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Wei P, He P, Zhang X, Li W, Zhang L, Guan J, Chen X, Lin Y, Zhuo X, Li Q, Peng J. Identification and characterization of microRNAs in the gonads of Crassostrea hongkongensis using high-throughput sequencing. COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY D-GENOMICS & PROTEOMICS 2019; 31:100606. [PMID: 31325756 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2019.100606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 06/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Crassostrea hongkongensis is one of the three most-commonly cultivated oyster species in China. Although microRNAs (miRNAs) expression in the gonads have been widely investigated, few studies of miRNAs in mollusk gonads are available, particularly in oyster. In the present study, we analyzed the miRNAs expressed in the ovaries and testes of C. hongkongensis. We obtained 14,166,409 and 15,133,900 raw reads from the ovaries and testes, respectively, yielding 13,634,997 (ovarian) and 14,494,149 (testicular) 18-35-nt sequences. We mapped these sequences to the C. hongkongensis genome reference sequence, and identified 8,771,717 (ovarian) and 9,926,014 (testicular) sequences corresponding to miRNAs in the Rfam database. After blasting the miRNA sequences against the miRBase database, we identified 50 known mature miRNAs and 53 novel miRNAs. Of these, 27 miRNAs were significantly upregulated in ovaries as compared to the testes, and 43 miRNAs were significantly upregulated in the testes as compared to the ovaries. To validate the differential expression results generated by Illumina sequencing, we used RT-real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) to characterize the expression patterns of the six most differently expressed miRNAs (lgi-miR-1990, lgi-miR-1986, lgi-miR-263b, lgi-miR-279, lgi-miR-1992, and novel_98) as well as two miRNAs associated with gonad development (lgi-miR-29 and lgi-miR-8). Most of the RT-qPCR miRNA expression patterns were similar to those recovered by high-throughput sequencing with the exceptions of novel_98 and lgi-miR-1992. Gene Ontology (GO) annotations indicated that the multi-organism cellular process GO category was enriched with the target genes of the differentially expressed miRNAs. Additionally, the target genes were enriched in several KEGG pathways, including the ECM-receptor interaction, galactose metabolism, phagosome, and notch signaling pathway. These pathways are involved in gonadal differentiation and the maintenance of gonad function. This identification and characterization of the miRNAs differentially expressed between the ovaries and testes of C. hongkongensis will increase our understanding of the role of miRNAs in gonad differentiation in the oyster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinyuan Wei
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genetic Breeding and Healthy Aquaculture, Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Pingping He
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genetic Breeding and Healthy Aquaculture, Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Xingzhi Zhang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genetic Breeding and Healthy Aquaculture, Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Wei Li
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genetic Breeding and Healthy Aquaculture, Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genetic Breeding and Healthy Aquaculture, Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Junliang Guan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genetic Breeding and Healthy Aquaculture, Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Xiaohan Chen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genetic Breeding and Healthy Aquaculture, Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Yong Lin
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genetic Breeding and Healthy Aquaculture, Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Xiaofei Zhuo
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genetic Breeding and Healthy Aquaculture, Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Qiongzhen Li
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genetic Breeding and Healthy Aquaculture, Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China.
| | - Jinxia Peng
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genetic Breeding and Healthy Aquaculture, Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China.
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Waiho K, Fazhan H, Zhang Y, Zhang Y, Li S, Zheng H, Liu W, Ikhwanuddin M, Ma H. Gonadal microRNA Expression Profiles and Their Potential Role in Sex Differentiation and Gonadal Maturation of Mud Crab Scylla paramamosain. MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2019; 21:320-334. [PMID: 30835008 DOI: 10.1007/s10126-019-09882-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Although the sexual dimorphism in terms of gonadal development and gametogenesis of mud crab has been described, the internal regulating mechanism and sex differentiation process remain unclear. A comparative gonadal miRNA transcriptomic study was conducted to identify miRNAs that are differentially expressed between testes and ovaries, and potentially uncover miRNAs that might be involved in sex differentiation and gonadal maturation mechanisms of mud crabs (Scylla paramamosain). A total of 10 known miRNAs and 130 novel miRNAs were identified, among which 54 were differentially expressed. Target gene prediction revealed a significant enrichment in 30 KEGG pathways, including some reproduction-related pathways, e.g. phosphatidylinositol signalling system and inositol phosphate metabolism pathways. Further analysis on six differentially expressed known miRNAs, six differentially expressed novel miRNAs and their reproduction-related putative target genes shows that both miRNAs and putative target genes showed stage-specific expression during gonadal maturation, suggesting their potential regulatory roles in sex differentiation and reproductive development. This study reveals the sex-biased miRNA profile and establishes a solid foundation for understanding the sex differentiation and gonadal maturation mechanisms of S. paramamosain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khor Waiho
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
- STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
- Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Hanafiah Fazhan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
- STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Yin Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
- STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Yueling Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
- STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Shengkang Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
- STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Huaiping Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
- STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Wenhua Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
- STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Mhd Ikhwanuddin
- STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China.
- Institute of Tropical Aquaculture, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia.
| | - Hongyu Ma
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China.
- STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China.
- Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266071, China.
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Small RNA-Seq Analysis Reveals miRNA Expression Dynamics Across Tissues in the Malaria Vector, Anopheles gambiae. G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS 2019; 9:1507-1517. [PMID: 30846481 PMCID: PMC6505144 DOI: 10.1534/g3.119.400104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Malaria continues to be a major global health problem, where disease transmission is deeply linked to the repeated blood feeding nature of the anautogenous mosquito. Given the tight link between blood feeding and disease transmission, understanding basic biology behind mosquito physiology is a requirement for developing effective vector-borne disease control strategies. In the mosquito, numerous loss of function studies with notable phenotypes demonstrate microRNAs (miRNAs) play significant roles in mosquito physiology. While the field appreciates the importance of a handful of miRNAs, we still need global mosquito tissue miRNA transcriptome studies. To address this need, our goal was to determine the miRNA transcriptome for multiple tissues of the pre-vitellogenic mosquito. To this end, by using small RNA-Seq analysis, we determined miRNA transcriptomes in tissues critical for mosquito reproduction and immunity including (i) fat body-abdominal wall enriched tissues, (ii) midguts, (iii) ovaries, and (iv) remaining tissues comprised of the head and thorax. We found numerous examples of miRNAs exhibiting pan-tissue high- or low- expression, tissue exclusion, and tissue enrichment. We also updated and consolidated the miRNA catalog and provided a detailed genome architecture map for the malaria vector, Anopheles gambiae. This study aims to build a foundation for future research on how miRNAs and potentially other small RNAs regulate mosquito physiology as it relates to vector-borne disease transmission.
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Wu W, Zhai M, Li C, Yu X, Song X, Gao S, Li B. Multiple functions of miR-8-3p in the development and metamorphosis of the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 28:208-221. [PMID: 30230097 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The microRNA miR-8-3p is conserved among insects and closely involved in development and immunity, but its functions in vivo are unexplored in the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum. Here, we show that miR-8-3p was highly expressed in late larva and early adult stages, as determined by quantitative real-time PCR. It was enriched in the fat body and cuticle in late larval tissues and abundant in the head and cuticle in early adult tissues, indicating this microRNA plays important roles during T. castaneum development. Specific inhibition of miR-8-3p in late larvae led to metamorphosis defects in the development of wings, eyes, legs and embryo. Moreover, a series of genes related to organism development were identified as miR-8-3p targets by computational prediction and microRNA-messenger RNA interaction validation, including Wingless, Eyg, Fpps and Sema-1a. These genes were critical for the regulation of the larva-to-adult transition. Eyg, as a functional target of miR-8-3p, participates in eye development, which was further confirmed by luciferase assay and loss-of-function analyses. In brief, miR-8-3p is broadly involved in the development of wings, eyes and legs through its target genes and has extensive regulatory roles during T. castaneum development.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - M Zhai
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - C Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - X Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - X Song
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - S Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - B Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
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Song J, Li W, Zhao H, Zhou S. Clustered miR-2, miR-13a, miR-13b and miR-71 coordinately target Notch gene to regulate oogenesis of the migratory locust Locusta migratoria. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 106:39-46. [PMID: 30453026 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs), ∼22-nt small noncoding RNAs with a crucial role in various biological processes of organisms, are usually clustered in the genome. However, little is known about the miRNA clusters involved in insect reproduction. By small RNA sequencing and quantification followed by qRT-PCR, we found that the expression of invertebrate-specific miR-2/13/71 cluster including miR-2, miR-13a, miR-13b and miR-71 significantly decreased after adult ecdysis of the migratory locust, Locusta migratoria. Luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation demonstrated that miR-2/13/71 bound to the protein coding sequence of Notch and downregulated its expression. Injection of miR-2/13/71 agomiRs led to significant decrease of Notch expression as well as markedly reduced levels of Vitellogenin mRNA, suppressed oocyte maturation and impaired ovarian growth. Moreover, the expression of miR-2/13/71 was repressed by juvenile hormone (JH). Our results thus point to a previously unidentified mechanism by which JH-repressed miR-2/13/71 coordinately downregulates Notch to modulate insect reproduction. The increase of JH and decrease of miR-2/13/71 expression in both previtellogenic and vitellogenic stages of adult females ensure a high level of Notch expression, critically contributing to JH-dependent vitellogenesis and oogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiasheng Song
- Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Wanwan Li
- Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Haihong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Shutang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China.
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Evidence that microRNAs are part of the molecular toolkit regulating adult reproductive diapause in the mosquito, Culex pipiens. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203015. [PMID: 30496183 PMCID: PMC6264513 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
For many insects, diapause is the primary mechanism for surviving unfavorable seasons. Some aspects of diapause regulation are well known, but we still lack a mechanistic understanding of molecular mechanisms that control the diapause pathway. Accumulating evidence suggests microRNAs regulate diapause in evolutionarily diverse insect species including flesh flies and moths, and, it is likely that microRNAs regulate multiple characteristics of diapause, including arrested egg follicle development and fat hypertrophy, in females of the Northern house mosquito, Culex pipiens. To investigate microRNA regulation of diapause in this species, we measured changes in egg follicle development and total lipid content over 22 days following adult emergence. We also evaluated changes in the abundance of candidate microRNAs associated with these physical changes during the same time frame. We found egg follicle size and lipid content were nearly the same in diapausing and nondiapausing females on the day of adult emergence, and then diverged over time such that by day 22 diapausing females had significantly smaller egg follicles and higher total lipids than their nondiapausing counterparts. Several microRNAs associated with lipid metabolism in insects, including miR-14-3p, miR-277-3p, and miR-305-5p, were underexpressed in diapausing females compared to nondiapausing females on the day of adult emergence, which suggests microRNA regulation occurs ahead of observed changes in these two features of the diapause phenotype. We also found miR-309-3p, miR-375-3p which stimulate ovarian development in other mosquito species, were underexpressed in diapausing females of Cx. pipiens at times after diapause is fully established and may be responsible for the arrest in ovarian development in this species. Taken together, our results demonstrate that changes in the abundance of some microRNAs is associated with phenotypic changes in diapause Cx. pipiens and suggests this epigenetic mechanism is part of the molecular toolkit regulating diapause.
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Qu Z, Bendena WG, Tobe SS, Hui JHL. Juvenile hormone and sesquiterpenoids in arthropods: Biosynthesis, signaling, and role of MicroRNA. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 184:69-76. [PMID: 29355708 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2018.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Revised: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Arthropod molting and reproduction are precisely controlled by the levels of sesquiterpenoids, a class of C15 hormones derived from three isoprene units. The two major functional arthropod sesquiterpenoids are juvenile hormone (JH) and methyl farnesoate (MF). In hemimetabolous insects (such as the aphids, bugs, and cockroaches) and holometabolous insects (such as beetles, bees, butterflies, and flies), dramatic decrease in the titers of JH and/or MF promote metamorphosis from larvae to adults either directly or through an intermediate pupal stage, respectively. JH is absent in crustaceans (lobster, shrimp, crab) and other arthropods (chelicerates such as ticks, mites, spiders, scorpions and myriapods such as millipede and centipedes). In some crustaceans, molting and reproduction is dependent on changing levels of MF. The regulation of sesquiterpenoid production is thus crucial in the life cycle of arthropods. Dynamic and complex mechanisms have evolved to regulate sesquiterpenoid production. Noncoding RNAs such as the microRNAs are primary regulators. This article provides an overview of microRNAs that are known to regulate sesquiterpenoid production in arthropods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Qu
- School of Life Sciences, Simon F.S. Li Marine Science Laboratory, Partner State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | | | - Stephen S Tobe
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Canada.
| | - Jerome H L Hui
- School of Life Sciences, Simon F.S. Li Marine Science Laboratory, Partner State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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58
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Chang ZX, Akinyemi IA, Guo DY, Wu Q. Characterization and comparative analysis of microRNAs in the rice pest Sogatella furcifera. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0204517. [PMID: 30248141 PMCID: PMC6152972 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0204517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of endogenous regulatory RNA molecules 21-24 nucleotides in length that act as functional regulators of post-transcriptional repression of messenger RNA. We report the identification and characterization of a conserved miRNA and 171 novel miRNAs in the migratory rice pest Sogatella furcifera by deep sequencing, which were observed to be biased towards female adults of the insect, modulating the functionality and targets of the miRNAs in sex differentiation. A switch in arm usage was also observed in 9 miRNA when compared to the insect ancestor during insect evolution. The miRNA loci showed high 5’ fidelity in both miRNA and star species and about 93.4% of WBPH miRNAs conserved within non-planthopper species were homologous with planthopper species. The novel miRNAs identified in this study provide a better understanding of the sRNA and the regulatory role of miRNA in sexual dimorphism and alteration in the expression or function of miRNAs in the rice pest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Xia Chang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Ibukun A. Akinyemi
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Dong-Yang Guo
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Qingfa Wu
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- * E-mail:
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Balan RK, Ramasamy A, Hande RH, Gawande SJ, Krishna Kumar NK. Genome-wide identification, expression profiling, and target gene analysis of microRNAs in the Onion thrips, Thrips tabaci Lindeman (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), vectors of tospoviruses (Bunyaviridae). Ecol Evol 2018; 8:6399-6419. [PMID: 30038744 PMCID: PMC6053560 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.3762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Revised: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Thrips tabaci Lindeman is an important polyphagous insect pest species estimated to cause losses of more than U.S. $1 billion worldwide annually. Chemical insecticides are of limited use in the management of T. tabaci due to the thigmokinetic behavior and development of resistance to insecticides. There is an urgent need to find alternative management strategies. Small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) especially microRNAs (miRNAs) hold great promise as key regulators of gene expression in a wide range of organisms. MiRNAs are a group of endogenously originated sncRNA known to regulate gene expression in animals, plants, and protozoans. In this study, we explored these RNAs in T. tabaci using deep sequencing to provide a basis for future studies of their biological and physiological roles in governing gene expression. Apart from snoRNAs and piRNAs, our study identified nine novel and 130 known miRNAs from T. tabaci. Functional classification of the targets for these miRNAs predicted that majority are involved in regulating transcription, translation, signal transduction and genetic information processing. The higher expression of few miRNAs (such as tta-miR-281, tta-miR-184, tta-miR-3533, tta-miR-N1, tta-miR-N7, and tta-miR-N9) in T. tabaci pupal and adult stages reflected their possible role in larval and adult development, metamorphosis, parthenogenesis, and reproduction. This is the first exploration of the miRNAome in T. tabaci, which not only provides insights into their possible role in insect metamorphosis, growth, and development but also offer an important resource for future pest management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebijith K. Balan
- Department of Physiology, Development, and NeuroscienceUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Asokan Ramasamy
- Division of BiotechnologyICAR‐Indian Institute of Horticultural ResearchBangaloreIndia
| | - Ranjitha H. Hande
- Division of BiotechnologyICAR‐Indian Institute of Horticultural ResearchBangaloreIndia
| | - Suresh J. Gawande
- Crop Protection SectionICAR‐Directorate of Onion and Garlic ResearchPuneIndia
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microRNA profiles and functions in mosquitoes. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006463. [PMID: 29718912 PMCID: PMC5951587 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mosquitoes are incriminated as vectors for many crippling diseases, including malaria, West Nile fever, Dengue fever, and other neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). microRNAs (miRNAs) can interact with multiple target genes to elicit biological functions in the mosquitoes. However, characterization and function of individual miRNAs and their potential targets have not been fully determined to date. We conducted a systematic review of published literature following PRISMA guidelines. We summarize the information about miRNAs in mosquitoes to better understand their metabolism, development, and responses to microorganisms. Depending on the study, we found that miRNAs were dysregulated in a species-, sex-, stage-, and tissue/organ-specific manner. Aberrant miRNA expressions were observed in development, metabolism, host-pathogen interactions, and insecticide resistance. Of note, many miRNAs were down-regulated upon pathogen infection. The experimental studies have expanded the identification of miRNA target from the 3' untranslated regions (UTRs) of mRNAs of mosquitoes to the 5' UTRs of mRNAs of the virus. In addition, we discuss current trends in mosquito miRNA research and offer suggestions for future studies.
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61
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Nouzova M, Etebari K, Noriega FG, Asgari S. A comparative analysis of corpora allata-corpora cardiaca microRNA repertoires revealed significant changes during mosquito metamorphosis. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 96:10-18. [PMID: 29605533 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2018.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2018] [Revised: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The corpora allata (CA) are a pair of endocrine glands with neural connections to the brain and close association with another neuroendocrine organ, the corpora cardiaca (CC). The CA from adult female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes synthesize fluctuating levels of juvenile hormone (JH), which have been linked to the ovarian development and are influenced by nutritional signals. In this study, we investigated the potential involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs), a type of small non-coding RNAs, in the regulation of gene expression in CA-CC complexes during mosquito reproductive development, at stages with distinct JH biosynthesis patterns. We analyzed the miRNA repertoires expressed in the CA-CC of pupae, sugar-fed and blood-fed female Ae. aegypti. In total, 156 mature miRNAs were detected in the CA-CC, with 84 displaying significant differences in expression among the three CA-CC developmental stages. There were more miRNAs that were expressed in pupae, and decreased or were absent after adult emergence, when compared with changes between CA-CC of sugar and blood-fed females. Analysis of the genes identified as potential targets for the CA-CC miRNA repertoires classified them into the broad categories of metabolism, information storage and processing, and cellular processes and signaling; with genes involved in cellular processes and signaling representing the largest portion. Among them, the signal-transduction mechanisms and intracellular trafficking, secretion and vesicular transport contained almost 55% of the genes' targets. A substantial number of miRNAs were differentially abundant in the libraries of the three developmental stages, and those changes were much more notable when pupae and adult stages were compared. We detected putative binding sites for some of the most abundant miRNAs on genes encoding JH biosynthetic enzymes and CC neuropeptides. These studies should help us to gain a better understanding of the regulation of CA-CC activity mediated by miRNAs during major developmental stages in mosquitoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Nouzova
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Kayvan Etebari
- Australian Infectious Disease Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Fernando G Noriega
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA.
| | - Sassan Asgari
- Australian Infectious Disease Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
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Roy S, Saha TT, Zou Z, Raikhel AS. Regulatory Pathways Controlling Female Insect Reproduction. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ENTOMOLOGY 2018; 63:489-511. [PMID: 29058980 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-ento-020117-043258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 302] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The synthesis of vitellogenin and its uptake by maturing oocytes during egg maturation are essential for successful female reproduction. These events are regulated by the juvenile hormones and ecdysteroids and by the nutritional signaling pathway regulated by neuropeptides. Juvenile hormones act as gonadotropins, regulating vitellogenesis in most insects, but ecdysteroids control this process in Diptera and some Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera. The complex crosstalk between the juvenile hormones, ecdysteroids, and nutritional signaling pathways differs distinctly depending on the reproductive strategies adopted by various insects. Molecular studies within the past decade have revealed much about the relationships among, and the role of, these pathways with respect to regulation of insect reproduction. Here, we review the role of juvenile hormones, ecdysteroids, and nutritional signaling, along with that of microRNAs, in regulating female insect reproduction at the molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sourav Roy
- Department of Entomology, Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, and Center for Disease Vector Research, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, USA; , ,
| | - Tusar T Saha
- Department of Entomology, Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, and Center for Disease Vector Research, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, USA; , ,
| | - Zhen Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China;
| | - Alexander S Raikhel
- Department of Entomology, Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, and Center for Disease Vector Research, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, USA; , ,
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63
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Abstract
Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes transmit the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum, which causes the majority of fatal malaria cases worldwide. The hematophagous lifestyle defines mosquito reproductive biology and is exploited by P. falciparum for its own sexual reproduction and transmission. The two main phases of the mosquito reproductive cycle, previtellogenic (PV) and postblood meal (PBM), shape its capacity to transmit malaria. Transition between these phases is tightly coordinated to ensure homeostasis between mosquito tissues and successful reproduction. One layer of control is provided by microRNAs (miRNAs), well-known regulators of blood meal digestion and egg development in Aedes mosquitoes. Here, we report a global overview of tissue-specific miRNAs (miRNA) expression during the PV and PBM phases and identify miRNAs regulated during PV to PBM transition. The observed coordinated changes in the expression levels of a set of miRNAs in the energy-storing tissues suggest a role in the regulation of blood meal-induced metabolic changes.
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64
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Ling L, Kokoza VA, Zhang C, Aksoy E, Raikhel AS. MicroRNA-277 targets insulin-like peptides 7 and 8 to control lipid metabolism and reproduction in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:E8017-E8024. [PMID: 28874536 PMCID: PMC5617303 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1710970114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hematophagous female mosquitoes transmit numerous devastating human diseases, including malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus, and others. Because of their obligatory requirement of a vertebrate blood meal for reproduction, these mosquitoes need a lot of energy; therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms linking metabolism and reproduction is of particular importance. Lipids are the major energy store providing the fuel required for host seeking and reproduction. They are essential components of the fat body, a metabolic tissue that is the insect analog of vertebrate liver and adipose tissue. In this study, we found that microRNA-277 (miR-277) plays an important role in regulating mosquito lipid metabolism. The genetic disruption of miR-277 using the CRISPR-Cas9 system led to failures in both lipid storage and ovary development. miR-277 mimic injection partially rescued these phenotypic manifestations. Examination of subcellular localization of FOXO protein via CRISPR-assisted, single-stranded oligodeoxynucleotide-mediated homology-directed repair revealed that insulin signaling is up-regulated in response to miR-277 depletion. In silico target prediction identified that insulin-like peptides 7 and 8 (ilp7 and ilp8) are putative targets of miR-277; RNA immunoprecipitation and a luciferase reporter assay confirmed that ilp7 and ilp8 are direct targets of this miRNA. CRISPR-Cas9 depletion of ilp7 and ilp8 led to metabolic and reproductive defects. These depletions identified differential actions of ILP7 and ILP8 in lipid homeostasis and ovarian development. Thus, miR-277 plays a critical role in mosquito lipid metabolism and reproduction by targeting ilp7 and ilp8, and serves as a monitor to control ILP7 and ILP8 mRNA levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Ling
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521
- Institute of Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521
| | - Vladimir A Kokoza
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521
| | - Changyu Zhang
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521
| | - Emre Aksoy
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521
- Graduate Program in Genetics, Genomics, and Bioinformatics, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521
| | - Alexander S Raikhel
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521;
- Institute of Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521
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65
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Sun D, Guo Z, Liu Y, Zhang Y. Progress and Prospects of CRISPR/Cas Systems in Insects and Other Arthropods. Front Physiol 2017; 8:608. [PMID: 28932198 PMCID: PMC5592444 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and the CRISPR-associated gene Cas9 represent an invaluable system for the precise editing of genes in diverse species. The CRISPR/Cas9 system is an adaptive mechanism that enables bacteria and archaeal species to resist invading viruses and phages or plasmids. Compared with zinc finger nucleases and transcription activator-like effector nucleases, the CRISPR/Cas9 system has the advantage of requiring less time and effort. This efficient technology has been used in many species, including diverse arthropods that are relevant to agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and public health; however, there is no review that systematically summarizes its successful application in the editing of both insect and non-insect arthropod genomes. Thus, this paper seeks to provide a comprehensive and impartial overview of the progress of the CRISPR/Cas9 system in different arthropods, reviewing not only fundamental studies related to gene function exploration and experimental optimization but also applied studies in areas such as insect modification and pest control. In addition, we also describe the latest research advances regarding two novel CRISPR/Cas systems (CRISPR/Cpf1 and CRISPR/C2c2) and discuss their future prospects for becoming crucial technologies in arthropods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Sun
- Longping Branch, Graduate School of Hunan UniversityChangsha, China.,Department of Plant Protection, Institute of Vegetables and Flowers, Chinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Zhaojiang Guo
- Department of Plant Protection, Institute of Vegetables and Flowers, Chinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Longping Branch, Graduate School of Hunan UniversityChangsha, China
| | - Youjun Zhang
- Department of Plant Protection, Institute of Vegetables and Flowers, Chinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijing, China
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66
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Association of microRNAs with Argonaute proteins in the malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae after blood ingestion. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6493. [PMID: 28747726 PMCID: PMC5529372 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07013-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Drastic changes in gene expression occur after adult female mosquitoes take a blood meal and use the nutrients for egg maturation. A growing body of evidence indicates that microRNAs (miRNAs) contribute to this tightly controlled tissue- and stage-specific gene expression. To investigate the role of miRNAs, we monitored miRNA expression in the mosquito Anopheles gambiae during the 72-h period immediately after blood feeding. We also measured the association of miRNAs with Argonaute 1 (Ago1) and Argonaute 2 (Ago2) to assess the functional status of individual miRNA species. Overall, 173 mature miRNAs were precipitated with Ago1 and Ago2, including 12 new miRNAs, the orthologs of which are found thus far only in other Anopheles species. Ago1 is the predominant carrier of miRNAs in Anopheles gambiae. The abundance and Ago loading of most of the mature miRNAs were relatively stable after blood ingestion. However, miRNAs of the miR-309/286/2944 cluster were considerably upregulated after blood feeding. Injection of the specific antagomir for miR-309 resulted in smaller developing oocytes and ultimately fewer eggs. In addition, the Ago association of some miRNAs was not proportional to their cellular abundance, suggesting that integration of miRNAs into the Ago complexes is regulated by additional mechanisms.
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67
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Role of miRNAs in development and disease: Lessons learnt from small organisms. Life Sci 2017; 185:8-14. [PMID: 28728902 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2017.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) constitute a class of small (18-22 nucleotides) non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila melanogaster, and many other small organisms have been instrumental in deciphering the biological functions of miRNAs. While some miRNAs from small organisms are highly conserved across the taxa, others are organism specific. The miRNAs are known to play a crucial role during development and in various cellular functions such as cell survival, cell proliferation, and differentiation. The miRNAs associated with fragile X syndrome, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, cancer, malaria, infectious diseases and several other human diseases have been identified from small organisms. These organisms have been used as platforms in deciphering the functions of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of human diseases and to study miRNA biogenesis. Small organisms have also been used in the development of miRNA-based diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic strategies. The molecular techniques such as genome sequencing, northern blot analysis, and quantitative RT-PCR, have been used in deciphering the functions of miRNAs in small organisms. How miRNAs from small organisms especially those from Drosophila and C. elegans regulate development and disease pathogenesis is the focus of this review. The outstanding questions raised by our current understanding are discussed.
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68
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Uncovering the Repertoire of Endogenous Flaviviral Elements in Aedes Mosquito Genomes. J Virol 2017; 91:JVI.00571-17. [PMID: 28539440 PMCID: PMC5512259 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00571-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Endogenous viral elements derived from nonretroviral RNA viruses have been described in various animal genomes. Whether they have a biological function, such as host immune protection against related viruses, is a field of intense study. Here, we investigated the repertoire of endogenous flaviviral elements (EFVEs) in Aedes mosquitoes, the vectors of arboviruses such as dengue and chikungunya viruses. Previous studies identified three EFVEs from Aedes albopictus cell lines and one from Aedes aegypti cell lines. However, an in-depth characterization of EFVEs in wild-type mosquito populations and individual mosquitoes in vivo has not been performed. We detected the full-length DNA sequence of the previously described EFVEs and their respective transcripts in several A. albopictus and A. aegypti populations from geographically distinct areas. However, EFVE-derived proteins were not detected by mass spectrometry. Using deep sequencing, we detected the production of PIWI-interacting RNA-like small RNAs, in an antisense orientation, targeting the EFVEs and their flanking regions in vivo. The EFVEs were integrated in repetitive regions of the mosquito genomes, and their flanking sequences varied among mosquito populations. We bioinformatically predicted several new EFVEs from a Vietnamese A. albopictus population and observed variation in the occurrence of those elements among mosquitoes. Phylogenetic analysis of an A. aegypti EFVE suggested that it integrated prior to the global expansion of the species and subsequently diverged among and within populations. The findings of this study together reveal the substantial structural and nucleotide diversity of flaviviral integrations in Aedes genomes. Unraveling this diversity will help to elucidate the potential biological function of these EFVEs. IMPORTANCE Endogenous viral elements (EVEs) are whole or partial viral sequences integrated in host genomes. Interestingly, some EVEs have important functions for host fitness and antiviral defense. Because mosquitoes also have EVEs in their genomes, characterizing these EVEs is a prerequisite for their potential use to manipulate the mosquito antiviral response. In the study described here, we focused on EVEs related to the Flavivirus genus, to which dengue and Zika viruses belong, in individual Aedes mosquitoes from geographically distinct areas. We show the existence in vivo of flaviviral EVEs previously identified in mosquito cell lines, and we detected new ones. We show that EVEs have evolved differently in each mosquito population. They produce transcripts and small RNAs but not proteins, suggesting a function at the RNA level. Our study uncovers the diverse repertoire of flaviviral EVEs in Aedes mosquito populations and contributes to an understanding of their role in the host antiviral system.
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69
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Wang JL, Saha TT, Zhang Y, Zhang C, Raikhel AS. Juvenile hormone and its receptor methoprene-tolerant promote ribosomal biogenesis and vitellogenesis in the Aedes aegypti mosquito. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:10306-10315. [PMID: 28446607 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.761387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Revised: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Juvenile hormone (JH) controls many biological activities in insects, including development, metamorphosis, and reproduction. In the Aedes aegypti mosquito, a vector of dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya, and zika viruses, the metabolic tissue (the fat body, which is an analogue of the vertebrate liver) produces yolk proteins for developing oocytes. JH is important for the fat body to acquire competence for yolk protein production. However, the molecular mechanisms of how JH promotes mosquito reproduction are not completely understood. In this study we show that stimulation of the JH receptor methoprene-tolerant (Met) activates expression of genes encoding the regulator of ribosome synthesis 1 (RRS1) and six ribosomal proteins (two ribosomal large subunit proteins, two ribosomal small subunit proteins, and two mitochondrial ribosomal proteins). Moreover, RNAi-mediated depletion of RRS1 decreased biosynthesis of the ribosomal protein L32 (RpL32). Depletion of Met, RRS1, or RpL32 led to retardation of ovarian growth and reduced mosquito fecundity, which may at least in part have resulted from decreased vitellogenin protein production in the fat body. In summary, our results indicate that JH is critical for inducing the expression of ribosomal protein genes and demonstrate that RRS1 mediates the JH signal to enhance both ribosomal biogenesis and vitellogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Lin Wang
- From the Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Tusar T Saha
- From the Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521.,Institute for Integrative Genomic Biology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521
| | - Yang Zhang
- From the Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-Resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China, and
| | - Changyu Zhang
- From the Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521.,Guizhou Key Laboratory for Plant Pest Management of Mountain Region, College of Agriculture, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Alexander S Raikhel
- From the Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, .,Institute for Integrative Genomic Biology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521
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70
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Lampe L, Levashina EA. The role of microRNAs inAnophelesbiology-an emerging research field. Parasite Immunol 2017; 39. [DOI: 10.1111/pim.12405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L. Lampe
- Vector Biology Unit; Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology; Berlin Germany
| | - E. A. Levashina
- Vector Biology Unit; Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology; Berlin Germany
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71
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Transcriptome-wide microRNA and target dynamics in the fat body during the gonadotrophic cycle of Aedes aegypti. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:E1895-E1903. [PMID: 28223504 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1701474114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The mosquito Aedes aegypti is a major vector of numerous viral diseases, because it requires a blood meal to facilitate egg development. The fat body, a counterpart of mammalian liver and adipose tissues, is the metabolic center, playing a key role in reproduction. Therefore, understanding of regulatory networks controlling its functions is critical, and the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the process is largely unknown. We aimed to explore miRNA expression and potential targets in the female fat body of Ae. aegypti, as well as their changes postblood meal (PBM). Small RNA library analysis revealed five unique miRNA patterns sequentially expressed at five sampled time points, likely responding to, and affecting, waves of upstream hormonal signals and gene expression in the same period. To link miRNA identities with downstream targets, transcriptome-wide mRNA 3' UTR interaction sites were experimentally determined at 72 h posteclosion and 24 h PBM through Argonaute 1 cross-linking and immunoprecipitation followed by high-throughput sequencing. Several target sites were validated by means of in vitro luciferase assays with wild-type and mutated 3' UTRs for six miRNA families. With established transgenic lines, consistent results were observed with spatiotemporal knockdown of miR-8 and luciferase assays. We further investigated miRNAs potentially regulating various physiological processes based on Clusters of Orthologous Groups functional categories. Hence, the present work comprehensively elucidated miRNA expression and target dynamics in the female mosquito fat body, providing a solid foundation for future functional studies of miRNA regulation during the gonadotrophic cycle.
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72
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Paulo DF, Azeredo-Espin AML, Canesin LEC, Vicentini R, Junqueira ACM. Identification and characterization of microRNAs in the screwworm flies Cochliomyia hominivorax and Cochliomyia macellaria (Diptera: Calliphoridae). INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 26:46-57. [PMID: 27775856 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that modulate gene expression through post-transcriptional regulation. Here, we report the identification and characterization of miRNAs in two closely related screwworm flies with different feeding habits: Cochliomyia hominivorax and Cochliomyia macellaria. The New World screwworm, C. hominivorax, is an obligatory parasite of warm-blooded vertebrates, whereas the secondary screwworm, C. macellaria, is a free-living organism that feeds on decaying organic matter. Here, the small RNA transcriptomes of adults and third-instar larvae of both species were sequenced. A total of 110 evolutionarily conserved miRNAs were identified, and 10 putative precursor miRNAs (pre-miRNAs) were predicted. The relative expression of six selected miRNAs was further investigated, including miRNAs that are related to reproduction and neural processes in other insects. Mature miRNAs were also characterized across an evolutionary time scale, suggesting that the majority of them have been conserved since the emergence of the Arthropoda [540 million years ago (Ma)], Hexapoda (488 Ma) and Brachycera (195 Ma) lineages. This study is the first report of miRNAs for screwworm flies. We also performed a comparative analysis with the hereby predicted miRNAs from the sheep blowfly, Lucilia cuprina. The results presented may advance our understanding of parasitic habits within Calliphoridae and assist further functional studies in blowflies.
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Affiliation(s)
- D F Paulo
- Centre for Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Bioagents, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - A M L Azeredo-Espin
- Centre for Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Bioagents, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - L E C Canesin
- Centre for Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Bioagents, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - R Vicentini
- Centre for Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Bioagents, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - A C M Junqueira
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
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73
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Zhu B, Li X, Liu Y, Gao X, Liang P. Global identification of microRNAs associated with chlorantraniliprole resistance in diamondback moth Plutella xylostella (L.). Sci Rep 2017; 7:40713. [PMID: 28098189 PMCID: PMC5241650 DOI: 10.1038/srep40713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Accepted: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella (L.), is one of the most serious cruciferous pests and has developed high resistance to most insecticides, including chlorantraniliprole. Previous studies have reported several protein-coding genes that involved in chlorantraniliprole resistance, but research on resistance mechanisms at the post-transcription level is still limited. In this study, a global screen of microRNAs (miRNAs) associated with chlorantraniliprole resistance in P. xylostella was performed. The small RNA libraries for a susceptible (CHS) and two chlorantraniliprole resistant strains (CHR, ZZ) were constructed and sequenced, and a total of 199 known and 30 novel miRNAs were identified. Among them, 23 miRNAs were differentially expressed between CHR and CHS, and 90 miRNAs were differentially expressed between ZZ and CHS, of which 11 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified in both CHR and ZZ. Using miRanda and RNAhybrid, a total of 1,411 target mRNAs from 102 differentially expressed miRNAs were predicted, including mRNAs in several groups of detoxification enzymes. The expression of several differentially expressed miRNAs and their potential targets was validated by qRT-PCR. The results may provide important clues for further study of the mechanisms of miRNA-mediated chlorantraniliprole resistance in DBM and other target insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhu
- Department of Entomology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
| | - Xiuxia Li
- Department of Entomology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Entomology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
| | - Xiwu Gao
- Department of Entomology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
| | - Pei Liang
- Department of Entomology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
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74
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Ponte-Sucre A. An Overview of Trypanosoma brucei Infections: An Intense Host-Parasite Interaction. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:2126. [PMID: 28082973 PMCID: PMC5183608 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.02126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense and T. brucei gambiense, the causative agents of Human African Trypanosomiasis, are transmitted by tsetse flies. Within the vector, the parasite undergoes through transformations that prepares it to infect the human host. Sequentially these developmental stages are the replicative procyclic (in which the parasite surface is covered by procyclins) and trypo-epimastigote forms, as well as the non-replicative, infective, metacyclic form that develops in the vector salivary glands. As a pre-adaptation to their life in humans, metacyclic parasites begin to express and be densely covered by the Variant Surface Glycoprotein (VSG). Once the metacyclic form invades the human host the parasite develops into the bloodstream form. Herein the VSG triggers a humoral immune response. To avoid this humoral response, and essential for survival while in the bloodstream, the parasite changes its cover periodically and sheds into the surroundings the expressed VSG, thus evading the consequences of the immune system activation. Additionally, tools comparable to quorum sensing are used by the parasite for the successful parasite transmission from human to insect. On the other hand, the human host promotes clearance of the parasite triggering innate and adaptive immune responses and stimulating cytokine and chemokine secretion. All in all, the host–parasite interaction is extremely active and leads to responses that need multiple control sites to develop appropriately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Ponte-Sucre
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Luis Razetti School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Central de Venezuela Caracas, Venezuela
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75
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Liu X, Shen G, Xu H, He L. The fenpropathrin resistant Tetranychus cinnabarinus showed increased fecundity with high content of vitellogenin and vitellogenin receptor. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2016; 134:31-38. [PMID: 27914537 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2016.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2015] [Revised: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Carmine spider mite, Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Boisduval), an agricultural pest of economically important crops, has developed resistance to a group of pesticides. We have selected a fenpropathrin-resistant strain (FeR) of T. cinnabarinus from the isogenous and susceptible strain (SS), and found that the FeR not only showed resistance but its fecundity also increased. According to the numbers of eggs laid per day of both strains, the FeR was more fertile than SS throughout the life span. To investigate the underlying reason, the protein contents of vitellogenin (vg) and vitellogenin receptor (vgr) were detected, and the results showed both of them were significantly higher in FeR than in SS. Then, the mRNA-expressions of vg and vgr genes were compared between FeR and SS. From the transcriptome data of T. cinnabarinus, we classified two vg genes (designated as Tcvg1 and Tcvg2, respectively) and a vgr gene (designated as Tcvgr). The expressions of Tcvg1, Tcvg2 and Tcvgr were highly associated with the fecundity of the mites that their mRNAs were extremely abundant at the adult stage, but hardly detectable during the developmental period (from egg to deutonymph). In accordance with the protein content, the expression levels of the three genes were all significantly higher in FeR than they were in SS. These results suggested that after resistance selection with fenpropathrin in T. cinnabarinus, the fecundity and the expression of reproduction-related genes (vg and vgr) were significantly higher in fenpropathrin resistant strain than that in susceptible strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guangmao Shen
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Haoran Xu
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lin He
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.
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76
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Lucas KJ, Zhao B, Roy S, Gervaise AL, Raikhel AS. Mosquito-specific microRNA-1890 targets the juvenile hormone-regulated serine protease JHA15 in the female mosquito gut. RNA Biol 2016; 12:1383-90. [PMID: 26488481 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2015.1101525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Females of the hematophagous mosquito species require a vertebrate blood meal to supply amino acids and other nutrients necessary for egg development, serving as the driving force for the spread of many vector-borne diseases in humans. Blood digestion utilizes both early and late phase serine proteases (SPs) that are differentially regulated at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional level. To uncover the regulatory complexity of SPs in the female mosquito midgut, we investigated involvement of miRNAs in regulating the juvenile hormone (JH)-controlled chymotrypsin-like SP, JHA15. We identified regulatory regions complementary to the mosquito-specific miRNA, miR-1890, within the 3' UTR of JHA15 mRNA. The level of the JHA15 transcript is highest post eclosion and drastically declines post blood meal (PBM), exhibiting an opposite trend to miR-1890 that peaks at 24 h PBM. Depletion of miR-1890 results in defects in blood digestion, ovary development and egg deposition. JHA15 mRNA and protein levels are elevated in female mosquitoes with miR-1890 inhibition. JHA15 RNA interference in the miR-1890 depletion background alleviates miR-1890 depletion phenotypes. The miR-1890 gene is activated by the 20-hydroxyecdysone pathway that involves the ecdysone receptor and the early genes, E74B and Broad Z2. Our study suggests that miR-1890 controls JHA15 mRNA stability in a stage- and tissue- specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keira J Lucas
- a Department of Entomology ; University of California, Riverside ; Riverside , CA USA.,b Graduate Program in Genetics; Genomics and Bioinformatics; University of California Riverside , Riverside , CA USA
| | - Bo Zhao
- a Department of Entomology ; University of California, Riverside ; Riverside , CA USA.,c Institute for Integrative Genome Biology; University of California Riverside , Riverside , CA USA
| | - Sourav Roy
- a Department of Entomology ; University of California, Riverside ; Riverside , CA USA.,c Institute for Integrative Genome Biology; University of California Riverside , Riverside , CA USA
| | - Amanda L Gervaise
- a Department of Entomology ; University of California, Riverside ; Riverside , CA USA
| | - Alexander S Raikhel
- a Department of Entomology ; University of California, Riverside ; Riverside , CA USA.,c Institute for Integrative Genome Biology; University of California Riverside , Riverside , CA USA
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77
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microRNA-309 targets the Homeobox gene SIX4 and controls ovarian development in the mosquito Aedes aegypti. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:E4828-36. [PMID: 27489347 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1609792113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Obligatory blood-triggered reproductive strategy is an evolutionary adaptation of mosquitoes for rapid egg development. It contributes to the vectorial capacity of these insects. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying reproductive processes is of particular importance. Here, we report that microRNA-309 (miR-309) plays a critical role in mosquito reproduction. A spatiotemporal expression profile of miR-309 displayed its blood feeding-dependent onset and ovary-specific manifestation in female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Antagomir silencing of miR-309 impaired ovarian development and resulted in nonsynchronized follicle growth. Furthermore, the genetic disruption of miR-309 by CRISPR/Cas9 system led to the developmental failure of primary follicle formation. Examination of genomic responses to miR-309 depletion revealed that several pathways associated with ovarian development are down-regulated. Comparative analysis of genes obtained from the high-throughput RNA sequencing of ovarian tissue from the miR-309 antagomir-silenced mosquitoes with those from the in silico computation target prediction identified that the gene-encoding SIX homeobox 4 protein (SIX4) is a putative target of miR-309. Reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation confirmed that SIX4 is a direct target of miR-309. RNA interference of SIX4 was able to rescue phenotypic manifestations caused by miR-309 depletion. Thus, miR-309 plays a critical role in mosquito reproduction by targeting SIX4 in the ovary and serves as a regulatory switch permitting a stage-specific degradation of the ovarian SIX4 mRNA. In turn, this microRNA (miRNA)-targeted degradation is required for appropriate initiation of a blood feeding-triggered phase of ovarian development, highlighting involvement of this miRNA in mosquito reproduction.
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78
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Aksoy E, Vigneron A, Bing X, Zhao X, O'Neill M, Wu YN, Bangs JD, Weiss BL, Aksoy S. Mammalian African trypanosome VSG coat enhances tsetse's vector competence. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:6961-6. [PMID: 27185908 PMCID: PMC4922192 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1600304113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Tsetse flies are biological vectors of African trypanosomes, the protozoan parasites responsible for causing human and animal trypanosomiases across sub-Saharan Africa. Currently, no vaccines are available for disease prevention due to antigenic variation of the Variant Surface Glycoproteins (VSG) that coat parasites while they reside within mammalian hosts. As a result, interference with parasite development in the tsetse vector is being explored to reduce disease transmission. A major bottleneck to infection occurs as parasites attempt to colonize tsetse's midgut. One critical factor influencing this bottleneck is the fly's peritrophic matrix (PM), a semipermeable, chitinous barrier that lines the midgut. The mechanisms that enable trypanosomes to cross this barrier are currently unknown. Here, we determined that as parasites enter the tsetse's gut, VSG molecules released from trypanosomes are internalized by cells of the cardia-the tissue responsible for producing the PM. VSG internalization results in decreased expression of a tsetse microRNA (mir-275) and interferes with the Wnt-signaling pathway and the Iroquois/IRX transcription factor family. This interference reduces the function of the PM barrier and promotes parasite colonization of the gut early in the infection process. Manipulation of the insect midgut homeostasis by the mammalian parasite coat proteins is a novel function and indicates that VSG serves a dual role in trypanosome biology-that of facilitating transmission through its mammalian host and insect vector. We detail critical steps in the course of trypanosome infection establishment that can serve as novel targets to reduce the tsetse's vector competence and disease transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Aksoy
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Aurélien Vigneron
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - XiaoLi Bing
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Michelle O'Neill
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Yi-Neng Wu
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - James D Bangs
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University at Buffalo (SUNY), Buffalo, NY 14214
| | - Brian L Weiss
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520;
| | - Serap Aksoy
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520;
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79
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Carmel I, Tram U, Heifetz Y. Mating induces developmental changes in the insect female reproductive tract. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2016; 13:106-113. [PMID: 27436559 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2016.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Revised: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
In response to mating, the Drosophila female undergoes a series of rapid molecular, morphological, behavioral and physiological changes. Studies in Drosophila and other organisms have shown that stimuli received during courtship and copulation, sperm, and seminal fluid are needed for the full mating response and thus reproductive success. Very little is known, however, about how females respond to these male-derived stimuli/factors at the molecular level. More specifically, it is unclear what mechanisms regulate and mediate the mating response, how the signals received during mating are integrated and processed, and what network of molecules are essential for a successful mating response. Moreover, it is yet to be determined whether the rapid transition of the reproductive tract induced by mating is a general phenomenon in insects. This review highlights current knowledge and advances on the developmental switch that rapidly transitions the female from the 'unmated' to 'mated' state.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Carmel
- Department of Entomology, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - U Tram
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Y Heifetz
- Department of Entomology, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel.
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80
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Fu X, Li T, Chen J, Dong Y, Qiu J, Kang K, Zhang W. Functional screen for microRNAs of Nilaparvata lugens reveals that targeting of glutamine synthase by miR-4868b regulates fecundity. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2015; 83:22-9. [PMID: 26546713 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2015.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2015] [Revised: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Insect fecundity is regulated by the interaction of genotypes and the environment. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) also act in insect development and reproduction by regulating genes involved in these physiological processes. Although hundreds of insect miRNAs have been identified, the biological roles of most remain poorly understood. Here, we used a multi-algorithm approach for miRNA target prediction in 3'UTRs of fecundity-related genes in the brown planthopper (BPH) Nilaparvata lugens and identified 38 putative miRNAs targeting 9 fecundity-related genes. High-ranked miRNAs were selected for target validation. Using a dual luciferase reporter assay in S2 cells, we experimentally verified N. lugens glutamine synthetase (NlGS) as an authentic target of microRNA-4868b (miR-4868b). In the females, NlGS protein expression was down-regulated after injection of a miR-4868b mimic but up-regulated after injection of a miR-4868b inhibitor. In addition, overexpression of miR-4868b reduced fecundity, and disrupted ovary development and Vg expression in N. lugens. These findings showed that miR-4868b is involved in regulating N. lugens fecundity by targeting NlGS. Moreover, this study may lead to better understanding of the fecundity of this important agricultural insect pest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Tengchao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Jie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Yi Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Jieqi Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Kui Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Wenqing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
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81
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Jing J, Xiong S, Li Z, Wu J, Zhou L, Gui JF, Mei J. A feedback regulatory loop involving p53/miR-200 and growth hormone endocrine axis controls embryo size of zebrafish. Sci Rep 2015; 5:15906. [PMID: 26507500 PMCID: PMC4623745 DOI: 10.1038/srep15906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In vertebrates, growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor (GH/IGF) axis signaling plays a critical role in regulating somatic growth. Understanding the direct upstream regulators of GH/IGF axis remains a major challenge. Our studies of the zebrafish reveal that the conserved miR-200 family members are critical regulators of embryo size by targeting several GH/IGF axis genes, including GH, GHRa, GHRb and IGF2a. Overexpression of miR-200s led to cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase and induced apoptotic responses during embryo development, thereby inhibiting somatic growth of zebrafish embryos. Intriguingly, GH induced expression of both p53 and miR-200s, and miR-200s is a potential p53 transcriptional target, thus forming a negative feedback loop. Significantly, the up-regulation of miR-200s associated with GH activation is abolished in embryos with p53 mutation. By integrating these studies, we conclude that p53/miR-200 and GH/IGF signaling pathway form a negative regulatory loop to control embryo size, that provide critical insights into the long-standing puzzle of how body growth is determined during early development of teleosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Jing
- College of Fisheries, Key Laboratory of Freshwater Animal Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Freshwater Aquaculture Collaborative Innovation Center of Hubei Province, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Shuting Xiong
- College of Fisheries, Key Laboratory of Freshwater Animal Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Freshwater Aquaculture Collaborative Innovation Center of Hubei Province, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Zhi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Junjie Wu
- College of Fisheries, Key Laboratory of Freshwater Animal Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Freshwater Aquaculture Collaborative Innovation Center of Hubei Province, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Li Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Jian-Fang Gui
- College of Fisheries, Key Laboratory of Freshwater Animal Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Freshwater Aquaculture Collaborative Innovation Center of Hubei Province, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.,State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Jie Mei
- College of Fisheries, Key Laboratory of Freshwater Animal Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Freshwater Aquaculture Collaborative Innovation Center of Hubei Province, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
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82
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Smykal V, Raikhel AS. Nutritional Control of Insect Reproduction. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2015; 11:31-38. [PMID: 26644995 PMCID: PMC4669899 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2015.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The amino acid-Target of Rapamycin (AA/TOR) and insulin pathways play a pivotal role in reproduction of female insects, serving as regulatory checkpoints that guarantee the sufficiency of nutrients for developing eggs. Being evolutionary older, the AA/TOR pathway functions as an initial nutritional sensor that not only activates nutritional responses in a tissue-specific manner, but is also involved in the control of insect insulin-like peptides (ILPs) secretion. Insulin and AA/TOR pathways also assert their nutritionally linked influence on reproductive events by contributing to the control of biosynthesis and secretion of juvenile hormone and ecdysone. This review covers the present status of our understanding of the contributions of AA/TOR and insulin pathways in insect reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexander S. Raikhel
- Corresponding author. Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA. Tel.: 951 827 2129
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83
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Lucas KJ, Zhao B, Liu S, Raikhel AS. Regulation of physiological processes by microRNAs in insects. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2015; 11:1-7. [PMID: 26251827 PMCID: PMC4522942 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2015.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that function in gene regulatory processes in plants and animals by targeting sites within messenger RNA. In insects, miRNAs have been shown to regulate a variety of physiological processes throughout insect development, including molting, metamorphosis, oogenesis, embryogenesis, behavior and host-pathogen interactions. The roles of miRNAs in the model organism, Drosophila melanogaster, have been studied extensively due to the conserved nature of miRNA function among highly divergent species. However, seeking to understand miRNA function in non-drosophilid insect species has become a growing trend in insect science. Here, we highlight the recent discoveries regarding miRNA function in insect physiology and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keira J. Lucas
- Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside CA 92521, USA
- Graduate Program in Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics, University of California Riverside CA 92521, USA
| | - Bo Zhao
- Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside CA 92521, USA
- Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, University of California Riverside CA 92521, USA
| | - Shiping Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Alexander S. Raikhel
- Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside CA 92521, USA
- Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, University of California Riverside CA 92521, USA
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84
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Weng SC, Shiao SH. Frizzled 2 is a key component in the regulation of TOR signaling-mediated egg production in the mosquito Aedes aegypti. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2015; 61:17-24. [PMID: 25890109 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2015.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Revised: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2015] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The Wnt signaling pathway was first discovered as a key event in embryonic development and cell polarity in Drosophila. Recently, several reports have shown that Wnt stimulates translation and cell growth by activating the mTOR pathway in mammals. Previous studies have demonstrated that the Target of Rapamycin (TOR) pathway plays an important role in mosquito vitellogenesis. However, the interactions between these two pathways are poorly understood in the mosquito. In this study, we hypothesized that factors from the TOR and Wnt signaling pathways interacted synergistically in mosquito vitellogenesis. Our results showed that silencing Aedes aegypti Frizzled 2 (AaFz2), a transmembrane receptor of the Wnt signaling pathway, decreased the fecundity of mosquitoes. We showed that AaFz2 was highly expressed at the transcriptional and translational levels in the female mosquito 6 h after a blood meal, indicating amino acid-stimulated expression of AaFz2. Notably, the phosphorylation of S6K, a downstream target of the TOR pathway, and the expression of vitellogenin were inhibited in the absence of AaFz2. A direct link was found in this study between Wnt and TOR signaling in the regulation of mosquito reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Che Weng
- Department of Parasitology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shin-Hong Shiao
- Department of Parasitology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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