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Cytauxzoon felis: An Overview. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12010133. [PMID: 36678481 PMCID: PMC9860807 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12010133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytauxzoon felis is a tick-transmitted, obligate, hemoprotozoal, piroplasmid pathogen of felids and the causative agent of cytauxzoonosis. It has a complex life cycle which includes a tick as its definitive host and a felid as its intermediate host. Since its first description in 1976, C. felis infections of felids have been reported in several southeastern and south-central U.S. states, overlapping with the ranges of its two known biological vectors, Amblyomma americanum (Lone star tick) and Dermacentor variabilis (American dog tick). Infected felids demonstrate disease as either an acute, often-fatal, infection, or a subclinical carrier infection. To develop effective C. felis transmission control strategies, the incidence of acute cytauxzoonosis, patient risk factors, the role of domestic cat carriers, and ecological variabilities need to be investigated further. Of equal importance is communicating these strategies for high-risk cat populations, including recommending year-round use of an acaricide product for all cats that spend any time outdoors. More studies are needed to further identify factors affecting C. felis and other Cytauxzoon spp. infection, transmission, disease progression, and treatment options and outcomes within the U.S. and globally. Here we provide an overview of C. felis highlighting its lifecycle within its definitive host, transmission to its intermediate host, symptoms and signs providing evidence of transmission, definitive diagnosis, current treatment and prevention strategies, and future considerations regarding this condition.
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Weise K, Kurth T, Schmidt A, Winkelmann C, Becker J, Kretschmar S, Berendonk TU, Jungmann D. Impact of weathered multi-walled carbon nanotubes on the epithelial cells of the intestinal tract in the freshwater grazers Lymnaea stagnalis and Rhithrogena semicolorata. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:407-419. [PMID: 35900624 PMCID: PMC9813111 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-22225-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Freshwater grazers are suitable organisms to investigate the fate of environmental pollutants, such as weathered multi-walled carbon nanotubes (wMWCNTs). One key process is the uptake of ingested materials into digestive or absorptive cells. To address this, we investigated the localization of wMWCNTs in the intestinal tracts of the mud snail Lymnaea stagnalis (L. stagnalis) and the mayfly Rhithrogena semicolorata (R. semicolorata). In L. stagnalis, bundles of wMWCNTs could be detected in the midgut lumen, whereas only single wMWCNTs could be detected in the lumina of the digestive gland. Intracellular uptake of wMWCNTs was detected by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) but was restricted to the cells of the digestive gland. In larvae of R. semicolorata, irritations of the microvilli and damages in the apical parts of the epithelial gut cells were detected after feeding with 1 to 10 mg/L wMWCNTs. In both models, we detected fibrillar structures in close association with the epithelial cells that formed peritrophic membranes (PMs). The PM may cause a reduced transmission of wMWCNT bundles into the epithelium by forming a filter barrier and potentially protecting the cells from the wMWCNTs. As a result, the uptake of wMWCNTs into cells is rare in mud snails and may not occur at all in mayfly larvae. In addition, we monitor physiological markers such as levels of glycogen or triglycerides and the RNA/DNA ratio. This ratio was significantly affected in L. stagnalis after 24 days with 10 mg/L wMWCNTs, but not in R. semicolorata after 28 days and 10 mg/L wMWCNTs. However, significant effects on the energy status of R. semicolorata were analysed after 28 days of exposure to 1 mg/L wMWCNTs. Furthermore, we observed a significant reduction of phagosomes per enterocyte cell in mayfly larvae at a concentration of 10 mg/L wMWCNTs (p < 0.01).
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Weise
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Institute for Hydrobiology, Technische Universität Dresden, Zellescher Weg 40, 01217, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Thomas Kurth
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technology Platform, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Anna Schmidt
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Institute for Hydrobiology, Technische Universität Dresden, Zellescher Weg 40, 01217, Dresden, Germany
| | - Carola Winkelmann
- Institute for Integrated Natural Sciences, University of Koblenz-Landau, Universitätsstraße 1, 56070, Koblenz, Germany
| | - Jochen Becker
- Institute for Integrated Natural Sciences, University of Koblenz-Landau, Universitätsstraße 1, 56070, Koblenz, Germany
| | - Susanne Kretschmar
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technology Platform, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Thomas Ulrich Berendonk
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Institute for Hydrobiology, Technische Universität Dresden, Zellescher Weg 40, 01217, Dresden, Germany
| | - Dirk Jungmann
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Institute for Hydrobiology, Technische Universität Dresden, Zellescher Weg 40, 01217, Dresden, Germany
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Liu D, De Schutter K, Far J, Staes A, Dewettinck K, Quinton L, Gevaert K, Smagghe G. RNAi of Mannosidase-Ia in the Colorado potato beetle and changes in the midgut and peritrophic membrane. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2022; 78:5071-5079. [PMID: 36053804 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In addition to its role in the digestive system, the peritrophic membrane (PM) provides a physical barrier protecting the intestine from abrasion and against pathogens. Because of its sensitivity to RNA interference (RNAi), the notorious pest insect, the Colorado potato beetle (CPB, Leptinotarsa decemlineata), has become a model insect for functional studies. Previously, RNAi-mediated silencing of Mannosidase-Ia (ManIa), a key enzyme in the transition from high-mannose glycan moieties to paucimannose N-glycans, was shown to disrupt the transition from larva to pupa and the metamorphosis into adult beetles. While these effects at the organismal level were interesting in a pest control context, the effects at the organ or tissue level and also immune effects have not been investigated yet. To fill this knowledge gap, we performed an analysis of the midgut and PM in ManIa-silenced insects. RESULTS As marked phenotype, the ManIaRNAi insects, the PM pore size was found to be decreased when compared to the control GFPRNAi insects. These smaller pores are related to the observation of thinner microvilli (Mv) on the epithelial cells of the midgut of ManIaRNAi insects. A midgut and PM proteome study and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis with a selection of marker genes was performed to characterize the midgut cells and understand their response to the silencing of ManIa. In agreement with the loss of ManIa activity, an accumulation of high-mannose N-glycans was observed in the ManIa-silenced insects. As a pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP), the presence of these glycan structures could trigger the activation of the immune pathways. CONCLUSION The observed decrease in PM pore size could be a response to prevent potential pathogens to access the midgut epithelium. This hypothesis is supported by the strong increase in transcription levels of the anti-fungal peptide drosomycin-like in ManIaRNAi insects, although further research is required to elucidate this possibility. The potential immune response in the midgut and the smaller pore size in the PM shed a light on the function of the PM as a physical barrier and provide evidence for the relation between the Mv and PM. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongdong Liu
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kristof De Schutter
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Johann Far
- Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, MolSys Research Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - An Staes
- VIB Center for Medical Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Koen Dewettinck
- Food Structure and Function Research Group, Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Loic Quinton
- Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, MolSys Research Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Kris Gevaert
- VIB Center for Medical Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Zeng T, Jaffar S, Xu Y, Qi Y. The Intestinal Immune Defense System in Insects. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315132. [PMID: 36499457 PMCID: PMC9740067 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Over a long period of evolution, insects have developed unique intestinal defenses against invasion by foreign microorganisms, including physical defenses and immune responses. The physical defenses of the insect gut consist mainly of the peritrophic matrix (PM) and mucus layer, which are the first barriers to pathogens. Gut microbes also prevent the colonization of pathogens. Importantly, the immune-deficiency (Imd) pathways produce antimicrobial peptides to eliminate pathogens; mechanisms related to reactive oxygen species are another important pathway for insect intestinal immunity. The janus kinase/STAT signaling pathway is involved in intestinal immunity by producing bactericidal substances and regulating tissue repair. Melanization can produce many bactericidal active substances into the intestine; meanwhile, there are multiple responses in the intestine to fight against viral and parasitic infections. Furthermore, intestinal stem cells (ISCs) are also indispensable in intestinal immunity. Only the coordinated combination of the intestinal immune defense system and intestinal tissue renewal can effectively defend against pathogenic microorganisms.
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Peritrophin-like Genes Are Associated with Delousing Drug Response and Sensitivity in the Sea Louse Caligus rogercresseyi. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113341. [DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Caligus rogercresseyi is the main ectoparasite that affects the salmon industry in Chile. The mechanisms used by the parasite to support its life strategy are of great interest for developing control strategies. Due to the critical role of insect peritrophins in host–parasite interactions and response to pest control drugs, this study aimed to identify and characterize the peritrophin-like genes present in C. rogercresseyi. Moreover, the expression of peritrophin-like genes was evaluated on parasites exposed to delousing drugs such as pyrethroids and azamethiphos. Peritrophin genes were identified by homology analysis among the sea louse transcriptome database and arthropods peritrophin-protein database obtained from GenBank and UniProt. Moreover, the gene loci in the parasite genome were located. Furthermore, peritrophin gene expression levels were evaluated by RNA-Seq analysis in sea louse developmental stages and sea lice exposed to delousing drugs deltamethrin, cypermethrin, and azamethiphos. Seven putative peritrophin-like genes were identified in C. rogercresseyi with high homology with other crustacean peritrophins. Differences in the presence of signal peptides, the number of chitin-binding domains, and the position of conserved cysteines were found. In addition, seven peritrophin-like gene sequences were identified in the C. rogercresseyi genome. Gene expression analysis revealed a stage-dependent expression profile. Notably, differential regulation of peritrophin genes in resistant and susceptible populations to delousing drugs was found. These data are the first report and characterization of peritrophin genes in the sea louse C. rogercresseyi, representing valuable knowledge to understand sea louse biology. Moreover, this study provides evidence for a deeper understanding of the molecular basis of C. rogercresseyi response to delousing drugs.
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Harrison RL, Rowley DL. The Parapoynx stagnalis Nucleopolyhedrovirus (PastNPV), a Divergent Member of the Alphabaculovirus Group I Clade, Encodes a Homolog of Ran GTPase. Viruses 2022; 14:v14102289. [PMID: 36298845 PMCID: PMC9610796 DOI: 10.3390/v14102289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We report the analysis of the genome of a novel Alphabaculovirus, Parapoynx stagnalis nucleopolyhedrovirus isolate 473 (PastNPV-473), from cadavers of the rice case bearer, Parapoynx stagnalis Zeller (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), collected in rice fields in Kerala, India. High-throughput sequencing of DNA from PastNPV occlusion bodies and assembly of the data yielded a circular genome-length contig of 114,833 bp with 126 annotated opening reading frames (ORFs) and six homologous regions (hrs). Phylogenetic inference based on baculovirus core gene amino acid sequence alignments indicated that PastNPV is a member of the group I clade of viruses in genus Alphabaculovirus, but different phylogenetic methods yielded different results with respect to the placement of PastNPV and four similarly divergent alphabaculoviruses in the group I clade. Branch lengths and Kimura-2-parameter pairwise nucleotide distances indicated that PastNPV-473 cannot be classified in any of the currently listed species in genus Alphabaculovirus. A unique feature of the PastNPV genome was the presence of an ORF encoding a homolog of Ran GTPase, a regulator of nucleocytoplasmic trafficking. PastNPV appears to have acquired a homolog of Ran relatively recently from a lepidopteran host via horizontal gene transfer.
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dos Santos NAC, Magi FN, Andrade AO, Bastos ADS, Pereira SDS, Medeiros JF, Araujo MDS. Assessment of antibiotic treatment on Anopheles darlingi survival and susceptibility to Plasmodium vivax. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:971083. [PMID: 36274692 PMCID: PMC9583876 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.971083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic treatment has been used to enhance anopheline susceptibility to Plasmodium infection, because bacterial microbiota play a fundamental role in modulating the vector competence of mosquitoes that transmit Plasmodium parasites. However, few studies have examined the impact of antibiotic treatments on Plasmodium vivax sporogonic development in neotropical anopheline mosquitoes. Herein, we assessed the impact of antibiotic treatment on P. vivax development and survival in Anopheles darlingi, the main vector of malaria in the Amazon region. Female mosquitoes were treated continuously with antibiotics to impact the gut bacterial load and then tested for prevalence, infection intensity, and survival in comparison with untreated mosquitoes. Antibiotic-fed mosquitoes had not dramatic impact on P. vivax development previously observed in P. falciparum. However, antibiotic treatment increases mosquito survival, which is known to increase vectorial capacity. These findings raise questions about the effect of antibiotics on P. vivax development and survival in An. darlingi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najara Akira Costa dos Santos
- Postgraduate Program in Experimental Biology, Federal University of Rondonia/Fiocruz Rondonia, Porto Velho, Brazil
- Platform of Production and Infection of Malaria Vectors (PIVEM), Laboratory of Entomology, Fiocruz Rondonia, Porto Velho, Brazil
| | - Felipe Neves Magi
- Platform of Production and Infection of Malaria Vectors (PIVEM), Laboratory of Entomology, Fiocruz Rondonia, Porto Velho, Brazil
| | - Alice Oliveira Andrade
- Platform of Production and Infection of Malaria Vectors (PIVEM), Laboratory of Entomology, Fiocruz Rondonia, Porto Velho, Brazil
| | - Alessandra da Silva Bastos
- Postgraduate Program in Experimental Biology, Federal University of Rondonia/Fiocruz Rondonia, Porto Velho, Brazil
- Platform of Production and Infection of Malaria Vectors (PIVEM), Laboratory of Entomology, Fiocruz Rondonia, Porto Velho, Brazil
| | | | - Jansen Fernandes Medeiros
- Postgraduate Program in Experimental Biology, Federal University of Rondonia/Fiocruz Rondonia, Porto Velho, Brazil
- Platform of Production and Infection of Malaria Vectors (PIVEM), Laboratory of Entomology, Fiocruz Rondonia, Porto Velho, Brazil
| | - Maisa da Silva Araujo
- Platform of Production and Infection of Malaria Vectors (PIVEM), Laboratory of Entomology, Fiocruz Rondonia, Porto Velho, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Maisa da Silva Araujo,
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Liu XY, Wang SS, Zhong F, Zhou M, Jiang XY, Cheng YS, Dan YH, Hu G, Li C, Tang B, Wu Y. Chitinase (CHI) of Spodoptera frugiperda affects molting development by regulating the metabolism of chitin and trehalose. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1034926. [PMID: 36262255 PMCID: PMC9574123 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1034926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chitin is the main component of insect exoskeleton and midgut peritrophic membrane. Insect molting is the result of the balance and coordination of chitin synthesis and degradation in chitin metabolism under the action of hormones. In this study, a 678 bp dsRNA fragment was designed and synthesized according to the known CHI (Chitinase) sequence of Spodoptera frugiperda. It was injected into the larvae to observe the molting and development of S. frugiperda. At the same time, the activities of trehalase and chitinase, the contents of trehalose, chitin and other substances were detected, and the expression of related genes in the chitin synthesis pathway was determined. The results showed that CHI gene was highly expressed at the end of each instar, prepupa and pupal stage before molting; At 12 and 24 h after dsRNA injection of CHI gene of S. frugiperda, the expression of CHI gene decreased significantly, and the chitinase activity decreased significantly from 12 to 48 h. The expression of chitin synthase (CHSB) gene decreased significantly, and the chitin content increased significantly. Some larvae could not molt normally and complete development, leading to certain mortality. Secondly, after RNAi of CHI gene, the content of glucose and glycogen increased first and then decreased, while the content of trehalose decreased significantly or showed a downward trend. The activities of the two types of trehalase and the expression levels of trehalase genes decreased first and then increased, especially the trehalase activities increased significantly at 48 h after dsCHI injection. And trehalose-6-phosphate synthase (TPS), glutamine: fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase (GFAT), UDP-N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylases (UAP), hexokinase (HK), glucose-6-phosphate isomerase (G6PI) and phosphoacetylglucosamine mutase (PAGM) all decreased significantly at 24 h, and then increased or significantly increased at 48 h. These results indicated that when the expression of chitinase gene of S. frugiperda was inhibited, it affected the degradation of chitin in the old epidermis and the formation of new epidermis, and the content of chitin increased, which led to the failure of larvae to molt normally. Moreover, the chitin synthesis pathway and trehalose metabolism were also regulated. The relevant results provide a theoretical basis for screening target genes and developing green insecticides to control pests by using the chitin metabolism pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Yu Liu
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, Department of Biology and Engineering of Environment, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
| | - Sha-Sha Wang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fan Zhong
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Min Zhou
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, Department of Biology and Engineering of Environment, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
| | - Xin-Yi Jiang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi-Sha Cheng
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, Department of Biology and Engineering of Environment, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
| | - Yi-Hao Dan
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, Department of Biology and Engineering of Environment, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
| | - Gao Hu
- College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Can Li
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, Department of Biology and Engineering of Environment, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
| | - Bin Tang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yan Wu
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, Department of Biology and Engineering of Environment, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
- *Correspondence: Yan Wu,
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Shen Y, Zeng X, Chen G, Wu X. Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals regional specialization of gene expression in larval silkworm (Bombyx mori) midgut. INSECT SCIENCE 2022; 29:1329-1345. [PMID: 34997945 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Insect midgut plays a central role in food digestion and nutrition absorption. Larval silkworm midgut could be divided into 3 distinct regions based on their morphological colors. However, it remains rudimentary of regional gene expression and physiological function in larval silkworm midgut. Through transcriptome sequencing of 3 midgut compartments, a comprehensive analysis of gene expression atlas along the anterior-posterior axis was conducted. Posterior midgut was found transcriptionally divergent from anterior and middle midgut. Differentially expressed gene analysis revealed the regional specialization of digestive enzyme production, transmembrane transport, chitin metabolism, and hormone regulation in different midgut regions. In addition, gene subsets of pan-midgut and region-specific transcription factors (TFs) along the length of midgut were also identified. The results suggested that homeobox TFs might play an essential role in transcriptional variations across the midgut. Altogether, our study provided the first fundamental resource to investigate physiological function and regulation mechanism in larval midgut compartmentalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunwang Shen
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoqun Zeng
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guanping Chen
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
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Maccaro JJ, Moreira Salgado JF, Klinger E, Argueta Guzmán MP, Ngor L, Stajich JE, McFrederick QS. Comparative genomics reveals that metabolism underlies evolution of entomopathogenicity in bee-loving Ascosphaera spp. fungi. J Invertebr Pathol 2022; 194:107804. [PMID: 35933037 PMCID: PMC10793876 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2022.107804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Ascosphaera (Eurotiomycetes: Onygenales) is a diverse genus of fungi that is exclusively found in association with bee nests and comprises both saprophytic and entomopathogenic species. To date, most genomic analyses have been focused on the honeybee pathogen A. apis, and we lack a genomic understanding of how pathogenesis evolved more broadly in the genus. To address this gap we sequenced the genomes of the leaf-cutting bee pathogen A. aggregata as well as three commensal species: A. pollenicola, A. atra and A. acerosa. De novo annotation and comparison of the assembled genomes was carried out, including the previously published genome of A. apis. To identify candidate virulence genes in the pathogenic species, we performed secondary metabolite-oriented analyses and clustering of biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs). Additionally, we captured single copy orthologs to infer their phylogeny and created codon-aware alignments to determine orthologs under selective pressure in our pathogenic species. Our results show several shared BGCs between A. apis, A. aggregata and A. pollenicola, with antifungal resistance related genes present in the bee pathogens and commensals. Genes involved in metabolism and protein processing exhibit signatures of enrichment and positive selection under a fitted branch-site model. Additional known virulence genes in A. pollenicola, A. acerosa and A. atra are identified, supporting previous hypotheses that these commensals may be opportunistic pathogens. Finally, we discuss the importance of such genes in other fungal pathogens, suggesting a common route to evolution of pathogenicity in Ascosphaera.
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Affiliation(s)
- J J Maccaro
- Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - J F Moreira Salgado
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - E Klinger
- Department of Entomology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; USDA-ARS Pollinating Insect Biology Management Systematics Research Unit, Logan, UT, USA
| | - M P Argueta Guzmán
- Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - L Ngor
- Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - J E Stajich
- Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA.
| | - Q S McFrederick
- Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA.
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Niu GJ, Yan M, Li C, Lu PY, Yu Z, Wang JX. Infection with white spot syndrome virus affects the microbiota in the stomachs and intestines of kuruma shrimp. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 839:156233. [PMID: 35636540 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Maintaining eubiosis of the gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota is essential for animal health. White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) is the most lethal viral pathogen because it causes extremely high mortality in shrimp farming. However, it remains poorly understood how WSSV infection affects the microbiota in different regions of the GI tract of shrimp. In the present study, we established an experimental model of kuruma shrimp (Marsupenaeus japonicus) infection with WSSV and then investigated the effects of WSSV infection on the microbiota in the cardiac stomach, pyloric stomach, and intestines using metataxonomics. We identified 34 phyla and 576 genera of bacteria collectively. At the phylum level, Proteobacteria and Firmicutes were the most abundant in all the three GI segments. The WSSV infection decreased microbial diversity to a different extent in the stomachs and in a time-dependent manner. The infection with WSSV affected the microbiota composition in the two stomachs, but not the intestines. Firmicutes increased significantly, while Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Cyanobacteria decreased in the two stomachs of the WSSV-infected shrimp. At the genus level, Trichococcus and Vibrio increased, but Bradyrhizobium and Roseburia decreased in the cardiac stomach of the WSSV-infected shrimp. Trichococcus and Photobacterium increased in the pyloric stomach. Although Vibrio showed a slight downward trend, Aliivibrio (formerly Vibrio) increased in the pyloric stomach. Thiothrix, Fusibacter, and Shewanella decreased in the pyloric stomach, but no significant differences in these genera were detected in the cardiac stomach. Analysis of the predicted functions of the GI microbiota indicated that the WSSV infection resulted in losses of some microbiota functions. The new information from this study may help better understand the bacteria-virus interaction in the GI tract of shrimp and other crustacean species, and inform pathogen prevention/control and sustainable aquaculture production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Juan Niu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Ming Yan
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Cang Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Peng-Yuan Lu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Zhongtang Yu
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.
| | - Jin-Xing Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China; State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, Shandong, China.
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Jiang LH, Mu LL, Jin L, Anjum AA, Li GQ. Silencing uridine diphosphate N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylase gene impairs larval development in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2022; 78:3894-3902. [PMID: 34523212 DOI: 10.1002/ps.6643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uridine diphosphate-N-acetylglucosamine (UDP-GlcNAc) diphosphorylase (UAP) catalyzes the formation of UDP-GlcNAc, the precursor for the production of chitin in ectodermally derived epidermal cells and midgut, for GlcNAcylation of proteins and for generation of glycosyl-phosphatidyl-inositol anchors in all tissues in Drosophila melanogaster. RESULTS Here, we identified a putative HvUAP gene in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata. Knockdown of HvUAP at the second-, third- and fourth-instar stages impaired larval development. Most resultant HvUAP hypomorphs showed arrested development at the third-, fourth-instar larval or prepupal stages, and became paralyzed, depending on the age when treated. Some HvUAP-silenced larvae had weak and soft scoli. A portion of HvUAP-depleted beetles formed misshapen pupae. No HvUAP RNA interference pupae successfully emerged as adults. Dissection and microscopic observation revealed that knockdown of HvUAP affected gut growth and food ingestion, reduced cuticle thickness, and negatively affected the formation of newly generated cuticle layers during ecdysis. Furthermore, HvUAP deficiency inhibited development of the tracheal respiratory system and thinned tracheal taenidia. CONCLUSION The phenotypical defects in HvUAP hypomorphs suggest that HvUAP is involved in the production of chitin. Moreover, our findings will enable the development of a double-stranded RNA-based pesticide to control H. vigintioctopunctata. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Hong Jiang
- Agriculture Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in East China/State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Invention and Application, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Li-Li Mu
- Agriculture Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in East China/State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Invention and Application, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lin Jin
- Agriculture Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in East China/State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Invention and Application, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ahmad A Anjum
- Agriculture Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in East China/State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Invention and Application, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guo-Qing Li
- Agriculture Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in East China/State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Invention and Application, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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Castejón D, Rotllant G, Ribes E, Guerao G. Morphological description of the midgut tract and midgut-hindgut junction in the larvae of the spider crab Maja brachydactyla Balss, 1922 (Malacostraca: Decapoda). ARTHROPOD STRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT 2022; 70:101168. [PMID: 35839738 DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2022.101168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The midgut tract of decapods is a digestive organ involved in the synthesis of peritrophic membrane, food transport, absorption of nutrients, and osmoregulation. The midgut tract has been described in detail in adult decapods, but little information is available regarding the morphology and ultrastructure of the midgut tract in larval stages. The present study describes the midgut tract and the midgut-hindgut junction of the larvae of the common spider crab Maja brachydactyla Balss, 1922 using techniques that included dissection, light microscopy, and electron microscopy. The study is mainly focused on the stages of zoea I and megalopa. The results obtained in this study show that the larval midgut tract is a short and simple tube positioned anteriorly, between the stomach and the hindgut tract. During larval development, the maximum length of the midgut tract increases significantly, but no differences were found on either the maximum diameter or the morphological traits of the organ. The midgut tract is active at least ca. 12 h after hatching, as suggested by the presence of the peritrophic membrane in the lumen, the presence of abundant electro-dense vesicles in the cell apex, and the release of the vesicle content on the organ lumen. The midgut-hindgut junction forms an abrupt transition between the midgut tract and the hindgut tract in which epithelial cells with mixed features of midgut and hindgut do not occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Castejón
- Centro de Maricultura da Calheta, 9370-135, Calheta, Madeira, Portugal; IRTA, Centre d' Aqüicultura, Ctra. Del Poble Nou, 43540, Sant Carles de La Ràpita, Tarragona, Spain.
| | | | - Enric Ribes
- Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular, Departament de Biologia Cel·lular, Fisiologia I Immunologia, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
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Breeschoten T, Schranz ME, Poelman EH, Simon S. Family dinner: Transcriptional plasticity of five Noctuidae (Lepidoptera) feeding on three host plant species. Ecol Evol 2022; 12:e9258. [PMID: 36091341 PMCID: PMC9448971 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.9258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Polyphagous insects often show specialization in feeding on different host plants in terms of survival and growth and, therefore, can be considered minor or major pests of particular hosts. Whether polyphagous insects employ a common transcriptional response to cope with defenses from diverse host plants is under-studied. We focused on patterns of transcriptional plasticity in polyphagous moths (Noctuidae), of which many species are notorious pests, in relation to herbivore performance on different host plants. We compared the transcriptional plasticity of five polyphagous moth species feeding and developing on three different host plant species. Using a comparative phylogenetic framework, we evaluated if successful herbivory, as measured by larval performance, is determined by a shared or lineage-specific transcriptional response. The upregulated transcriptional activity, or gene expression pattern, of larvae feeding on the different host plants and artificial control diet was highly plastic and moth species-specific. Specialization, defined as high herbivore success for specific host plants, was not generally linked to a lower number of induced genes. Moths that were more distantly related and showing high herbivore success for certain host plants showed shared expression of multiple homologous genes, indicating convergence. We further observed specific transcriptional responses within phylogenetic lineages. These expression patterns for specific host plant species are likely caused by shared evolutionary histories, for example, symplesiomorphic patterns, and could therefore not be associated with herbivore success alone. Multiple gene families, with roles in plant digestion and detoxification, were widely expressed in response to host plant feeding but again showed highly moth species-specific. Consequently, high herbivore success for specific host plants is also driven by species-specific transcriptional plasticity. Thus, potential pest moths display a complex and species-specific transcriptional plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thijmen Breeschoten
- Biosystematics GroupWageningen University & ResearchWageningenThe Netherlands
| | - M. Eric Schranz
- Biosystematics GroupWageningen University & ResearchWageningenThe Netherlands
| | - Erik H. Poelman
- Laboratory of EntomologyWageningen University & ResearchWageningenThe Netherlands
| | - Sabrina Simon
- Biosystematics GroupWageningen University & ResearchWageningenThe Netherlands
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Prakash A, Monteith KM, Vale PF. Mechanisms of damage prevention, signalling and repair impact disease tolerance. Proc Biol Sci 2022; 289:20220837. [PMID: 35975433 PMCID: PMC9382215 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2022.0837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The insect gut is frequently exposed to pathogenic threats and must not only clear these potential infections, but also tolerate relatively high microbe loads. In contrast to the mechanisms that eliminate pathogens, we currently know less about the mechanisms of disease tolerance. We investigated how well-described mechanisms that prevent, signal, control or repair damage during infection contribute to the phenotype of disease tolerance. We established enteric infections with the bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas entomophila in transgenic lines of Drosophila melanogaster fruit flies affecting dcy (a major component of the peritrophic matrix), upd3 (a cytokine-like molecule), irc (a negative regulator of reactive oxygen species) and egfr1 (epithelial growth factor receptor). Flies lacking dcy experienced the highest mortality, while loss of function of either irc or upd3 reduced tolerance in both sexes. The disruption of egfr1 resulted in a severe loss in tolerance in male flies but had no substantial effect on the ability of female flies to tolerate P. entomophila infection, despite carrying greater microbe loads than males. Together, our findings provide evidence for the role of damage limitation mechanisms in disease tolerance and highlight how sexual dimorphism in these mechanisms could generate sex differences in infection outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun Prakash
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | - Katy M. Monteith
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | - Pedro F. Vale
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
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Zhang C, Hu W, Yu Z, Liu X, Wang J, Xin T, Zou Z, Xia B. Characterization of Chitin Synthase A cDNA from Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Liviidae) and Its Response to Diflubenzuron. INSECTS 2022; 13:728. [PMID: 36005353 PMCID: PMC9409846 DOI: 10.3390/insects13080728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Diaphorina citri Kuwayama is the vector of HLB and one of the most common pests in citrus orchards in southern China. One of the most significant genes in D. citri's growth and development is the chitin synthase gene. In this study, the CHS gene (DcCHSA) of D. citri was cloned and analyzed by bioinformatics. According to RT-qPCR findings, DcCHSA was expressed at many growth processes of D. citri, with the greatest influence in the fifth-instar nymph. The molting failure rate and mortality of D. citri rose as DFB concentration increased in this research, as did the expression level of DcCHSA. Feeding on DcCHSA caused a large drop in target gene expression, affected nymph molting, caused failure or even death in freshly eclosion adults, increased mortality, and reduced the molting success rate over time. These findings showed that DcCHSA was involved in nymph to adult development and may aid in the identification of molecular targets for D. citri regulation. It provided new ideas for further control of D. citri.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Bin Xia
- School of Life Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
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Host-Specific larval lepidopteran mortality to pathogenic Serratia mediated by poor diet. J Invertebr Pathol 2022; 194:107818. [PMID: 35973510 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2022.107818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Insect guts often harbor an abundance of bacteria. Many of these members are commensal, but some may emerge as opportunistic pathogens when the host is under stress. In this study, we evaluated how dietary nutritional concentration mediates a shift from commensal to pathogenic, and if host species influences those interactions. We used the lepidopterans (Noctuidae) fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), beet armyworm (Spodoptera exigua), and corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea) as hosts and a Serratia strain initially isolated from healthy fall armyworm. Diet concentration was altered by bulk reduction in nutritional content with dilution using cellulose. Our experiments revealed that low nutrient diet increased mortality from Serratia for beet armyworm and corn earworm. However, for fall armyworm, little mortality was observed in any of the diet combinations. Dietary nutrition and oral inoculation with Serratia did not change the expression of two antimicrobial peptides in fall and beet armyworm, suggesting that other mechanisms that mediate mortality were involved. Our results have implications for how pathogens may persist as commensals in the digestive tract of insects. These findings also suggest that diet plays a very important role in the switch from commensal to pathogen. Finally, our data indicate that the host response to changing conditions is critical in determining if a pathogen may overtake its host and that these three lepidopteran species have different responses to opportunistic enteric pathogens.
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68
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Liang B, Zhang D, Liu X, Xu Y, Tang H, Li Y, Shen J. Sex-specific effects of PET-MPs on Drosophila lifespan. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 110:e21909. [PMID: 35506545 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, as an emerging pollutant, microplastic (MPs) pollution is gradually becoming a research hotspot. MPs are ubiquitous in the entire ecological environment. Organisms can be exposed to MPs via inhalation or ingestion. In view of the widespread of MPs pollution, the impact of MPs on biology should be further investigated. In previous experiments, we have conducted research on the physiology of Drosophila exposed to polyethylene terephthalate microplastics (PET-MPs). However, will the lifespan of Drosophila be affected under long-term PET-MPs exposure? The analysis of variance analysis of our experimental results indicates that there are significant differences between males and females, F(1, 895) = 68.19, p < 0.001, between PET-MPs concentration, F(3, 895) = 8.11, p < 0.001. There are also significant interactions between sex and MP concentration, F(3, 895) = 4.00, p < 0.01. For Cox and log-rank test, 1 g/L of PET-MPs prolongs the lifespan of male flies. The reason for this phenomenon may be the hormesis effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boying Liang
- College of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dake Zhang
- College of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xingyou Liu
- College of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yifan Xu
- College of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hao Tang
- College of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yan Li
- College of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jie Shen
- College of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Forchert L, Potapova E, Panetta V, Dramburg S, Perna S, Posa D, Resch-Marat Y, Lupinek C, Rohrbach A, Grabenhenrich L, Icke K, Bauer CP, Hoffman U, Forster J, Zepp F, Schuster A, Wahn U, Keil T, Lau S, Vrtala S, Valenta R, Matricardi PM. Der p 23-specific IgE response throughout childhood and its association with allergic disease: A birth cohort study. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2022; 33:e13829. [PMID: 35871456 DOI: 10.1111/pai.13829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus molecule Der p 23 is a major allergen whose clinical relevance has been shown in cross-sectional studies. We longitudinally analysed the trajectory of Der p 23-specific IgE antibody (sIgE) levels throughout childhood and youth, their early-life determinants and their clinical relevance for allergic rhinitis and asthma. METHODS We obtained sera and clinical data of 191 participants of the German Multicentre Allergy Study, a prospective birth cohort. Serum samples from birth to 20 years of age with sIgE reactivity to Der p 23 in a customised semiquantitative microarray were newly analysed with a singleplex quantitative assay. Early mite exposure was assessed by measuring the average content of Der p 1 in house dust at 6 and 18 months. RESULTS Der p 23-sIgE levels were detected at least once in 97/191 participants (51%). Prevalence of Der p 23 sensitisation and mean sIgE levels increased until age 10 years, plateaued until age 13 years and were lowest at age 20 years. Asthma, allergic rhinitis (AR) and atopic dermatitis (AD) were more prevalent in Der p 23-sensitised children, including those with monomolecular but persistent sensitisation (11/97, 11%). A higher exposure to mites in infancy and occurrence of AD before 5 years of age preceded the onset of Der p 23 sensitisation, which in turn preceded a higher incidence of asthma. CONCLUSIONS Der p 23 sensitisation peaks in late childhood and then decreases. It is preceded by early mite exposure and AD. Asthma and AR can occur in patients persistently sensitised to Der p 23 as the only mite allergen, suggesting the inclusion of molecular testing of Der p 23-sIgE for subjects with clinical suspicion of HDM allergy but without sIgE to other major D.pt. allergens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandra Forchert
- The Department of Pediatrics, Department of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Immunology and Critical Care Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ekaterina Potapova
- The Department of Pediatrics, Department of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Immunology and Critical Care Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Valentina Panetta
- L'altrastatistica srl, Consultancy & Training, Biostatistics office, Rome, Italy
| | - Stephanie Dramburg
- The Department of Pediatrics, Department of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Immunology and Critical Care Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Serena Perna
- The Department of Pediatrics, Department of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Immunology and Critical Care Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniela Posa
- The Department of Pediatrics, Department of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Immunology and Critical Care Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Yvonne Resch-Marat
- The Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Centre of Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Christian Lupinek
- The Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Centre of Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Alexander Rohrbach
- The Department of Pediatrics, Department of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Immunology and Critical Care Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Linus Grabenhenrich
- The Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katja Icke
- The Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carl-Peter Bauer
- The Department of Pediatrics, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ute Hoffman
- The Department of Pediatrics, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Johannes Forster
- The Department of Pediatrics, Allergy Working Group, University Clinic Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Fred Zepp
- The Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Medicine Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Antje Schuster
- The Department of Pediatrics, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ulrich Wahn
- The Department of Pediatrics, Department of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Immunology and Critical Care Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Keil
- The Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,The Institute of Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,The State Institute of Health, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Bad Kissingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Lau
- The Department of Pediatrics, Department of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Immunology and Critical Care Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Vrtala
- The Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Centre of Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Rudolf Valenta
- The Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Centre of Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Paolo Maria Matricardi
- The Department of Pediatrics, Department of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Immunology and Critical Care Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Exploring Sea Lice Vaccines against Early Stages of Infestation in Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar). Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10071063. [PMID: 35891227 PMCID: PMC9324576 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10071063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The sea louse Caligus rogercresseyi genome has opened the opportunity to apply the reverse vaccinology strategy for identifying antigens with potential effects on lice development and its application in sea lice control. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of three sea lice vaccines against the early stage of infestation, assessing the transcriptome modulation of immunized Atlantic salmon. Therein, three experimental groups of Salmo salar (Atlantic salmon) were vaccinated with the recombinant proteins: Peritrophin (prototype A), Cathepsin (prototype B), and the mix of them (prototype C), respectively. Sea lice infestation was evaluated during chalimus I-II, the early-infective stages attached at 7-days post infestation. In parallel, head kidney and skin tissue samples were taken for mRNA Illumina sequencing. Relative expression analyses of genes were conducted to identify immune responses, iron transport, and stress responses associated with the tested vaccines during the early stages of sea lice infection. The vaccine prototypes A, B, and C reduced the parasite burden by 24, 44, and 52% compared with the control group. In addition, the RNA-Seq analysis exhibited a prototype-dependent transcriptome modulation. The high expression differences were observed in genes associated with metal ion binding, molecular processes, and energy production. The findings suggest a balance between the host’s inflammatory response and metabolic process in vaccinated fish, increasing their transcriptional activity, which can alter the early host–parasite interactions. This study uncovers molecular responses produced by three vaccine prototypes at the early stages of infestation, providing new knowledge for sea lice control in the salmon aquaculture.
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Zhang X, Feng H, He J, Muhammad A, Zhang F, Lu X. Features and Colonization Strategies of Enterococcus faecalis in the Gut of Bombyx mori. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:921330. [PMID: 35814682 PMCID: PMC9263704 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.921330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The complex gut microbiome is a malleable microbial community that can undergo remodeling in response to many factors, including the gut environment and microbial properties. Enterococcus has emerged as one of the predominant gut commensal bacterial and plays a fundamental role in the host physiology and health of the major economic agricultural insect, Bombyx mori. Although extensive research on gut structure and microbiome diversity has been carried out, how these microbial consortia are established in multifarious niches within the gut has not been well characterized to date. Here, an Enterococcus species that was stably associated with its host, the model organism B. mori, was identified in the larval gut. GFP–tagged E. faecalis LX10 was constructed as a model bacterium to track the colonization mechanism in the intestine of B. mori. The results revealed that the minimum and optimum colonization results were obtained by feeding at doses of 105 CFU/silkworm and 107 CFU/silkworm, respectively, as confirmed by bioassays and fluorescence-activated cell sorting analyses (FACS). Furthermore, a comprehensive genome-wide exploration of signal sequences provided insight into the relevant colonization properties of E. faecalis LX10. E. faecalis LX10 grew well under alkaline conditions and stably reduced the intestinal pH through lactic acid production. Additionally, the genomic features responsible for lactic acid fermentation were characterized. We further expressed and purified E. faecalis bacteriocin and found that it was particularly effective against other gut bacteria, including Enterococcus casselifavus, Enterococcus mundtii, Serratia marcescens, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, and Escherichia coli. In addition, the successful colonization of E. faecalis LX10 led to drastically increased expression of all adhesion genes (znuA, lepB, hssA, adhE, EbpA, and Lap), defense genes (cspp, tagF, and esp), regulation gene (BfmRS), secretion gene (prkC) and immune evasion genes (patA and patB), while the expression of iron acquisition genes (ddpD and metN) was largely unchanged or decreased. This work establishes an unprecedented conceptual model for understanding B. mori–gut microbiota interactions in an ecological context. Moreover, these results shed light on the molecular mechanisms of gut microbiota proliferation and colonization in the intestinal tract of this insect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiancui Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huihui Feng
- College of Animal Sciences, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jintao He
- College of Animal Sciences, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Abrar Muhammad
- College of Animal Sciences, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology of Shandong Province, College of Life Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Fan Zhang,
| | - Xingmeng Lu
- College of Animal Sciences, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Xingmeng Lu,
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72
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Omondi ZN, Arserim SK, Töz S, Özbel Y. Host-Parasite Interactions: Regulation of Leishmania Infection in Sand Fly. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:606-618. [PMID: 35107776 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-022-00519-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Sand flies are the only proven vectors of leishmaniases, a tropical neglected disease endemic in at least 92 countries. Vector-parasite interactions play a significant role in vector-borne disease transmission. There are various bottlenecks to Leishmania colonization of the sand fly midgut. Such bottlenecks include the production of innate immune-related molecules, digestive proteases, parasite impermeable peritrophic membrane, and resident gut microbiota. These barriers determine the parasite load transmitted and, consequently, the disease outcome in mammalian host. Therefore, it is important to understand the molecular responses of both sand fly and Leishmania during infection. METHOD Here, we reviewed the published literature on sand fly-Leishmania interactions bringing together earlier and current findings to highlight new developments and research gaps in the field. CONCLUSION Recent research studies on sand fly-Leishmania interaction have revealed contrasting observations to past studies. However, how Leishmania parasites evade the sand fly immune response still needs further research. Sand fly response to Leishmania infection can be best understood by analyzing its tissue transcriptome. Better characterization of the role of midgut components could be a game changer in development of transmission-blocking strategies for leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeph Nelson Omondi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ege University, Erzene Street, 35040, Bornova/Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Suha Kenan Arserim
- Vocational School of Health Sciences, Manisa Celal Bayar University, Manisa, Turkey
| | - Seray Töz
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Özbel
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
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73
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Moriyama M, Hayashi T, Fukatsu T. A mucin protein predominantly expressed in the female-specific symbiotic organ of the stinkbug Plautia stali. Sci Rep 2022; 12:7782. [PMID: 35546182 PMCID: PMC9095716 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-11895-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Diverse insects are obligatorily associated with microbial symbionts, wherein the host often develops special symbiotic organs and vertically transmits the symbiont to the next generation. What molecular factors underpin the host-symbiont relationship is of great interest but poorly understood. Here we report a novel protein preferentially produced in a female-specific symbiotic organ of the stinkbug Plautia stali, whose posterior midgut develops numerous crypts to host a Pantoea-allied bacterial mutualist. In adult females, several posteriormost crypts are conspicuously enlarged, presumably specialized for vertical symbiont transmission. We detected conspicuous protein bands specific to the female’s swollen crypts by gel electrophoresis, and identified them as representing a novel mucin-like glycoprotein. Histological inspections confirmed that the mucin protein is localized to the female’s swollen crypts, coexisting with a substantial population of the symbiotic bacteria, and excreted from the swollen crypts to the midgut main tract together with the symbiotic bacteria. Using RNA interference, we successfully suppressed production of the mucin protein in adult females of P. stali. However, although the mucin protein was depleted, the symbiont population persisted in the swollen crypts, and vertical symbiont transmission to the next generation occurred. Possible biological roles and evolutionary trajectory of the symbiosis-related mucin protein are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minoru Moriyama
- Bioproduction Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, 305-8566, Japan.
| | - Toshinari Hayashi
- Bioproduction Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, 305-8566, Japan.,Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Takema Fukatsu
- Bioproduction Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, 305-8566, Japan. .,Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan. .,Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, 305-8572, Japan.
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Syed ZA, Zhang L, Ten Hagen KG. In vivo models of mucin biosynthesis and function. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 184:114182. [PMID: 35278522 PMCID: PMC9068269 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The secreted mucus layer that lines and protects epithelial cells is conserved across diverse species. While the exact composition of this protective layer varies between organisms, certain elements are conserved, including proteins that are heavily decorated with N-acetylgalactosamine-based sugars linked to serines or threonines (O-linked glycosylation). These heavily O-glycosylated proteins, known as mucins, exist in many forms and are able to form hydrated gel-like structures that coat epithelial surfaces. In vivo studies in diverse organisms have highlighted the importance of both the mucin proteins as well as their constituent O-glycans in the protection and health of internal epithelia. Here, we summarize in vivo approaches that have shed light on the synthesis and function of these essential components of mucus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zulfeqhar A Syed
- Developmental Glycobiology Section, NIDCR, National Institutes of Health, 30 Convent Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892-4370, United States
| | - Liping Zhang
- Developmental Glycobiology Section, NIDCR, National Institutes of Health, 30 Convent Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892-4370, United States
| | - Kelly G Ten Hagen
- Developmental Glycobiology Section, NIDCR, National Institutes of Health, 30 Convent Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892-4370, United States.
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Oliveira OA, Ferreira SR, Ribeiro EDS, Ferreira ATS, Perales J, Fernandes KVS, Oliveira AEA. Deleterious effects of Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi seed flour on cowpea weevil, Callosobruchus maculatus (F.), larval development. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 183:105082. [PMID: 35430072 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2022.105082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Schinus terebinthifolius, Raddi, has been extensively studied due to its anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties. S. terebinthifolius was also toxic to some insects, however little has been explored about the nature of its insecticide compounds or the toxicity of this plant to insect species. In this work, we investigate the toxicity of S. terebinthifolius seed flour against the insect C. maculatus. S. terebinthifolius seed flour interfered with the post hatch development of the C. maculatus larvae, decreasing larval survival, mass and length. Using DEAE-cellulose chromatography, five protein fractions were isolated, a non-retained fraction (NRF) and four retained fractions, eluted with 0.25, 0.5, 0.7 and 1.0 M NaCl. Proteins with varying molecular masses were observed in all fractions. The majority protein bands were identified by mass spectrometry analysis and among the main identified proteins are 11S globulins (such glycinin), lipoxygenase, chitinases, 7S globulins (vicilins, canavalin and β conglycinin), annexin, catalase and sucrose binding protein. All DEAE-protein fractions were toxic to the insect, interfering with the post hatch larval development and survival. Decreases greater than 90% were observed in the larval mass and length at 20 days after oviposition (DAO) for larvae raised on diet containing 0.5% of some fractions. Alterations in the level of proteins, glucose and in the activity of the enzymes lipases and cysteine proteases were also detected in these larvae. Our results show that seeds of S. terebinthifolius have an arsenal of toxic proteins with potential for the control of the insect C. maculatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Odara Araújo Oliveira
- Laboratório de Química e Função de Proteínas e Peptídeos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro - UENF, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Sarah Rodrigues Ferreira
- Laboratório de Química e Função de Proteínas e Peptídeos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro - UENF, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | | | - Andre T S Ferreira
- Laboratório de Toxinologia, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz - FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Jonas Perales
- Laboratório de Toxinologia, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz - FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Kátia V S Fernandes
- Laboratório de Química e Função de Proteínas e Peptídeos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro - UENF, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Antonia E A Oliveira
- Laboratório de Química e Função de Proteínas e Peptídeos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro - UENF, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil.
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76
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Anopheline mosquitoes are protected against parasite infection by tryptophan catabolism in gut microbiota. Nat Microbiol 2022; 7:707-715. [PMID: 35437328 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-022-01099-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The mosquito microbiota can influence host physiology and vector competence, but a detailed understanding of these processes is lacking. Here we found that the gut microbiota of Anopheles stephensi, a competent malaria vector, is involved in tryptophan metabolism and is responsible for the catabolism of the peritrophic matrix impairing tryptophan metabolites. Antibiotic elimination of the microbiota led to the accumulation of tryptophan and its metabolites-kynurenine, 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK) and xanthurenic acid. Of these metabolites, 3-HK impaired the structure of the peritrophic matrix and promoted Plasmodium berghei infection. Among the major gut microbiota members in A. stephensi, Pseudomonas alcaligenes catabolized 3-HK as revealed by whole-genome sequencing and LC-MS metabolic analysis. The genome of P. alcaligenes encodes kynureninase (KynU) that is responsible for the conversion of 3-HK to 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid. Mutation of KynU resulted in a P. alcaligenes strain that was unable to metabolize 3-HK and unable to protect the peritrophic matrix. Colonization of A. stephensi with KynU-mutated P. alcaligenes failed to protect mosquitoes against parasite infection as compared with mosquitoes colonized with wild-type P. alcaligenes. In summary, this study identifies an unexpected function of mosquito gut microbiota in controlling mosquito tryptophan metabolism, with important implications for vector competence.
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Saeed A, Rafiq Z, Imran M, Saeed Q, Saeed MQ, Ali Z, Iqbal RK, Hussain S, Khaliq B, Mehmood S, Akrem A. In-silico Studies Calculated a New Chitin Oligomer Binding Site Inside Vicilin: A Potent Antifungal and Insecticidal Agent. Dose Response 2022; 20:15593258221108280. [PMID: 35734395 PMCID: PMC9208065 DOI: 10.1177/15593258221108280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Vicilins are major seed storage proteins and show differential binding affinities toward sugar moieties of fungal cell wall and insect gut epithelium. Hence, purpose of study is the thorough in-silico characterization of interactions between vicilin and chitin oligomer followed by fungal and insecticidal bioassays. This work covers the molecular simulation studies explaining the interactions between Pisum sativum vicilin (PsV) and chitin oligomer followed by protein bioassay against different pathogens. LC-MS/MS of purified PsV (∼50 kDa) generated residual data along high pea vicilin homology (UniProtKB ID; P13918). Predicted model (PsV) indicated the characteristic homotrimer joined through head-to-tail association and each monomer is containing a bicupin domain. PsV site map analysis showed a new site (Site 4) into which molecular docking confirmed the strong binding of chitin oligomer (GlcNAc)4. Molecular dynamics simulation data (50 ns) indicated that chitin-binding site was comprised of 8 residues (DKEDRNEN). However, aspartate and glutamate significantly contributed in the stability of ligand binding. Computational findings were further verified via significant growth inhibition of Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, and Fusarium oxysporum against PsV. Additionally, the substantial adult population of Brevicoryne brassicae was reduced and different life stages of Tribolium castaneum also showed significant mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahsan Saeed
- Botany Division, Institute of Pure and Applied Biology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Zahra Rafiq
- Botany Division, Institute of Pure and Applied Biology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Forman Christian College (A Chartered University), Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Qamar Saeed
- Department of Entomology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Q Saeed
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Pure and Applied Biology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Zahid Ali
- Department of Biosciences, Plant Biotechnology and Molecular Pharming Lab, COMSATS University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Rana K Iqbal
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Saber Hussain
- Botany Division, Institute of Pure and Applied Biology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Binish Khaliq
- Department of Botany, University of Okara, Okara, Pakistan
| | - Sohaib Mehmood
- Botany Division, Institute of Pure and Applied Biology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Ahmed Akrem
- Botany Division, Institute of Pure and Applied Biology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
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78
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Non-proteinaceous salivary compounds of a predatory bug cause histopathological and cytotoxic effects in prey. Toxicon 2022; 213:76-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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79
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Li J, Chen C, Zha X. Midgut and Head Transcriptomic Analysis of Silkworms Reveals the Physiological Effects of Artificial Diets. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13030291. [PMID: 35323589 PMCID: PMC8948783 DOI: 10.3390/insects13030291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Silkworms, a model lepidopteran insect, have a very simple diet. Artificial diets as an alternative nutrient source for silkworms are gradually being developed. To understand the effects of various nutrients on the growth and development of silkworms, we studied the transcriptomic differences in the midgut and head tissues of male and female silkworms fed either fresh mulberry leaves or artificial diets. In the artificial diet group, compared with the control group (fed mulberry leaves), 923 and 619 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified from the midgut, and 2969 and 3427 DEGs were identified from the head, in female and male silkworms. According to our analysis, the DEGs were mainly involved in the digestion and absorption of nutrients and silkworm innate immunity. These experimental results provide insights into the effects of different foods, such as artificial diets or fresh mulberry leaves, on silkworms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (J.L.); (C.C.)
- School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Chunbing Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (J.L.); (C.C.)
| | - Xingfu Zha
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (J.L.); (C.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-023-68251573
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80
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Characterization of insecticidal Cry protein from Bacillus thuringiensis toxic to Myzus persicae (Sulzer). J Invertebr Pathol 2022; 189:107731. [PMID: 35202622 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2022.107731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The toxins produced by Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) are well known for their insecticidal activity against Lepidoptera, Diptera and Coleoptera; however, the sap-sucking insects (Hemiptera) are not particularly susceptible to Bt toxins. We describe the aphicidal effect of Cry toxin from Bt strain GP919 against one of the most pernicious hemipterans in the agricultural environment, Myzus persicae. The mortality bioassay shows that the strain cause mortality rates above 80% at concentration of 10 ng/µl with a LC50 of 9.01 ng/µl; whereas it showed no lethal toxicity against the lepidopteran Spodoptera frugiperda. The mayor protein (∼130 kDa) expressed by this strain was subjected to purification, solubilization and trypsin digestion, the band of ∼65 kDa which was obtained from trypsin digestion was purified by ion-exchange chromatography and was used to feed the aphid. The bioassay shows mortality rates above 85% at concentration of 10 ng/µl and the LC50 was 6.58 ng/µl. The resulting fragment from the digestion was identified by mass spectrometry and the candidate protein showed an overall 100% amino acid sequence identity to the reported Cry1Cb2 (WP 033698561.1) protein from Bt. Koch's postulated also was carried out with the GP919 strain and also, we document the signs of infection caused by this strain. This is the first report of a Cry1Cb2 protein that is toxic to a sucking insect and this protein may become a promising environmentally friendly tool for the control of M. persicae and possible also for other sap sucking insect pests.
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Wu JL, Hu RY, Li NN, Tan J, Zhou CX, Han B, Xu SF. Integrative Analysis of lncRNA-mRNA Co-expression Provides Novel Insights Into the Regulation of Developmental Transitions in Female Varroa destructor. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2022.842704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Varroa destructor is a major pathogenic driver of the Western honeybee colony losses globally. Understanding the developmental regulation of V. destructor is critical to develop effective control measures. Development is a complex biological process regulated by numerous genes and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs); however, the underlying regulation of lncRNAs in the development of V. destructor remains unknown. In this study, we analyzed the RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) data derived from the four stages of female V. destructor in the reproductive phase (i.e., egg, protonymph, deutonymph, and adult). The identified differentially expressed mRNAs and lncRNAs exhibited a stage-specific pattern during developmental transitions. Further functional enrichment established that fat digestion and absorption, ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, and ubiquitin-proteasome pathway play key roles in the maturation of female V. destructor. Moreover, the lncRNAs and mRNAs of some pivotal genes were significantly upregulated at the deutonymph stage, such as cuticle protein 65/6.4/63/38 and mucin 5AC, suggesting that deutonymph is the key stage of metamorphosis development and pathogen resistance acquisition for female V. destructor. Our study provides novel insights into a foundational understanding of V. destructor biology.
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82
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Panizzi AR, Lucini T, Aldrich JR. Dynamics in Pest Status of Phytophagous Stink Bugs in the Neotropics. NEOTROPICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2022; 51:18-31. [PMID: 35028921 DOI: 10.1007/s13744-021-00928-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
In this review article, we present and discuss the main factors influencing the change in pest status of phytophagous stink bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) in the Neotropics. We have surveyed the published records over the past 50 years and divided this timeframe into decades. This was done to rank in time the relative abundance (percentage) of the following species, known pests of commodities, in the Neotropical Region: the Neotropical brown stink bug, Euschistus heros (F.); the green-bellied stink bugs, Diceraeus melacanthus Dallas and D. furcatus (F.); the redbanded stink bug, Piezodorus guildinii (Westwood); the southern green stink bug, Nezara viridula (L.); and the brown-winged stink bug, Edessa meditabunda (F.). The analysis showed that E. heros, D. melacanthus, and D. furcatus, formerly minor pests, in the last decade (2010s) became major pests. The once most important pest species, N. viridula and P. guildinii, decreased their pest status in the last decade. Edessa meditabunda, which never achieved high populations, showed a tendency to increase in abundance in the last two decades (2000s and 2010s). Major factors believed to influence the dynamics of pest populations of stink bugs in the Neotropics include cropping systems (no-tillage replacing conventional soil plowing, and crop rotation); genetically modified (GM) plants (mostly plants expressing insecticidal crystalline proteins derived from Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner - Bt); change in availability of host and associated plants in the new landscape scenario; increased usage of chemicals (insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides); and change in the role of natural enemies in modern day agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tiago Lucini
- Depto de Zoologia, Univ Federal Do Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Jeffrey R Aldrich
- Dept of Entomology and Nematology, Univ of California, Davis, CA, USA
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83
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Abd El Halim HM, Ali A. Long noncoding RNAs: Emerging players regulating innate immune memory in the red flour beetle. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 127:104304. [PMID: 34756931 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2021.104304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
A variety of strategies have been evolved to eradicate invading microbes. Phagocytes have developed in vertebrates and invertebrates to confer a non-specific immune response to pathogens. Besides, vertebrates have evolved lymphocytes to develop memory cells that can quickly respond upon the next exposure to the same pathogen. Although lymphocytes are absent in invertebrates, historical evidence, dating back to the 1920s, indicated the presence of immune memory in invertebrates. However, the concept of long-lasting non-specific defense predominated until recent evidence has been introduced in the first decade of the 21st century. Although more evidence has been introduced later, the molecular mechanism underlying the innate immune memory is largely undefined in invertebrates. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have demonstrated a role in regulating various biological processes, including immune response. In this review, we will explore the potential role of lncRNAs in developing innate immune memory in the red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Ali
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742-231, USA; Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Benha University, Benha, 13518, Egypt.
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Improving Polysaccharide-Based Chitin/Chitosan-Aerogel Materials by Learning from Genetics and Molecular Biology. MATERIALS 2022; 15:ma15031041. [PMID: 35160985 PMCID: PMC8839503 DOI: 10.3390/ma15031041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Improved wound healing of burnt skin and skin lesions, as well as medical implants and replacement products, requires the support of synthetical matrices. Yet, producing synthetic biocompatible matrices that exhibit specialized flexibility, stability, and biodegradability is challenging. Synthetic chitin/chitosan matrices may provide the desired advantages for producing specialized grafts but must be modified to improve their properties. Synthetic chitin/chitosan hydrogel and aerogel techniques provide the advantages for improvement with a bioinspired view adapted from the natural molecular toolbox. To this end, animal genetics provide deep knowledge into which molecular key factors decisively influence the properties of natural chitin matrices. The genetically identified proteins and enzymes control chitin matrix assembly, architecture, and degradation. Combining synthetic chitin matrices with critical biological factors may point to the future direction with engineering materials of specific properties for biomedical applications such as burned skin or skin blistering and extensive lesions due to genetic diseases.
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85
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Breeschoten T, van der Linden CFH, Ros VID, Schranz ME, Simon S. Expanding the Menu: Are Polyphagy and Gene Family Expansions Linked across Lepidoptera? Genome Biol Evol 2022; 14:6482744. [PMID: 34951642 PMCID: PMC8725640 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evab283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Evolutionary expansions and contractions of gene families are often correlated with key innovations and/or ecological characteristics. In butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera), expansions of gene families involved in detoxification of plant specialized metabolites are hypothesized to facilitate a polyphagous feeding style. However, analyses supporting this hypothesis are mostly based on a limited number of lepidopteran species. We applied a phylogenomics approach, using 37 lepidopteran genomes, to analyze if gene family evolution (gene gain and loss) is associated with the evolution of polyphagy. Specifically, we compared gene counts and evolutionary gene gain and loss rates of gene families involved in adaptations with plant feeding. We correlated gene evolution to host plant family range (phylogenetic diversity) and specialized metabolite content of plant families (functional metabolite diversity). We found a higher rate for gene loss than gene gain in Lepidoptera, a potential consequence of genomic rearrangements and deletions after (potentially small-scale) duplication events. Gene family expansions and contractions varied across lepidopteran families, and were associated to host plant use and specialization levels. Within the family Noctuidae, a higher expansion rate for gene families involved in detoxification can be related to the large number of polyphagous species. However, gene family expansions are observed in both polyphagous and monophagous lepidopteran species and thus seem to be species-specific in the taxa sampled. Nevertheless, a significant positive correlation of gene counts of the carboxyl- and choline esterase and glutathione-S-transferase detoxification gene families with the level of polyphagy was identified across Lepidoptera.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vera I D Ros
- Laboratory of Virology, Wageningen University & Research, The Netherlands
| | - M Eric Schranz
- Biosystematics Group, Wageningen University & Research, The Netherlands
| | - Sabrina Simon
- Biosystematics Group, Wageningen University & Research, The Netherlands
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86
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Snow JW. Nosema apis and N. ceranae Infection in Honey bees: A Model for Host-Pathogen Interactions in Insects. EXPERIENTIA SUPPLEMENTUM (2012) 2022; 114:153-177. [PMID: 35544003 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-93306-7_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
There has been increased focus on the role of microbial attack as a potential cause of recent declines in the health of the western honey bee, Apis mellifera. The Nosema species, N. apis and N. ceranae, are microsporidian parasites that are pathogenic to honey bees, and infection by these species has been implicated as a key factor in honey bee losses. Honey bees infected with both Nosema spp. display significant changes in their biology at the cellular, tissue, and organismal levels impacting host metabolism, immune function, physiology, and behavior. Infected individuals lead to colony dysfunction and can contribute to colony disease in some circumstances. The means through which parasite growth and tissue pathology in the midgut lead to the dramatic physiological and behavioral changes at the organismal level are only partially understood. In addition, we possess only a limited appreciation of the elements of the host environment that impact pathogen growth and development. Critical for answering these questions is a mechanistic understanding of the host and pathogen machinery responsible for host-pathogen interactions. A number of approaches are already being used to elucidate these mechanisms, and promising new tools may allow for gain- and loss-of-function experiments to accelerate future progress.
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87
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Bao T, Wedmann S, Grímsson F, Beutel RG, Seyfullah L, Bao L, Jarzembowski EA. Was the kateretid beetle Pelretes really a Cretaceous angiosperm pollinator? NATURE PLANTS 2022; 8:38-40. [PMID: 34949805 DOI: 10.1038/s41477-021-01044-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Tong Bao
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Ecology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Sonja Wedmann
- Senckenberg Forschungsstation Grube Messel, Senckenberg Forschungsinstitut und Naturmuseum Frankfurt/M, Messel, Germany
| | - Friðgeir Grímsson
- Department of Botany and Biodiversity Research, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Rolf Georg Beutel
- Institut für Zoologie und Evolutionsforschung, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Leyla Seyfullah
- Department of Palaeontology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Liang Bao
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Ecology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Edmund A Jarzembowski
- State Key Laboratory of Palaeobiology and Stratigraphy, Nanjing Institute of Geology and Palaeontology and Center for Excellence in Life and Paleoenvironment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, China
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Abstract
Lectins are widely distributed proteins having ability of binding selectively and reversibly with carbohydrates moieties and glycoconjugates. Although lectins have been reported from different biological sources, the legume lectins are the best-characterized family of plant lectins. Legume lectins are a large family of homologous proteins with considerable similarity in amino acid sequence and their tertiary structures. Despite having strong sequence conservation, these lectins show remarkable variability in carbohydrate specificity and quaternary structures. The ability of legume lectins in recognizing glycans and glycoconjugates on cells and other intracellular structures make them a valuable research tool in glycomic research. Due to variability in binding with glycans, glycoconjugates and multiple biological functions, legume lectins are the subject of intense research for their diverse application in different fields such as glycobiology, biomedical research and crop improvement. The present review specially focuses on structural and functional characteristics of legume lectins along with their potential areas of application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajan Katoch
- Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CSKHPKV, Palampur, 176 062 India
| | - Ankur Tripathi
- Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CSKHPKV, Palampur, 176 062 India
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89
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Tandem Mass Tag-Based Quantitative Proteomics and Virulence Phenotype of Hemolymph-Treated Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki Cells Reveal New Insights on Bacterial Pathogenesis in Insects. Microbiol Spectr 2021; 9:e0060421. [PMID: 34704785 PMCID: PMC8549738 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00604-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The spore-forming bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) of the Bacillus cereus group uses toxin-opened breaches at the insect midgut epithelium to infest the hemolymph, where it can rapidly propagate despite antimicrobial host defenses and induce host death by acute septicemia. The response of Bt to host hemolymph and the latter's role in bacterial pathogenesis is an area that needs clarification. Here, we report a proteomic analysis of the Bt kurstaki strain HD73 (Btk) hemolymph stimulon showing significant changes in 60 (34 up- and 26 downregulated) differentially accumulated proteins (DAPs). Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed that DAPs were mainly related to glutamate metabolism, transketolase activity, and ATP-dependent transmembrane transport. KEGG analysis disclosed that DAPs were highly enriched in the biosynthesis of bacterial secondary metabolites, ansamycins. Interestingly, about 30% of all DAPs were in silico predicted as putative virulence factors. Further characterization of hemolymph effects on Btk showed enhanced autoaggregation in liquid cultures and biofilm formation in microtiter polystyrene plates. Hemolymph-exposed Btk cells were less immunogenic in mice, suggesting epitope masking of selected surface proteins. Bioassays with intrahemocoelically infected Bombyx mori larvae showed that hemolymph preexposure significantly increased Btk toxicity and reproduction within the insect (spore count per cadaver) at low inoculum doses, possibly due to 'virulence priming'. Collectively, our findings suggest that the Btk hemolymph stimulon could be partially responsible for bacterial survival and propagation within the hemolymph of infected insects, contributing to its remarkable success as an entomopathogen. All mass spectrometry data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD021830. IMPORTANCE After ingestion by a susceptible insect and damaging its midgut epithelium, the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) reaches the insect blood (hemolymph), where it propagates despite the host's antimicrobial defenses and induces insect death by acute septicemia. Although the hemolymph stage of the Bt toxic pathway is determinant for the infested insects' fate, the response of Bt to hemolymph and the latter's role in bacterial pathogenesis has been poorly explored. In this study, we identified the bacterial proteins differentially expressed by Bt after hemolymph exposure. We found that about 30% of hemolymph-regulated Bt proteins were potential virulence factors, including manganese superoxide dismutase, a described inhibitor of hemocyte respiratory burst. Additionally, contact with hemolymph enhanced Bt virulence phenotypes, such as cell aggregation and biofilm formation, altered bacterial immunogenicity, and increased Bt toxicity to intrahemocoelically injected insects.
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90
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Sanchez-Hernandez JC. A toxicological perspective of plastic biodegradation by insect larvae. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2021; 248:109117. [PMID: 34186180 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2021.109117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Larvae of some insect species (Coleoptera and Lepidoptera) can consume and biodegrade synthetic polymers, including polyethylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, and polypropylene. Multiple chemical (polymer mass loss and shift of the molecular weight, alterations in chemical functionality, formation of biodegraded intermediates, CO2 production), physical (surface hydrophobicity, thermal analysis), and biological approaches (antibiotic treatment, gut dysbiosis, isolation of plastic microbial degraders) have provided evidence for polymer biodegradation in the larva digestive tract. However, the extent and rate of biodegradation largely depend on the physicochemical structure of the polymer as well as the presence of additives. Additionally, toxicology associated with plastic biodegradation has not been investigated. This knowledge gap is critical to understand the gut symbiont-host interaction in the biodegradation process, its viability in the long term, the effects of plastic additives and their metabolites, and the phenotypic traits linked to a plastic-rich diet might be transferred in successive generations. Likewise, plastic-eating larvae represent a unique case study for elucidating the mechanisms of toxic action by micro- and nanoplastics because of the high concentration of plastics these organisms may be intentionally exposed to. This perspective review graphically summarizes the current knowledge on plastic biodegradation by insect larvae and describes the physiological processes (digestive and immune systems) that may be disrupted by micro- and nanoplastics. It also provides an outlook to advance current knowledge on the toxicity assessment of plastic-rich diets and the environmental risks of plastic-containing by-products (e.g., insect manure used as fertilizer).
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan C Sanchez-Hernandez
- Laboratory of Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Environmental Science and Biochemistry, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain.
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91
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Kitani-Morii F, Friedland RP, Yoshida H, Mizuno T. Drosophila as a Model for Microbiota Studies of Neurodegeneration. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 84:479-490. [PMID: 34569965 PMCID: PMC8673522 DOI: 10.3233/jad-215031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence show that the gut microbiota is deeply involved not only in host nutrient metabolism but also in immune function, endocrine regulation, and chronic disease. In neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, the gut-brain axis, the bidirectional interaction between the brain and the gut, provides new route of pathological spread and potential therapeutic targets. Although studies of gut microbiota have been conducted mainly in mice, mammalian gut microbiota is highly diverse, complex, and sensitive to environmental changes. Drosophila melanogaster, a fruit fly, has many advantages as a laboratory animal: short life cycle, numerous and genetically homogenous offspring, less ethical concerns, availability of many genetic models, and low maintenance costs. Drosophila has a simpler gut microbiota than mammals and can be made to remain sterile or to have standardized gut microbiota by simple established methods. Research on the microbiota of Drosophila has revealed new molecules that regulate the brain-gut axis, and it has been shown that dysbiosis of the fly microbiota worsens lifespan, motor function, and neurodegeneration in AD and PD models. The results shown in fly studies represents a fundamental part of the immune and proteomic process involving gut-microbiota interactions that are highly conserved. Even though the fly’s gut microbiota are not simple mimics of humans, flies are a valuable system to learn the molecular mechanisms of how the gut microbiota affect host health and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fukiko Kitani-Morii
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology of Brain Diseases, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Neurology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Robert P Friedland
- Department of Neurology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Hideki Yoshida
- Applied Biology, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Toshiki Mizuno
- Department of Neurology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
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92
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Joga MR, Mogilicherla K, Smagghe G, Roy A. RNA Interference-Based Forest Protection Products (FPPs) Against Wood-Boring Coleopterans: Hope or Hype? FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:733608. [PMID: 34567044 PMCID: PMC8461336 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.733608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Forest insects are emerging in large extension in response to ongoing climatic changes, penetrating geographic barriers, utilizing novel hosts, and influencing many hectares of conifer forests worldwide. Current management strategies have been unable to keep pace with forest insect population outbreaks, and therefore novel and aggressive management strategies are urgently required to manage forest insects. RNA interference (RNAi), a Noble Prize-winning discovery, is an emerging approach that can be used for forest protection. The RNAi pathway is triggered by dsRNA molecules, which, in turn, silences genes and disrupts protein function, ultimately causing the death of the targeted insect. RNAi is very effective against pest insects; however, its proficiency varies significantly among insect species, tissues, and genes. The coleopteran forest insects are susceptible to RNAi and can be the initial target, but we lack practical means of delivery, particularly in systems with long-lived, endophagous insects such as the Emerald ash borer, Asian longhorn beetles, and bark beetles. The widespread use of RNAi in forest pest management has major challenges, including its efficiency, target gene selection, dsRNA design, lack of reliable dsRNA delivery methods, non-target and off-target effects, and potential resistance development in wood-boring pest populations. This review focuses on recent innovations in RNAi delivery that can be deployed against forest pests, such as cationic liposome-assisted (lipids), nanoparticle-enabled (polymers or peptides), symbiont-mediated (fungi, bacteria, and viruses), and plant-mediated deliveries (trunk injection, root absorption). Our findings guide future risk analysis of dsRNA-based forest protection products (FPPs) and risk assessment frameworks incorporating sequence complementarity-based analysis for off-target predictions. This review also points out barriers to further developing RNAi for forest pest management and suggests future directions of research that will build the future use of RNAi against wood-boring coleopterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallikarjuna Reddy Joga
- Excellent Team for Mitigation, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Kanakachari Mogilicherla
- EVA.4 Unit, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Amit Roy
- Excellent Team for Mitigation, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czechia
- EVA.4 Unit, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czechia
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93
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Domingues LN, Bendele KG, Halos L, Moreno Y, Epe C, Figueiredo M, Liebstein M, Guerrero FD. Identification of anti-horn fly vaccine antigen candidates using a reverse vaccinology approach. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:442. [PMID: 34479607 PMCID: PMC8414034 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04938-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The horn fly, Haematobia irritans irritans, causes significant production losses to the cattle industry. Horn fly control relies on insecticides; however, alternative control methods such as vaccines are needed due to the fly's capacity to quickly develop resistance to insecticides, and the pressure for eco-friendly options. Methods We used a reverse vaccinology approach comprising three vaccine prediction and 11 annotation tools to evaluate and rank 79,542 translated open reading frames (ORFs) from the horn fly's transcriptome, and selected 10 transcript ORFs as vaccine candidates for expression in Pichia pastoris. The expression of the 10 selected transcripts and the proteins that they encoded were investigated in adult flies by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and mass spectrometry, respectively. Then, we evaluated the immunogenicity of a vaccine candidate in an immunization trial and the antigen’s effects on horn fly mortality and fecundity in an in vitro feeding assay. Results Six of the ten vaccine candidate antigens were successfully expressed in P. pastoris. RT-PCR confirmed the expression of all six ORFs in adult fly RNA. One of the vaccine candidate antigens, BI-HS009, was expressed in sufficient quantity for immunogenicity and efficacy trials. The IgG titers of animals vaccinated with BI-HS009 plus adjuvant were significantly higher than those of animals vaccinated with buffer plus adjuvant only from days 42 to 112, with a peak on day 56. Progeny of horn flies feeding upon blood from animals vaccinated with BI-HS009 plus adjuvant collected on day 56 had 63% lower pupariation rate and 57% lower adult emergence than the control group (ANOVA: F(1, 6) = 8.221, P = 0.028 and F(1, 6) = 8.299, P = 0.028, respectively). Conclusions The reverse vaccinology approach streamlined the discovery process by prioritizing possible vaccine antigen candidates. Through a thoughtful process of selection and in vivo and in vitro evaluations, we were able to identify a promising antigen for an anti-horn fly vaccine. Graphical abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04938-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luísa N Domingues
- USDA-ARS Knipling-Bushland U. S. Livestock Insects Research Lab, 2700 Fredericksburg Road, Kerrville, TX, USA. .,Texas A&M University, Department of Entomology, 2475 TAMU, College Station, TX, USA.
| | - Kylie G Bendele
- USDA-ARS Knipling-Bushland U. S. Livestock Insects Research Lab, 2700 Fredericksburg Road, Kerrville, TX, USA.
| | - Lénaïg Halos
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 29 Avenue Tony Garnier, 69007, Lyon, France.,Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Yovany Moreno
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, Pharmaceutical Discovery and Research, 3239 Satellite Blvd. Bldg. 600, Duluth, GA, USA
| | - Christian Epe
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, Pharmaceutical Discovery and Research, 3239 Satellite Blvd. Bldg. 600, Duluth, GA, USA
| | - Monica Figueiredo
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, Pharmaceutical Discovery and Research, 3239 Satellite Blvd. Bldg. 600, Duluth, GA, USA
| | - Martin Liebstein
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Missouri Research Center, 6498 Jade Rd, Fulton, MO, USA
| | - Felix D Guerrero
- USDA-ARS Knipling-Bushland U. S. Livestock Insects Research Lab, 2700 Fredericksburg Road, Kerrville, TX, USA
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94
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Renoz F, Foray V, Ambroise J, Baa-Puyoulet P, Bearzatto B, Mendez GL, Grigorescu AS, Mahillon J, Mardulyn P, Gala JL, Calevro F, Hance T. At the Gate of Mutualism: Identification of Genomic Traits Predisposing to Insect-Bacterial Symbiosis in Pathogenic Strains of the Aphid Symbiont Serratia symbiotica. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:660007. [PMID: 34268133 PMCID: PMC8275996 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.660007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutualistic associations between insects and heritable bacterial symbionts are ubiquitous in nature. The aphid symbiont Serratia symbiotica is a valuable candidate for studying the evolution of bacterial symbiosis in insects because it includes a wide diversity of strains that reflect the diverse relationships in which bacteria can be engaged with insects, from pathogenic interactions to obligate intracellular mutualism. The recent discovery of culturable strains, which are hypothesized to resemble the ancestors of intracellular strains, provide an opportunity to study the mechanisms underlying bacterial symbiosis in its early stages. In this study, we analyzed the genomes of three of these culturable strains that are pathogenic to aphid hosts, and performed comparative genomic analyses including mutualistic host-dependent strains. All three genomes are larger than those of the host-restricted S. symbiotica strains described so far, and show significant enrichment in pseudogenes and mobile elements, suggesting that these three pathogenic strains are in the early stages of the adaptation to their host. Compared to their intracellular mutualistic relatives, the three strains harbor a greater diversity of genes coding for virulence factors and metabolic pathways, suggesting that they are likely adapted to infect new hosts and are a potential source of metabolic innovation for insects. The presence in their genomes of secondary metabolism gene clusters associated with the production of antimicrobial compounds and phytotoxins supports the hypothesis that S. symbiotia symbionts evolved from plant-associated strains and that plants may serve as intermediate hosts. Mutualistic associations between insects and bacteria are the result of independent transitions to endosymbiosis initiated by the acquisition of environmental progenitors. In this context, the genomes of free-living S. symbiotica strains provide a rare opportunity to study the inventory of genes held by bacterial associates of insects that are at the gateway to a host-dependent lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- François Renoz
- Biodiversity Research Centre, Earth and Life Institute, Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Vincent Foray
- Biodiversity Research Centre, Earth and Life Institute, Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l’insecte, UMR 7261, CNRS, Université de Tours, Tours, France
| | - Jérôme Ambroise
- Center for Applied Molecular Technologies, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, Belgium
| | | | - Bertrand Bearzatto
- Center for Applied Molecular Technologies, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, Belgium
| | - Gipsi Lima Mendez
- Louvain Institute of Biomolecular Science and Technology (LIBST), Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | | | - Jacques Mahillon
- Laboratory of Food and Environmental Microbiology, Earth and Life Institute, Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Patrick Mardulyn
- Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Luc Gala
- Center for Applied Molecular Technologies, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, Belgium
| | - Federica Calevro
- Univ Lyon, INSA-Lyon, INRAE, BF2i, UMR203, F-69621, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Thierry Hance
- Biodiversity Research Centre, Earth and Life Institute, Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
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95
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Farder-Gomes CF, Fernandes KM, Bernardes RC, Bastos DSS, Martins GF, Serrão JE. Acute exposure to fipronil induces oxidative stress, apoptosis and impairs epithelial homeostasis in the midgut of the stingless bee Partamona helleri Friese (Hymenoptera: Apidae). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 774:145679. [PMID: 33611004 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.145679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Partamona helleri is an important pollinator in natural and agricultural ecosystems in the neotropics. However, the foraging activity of this bee increases its risk of exposure to pesticides, which may affect both the individuals and the colony. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the side effects of LC50 of fipronil (0.28 ng a.i. μL-1) on the midgut morphology, antioxidant activity and some pathways of cell death, proliferation and differentiation in workers of P. helleri, after 24 h of oral exposure. Fipronil caused morphological alterations in the midgut of the bees. The activities of the detoxification enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione S-transferase increased after exposure, which suggests the occurrence of a detoxification mechanism. Furthermore, exposure to fipronil changed the number of positive cells for signaling-pathway proteins in the midgut of bees, which indicates the induction of cell death by the apoptotic pathway and impairment of the midgut epithelial regeneration. These results demonstrate that fipronil may negatively affect the morphology and physiology of the midgut of the stingless bee P. helleri and impose a threat to the survival of non-target organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kenner Morais Fernandes
- Department of General Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais 36570-900, Brazil
| | | | - Daniel Silva Sena Bastos
- Department of General Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais 36570-900, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Ferreira Martins
- Department of General Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais 36570-900, Brazil.
| | - José Eduardo Serrão
- Department of General Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais 36570-900, Brazil.
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96
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Characteristics of the Peritrophic Matrix of the Silkworm, Bombyx mori and Factors Influencing Its Formation. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12060516. [PMID: 34199436 PMCID: PMC8227122 DOI: 10.3390/insects12060516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary The insect midgut is an important digestive organ with the peritrophic matrix (PM) being a semi-permeable membrane secreted by the midgut cells. The PM plays an important role in improving midgut digestion efficiency and protecting the midgut from food particles and exogenous pathogens. The silkworm, Bombyx mori, is an economically important insect. Understanding the structure of the PM is necessary for studying its function, but characteristics of PM in B. mori have been rarely reported. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive study on the PM structure of the PM in silkworms and found its thickness increased gradually during growth, but there was no difference in the thickness comparing the anterior, middle, and posterior regions. Permeability of the PM gradually decreased from the anterior to posterior regions. In addition, we found the formation of the PM was influenced by food ingestion and the gut microbiota. Abstract The peritrophic matrix (PM) secreted by the midgut cells of insects is formed by the binding of PM proteins to chitin fibrils. The PM envelops the food bolus, serving as a barrier between the content of the midgut lumen and its epithelium, and plays a protective role for epithelial cells against mechanical damage, pathogens, toxins, and other harmful substances. However, few studies have investigated the characteristics and synthesis factors of the PM in the silkworm, Bombyx mori. Here, we examined the characteristics of the PM in the silkworms. The PM thickness of the silkworms increased gradually during growth, while there was no significant difference in thickness along the entire PM region. Permeability of the PM decreased gradually from the anterior to posterior PM. We also found that PM synthesis was affected by food ingestion and the gut microbiota. Our results are beneficial for future studies regarding the function of the PM in silkworms.
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Aguirre-Rojas LM, Scully ED, Trick HN, Zhu KY, Smith CM. Comparative analyses of transcriptional responses of Dectes texanus LeConte (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) larvae fed on three different host plants and artificial diet. Sci Rep 2021; 11:11448. [PMID: 34075134 PMCID: PMC8169664 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-90932-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dectes texanus is an important coleopteran pest of soybeans and cultivated sunflowers in the Midwestern United States that causes yield losses by girdling stems of their host plants. Although sunflower and giant ragweed are primary hosts of D. texanus, they began colonizing soybeans approximately 50 years ago and no reliable management method has been established to prevent or reduce losses by this pest. To identify genes putatively involved when feeding soybean, we compared gene expression of D. texanus third-instar larvae fed soybean to those fed sunflower, giant ragweed, or artificial diet. Dectes texanus larvae differentially expressed 514 unigenes when fed on soybean compared to those fed the other diet treatments. Enrichment analyses of gene ontology terms from up-regulated unigenes in soybean-fed larvae compared to those fed both primary hosts highlighted unigenes involved in oxidoreductase and polygalacturonase activities. Cytochrome P450s, carboxylesterases, major facilitator superfamily transporters, lipocalins, apolipoproteins, glycoside hydrolases 1 and 28, and lytic monooxygenases were among the most commonly up-regulated unigenes in soybean-fed larvae compared to those fed their primary hosts. These results suggest that D. texanus larvae differentially expressed unigenes involved in biotransformation of allelochemicals, digestion of plant cell walls and transport of small solutes and lipids when feeding in soybean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina M Aguirre-Rojas
- Deparment of Botany and Plant Sciences, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92506, USA
| | - Erin D Scully
- Stored Product Insect and Engineering Research Unit, USDA-ARS-CGAHR, Manhattan, KS, 66502, USA
| | - Harold N Trick
- Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Kun Yan Zhu
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - C Michael Smith
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA.
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Yang L, Weiss BL, Williams AE, Aksoy E, de Silva Orfano A, Son JH, Wu Y, Vigneron A, Karakus M, Aksoy S. Paratransgenic manipulation of a tsetse microRNA alters the physiological homeostasis of the fly's midgut environment. PLoS Pathog 2021; 17:e1009475. [PMID: 34107000 PMCID: PMC8216540 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1009475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Tsetse flies are vectors of parasitic African trypanosomes, the etiological agents of human and animal African trypanosomoses. Current disease control methods include fly-repelling pesticides, fly trapping, and chemotherapeutic treatment of infected people and animals. Inhibiting tsetse's ability to transmit trypanosomes by strengthening the fly's natural barriers can serve as an alternative approach to reduce disease. The peritrophic matrix (PM) is a chitinous and proteinaceous barrier that lines the insect midgut and serves as a protective barrier that inhibits infection with pathogens. African trypanosomes must cross tsetse's PM in order to establish an infection in the fly, and PM structural integrity negatively correlates with trypanosome infection outcomes. Bloodstream form trypanosomes shed variant surface glycoproteins (VSG) into tsetse's gut lumen early during the infection establishment, and free VSG molecules are internalized by the fly's PM-producing cardia. This process results in a reduction in the expression of a tsetse microRNA (miR275) and a sequential molecular cascade that compromises PM integrity. miRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that are critical in regulating many physiological processes. In the present study, we investigated the role(s) of tsetse miR275 by developing a paratransgenic expression system that employs tsetse's facultative bacterial endosymbiont, Sodalis glossinidius, to express tandem antagomir-275 repeats (or miR275 sponges). This system induces a constitutive, 40% reduction in miR275 transcript abundance in the fly's midgut and results in obstructed blood digestion (gut weights increased by 52%), a significant increase (p-value < 0.0001) in fly survival following infection with an entomopathogenic bacteria, and a 78% increase in trypanosome infection prevalence. RNA sequencing of cardia and midgut tissues from paratransgenic tsetse confirmed that miR275 regulates processes related to the expression of PM-associated proteins and digestive enzymes as well as genes that encode abundant secretory proteins. Our study demonstrates that paratransgenesis can be employed to study microRNA regulated pathways in arthropods that house symbiotic bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Yang
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Brian L. Weiss
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Adeline E. Williams
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Emre Aksoy
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Alessandra de Silva Orfano
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Jae Hak Son
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Yineng Wu
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Aurelien Vigneron
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Evolutionary Ecology, Institute for Organismic and Molecular Evolution, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Mehmet Karakus
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Serap Aksoy
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
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Han Y, Taylor EB, Luthe D. Maize Endochitinase Expression in Response to Fall Armyworm Herbivory. J Chem Ecol 2021; 47:689-706. [PMID: 34056671 DOI: 10.1007/s10886-021-01284-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
A large percentage of crop loss is due to insect damage, especially caterpillar damage. Plant chitinases are considered excellent candidates to combat these insects since they can degrade chitin in peritrophic matrix (PM), an important protective structure in caterpillar midgut. Compared to chemical insecticides, chitinases could improve host plant resistance and be both economically and environmentally advantageous. The focus of this research was to find chitinase candidates that could improve plant resistance by effectively limiting caterpillar damage. Five classes of endochitinase (I-V) genes were characterized in the maize genome, and we isolated and cloned four chitinase genes (chitinase A, chitinase B, chitinase I, and PRm3) present in two maize (Zea mays L.) inbred lines Mp708 and Tx601, with different levels of resistance to caterpillar pests. We also investigated the expression of these maize chitinases in response to fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda, FAW) attack. The results indicated that both chitinase transcript abundance and enzymatic activity increased in response to FAW feeding and mechanical wounding. Furthermore, chitinases retained activity inside the caterpillar midgut and enzymatic activity was detected in the food bolus and frass. When examined under scanning electron microscopy, PMs from Tx601-fed caterpillars showed structural damage when compared to diet controls. Analysis of chitinase transcript abundance after caterpillar feeding and proteomic analysis of maize leaf trichomes in the two inbreds implicated chitinase PRm3 found in Tx601 as a potential insecticidal protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Han
- The Pennsylvania State University, Plant Science, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Erin B Taylor
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, The University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
| | - Dawn Luthe
- The Pennsylvania State University, Plant Science, University Park, PA, USA.
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Ferdous Z, Fuchs S, Behrends V, Trasanidis N, Waterhouse RM, Vlachou D, Christophides GK. Anopheles coluzzii stearoyl-CoA desaturase is essential for adult female survival and reproduction upon blood feeding. PLoS Pathog 2021; 17:e1009486. [PMID: 34015060 PMCID: PMC8171932 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1009486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitellogenesis and oocyte maturation require anautogenous female Anopheles mosquitoes to obtain a bloodmeal from a vertebrate host. The bloodmeal is rich in proteins that are readily broken down into amino acids in the midgut lumen and absorbed by the midgut epithelial cells where they are converted into lipids and then transported to other tissues including ovaries. The stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) plays a pivotal role in this process by converting saturated (SFAs) to unsaturated (UFAs) fatty acids; the latter being essential for maintaining cell membrane fluidity amongst other housekeeping functions. Here, we report the functional and phenotypic characterization of SCD1 in the malaria vector mosquito Anopheles coluzzii. We show that RNA interference (RNAi) silencing of SCD1 and administration of sterculic acid (SA), a small molecule inhibitor of SCD1, significantly impact on the survival and reproduction of female mosquitoes following blood feeding. Microscopic observations reveal that the mosquito thorax is quickly filled with blood, a phenomenon likely caused by the collapse of midgut epithelial cell membranes, and that epithelial cells are depleted of lipid droplets and oocytes fail to mature. Transcriptional profiling shows that genes involved in protein, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism and immunity-related genes are the most affected by SCD1 knock down (KD) in blood-fed mosquitoes. Metabolic profiling reveals that these mosquitoes exhibit increased amounts of saturated fatty acids and TCA cycle intermediates, highlighting the biochemical framework by which the SCD1 KD phenotype manifests as a result of a detrimental metabolic syndrome. Accumulation of SFAs is also the likely cause of the potent immune response observed in the absence of infection, which resembles an auto-inflammatory condition. These data provide insights into mosquito bloodmeal metabolism and lipid homeostasis and could inform efforts to develop novel interventions against mosquito-borne diseases. Female mosquitoes can become infected with malaria parasites upon ingestion of blood from an infected person and can transmit the disease when they bite another person some days later. The bloodmeal is rich in proteins which female mosquitoes use to develop their eggs after converting them first to saturated and then to unsaturated fatty acids inside their gut cells. Here, we present the characterization of the enzyme that mosquitoes use to convert saturated to unsaturated fatty acids and show that when this enzyme is eliminated or inhibited mosquitoes cannot produce eggs and die soon after they feed on blood. The mosquito death appears to be primarily associated with the collapse of their gut epithelial barrier due to the loss of cell membrane integrity, leading to their inner body cavity being filled with the ingested blood. These mosquitoes also suffer from an acute and detrimental auto-inflammatory condition due to mounting of a potent immune response in the absence of any infection. We conclude that this enzyme and the mechanism of converting blood-derived proteins to unsaturated fatty acids as a whole can be a good target of interventions aiming at limiting the mosquito abundance and blocking malaria transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zannatul Ferdous
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Silke Fuchs
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Volker Behrends
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Health Science Research Centre, University of Roehampton, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nikolaos Trasanidis
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robert M. Waterhouse
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Dina Vlachou
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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