 by the P450 Nomenclature Committee. They each contain an open reading frame of 1,593 bp in length and encode a putative polypeptide of 531 amino acids. Both nucleic acid and amino acid sequences share very high identities with one another. The typical motifs of insect cytochrome P450, including the heme-binding region, helix-C, helix-I, helix-K, and PERF, show high sequence conservation among the multiple proteins. Alignment with their cDNA sequences revealed that these paralogues share identical gene structures, each comprising ten exons and nine introns of variable sizes. The locations of their introns (all nine introns follow the GT-AG rule) are absolutely conserved. CYP9A19, CYP9A20, and CYP9A21 form a tandem cluster on chromosome 17, whereas CYP9A22 is separated from the cluster by four tandem alcohol-dehydrogenase-like genes. Their phylogenetic relationships and structural comparisons indicated that these paralogues arose as the results of gene duplication events. RT-PCR detected their mRNAs in different "first line of defense" tissues, as well as in several other organs, suggesting diverse functions. Tissue-selective expression also indicates their functional divergence. The identified CYP9A genes have not yet been found outside the Lepidoptera, and are probably unique to the Lepidoptera. They show high sequence and structural similarities to each other, indicating that the Lepidoptera-specific P450s may be of functional importance. This analysis constitutes the first report of the clustering, spatial organization, and functional divergence of P450 in the silkworm.

Insecticide resistance and detoxifying enzyme activity in the principal bancroftian filariasis vector, Culex quinquefasciatus, in northeastern India

The insecticide resistance status of Culex quinquefasciatus Say (Diptera: Culicidae) to DDT and deltamethrin across army cantonments and neighbouring villages in northeastern India was investigated. In India, DDT is still the insecticide of choice for public health programmes. In military stations, pyrethroids, especially deltamethrins, are used for insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). Recent information on the levels of resistance to DDT and deltamethrin in mosquito populations of northeastern India is scare. Continued monitoring of insecticide resistance status, identification of the underlying mechanisms of resistance in local mosquito populations and the establishment of a baseline data bank of this information are of prime importance. Insecticide susceptibility assays were performed on wild-caught adult female Cx. quinquefasciatus mosquitoes to the discriminating doses recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to DDT (4%) and deltamethrin (0.05%). Across all study sites, mortality as a result of DDT varied from 11.9 to 50.0%, as compared with 91.2% in the susceptible laboratory strain (S-Lab), indicating that Cx. quinquefasciatus is resistant to DDT. The species was found to be 100% susceptible to deltamethrin in all study sites except Benganajuli and Rikamari. Knock-down times (KDT) in response to deltamethrin varied significantly between study sites (P < 0.01) from 8.3 to 17.8 min for KDT(50) and 37.4 to 69.5 min for KDT(90). All populations exceeded the threshold level of alpha-esterase, beta-esterase and glutathion S-transferase (GST) established for the S-Lab susceptible strain, and all populations had 100% elevated esterase and GST activity, except Missamari and Solmara. Beta-esterase activity in Field Unit II (96.9%) was less than in any of the other populations. Benganajuli had the highest activity level for all the enzymes tested. There was a significant correlation between all enzyme activity levels and insecticide resistance phenotype by populations (P < 0.05). The results presented here provide the first report and baseline information of the insecticide resistance status of Cx. quinquefasciatus in northeastern India, and associated information about biochemical mechanisms that are essential for monitoring the development of insecticide resistance in the area.

Energetic costs of detoxification systems in herbivores feeding on chemically defended host plants: a correlational study in the grain aphid, Sitobion avenae

Herbivorous insects have developed mechanisms to cope with plant barriers,including enzymatic systems to detoxify plant allelochemicals. Detoxification systems may be induced when insects are feeding on plants with increasing levels of allelochemicals. Increases in enzymatic activity have been related to energetic costs, and therefore less energy may be allocated to fitness-related traits. In this study, we explored the induction and energetic costs of detoxifying hydroxamic acids (Hx; a wheat allelochemical) in the grain aphid, Sitobion avenae. Aphids were reared on three wheat cultivars with different levels of Hx (0.26±0.08, 2.09±0.6 and 5.91±1.18 mmol kg–1 fresh mass). We performed a nested ANOVA to test the effect of Hx (main factor) and intrahost variation (nested factor) on body mass, standard metabolic rate (SMR) and the enzymatic activity of cytochrome P450s monooxygenases (P450s), glutathione S-transferases (GSTs)and esterases (ESTs). We found non-significant effects of Hx levels(P&gt;0.5 for all tests), but there was significant intrahost variation (P&lt;0.05 for all tests). In addition, we found a negative correlation between SMR and ESTs (P=0.003) and no correlation between SMR and GSTs or P450s (P=n.s after a Bonferroni correction). Multiple regression between SMR (dependent variable) and enzymatic activities(predictor variables) was significant (P=0.007), but detoxification enzymes only explained about 5% of the variation of SMR. Finally, we found a non-significant path coefficient between `metabolism' and `detoxifying capacity' (P&gt;0.05). These results suggest that increased enzymatic activities do not entail increased metabolic rate. Therefore, low energetic costs in aphids would facilitate the use of different hosts and promote a wider ecological niche.

Heme-binding storage proteins in the Chelicerata

Lipoglycoproteins in the Chelicerata that bind and store heme appear to represent a unique evolutionary strategy to both mitigate the toxicity of heme and utilize the molecule as a prosthetic group. Knowledge of heme-binding storage proteins in these organisms is in its infancy and much of what is known is from studies with vitellogenins (Vg) and more recently the main hemolymph storage protein in ixodid ticks characterized as a hemelipoglyco-carrier protein (CP). Data have also been reported from another arachnid, the black widow spider, Latrodectus mirabilis, and seem to suggest that the heme-binding capability of these large multimeric proteins is not a phenomenon found only in the Acari. CP appears to be most closely related to Vg in ticks in terms of primary structure but post-translational processing is different. Tick CP and L. mirabilis high-density lipoprotein 1 (HDL1) are similar in that they consist of two subunits of approximate molecular masses of 90 and 100 kDa, are found in the hemolymph as the dominant protein, and bind lipids, carbohydrates and cholesterol. CP binds heme which may also be the case for HDL1 since the protein was found to contain a brown pigment when analyzed by native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Vgs in ticks are composed of multiple subunits and are the precursor of the yolk protein, vitellin. The phylogeny of these proteins, regulation of gene expression and putative functions of binding and storing heme throughout reproduction, blood-feeding and development are discussed. Comparisons with non-chelicerate arthropods are made in order to highlight the mechanisms and putative functions of heme-binding storage proteins and their possible critical function in the evolution of hematophagy.

Larvicidal and oviposition-altering activity of monoterpenoids, trans-anithole and rosemary oil to the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)

BACKGROUND

Aedes aegypti L. is the major vector of dengue fever and dengue hemorrhagic fever. In an effort to find effective tools for control programs to reduce mosquito populations, the authors assessed the acute toxicities of 14 monoterpenoids, trans-anithole and the essential oil of rosemary against different larval stages of Ae. aegypti. The potential for piperonyl butoxide (PBO) to act as a synergist for these compounds to increase larvicidal activity was also examined, and the oviposition response of gravid Ae. aegypti females to substrates containing these compounds was evaluated in behavioral bioassays.

RESULTS

Pulegone, thymol, eugenol, trans-anithole, rosemary oil and citronellal showed high larvicidal activity against all larval stages of Ae. aegypti (LC(50) values 10.3-40.8 mg L(-1)). The addition of PBO significantly increased the larvicidal activity of all test compounds (3-250-fold). Eugenol, citronellal, thymol, pulegone, rosemary oil and cymene showed oviposition deterrent and/or repellent activities, while the presence of borneol, camphor and beta-pinene increased the number of eggs laid in test containers.

CONCLUSIONS

This study quantified the lethal and sublethal effects of several phytochemical compounds against all larval stages of Aedes aegypti, providing information that ultimately may have potential in mosquito control programs through acute toxicity and/or the ability to alter reproductive behaviors.

Synergist efficacy of piperonyl butoxide with deltamethrin as pyrethroid insecticide on Culex tritaeniorhynchus (Diptera: Culicidae) and other mosquitoe species

Continuous and indiscriminate use of pesticides, especially in tropical countries for public health or agriculture purpose, has led many vector populations to become resistant to organochlorides, organophosphates, and even to carbamates and pyrethroids. Development of resistance by a vector population has been one of the reasons for the failure of the control measures in many countries. This investigation demonstrates the efficacy of piperonyl-butoxide (PBO) with deltamethrin, as pyrethroid insecticide, against the field-collected mosquitoe larvae of five species, Aedes aegypti, Anopheles culicifacies, An. stephensi, An. vagus, and Culex quinqufasciatus, and two morphological variants of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus (type A from grand pools of Mysore city and type B from rice fields of Mandya district). For testing the synergistic effect of PBO, stock solutions of deltamethrin and PBO were mixed in 1:6 ratio. The synergistic ratio and the percent suppression in deltamethrin tolerance were calculated by using LC(50) values. From the results, it is clear that, PBO is an effective synergist with deltamethrin against all of species undertaken in this investigation. So, it is suggested that PBO is a good synergist in this area for decreasing the use of pesticides in environment in vector control.

Dehydration, rehydration, and overhydration alter patterns of gene expression in the Antarctic midge, Belgica antarctica

We investigated molecular responses elicited by three types of dehydration (fast, slow and cryoprotective), rehydration and overhydration in larvae of the Antarctic midge, Belgica antarctica. The larvae spend most the year encased in ice but during the austral summer are vulnerable to summer storms, osmotic stress from ocean spray and drying conditions due to wind and intense sunlight. Using suppressive subtractive hybridization (SSH), we obtained clones that were potentially responsive to dehydration and then used northern blots to evaluate the gene's responsiveness to different dehydration rates and hydration states. Among the genes most responsive to changes in the hydration state were those encoding heat shock proteins (smHsp, Hsp70, Hsp90), antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, catalase), detoxification (metallothionein, cytochrome p450), genes involved in altering cell membranes (fatty acid desaturase, phospholipase A2 activating protein, fatty acyl CoA desaturase) and the cytoskeleton (actin, muscle-specific actin), and several additional genes including a zinc-finger protein, pacifastin and VATPase. Among the three types of dehydration evaluated, fast dehydration elicited the strongest response (more genes, higher expression), followed by cryoprotective dehydration and slow dehydration. During rehydration most, but not all, genes that were expressed during dehydration continued to be expressed; fatty acid desaturase was the only gene to be uniquely upregulated in response to rehydration. All genes examined, except VATPase, were upregulated in response to overhydration. The midge larvae are thus responding quickly to water loss and gain by expressing genes that encode proteins contributing to maintenance of proper protein function, protection and overall cell homeostasis during times of osmotic flux, a challenge that is particularly acute in this Antarctic environment.

RNA interference-mediated knockdown of a cytochrome P450, CYP6BG1, from the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella, reduces larval resistance to permethrin

We have previously reported that a cytochrome P450, CYP6BG1, from Plutella xylostella was found to be overexpressed in 4th instars of a permethrin resistant strain and inducible in the susceptible counterpart. The findings suggested potential involvement of CYP6BG1 in permethrin resistance, hence warranted a functional analysis. To assess the functional link of the gene to permethrin resistance, we adopted RNA interference-mediated gene silencing (RNAi) by dsRNA droplet feeding. Here, real time PCR analyses show that oral delivery of dsRNA can efficiently reduce the expression of CYP6BG1. Knockdown of CYP6BG1 transcript was evident in midgut and larval tissues enclosed in carcass. As a consequence of knockdown, a significant reduction in resistance of larvae fed CYP6BG1 dsRNA was observed after 24 and 48h of exposure to permethrin. In addition, CYP6BG1 dsRNA feeding to larvae led to reduced total P450 activities of microsomal preparations toward model substrates p-nitroanisole and benzyloxyresorufin. These results indicate that the overexpressed CYP6BG1 participate in enhanced metabolism of permethrin, thereby, resistance. The knockdown of a non-overexpressed P450, CYP6BF1v4, from the same resistant P. xylostella strain did not lead to changes in the level of resistance to permethrin, supporting further the specific involvement of CYP6BG1 in the resistance.

Antagonistic, stage-specific selection on defensive chemical sequestration in a toxic butterfly

Larvae of the pipevine swallowtail (Battus philenor) sequester toxic alkaloids called aristolochic acids from their Aristolochia host plants, rendering both larvae and adults chemically defended against most predators. Using a chemically controlled artificial diet, we observed substantial among-family variation in sequestration ability and larval developmental rate in a population occurring in central Texas. Early instar larvae from families that sequester greater amounts of aristolochic acid showed increased survivorship in a field experiment in which cohorts from each family were exposed to natural predators, whereas among-family variation in growth rate did not predict survivorship. Conversely, the aristolochic acid content of adult butterflies was negatively correlated with adult fat content, a fitness correlate. Sequestration ability positively affects the probability of larval survivorship, but at the cost of adult fat content. The costs and benefits of aristolochic acid sequestration vary during the course of the butterfly's development, and these antagonistic selection pressures may explain why variation in sequestration ability persists in wild populations.

Characterization of Anopheles minimus CYP6AA3 expressed in a recombinant baculovirus system

Metabolism by cytochrome P450 monooxygenases is a major mechanism implicated in resistance of insects to insecticides, including pyrethroids. We previously isolated the cytochrome P450 CYP6AA3 from deltamethrin-selected resistant strain of Anopheles minimus mosquito, a major malaria vector in Thailand. In the present study, we further investigated the role of CYP6AA3 enzyme in deltamethrin metabolism in vitro. The CYP6AA3 was expressed in Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) insect cells via baculovirus-mediated expression system. The enzymatic activity of CYP6AA3 in deltamethrin metabolism was characterized after being reconstituted with An. minimus NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase and a NADPH-regenerating system. The contribution of CYP6AA3 responsible for deltamethrin metabolism was determined by measurement of deltamethrin disappearance following the incubation period and deltamethrin-derived compounds were detected using combined gas chromatography mass spectrometry analysis. 3-Phenoxybenzaldehyde was a major product of CYP6AA3-mediated deltamethrin metabolism. Deltamethrin degradation and formation of metabolites were NADPH-dependent and inhibited by piperonyl butoxide. Deltamethrin was catalyzed by CYP6AA3 with an apparent K(m) of 80.0 +/- 2.0 and V(max) of 60.2 +/- 3.6 pmol/min/pmol P450. Furthermore, deltamethrin cytotoxicity assays by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and trypan blue dye exclusion were examined in Sf9 insect cells, with and without expression of CYP6AA3. Results revealed that CYP6AA3 could play a role in detoxifying deltamethrin in the cells. Thus, the results of this study support the role of CYP6AA3 in deltamethrin metabolism.

Transcriptomic profiles of Drosophila melanogaster third instar larval midgut and responses to oxidative stress

Oligoarray analysis was used to determine the number and nature of genes expressed in third instar Drosophila melanogaster larval midguts. The majority of transcripts were associated with protein synthesis and metabolism. Serine proteases were the main proteolytic enzymes detected. Some 40% of the cytochrome P450 genes and 74% of the glutathione S transferases (GSTs) in the genome of D. melanogaster were observed to be expressed in the midgut by oligoarray analysis. We also identified potential transcription factor binding motifs (TFBMs) of P450s, GSTs and carboxylesterases. Many of the midgut-expressed GST genes contained candidate TFBMs homologous to TFBMs in mammals that have been associated with responses to oxidative stress. We also investigated the response of GSTs in the midgut to dietary H2O2, which showed a dosage-based differential response.

The effect of varying alkaloid concentrations on the feeding behavior of gypsy moth larvae, Lymantria dispar (L.) (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae)

Nine alkaloids (acridine, aristolochic acid, atropine, berberine, caffeine, nicotine, scopolamine, sparteine, and strychnine) were evaluated as feeding deterrents for gypsy moth larvae (Lymantria dispar (L.); Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae). Our aim was to determine and compare the taste threshold concentrations, as well as the ED(50) values, of the nine alkaloids to determine their potency as feeding deterrents. The alkaloids were applied to disks cut from red oak leaves (Quercus rubra) (L.), a plant species highly favored by larvae of this polyphagous insect species. We used two-choice feeding bioassays to test a broad range of biologically relevant alkaloid concentrations spanning five logarithmetic steps. We observed increasing feeding deterrent responses for all the alkaloids tested and found that the alkaloids tested exhibited different deterrency threshold concentrations ranging from 0.1 mM to 10 mM. In conclusion, it appears that this generalist insect species bears a relatively high sensitivity to these alkaloids, which confirms behavioral observations that it avoids foliage containing alkaloids. Berberine and aristolochic acid were found to have the lowest ED(50) values and were the most potent antifeedants.

Juvenile hormone titers and caste differentiation in the damp-wood termite Hodotermopsis sjostedti (Isoptera, Termopsidae)

Termites are social insects, presenting morphologically distinct castes, performing specific tasks in the colony. The developmental processes underlying caste differentiation are mainly controlled by juvenile hormone (JH). Although many fragmentary data support this fact, there was no comparative work on JH titers during the caste differentiation processes. In this study, JH titer variation was investigated using a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) quantification method in all castes of the Japanese damp-wood termite Hodotermopsis sjostedti, especially focusing on the soldier caste differentiation pathway, which was induced by treatment with a JH analog. Hemolymph JH titers fluctuated between 20 and 720pg/microl. A peak of JH was observed during molting events for the pseudergate stationary molt and presoldier differentiation, but this peak was absent prior to the imaginal molt. Soldier caste differentiation was generally associated with high JH titers and nymph to alate differentiation with low JH titers. However, JH titer rose in females during alate maturation, probably in relation to vitellogenesis. In comparison, JH titer was surprisingly low in neotenics. On the basis of these results in both natural and artificial conditions, the current model for JH action on termite caste differentiation is discussed and re-appraised.

Over-expression of cytochrome P450 CYP6CM1 is associated with high resistance to imidacloprid in the B and Q biotypes of Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae)

The two most damaging biotypes of Bemisia tabaci, B and Q, have both evolved strong resistance to the neonicotinoid insecticide imidacloprid. The major mechanism in all samples investigated so far appeared to be enhanced detoxification by cytochrome P450s monooxygenases (P450s). In this study, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology using degenerate primers based on conserved P450 helix I and heme-binding regions was employed to identify P450 cDNA sequences in B. tabaci that might be involved in imidacloprid resistance. Eleven distinct P450 cDNA sequences were isolated and classified as members of the CYP4 or CYP6 families. The mRNA expression levels of all 11 genes were compared by real-time quantitative RT-PCR across nine B and Q field-derived strains of B. tabaci showing strong resistance, moderate resistance or susceptibility to imidacloprid. We found that constitutive over-expression (up to approximately 17-fold) of a single P450 gene, CYP6CM1, was tightly related to imidacloprid resistance in both the B and Q biotypes. Next, we identified three single-nucleotide polymorphic (SNP) markers in the intron region of CYP6CM1 that discriminate between the resistant and susceptible Q-biotype CYP6CM1 alleles (r-Q and s-Q, respectively), and used a heterogeneous strain to test for association between r-Q and resistance. While survivors of a low imidacloprid dose carried both the r-Q and s-Q alleles, approximately 95% of the survivors of a high imidacloprid dose carried only the r-Q allele. Together with previous evidence, the results reported here identify enhanced activity of P450s as the major mechanism of imidacloprid resistance in B. tabaci, and the CYP6CM1 gene as a leading target for DNA-based screening for resistance to imidacloprid and possibly other neonicotinoids in field populations.

NADPH-cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase from the mosquito Anopheles minimus: kinetic studies and the influence of Leu86 and Leu219 on cofactor binding and protein stability

NADPH-cytochrome c oxidoreductase from the mosquito Anopheles minimus lacking the first 55 amino acid residues was expressed in Escherichia coli. The purified enzyme loses FMN, leading to an unstable protein and subsequent aggregation. To understand the basis for the instability, we constructed single and triple mutants of L86F, L219F, and P456A, with the first two residues in the FMN domain and the third in the FAD domain. The triple mutant was purified in high yield with stoichiometries of 0.97 FMN and 0.55 FAD. Deficiency in FAD content was overcome by addition of exogenous FAD to the enzyme. Both wild-type and the triple mutant follow a two-site Ping-Pong mechanism with similar kinetic constants arguing against any global structural changes. Analysis of the single mutants indicates that the proline to alanine substitution has no impact, but that both leucine to phenylalanine substitutions are essential for FMN binding and maximum stability of the enzyme.

Cyanogenesis in plants and arthropods

Cyanogenic glucosides are phytoanticipins known to be present in more than 2500 plant species. They are regarded as having an important role in plant defense against herbivores due to bitter taste and release of toxic hydrogen cyanide upon tissue disruption, but recent investigations demonstrate additional roles as storage compounds of reduced nitrogen and sugar that may be mobilized when demanded for use in primary metabolism. Some specialized herbivores, especially insects, preferentially feed on cyanogenic plants. Such herbivores have acquired the ability to metabolize cyanogenic glucosides or to sequester them for use in their own defense against predators. A few species of arthropods (within diplopods, chilopods and insects) are able to de novo biosynthesize cyanogenic glucosides and some are able to sequester cyanogenic glucosides from their food plant as well. This applies to larvae of Zygaena (Zygaenidae). The ratio and content of cyanogenic glucosides is tightly regulated in Zygaena filipendulae, and these compounds play several important roles in addition to defense in the life cycle of Zygaena. The transfer of a nuptial gift of cyanogenic glucosides during mating of Zygaena has been demonstrated as well as the involvement of hydrogen cyanide in male attraction and nitrogen metabolism. As more plant and arthropod species are examined, it is likely that cyanogenic glucosides are found to be more widespread than formerly thought and that cyanogenic glucosides are intricately involved in many key processes in the life cycle of plants and arthropods.

Characterization of inhibitors and substrates of Anopheles gambiae CYP6Z2

Three CYP6Z genes are linked to a major pyrethroid resistance locus in the mosquito Anopheles gambiae. We have expressed CYP6Z2 in Escherichia coli and produced a structural model in order to examine its role in detoxification. E. coli membranes co-expressing CYP6Z2 and An. gambiae P450 reductase (AgCPR) catalysed the dealkylation of benzyloxyresorufin with kinetic parameters K(m) = 0.13 microM; K(cat) = 1.5 min(-1). The IC(50) values of a wide range of compounds were measured. Pyrethroids cypermethrin and permethrin produced low IC(50) values, but were not metabolized. Plant flavanoids were the most potent inhibitors. Several compounds were shown to be substrates, suggesting that CYP6Z2 has broad substrate specificity and plays an important chemo-protective role during the herbivorous phase of the life-cycle.

A novel cytochrome P450 gene (CYP4G25) of the silkmoth Antheraea yamamai: cloning and expression pattern in pharate first instar larvae in relation to diapause

A new cytochrome P450 gene, CYP4G25, was identified as a differentially expressed gene between the diapausing and post-diapausing pharate first instar larvae of the wild silkmoth Antheraea yamamai, using subtractive cDNA hybridization. The cDNA sequence of CYP4G25 has an open reading frame of 1674 nucleotides encoding 557 amino acid residues. Sequence analysis of the putative CYP4G25 protein disclosed the motif FXXGXRXCXG that is essential for heme binding in P450 cytochromes. Hybridization in situ demonstrated predominant expression of CYP4G25 in the integument of pharate first instar larvae. Northern blotting analysis showed an intensive signal after the initiation of diapause and no or weak expression throughout the periods of pre-diapause and post-diapause, including larval development. These results indicate that CYP4G25 is strongly associated with diapause in pharate first instar larvae.

Differential expression of CYP6A5 and CYP6A5v2 in pyrethroid-resistant house flies, Musca domestica

Two cytochrome P450 alleles, CYP6A5 and CYP6A5v2, were isolated from a pyrethroid-resistant house fly stain, ALHF. The two alleles shared 98% similarity in amino acid sequence. To understand the importance of these two alleles in resistance and examine the expression profile of the two alleles between resistant and susceptible strains, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was performed and compared with the Northern blot analysis. We found that qRT-PCR was an efficient method to characterize the expression profiles between these two sequence-closely-related P450 genes between resistant and susceptible houses flies. One of them, CYP6A5v2, was constitutively overexpressed in ALHF house flies compared with susceptible house fly strains. Moreover, this gene was predominantly expressed in the abdominal tissues of ALHF, in which the primary detoxification organs of insects are located. However, there was no significant difference in the expression of CYP6A5 between ALHF and susceptible house flies. The genetic linkage analysis was conducted to determine the possible link between the constitutively overexpressed CYP6A5v2 and insecticide resistance. CYP6A5v2 was mapped on autosome 5, which is correlated with the linkage of resistance in ALHF. Taken together, the study suggests the importance of CYP6A5v2 in increasing metabolic detoxification of insecticides in ALHF. The distinct expression of CYP6A5 and CYP6A5v2 in resistant and susceptible house flies implies the functional difference of theses two genes in house flies and suggests that they are two recently diverged P450 genes presented in a single organism.

Novel cytochrome P450s, CYP6BB1 and CYP6P10, from the salt marsh mosquito Aedes sollicitans (Walker) (Diptera: Culicidae)

Based on the conserved heme-binding region and the charge pair consensus of insect cytochrome P450s, two novel full-length P450 cDNAs, CYP6BB1 and CYP6P10, were cloned from the salt marsh mosquito Aedes sollicitans (Walker). CYP6BB1 and CYP6P10 had open reading frames of 1,518 and 1,521 nucleotides encoding 506 and 507 amino acid residue proteins, respectively. Several alleles with amino acid substitutions were found both in CYP6BB1 and CYP6P10. The deduced proteins are typical microsomal P450s sharing signature sequences with other insect CYP6 P450s. Sequence analysis showed that both CYP6BB1 and CYP6P10 shared highest sequence identities with P450 CYP6P4, 56% and 65%, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis showed both CYP6BB1 and CYP6P10 were grouped into the clade containing several P450s from subfamily CYP6P. Real-time RT-PCR analysis showed CYP6BB1 but not CYP6P10 transcription in females was significantly increased 24 h after a blood meal. Neither CYP6BB1 nor CYP6P10 were life stage or gender specific. Protein expression experiments are needed to determine the functions of these proteins.

Characterization of two novel cytochrome P450 genes in insecticide-resistant house-flies

Two novel P450 cDNAs, CYP6A36 and CYP6A37, were isolated from house-flies. Putative protein sequences deduced from the cDNA sequences shared 58% identity. Predicted protein sequences of CYP6A36 and CYP6A37 from pyrethroid-resistant ALHF house-flies were identical to their corresponding orthologues in susceptible aabys flies. Expression of CYP6A36 was developmentally regulated with significant overexpression in ALHF compared with susceptible CS flies. Overexpression of CYP6A36 was detected in ALHF abdomen, where the primary detoxification organs of the midgut and fat body are located. CYP6A37, however, was expressed in all tested life stages, with no significant difference in expression between ALHF and CS. Genetic linkage analysis located CYP6A36 on autosome 5; overexpression of CYP6A36 was linked to the factors on autosomes 1 and 2, corresponding to the linkage of P450-mediated resistance in ALHF. This evidence suggests the importance of CYP6A36 in detoxification of insecticides and evolution of insecticide resistance in ALHF.

Molecular cloning and sequence analysis of a novel P450 gene encoding CYP345D3 from the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum

A novel cDNA clone encoding a cytochrome P450 gene has been isolated from the insecticide-susceptible strain of the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). The nucleotide sequence of the clone, designated CYP345D3, was determined. The cDNA is 1554 bp in length and contains an open reading frame from base pairs 32 to 1513, encoding a protein of 493 amino acid residues and a predicted molecular weight of 57466 Daltons. The putative protein contains the classic heme-binding sequence motif FxxGxxxCxG (residues 430-439) conserved among all P450 enzymes as well as other characteristic motifs of the cytochrome P450s. Comparison of the deduced amino acid sequence with other CYP members shows that CYP345D3 shares 91% identity with the previously published sequence of CYP345D1 from the T. castaneum genome project and the nucleotide sequence identity between them is less than 80%. Phylogenetic analysis of amino acid sequences from members of various P450 families indicated close phylogenetic relationship of CYP345D3 with CYP6 of other insects than those from mammals and amore distant relationship to P450 from other families. CYP345D3 was submitted to GenBank, accession number EU008544.

Gene expression in pyriproxyfen-resistant Bemisia tabaci Q biotype

Pyriproxyfen is a biorational insecticide that acts as a juvenile hormone (JH) analogue and disrupts insect development with an unknown molecular mode of action. Pyriproxyfen is one of the major insecticides used to control the whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) and comply with integrated pest management (IPM) programmes, resulting in minimal effects on the environment, humans and beneficial organisms. During the last few years, resistance to pyriproxyfen has been observed in several locations in Israel, sometimes reaching a thousandfold or more. No information exists about the molecular basis underlying this resistance that may lead to understanding the mode of action of pyriproxyfen and developing molecular markers for rapid monitoring of resistance outbreaks. In this communication, a cDNA microarray from B. tabaci was used to monitor changes in gene expression in a resistant B. tabaci population. Based on statistical analysis, 111 expressed sequence tags (ESTs) were identified that were differentially upregulated in the resistant strain after pyriproxyfen treatment. Many of the upregulated ESTs observed in the present study belong to families usually associated with resistance and xenobiotic detoxification such as mitochondrial genes, P450s and oxidative stress, genes associated with protein, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism and others related to JH-associated processes in insects such as oocyte and egg development.

Allelochemical induction of cytochrome P450 monooxygenases and amelioration of xenobiotic toxicity in Helicoverpa zea

Polyphagous herbivores encounter allelochemicals as complex mixtures in their host plants, and the toxicity of an individual compound may be influenced by the chemical matrix in which it is encountered. Certain plant constituents may reduce toxicity of cooccurring compounds by inducing detoxification systems, including cytochrome P450s, which can metabolize a broad range of substances. The polyphagous corn earworm Helicoverpa zea encounters a diversity of plant allelochemicals in its many host plants and, as well, can encounter aflatoxins, mycotoxins produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus that infect damaged grains. Dietary supplementation of each of three plant allelochemicals that are frequently (coumarin, COU), occasionally (indole-3-carbinol, 13C), or rarely (xanthotoxin, XAN) encountered by H. zea larvae substantially reduced the toxicity of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) to H. zea. Compared to fourth instars on diets containing 1 microg/g AFB1 that failed to develop and pupate, fourth instars on diets containing I3C and XAN increased in mass by 216.1 and 700% after 6 days, and pupated at rates of 40 and 88%, respectively. Diets containing COU or XAN also significantly reduced the mortality rates of caterpillars exposed to the insecticides, diazinon and carbaryl. Diets containing COU and XAN increased CYP6B8 transcripts 2.6-fold; CYP321A1 transcripts increased 20.7, 8.3, and 10.6-fold in response to COU, I3C, and XAN, respectively. These results indicate that consumption of plant allelochemicals can ameliorate toxicity of natural and synthetic toxins encountered by insects, and they suggest that P450s induced by these allelochemicals contribute to detoxification of these chemicals in H. zea.

Molecular basis for the reproductive division of labour in a lower termite

Background

Polyphenism, the expression of different phenotypes with the same genetic background, is well known for social insects. The substantial physiological and morphological differences among the castes generally are the result of differential gene expression. In lower termites, workers are developmentally flexible to become neotenic replacement reproductives via a single moult after the death of the founding reproductives. Thus, both castes (neotenics and workers) are expected to differ mainly in the expression of genes linked to reproductive division of labour, which constitutes the fundamental basis of insect societies.

Results

Representational difference analysis of cDNAs was used to study differential gene expression between neotenics and workers in the drywood termite Cryptotermes secundus (Kalotermitidae). We identified and, at least partially cloned five novel genes that were highly expressed in female neotenics. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis of all five genes in different castes (neotenics, founding reproductives, winged sexuals and workers of both sexes) confirmed the differential expression patterns. In addition, the relative expression of these genes was determined in three body parts of female neotenics (head, thorax, and abdomen) using quantitative real-time PCR.

Conclusion

The identified genes could be involved in the control and regulation of reproductive division of labour. Interestingly, this study revealed an expression pattern partly similar to social Hymenoptera indicating both common and species-specific regulatory mechanisms in hemimetabolous and holometabolous social insects.

Transcriptional analysis of insecticide resistance in Anopheles stephensi using cross-species microarray hybridization

A large scale microarray (20k MMC1) from the African malaria vector Anopheles gambiae was used to monitor gene expression in insecticide resistant and susceptible strains of the Asian mosquito Anopheles stephensi. Heterologous hybridization at slightly reduced stringency yielded approximately 7000 significant signals. Thirty-six putative genes were differentially transcribed between the pyrethroid-resistant (DUB-R) and the susceptible (BEECH) strains. The expression profiles of selected transcripts were verified by real-time PCR. A gene putatively involved in the thickening of the adult cuticle showed the most striking up-regulation in DUB-R. A more specialized microarray containing 231 An. gambiae genes putatively involved in insecticide detoxification was used to further analyse classical insecticide resistance genes. Three glutathione S-transferase (GST) transcripts, one esterase and a cytochrome P450 were up-regulated in the resistant strain, while two peroxidases were down-regulated.

Isolation and extreme sex-specific expression of cytochrome P450 genes in the bark beetle, Ips paraconfusus, following feeding on the phloem of host ponderosa pine, Pinus ponderosa

We have identified cDNAs and characterized the expression of 13 novel cytochrome P450 genes of potential importance in host colonization and reproduction by the California fivespined ips, Ips paraconfusus. Twelve are of the Cyp4 family and one is of the Cyp9 family. Following feeding on host Pinus ponderosa phloem, bark beetle transcript levels of several of the Cyp4 genes increased or decreased in males only or in both sexes. In one instance (IparaCyp4A5) transcript accumulated significantly in females, but declined significantly in males. The Cyp9 gene (Cyp9T1) transcript levels in males were > 85 000 x higher at 8 h and > 25 000 x higher at 24 h after feeding compared with nonfed controls. Transcript levels in females were approximately 150 x higher at 24 h compared with nonfed controls. Cyp4G27 transcript was present constitutively regardless of sex or feeding and served as a better housekeeping gene than beta-actin or 18S rRNA for the real-time TaqMan polymerase chain reaction analysis. The expression patterns of Cyp4AY1, Cyp4BG1, and, especially, Cyp9T1 in males suggest roles for these genes in male-specific aggregation pheromone production. The differential transcript accumulation patterns of these bark beetle P450s provide insight into ecological interactions of I. paraconfusus with its host pines.

Sterol demethylation inhibitor fungicides as disruptors of insect development and inducers of glutathione S-transferase activities in Mamestra brassicae

To study physiological and biochemical effects of demethylation inhibitor (DMI) fungicides on non-target insects, larvae of the cabbage moth, Mamestra brassicae L., were exposed orally to propiconazole, (R,S)-1-[2-(2,4-diclophenyl)-4-propyl-1,3-dioolan-2-ylmetyl]-1H-1,2,4-triazole (100, 200 and 600 mg L(-1)) and fenpropimorph, (+/-)-cis-4-[3-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-2-methylpropyl] 2,6-dimethylmorpholinc (10, 100, 200 and 600 mg L(-1)) in a semi-synthetic diet. Ten mg L(-1) of fenpropimorph reduced larval weight and induced in vitro glutathione S-transferase activity. Reduced larval and pupal growth rate, reduced survival, prolonged developmental time, and altered patterns of larval survival and adult emergence were found for one or both fungicides in at least one of the concentrations tested. The results suggest, that although the use of agricultural fungicides is generally regarded as of minor ecotoxicological consequence for insects, feeding on DMI-treated crops may influence insect fitness, and may also leave them susceptible to pesticide treatments or to residues of pesticides and other pollutants in their food. Standard methods to detect such effects should be developed for use in the environmental risk assessment of these products.

Differential expression of genes in pyrethroid resistant and susceptible mosquitoes, Culex quinquefasciatus (S.)

The transcriptional regulation of gene expression is a primary means by which insects adapt to a changing environment. The evolution of insecticide resistance is conferred through mechanisms, typically requiring the interaction of multiple genes. Consequently, the characterization of gene regulation and interactions in resistance is fundamental for achieving an understanding of the complex processes responsible for resistance. cDNA macroarray technology offers a promising new approach for investigating the complicated processes responsible for resistance development by revealing the interrelations of all of the elements in a resistant system simultaneously. In the current study, we compared the gene expression profiles of resistant and susceptible Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes, using a combination of subtractive PCR hybridization and cDNA microarray technique. By screening of 1500 cDNA clones from a resistant-susceptible mosquito subtractive library, we identified a set of genes with up-regulated expression in insecticide resistant Culex mosquitoes through transcriptional profiling compared to those in susceptible mosquitoes. These genes are vital for cellular and molecular metabolism, signal transduction, vesicular and molecular transport, protein biosynthesis, ubiquitination, and neuronal survival, but most have not previously been implicated in insecticide resistance. Functional studies of resistance-associated up-regulated genes should shed new light on both the molecular basis of resistance and the regulatory pathways that lead to it.

Cloning and characterization of two cytochrome P450 CYP6AX1 and CYP6AY1 cDNAs from Nilaparvata lugens Stål (Homoptera: Delphacidae)

Two full-length P450 cDNAs, CYP6AX1 and CYP6AY1, were cloned from the brown planthopper Nilaparvata lugens Stål (Homoptera: Delphacidae). Both CYP6AX1 and CYP6AY1 are typical microsomal P450s and their deduced amino acid sequences share common characteristics with other members of the insect P450 CYP6 family. CYP6AX1 and CYP6AY1 show the highest percent identity (36%) of amino acid to each other; both of them have 31-33% amino acid identity with CYP6B1 from Papilio polyxenes (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae), CYP6B4 from Papilio glaucus (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae), and CYP6B8 from Helicoverpa zea (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Phylogenetic analysis showed the clustering of CYP6AX1 and CYP6AY1 was in the clade including CYP6AE1 from Depressaria pastinacella (Lepidoptera: Oecophoridae) and the CYP6B family members from Helicoverpa and Papilio species. Northern blot analysis revealed that both of the P450s were induced by the resistant rice variety B5 (Oryza sativa L), and CYP6AY1 was expressed at a higher level than CYP6AX1. The results suggest that more than one P450s are likely involved in metabolism of rice allelochemicals and that they are possibly important components in adaptation of Nilaparvata lugens to host rice. Arch. Insect Biochem.

Functional genomics of cactus host shifts in Drosophila mojavensis

Understanding the genetic basis of adaptation to novel environments remains one of the major challenges confronting evolutionary biologists. While newly developed genomic approaches hold considerable promise for addressing this overall question, the relevant tools have not often been available in the most ecologically interesting organisms. Our study organism, Drosophila mojavensis, is a cactophilic Sonoran Desert endemic utilizing four different cactus hosts across its geographical range. Its well-known ecology makes it an attractive system in which to study the evolution of gene expression during adaptation. As a cactophile, D. mojavensis oviposits in the necrotic tissues of cacti, therefore exposing larvae and even adults to the varied and toxic compounds of rotting cacti. We have developed a cDNA microarray of D. mojavensis to examine gene expression associated with cactus host use. Using a population from the Baja California population we examined gene expression differences of third instar larvae when reared in two chemically distinct cactus hosts, agria (Stenocereus gummosus, native host) vs. organpipe (Stenocereus thurberi, alternative host). We have observed differential gene expression associated with cactus host use in genes involved in metabolism and detoxification.

Synergism studies with binary mixtures of pyrethroid, carbamate and organophosphate insecticides on Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande)

The major mechanism of resistance to most insecticides in Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) is metabolic, piperonyl butoxide (PBO) suppressible, mediated by cytochrome-P450 monooxygenases and conferring cross-resistance among insecticide classes. The efficacy of insecticide mixtures of acrinathrin, methiocarb, formetanate and chlorpyrifos was studied by topical exposure in strains of F. occidentalis selected for resistance to each insecticide. The method consisted in combining increasing concentrations of one insecticide with a constant low rate of the second one as synergist. Acrinathrin activity against F. occidentalis was enhanced by carbamate insecticides, methiocarb being a much better synergist than formetanate. Monooxygenase action on the carbamates would prevent degradation of the pyrethroid, hence providing a level of synergism by competitive substrate inhibition. However, the number of insecticides registered for control of F. occidentalis is very limited, and they are needed for antiresistance strategies such as mosaics and rotations. Therefore, a study was made of the synergist effect of other carbamates not used against thrips, such as carbofuran and carbosulfan, against a susceptible strain and a field strain. Neither carbamate showed synergism to acrinathrin in the susceptible strain, but both did in the field strain, carbosulfan being a better synergist than carbofuran. The data obtained indicate that low rates of carbamates could be used as synergists to restore some pyrethroid susceptibility in F. occidentalis.

Juvenile hormone and colony conditions differentially influence cytochrome P450 gene expression in the termite Reticulitermes flavipes

In lower termites, the worker caste is a totipotent immature stage that is capable of differentiating into other adult caste phenotypes. We investigated the diversity of family 4 cytochrome P450 (CYP4) genes in Reticulitermes flavipes workers, with the specific goal of identifying P450s potentially involved in regulating caste differentiation. Seven novel CYP4 genes were identified. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed the tissue distribution of expression for the seven CYP4s, as well as temporal expression changes in workers in association with a release from colony influences and during juvenile hormone (JH)-induced soldier caste differentiation. Several fat-body-related CYP4 genes were differentially expressed after JH treatment. Still other genes changed expression in association with removal from colony influences, suggesting that primer pheromones and/or other colony influences impact their expression. These findings add to a growing database of candidate termite caste-regulatory genes, and provide explicit evidence that colony factors influence termite gene expression.

Characterization in relation to development of an ecdysteroid agonist-responsive cytochrome P450, CYP18A1, in Lepidoptera

Cytochrome P450 enzymes are involved in a number of steps in ecdysteroid (moulting hormone) homeostasis in insects. We report the cloning and characterization of an ecdysteroid agonist-responsive cytochrome P450, CYP18A1, from the cotton leafworm, Spodoptera littoralis. Northern blot analysis showed that the mRNA transcript was expressed at times of increasing ecdysteroid titre in final instar S. littoralis larvae and was induced by the ecdysteroid receptor agonist, RH-5992, in midgut and fat body. In addition, transcript expression was also detected in the prothoracic glands, a major ecdysteroid biosynthetic tissue, in both S. littoralis and the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta, at a time of increasing ecdysteroid titre. The exact significance of the temporal and spatial expression of CYP18A1 is unclear. The characterization of a P450 that is ecdysteroid agonist-responsive may provide a future target for exploitation in the development of novel insect control strategies.

Marine invertebrate cytochrome P450: emerging insights from vertebrate and insects analogies

Cytochrome P450 enzymes (P450s) are responsible for the oxidative metabolism of a plethora of endogenous and exogenous substrates. P450s and associated activities have been demonstrated in numerous marine invertebrates belonging to the phyla Cnidaria, Annelida (Polychaeta), Mollusca, Arthropoda (Crustacea) and Echinodermata. P450s of marine invertebrates and vertebrates show considerable sequence divergence and the few orthologs reveal the selective constraint on physiologically significant enzymes. P450s are present in virtually all tissues of marine invertebrates, although high levels usually are found in hepatic-like organs and steroidogenic tissues. High-throughput technologies result in the rapid acquisition of new marine invertebrate P450 sequences; however, the understanding of their function is poor. Based on analogy to vertebrates and insects, it is likely that P450s play a pivotal role in the physiology of marine invertebrates by catalyzing the biosynthesis of signal molecules including steroids such as 20-hydroxyecdysone (the molting hormone of crustaceans). The metabolism of many exogenous compounds including benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), pyrene, ethoxyresorufin, ethoxycoumarin and aniline is mediated by P450 enzymes in tissues of marine invertebrates. P450 gene expression, protein levels and P450 mediated metabolism of xenobiotics are induced by PAHs in some marine invertebrate species. Thus, regulation of P450 enzyme activity may play a central role in the adaptation of animals to environmental pollutants. Emphasis should be put on the elucidation of the function and regulation of the ever-increasing number of marine invertebrate P450s.

Genome-wide analysis of phenobarbital-inducible genes in Drosophila melanogaster

An oligoarray analysis was conducted to determine the differential expression of genes due to phenobarbital exposure in Drosophila melanogaster (w(1118) strain) third instar larvae. Seventeen genes were observed to be induced with increased expression by a statistical analysis of microarrays approach with a q < or = 0.05. At q < or = 0.12, four more genes (Cyp12d1, DmGstd4, and two genes with unknown function) were found to be up-regulated, and 11 genes with unknown function were found to be down-regulated. Fifteen of these genes, Cyp4d14, Cyp6a2, Cyp6a8, Cyp12d1, Cyp6d5, Cyp6w1, CG2065, DmGstd6, DmGstd7, Amy-p/Amy-d, Ugt86Dd, GC5724, Jheh1, Jheh2 and CG11893, were verified using quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction. Some of these genes have been shown to be over-transcribed in metabolically DDT-resistant Drosophila strains.

Transcriptional response of Choristoneura fumiferana to sublethal exposure of Cry1Ab protoxin from Bacillus thuringiensis

Bacillus thuringiensis is a microbial control agent active against Choristoneura fumiferana, a lepidopteran defoliator of North American forests. Although the B. thuringiensis insecticidal crystal protoxins have a relatively narrow host range, there is concern about their impact on non-target species where intoxication effects may not be overt. Larval toxicity effects can be assessed at the molecular level by determining altered transcriptional profiles in response to sublethal protoxin exposure in sensitive insects. Subtraction hybridization libraries were created using two larval populations, control and protoxin-fed and were characterized by sequencing 1091 clones. Differential mRNA expression of selected clones, as measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, identified a number of metabolic and stress-related genes that were either transcriptionally enhanced or repressed after protoxin exposure.

Variation of Musca domestica L. acetylcholinesterase in Danish housefly populations

Anti-cholinesterase resistance is in many cases caused by modified acetylcholinesterase (MACE). A comparison was made of toxicological data and AChE activity gathered from 21 field populations and nine laboratory strains of houseflies, Musca domestica L., to elucidate the best way of generating data to provide advice for management strategies and gathering information for resistance risk assessment on the organophosphates azamethiphos and dimethoate and the carbamate methomyl, which have been the primary insecticides used against adult houseflies in Denmark. Cluster analysis was performed and > 2000 houseflies were assigned to one of three phenotypes based on total acetylcholinesterase activity as well as inhibition by azamethiphos, methomyl or omethoate. A cluster, i.e. a phenotype, with high total AChE activity and high sensitivity to azamethiphos and less sensitivity to inhibition by methomyl and omethoate was shown to be linked to methomyl resistance. It was not possible to define any clusters that could be linked to azamethiphos or dimethoate resistance. The five mutations V180L, G262A, G262V, F327Y and G365A causing anticholinesterase resistance in houseflies were all identified in the Danish housefly strains. The data are very heterogeneous, and a correlation of molecular genetic background and resistance of phenotypes is not obvious with the available data.