1
|
Ye C, An X, Xie BQ, Ding BY, Niu J, Wang JJ. The involvement of systemic RNA interference deficient-1-like (SIL1) in cellular dsRNA uptake in Acyrthosiphon pisum. INSECT SCIENCE 2023; 30:1393-1404. [PMID: 36576078 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13167] [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: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Systemic RNA interference deficient-1-like (SIL1) is considered a core component in dsRNA uptake in some insect species. Investigation related to the potential function of SIL1 in dsRNA uptake can contribute to a further understanding of RNA interference (RNAi) mechanisms in insects and agricultural pest control. However, the role of SIL1 in dsRNA uptake in insects such as aphids remains controversial. We have thoroughly analyzed the role of SIL1 from the model aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum (ApSIL1) in cellular dsRNA to clarify its function. First, the induced expression of ApSIL1 upon dsRNA oral exposure provided a vital clue for the possible involvement of ApSIL1 in cellular dsRNA uptake. Subsequent in vivo experiments using the RNAi-of-RNAi approach for ApSIL1 supported our hypothesis that the silencing efficiencies of reporter genes were reduced after inhibition of ApSIL1 expression. The impaired biological phenotypes of aphids, including cumulative average offspring, deformities of the nymph, and mortality upon pathogen infection, were then observed in the treatment group. Thereafter, in vitro dual-luciferase reporter assay showed compelling evidence that the luciferin signal was significantly attenuated when dsluciferase or dsGFP was transferred into ApSIL1-transfected Drosophila S2 cells. These observations further confirmed that the signal of Cy3-labeled dsRNA was rapidly attenuated with time in ApSIL1-transfected Drosophila S2 cells. Overall, these findings conclusively establish that ApSIL1 is involved in dsRNA uptake in A. pisum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Ye
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin An
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bing-Qin Xie
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bi-Yue Ding
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jinzhi Niu
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jin-Jun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Elston KM, Maeda GP, Perreau J, Barrick JE. Addressing the challenges of symbiont-mediated RNAi in aphids. PeerJ 2023; 11:e14961. [PMID: 36874963 PMCID: PMC9983426 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14961] [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: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Because aphids are global agricultural pests and models for bacterial endosymbiosis, there is a need for reliable methods to study and control their gene function. However, current methods available for aphid gene knockout and knockdown of gene expression are often unreliable and time consuming. Techniques like CRISPR-Cas genome editing can take several months to achieve a single gene knockout because they rely on aphids going through a cycle of sexual reproduction, and aphids often lack strong, consistent levels of knockdown when fed or injected with molecules that induce an RNA interference (RNAi) response. In the hopes of addressing these challenges, we attempted to adapt a new method called symbiont-mediated RNAi (smRNAi) for use in aphids. smRNAi involves engineering a bacterial symbiont of the insect to continuously supply double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) inside the insect body. This approach has been successful in thrips, kissing bugs, and honeybees. We engineered the laboratory Escherichia coli strain HT115 and the native aphid symbiont Serratia symbiotica CWBI-2.3T to produce dsRNA inside the gut of the pea aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum) targeting salivary effector protein (C002) or ecdysone receptor genes. For C002 assays, we also tested co-knockdown with an aphid nuclease (Nuc1) to reduce RNA degradation. However, we found that smRNAi was not a reliable method for aphid gene knockdown under our conditions. We were unable to consistently achieve the expected phenotypic changes with either target. However, we did see indications that elements of the RNAi pathway were modestly upregulated, and expression of some targeted genes appeared to be somewhat reduced in some trials. We conclude with a discussion of the possible avenues through which smRNAi, and aphid RNAi in general, could be improved in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M Elston
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas, United States
| | - Gerald P Maeda
- Department of Integrative Biology, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas, United States
| | - Julie Perreau
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas, United States.,Department of Integrative Biology, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas, United States
| | - Jeffrey E Barrick
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wang W, Zhu T, Wan P, Wei Q, He J, Lai F, Fu Q. SPARC plays an important role in the oviposition and nymphal development in Nilaparvata lugens Stål. BMC Genomics 2022; 23:682. [PMID: 36192692 PMCID: PMC9531499 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-08903-z] [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: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens Stål)is a notorious rice pest in many areas of Asia. Study on the molecular mechanisms underlying its development and reproduction will provide scientific basis for effective control. SPARC (Secreted Protein, Acidic and Rich in Cysteine) is one of structural component of the extracellular matrix, which influences a diverse array of biological functions. In this study, the gene for SPARC was identified and functionally analysed from N.lugens. Results The result showed that the NlSPARC mRNA was highly expressed in fat body, hemolymph and early embryo. The mortality increased significantly when NlSPARC was downregulated after RNA interference (RNAi) in 3 ~ 4th instar nymphs. Downregulation of NlSPARC in adults significantly reduced the number of eggs and offspring, as well as the transcription level of NlSPARC in newly hatched nymphs and survival rate in progeny. The observation with microanatomy on individuals after NlSPARC RNAi showed smaller and less abundant fat body than that in control. No obvious morphological abnormalities in the nymphal development and no differences in development of internal reproductive organ were observed when compared with control. Conclusion NlSPARC is required for oviposition and nymphal development mainly through regulating the tissue of fat body in N.lugens. NlSPARC could be a new candidate target for controlling the rapid propagation of N.lugens population. Our results also demonstrated that the effect of NlSPARC RNAi can transfer to the next generation in N.lugens. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-022-08903-z.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weixia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Tingheng Zhu
- College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China.
| | - Pinjun Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Qi Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Jiachun He
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Fengxiang Lai
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Qiang Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, 310006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wulff JP, Temeyer KB, Tidwell JP, Schlechte KG, Xiong C, Lohmeyer KH, Pietrantonio PV. Pyrokinin receptor silencing in females of the southern cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus is associated with a reproductive fitness cost. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:252. [PMID: 35818078 PMCID: PMC9272880 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05349-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rhipicephalusmicroplus is the vector of deadly cattle pathogens, especially Babesia spp., for which a recombinant vaccine is not available. Therefore, disease control depends on tick vector control. However, R.microplus populations worldwide have developed resistance to available acaricides, prompting the search for novel acaricide targets. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are involved in the regulation of many physiological processes and have been suggested as druggable targets for the control of arthropod vectors. Arthropod-specific signaling systems of small neuropeptides are being investigated for this purpose. The pyrokinin receptor (PKR) is a GPCR previously characterized in ticks. Myotropic activity of pyrokinins in feeding-related tissues of Rhipicephalussanguineus and Ixodesscapularis was recently reported. Methods The R.microplus pyrokinin receptor (Rhimi-PKR) was silenced through RNA interference (RNAi) in female ticks. To optimize RNAi, a dual-luciferase assay was applied to determine the silencing efficiency of two Rhimi-PKR double-stranded RNAs (dsRNA) prior to injecting dsRNA in ticks to be placed on cattle. Phenotypic variables of female ticks obtained at the endpoint of the RNAi experiment were compared to those of control female ticks (non-injected and beta-lactamase dsRNA-injected). Rhimi-PKR silencing was verified by quantitative reverse-transcriptase PCR in whole females and dissected tissues. Results The Rhimi-PKR transcript was expressed in all developmental stages. Rhimi-PKR silencing was confirmed in whole ticks 4 days after injection, and in the tick carcass, ovary and synganglion 6 days after injection. Rhimi-PKR silencing was associated with an increased mortality and decreased weight of both surviving females and egg masses (P < 0.05). Delays in repletion, pre-oviposition and incubation periods were observed (P < 0.05). Conclusions Rhimi-PKR silencing negatively affected female reproductive fitness. The PKR appears to be directly or indirectly associated with the regulation of female feeding and/or reproductive output in R.microplus. Antagonists of the pyrokinin signaling system could be explored for tick control. Graphical abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05349-w.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan P Wulff
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843-2475, USA
| | - Kevin B Temeyer
- Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory and Veterinary Pest Genomics Center, United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), 2700 Fredericksburg Road, Kerrville, TX, 78028-9184, USA
| | - Jason P Tidwell
- Cattle Fever Tick Research Laboratory, USDA-ARS, 22675 N. Moorefield Rd. Building 6419, Edinburg, TX, 78541-5033, USA
| | - Kristie G Schlechte
- Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory and Veterinary Pest Genomics Center, United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), 2700 Fredericksburg Road, Kerrville, TX, 78028-9184, USA
| | - Caixing Xiong
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843-2475, USA
| | - Kimberly H Lohmeyer
- Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory and Veterinary Pest Genomics Center, United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), 2700 Fredericksburg Road, Kerrville, TX, 78028-9184, USA
| | - Patricia V Pietrantonio
- Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory and Veterinary Pest Genomics Center, United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), 2700 Fredericksburg Road, Kerrville, TX, 78028-9184, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Shakeel M, Du J, Li SW, Zhou YJ, Sarwar N, Bukhari SAH. Characterization, Knockdown and Parental Effect of Hexokinase Gene of Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) Revealed by RNA Interference. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11111258. [PMID: 33114530 PMCID: PMC7693289 DOI: 10.3390/genes11111258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hexokinase (HK) is a key enzyme in chitin biosynthesis in insects and plays an important role in development and energy regulation. It also performs a crucial role in the synthesis of Glucose-6-phosphate and its putative functions are studied via injection of dsRNA corresponding to the hexokinase gene from Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (CmHK). This study was designed to analyze the characteristics and expression patterns of HK-related genes in various tissues of C. medinalis at different developmental stages. The CmHK ORF is a 1359 bp in length, encoding a protein of 452 amino acids, with homology and cluster analysis showing that CmHK shares an 85.11% sequence similarity with hexokinase from Ostrinia furnacalis.CmHK was highly expressed in the ovary and in the fifth instar larvae. Injection of dsCmHK significantly suppressed mRNA expression (73.6%) 120 h post-dsRNA injection as compared to a control group. The results demonstrated an increased incidence of larval and pupal mortality of 80% and 78%, respectively, with significant variation in the sex ratio between males (68.33%) and females (35%), overt larval deformities, and a reduction in average weight gain observed 120 h post-dsRNA injection. In addition, dsCmHK-injected C. medinalis showed a significant reduction in ovulation per female and larval hatching rate, along with increased larval and pupal mortality and variation in male and female emergence over three generations (G1, G2, and G3). Taken together, the outcomes of the study provide a foundation to study gene function and a new dimension to control C. medinalis by transgenic RNAi technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Shakeel
- Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Regions, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550025, China; (M.S.); (J.D.); (Y.-J.Z.)
| | - Juan Du
- Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Regions, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550025, China; (M.S.); (J.D.); (Y.-J.Z.)
| | - Shang-Wei Li
- Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Regions, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550025, China; (M.S.); (J.D.); (Y.-J.Z.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-137-6506-6957
| | - Yuan-Jin Zhou
- Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Regions, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550025, China; (M.S.); (J.D.); (Y.-J.Z.)
| | - Naeem Sarwar
- Department of Agronomy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan; (N.S.); (S.A.H.B.)
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yang L, Tian Y, Peng YY, Niu J, Wang JJ. Expression Dynamics of Core RNAi Machinery Genes in Pea Aphids Upon Exposure to Artificially Synthesized dsRNA and miRNAs. INSECTS 2020; 11:insects11020070. [PMID: 31973072 PMCID: PMC7074054 DOI: 10.3390/insects11020070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The pea aphid is an important pest of vegetables and causes serious losses worldwide. RNA interference (RNAi) is an effective pest control tool, and three sub-pathways have been described: The miRNA pathway, siRNA pathway, and piRNA pathway. A large number of genes in miRNA pathway and piRNA pathway are found to be expanded. To study the roles of these genes, the expression of 25 core RNAi genes was screened in spatiotemporal samples, artificially synthesized dsRNA and miRNA treated samples. The 25 genes were all expressed during different development stages and in different tissues. In dsRNA-treated samples and miRNA-treated samples, the expressions of genes in these three pathways were induced, especially the expanded genes. This suggests a complex network of RNAi core genes in the three sub-pathways. Treatment of miRNA seems to induce gene expression in a dosage-dependent manner. These results increase our knowledge of the siRNA pathway and related factors from RNAi pathway in aphids and promote the use of RNAi for the control of aphid pests.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Yang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
- State Cultivation Base of Crop Stress Biology for Southern Mountainous Land, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Yuan Tian
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
- State Cultivation Base of Crop Stress Biology for Southern Mountainous Land, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Peng
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
- State Cultivation Base of Crop Stress Biology for Southern Mountainous Land, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Jinzhi Niu
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
- State Cultivation Base of Crop Stress Biology for Southern Mountainous Land, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Jin-Jun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
- State Cultivation Base of Crop Stress Biology for Southern Mountainous Land, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Meng LW, Yuan GR, Lu XP, Jing TX, Zheng LS, Yong HX, Wang JJ. Two delta class glutathione S-transferases involved in the detoxification of malathion in Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel). PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2019; 75:1527-1538. [PMID: 30610767 DOI: 10.1002/ps.5318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The oriental fruit fly Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), a widespread agricultural pest, has evolved resistance to many insecticides, including organophosphorus compounds. Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are involved in xenobiotic detoxification and insecticide resistance in many insects. However, the role of delta class GSTs in detoxifying malathion in B. dorsalis is unknown. Here, we evaluated the roles of two delta class GSTs in malathion detoxification in this species. RESULTS Two delta class GSTs genes, BdGSTd1 and BdGSTd10, were characterized in B. dorsalis. They were highly expressed in 5-day-old adults, as well as in midgut and Malpighian tubules. Upon malathion exposure, the two genes were upregulated by 2.63- and 2.85-fold, respectively. Injection of double-stranded RNA targeting BdGSTd1 or BdGSTd10 significantly reduced their mRNA levels in adults and also significantly increased adult susceptibility to malathion. The expression of these two GSTs in Escherichia coli helped the host to endure malathion stress at a concentration of 10 µg mL-1 according to a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. High-performance liquid chromatography analyses indicated that malathion could be significantly depleted by the two delta GSTs. The role of BdGSTd10 in malathion sequestration was also discussed. CONCLUSION BdGSTd1 and BdGSTd10 play important roles in the detoxification of malathion in B. dorsalis. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li-Wei Meng
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guo-Rui Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xue-Ping Lu
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tian-Xing Jing
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li-Sha Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Han-Xiao Yong
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jin-Jun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Xie YF, Shang F, Ding BY, Wu YB, Niu JZ, Wei D, Dou W, Christiaens O, Smagghe G, Wang JJ. Tudor knockdown disrupts ovary development in Bactrocera dorsalis. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 28:136-144. [PMID: 30182401 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
One of the main functions of the piwi-interacting RNA pathway is the post-transcriptional silencing of transposable elements in the germline of many species. In insects, proteins belonging to the Tudor superfamily proteins belonging to the Tudor superfamily play an important role in to play an important role in this mechanism. In this study, we identified the tudor gene in the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis, investigated the spatiotemporal expressional profile of the gene, and performed a functional analysis using RNA interference. We identified one transcript for a tudor homologue in the B. dorsalis transcriptome, which encodes a protein containing the typical 10 Tudor domains and an Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthase delta subunit signature. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the identity of this transcript as a tudor homologue in this species. The expression profile indicated a much higher expression in the adult and pupal stages compared to the larval stages (up to a 60-fold increase), and that the gene was mostly expressed in the ovaries, Malpighian tubules and fat body. Finally, gene knockdown of tudor in B. dorsalis led to clearly underdeveloped ovaries in the female adult and reductions in copulation rate and amount of oviposition, indicating its important role in reproduction. The results of this study shed more light on the role of tudor in ovary development and reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y-F Xie
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Hunan Academy of Forestry, Changsha, China
| | - F Shang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - B-Y Ding
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Y-B Wu
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - J-Z Niu
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - D Wei
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - W Dou
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - O Christiaens
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - G Smagghe
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - J-J Wang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bingsohn L, Knorr E, Billion A, Narva KE, Vilcinskas A. Knockdown of genes in the Toll pathway reveals new lethal RNA interference targets for insect pest control. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 26:92-102. [PMID: 27862545 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a promising alternative strategy for ecologically friendly pest management. However, the identification of RNAi candidate genes is challenging owing to the absence of laboratory strains and the seasonality of most pest species. Tribolium castaneum is a well-established model, with a strong and robust RNAi response, which can be used as a high-throughput screening platform to identify potential RNAi target genes. Recently, the cactus gene was identified as a sensitive RNAi target for pest control. To explore whether the spectrum of promising RNAi targets can be expanded beyond those found by random large-scale screening, to encompass others identified using targeted knowledge-based approaches, we constructed a Cactus interaction network. We tested nine genes in this network and found that the delivery of double-stranded RNA corresponding to fusilli and cactin showed lethal effects. The silencing of cactin resulted in 100% lethality at every developmental stage from the larva to the adult. The knockdown of pelle, Dorsal-related immunity factor and short gastrulation reduced or even prevented egg hatching in the next generation. The combination of such targets with lethal and parental RNAi effects can now be tested against different pest species in field studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Bingsohn
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, Giessen, Germany
| | - E Knorr
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, Giessen, Germany
| | - A Billion
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, Giessen, Germany
| | - K E Narva
- Dow AgroSciences, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - A Vilcinskas
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, Giessen, Germany
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Giessen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Parameters for Successful Parental RNAi as An Insect Pest Management Tool in Western Corn Rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera. Genes (Basel) 2016; 8:genes8010007. [PMID: 28029123 PMCID: PMC5295002 DOI: 10.3390/genes8010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2016] [Revised: 12/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Parental RNAi (pRNAi) is an RNA interference response where the gene knockdown phenotype is observed in the progeny of the treated organism. pRNAi has been demonstrated in female western corn rootworms (WCR) via diet applications and has been described as a potential approach for rootworm pest management. However, it is not clear if plant-expressed pRNAi can provide effective control of next generation WCR larvae in the field. In this study, we evaluated parameters required to generate a successful pRNAi response in WCR for the genes brahma and hunchback. The parameters tested included a concentration response, duration of the dsRNA exposure, timing of the dsRNA exposure with respect to the mating status in WCR females, and the effects of pRNAi on males. Results indicate that all of the above parameters affect the strength of pRNAi phenotype in females. Results are interpreted in terms of how this technology will perform in the field and the potential role for pRNAi in pest and resistance management strategies. More broadly, the described approaches enable examination of the dynamics of RNAi response in insects beyond pRNAi and crop pests.
Collapse
|
11
|
Chen N, Fan YL, Bai Y, Li XD, Zhang ZF, Liu TX. Cytochrome P450 gene, CYP4G51, modulates hydrocarbon production in the pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2016; 76:84-94. [PMID: 27425674 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2016.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Revised: 07/02/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Terrestrial insects deposit a layer of hydrocarbons (HCs) as waterproofing agents on their epicuticle. The insect-specific CYP4G genes, subfamily members of P450, have been found in all insects with sequenced genomes to date. They are critical for HC biosynthesis in Drosophila; however, their functional roles in other insects including the piercing-sucking hemipterous aphids remain unknown. In this study, we presented the molecular characterization and a functional study of the CYP4G51 gene in the pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris). CYP4G51 transcript was detectable across the whole life cycle of A. pisum, and was prominently expressed in the aphid head and abdominal cuticle. Up-regulation of CYP4G51 under desiccation stress was more significant in the third instar nymphs compared with the adults. Also, up-regulation of CYP4G51 was observed when the aphids fed on an artificial diet compared with those fed on the broad bean plant, and was positively correlated with a high level of cuticular HCs (CHCs). RNAi knockdown of CYP4G51 significantly reduced its expression and caused reductions in both internal and external HCs. A deficiency in CHCs resulted in aphids being more susceptible to desiccation, with increased mortality under desiccation stress. The current results confirm that CYP4G51 modulates HC biosynthesis to protect aphids from desiccation. Moreover, our data also indicate that saturated and straight-chain HCs play a major role in cuticular waterproofing in the pea aphid. A. pisum CYP4G51 could be considered as a novel RNAi target in the field of insect pest management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas and Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
| | - Yong-Liang Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas and Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
| | - Yu Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas and Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
| | - Xiang-Dong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Zhan-Feng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas and Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
| | - Tong-Xian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas and Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Fishilevich E, Vélez AM, Storer NP, Li H, Bowling AJ, Rangasamy M, Worden SE, Narva KE, Siegfried BD. RNAi as a management tool for the western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2016; 72:1652-1663. [PMID: 27218412 DOI: 10.1002/ps.4324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2016] [Revised: 04/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The western corn rootworm (WCR), Diabrotica virgifera virgifera, is the most important pest of corn in the US Corn Belt. Economic estimates indicate that costs of control and yield loss associated with WCR damage exceed $US 1 billion annually. Historically, corn rootworm management has been extremely difficult because of its ability to evolve resistance to both chemical insecticides and cultural control practices. Since 2003, the only novel commercialized developments in rootworm management have been transgenic plants expressing Bt insecticidal proteins. Four transgenic insecticidal proteins are currently registered for rootworm management, and field resistance to proteins from the Cry3 family highlights the importance of developing traits with new modes of action. One of the newest approaches for controlling rootworm pests involves RNA interference (RNAi). This review describes the current understanding of the RNAi mechanisms in WCR and the use of this technology for WCR management. Further, the review addresses ecological risk assessment of RNAi and insect resistance management of RNAi for corn rootworm. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana M Vélez
- Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Blair D Siegfried
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Fishilevich E, Vélez AM, Khajuria C, Frey MLF, Hamm RL, Wang H, Schulenberg GA, Bowling AJ, Pence HE, Gandra P, Arora K, Storer NP, Narva KE, Siegfried BD. Use of chromatin remodeling ATPases as RNAi targets for parental control of western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera) and Neotropical brown stink bug (Euschistus heros). INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2016; 71:58-71. [PMID: 26873291 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2016.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2015] [Revised: 02/04/2016] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a gene silencing mechanism that is present in animals and plants and is triggered by double stranded RNA (dsRNA) or small interfering RNA (siRNA), depending on the organism. In the western corn rootworm (WCR), Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), RNAi can be achieved by feeding rootworms dsRNA added to artificial diet or plant tissues transformed to express dsRNA. The effect of RNAi depends on the targeted gene function and can range from an absence of phenotypic response to readily apparent responses, including lethality. Furthermore, RNAi can directly affect individuals that consume dsRNA or the effect may be transferred to the next generation. Our previous work described the potential use of genes involved in embryonic development as a parental RNAi technology for the control of WCR. In this study, we describe the use of chromatin-remodeling ATPases as target genes to achieve parental gene silencing in two insect pests, a coleopteran, WCR, and a hemipteran, the Neotropical brown stink bug, Euschistus heros Fabricius (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). Our results show that dsRNA targeting chromatin-remodeling ATPase transcripts, brahma, mi-2, and iswi strongly reduced the fecundity of the exposed females in both insect species. Additionally, knockdown of chd1 reduced the fecundity of E. heros.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elane Fishilevich
- Dow AgroSciences, 9330 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Ana M Vélez
- University of Nebraska, Department of Entomology, 103 Entomology Hall, Lincoln, NE 68583-0816, United States
| | - Chitvan Khajuria
- University of Nebraska, Department of Entomology, 103 Entomology Hall, Lincoln, NE 68583-0816, United States
| | - Meghan L F Frey
- Dow AgroSciences, 9330 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Ronda L Hamm
- Dow AgroSciences, 9330 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Haichuan Wang
- University of Nebraska, Department of Entomology, 103 Entomology Hall, Lincoln, NE 68583-0816, United States
| | | | - Andrew J Bowling
- Dow AgroSciences, 9330 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Heather E Pence
- Dow AgroSciences, 9330 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Premchand Gandra
- Dow AgroSciences, 9330 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Kanika Arora
- Dow AgroSciences, 9330 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Nicholas P Storer
- Dow AgroSciences, 9330 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Kenneth E Narva
- Dow AgroSciences, 9330 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Blair D Siegfried
- Entomology and Nematology Department, Charles Steinmetz Hall, University of Florida, P.O. Box 110620, Gainesville, FL 32611-0620, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Matsumoto Y, Hattori M. GENE SILENCING BY PARENTAL RNA INTERFERENCE IN THE GREEN RICE LEAFHOPPER, Nephotettix cincticeps (HEMIPTERA: CICADELLIDAE). ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2016; 91:152-164. [PMID: 26728387 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) has been widely used for investigating gene function in many nonmodel insect species. Parental RNAi causes gene knockdown in the next generation through the administration of double-strand RNA (dsRNA) to the mother generation. In this study, we demonstrate that parental RNAi mediated gene silencing is effective in determining the gene function of the cuticle and the salivary glands in green rice leafhopper (GRH), Nephotettix cincticeps (Uhler). Injection of dsRNA of NcLac2 (9 ng/female) to female parents caused a strong knockdown of laccase-2 gene of first instar nymphs, which eventually led to high mortality rates and depigmentation of side lines on the body. The effects of parental RNAi on the mortality of the nymphs were maintained through 12-14 days after the injections. We also confirmed the effectiveness of parental RNAi induced silencing on the gene expressed in the salivary gland, the gene product of which is passed from instar to instar. The parental RNAi method can be used to examine gene function by phenotyping many offspring nymphs with injection of dsRNA into a small number of parent females, and may be applicable to high-efficiency determination of gene functions in this species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yukiko Matsumoto
- Insect-Plant Interaction Research Unit, National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Makoto Hattori
- Insect-Plant Interaction Research Unit, National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Khajuria C, Vélez AM, Rangasamy M, Wang H, Fishilevich E, Frey MLF, Carneiro NP, Gandra P, Narva KE, Siegfried BD. Parental RNA interference of genes involved in embryonic development of the western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2015; 63:54-62. [PMID: 26005118 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2015.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2015] [Revised: 05/09/2015] [Accepted: 05/16/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is being developed as a potential tool for insect pest management and one of the most likely target pest species for transgenic plants that express double stranded RNA (dsRNA) is the western corn rootworm. Thus far, most genes proposed as targets for RNAi in rootworm cause lethality in the larval stage. In this study, we describe RNAi-mediated knockdown of two developmental genes, hunchback (hb) and brahma (brm), in the western corn rootworm delivered via dsRNA fed to adult females. dsRNA feeding caused a significant decrease in hb and brm transcripts in the adult females. Although total oviposition was not significantly affected, there was almost complete absence of hatching in the eggs collected from females exposed to dsRNA for either gene. These results confirm that RNAi is systemic in nature for western corn rootworms. These results also indicate that hunchback and brahma play important roles in rootworm embryonic development and could provide useful RNAi targets in adult rootworms to prevent crop injury by impacting the population of larval progeny of exposed adults. The ability to deliver dsRNA in a trans-generational manner by feeding to adult rootworms may offer an additional approach to utilizing RNAi for rootworm pest management. The potential to develop parental RNAi technology targeting progeny of adult rootworms in combination with Bt proteins or dsRNA lethal to larvae may increase opportunities to develop sustainable approaches to rootworm management involving RNAi technologies for rootworm control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chitvan Khajuria
- University of Nebraska, Department of Entomology, 103 Entomology Hall, Lincoln, NE 68583-0816, United States
| | - Ana M Vélez
- University of Nebraska, Department of Entomology, 103 Entomology Hall, Lincoln, NE 68583-0816, United States
| | - Murugesan Rangasamy
- Dow AgroSciences, 9330 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268, United States
| | - Haichuan Wang
- University of Nebraska, Department of Entomology, 103 Entomology Hall, Lincoln, NE 68583-0816, United States
| | - Elane Fishilevich
- Dow AgroSciences, 9330 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268, United States
| | - Meghan L F Frey
- Dow AgroSciences, 9330 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268, United States
| | | | - Premchand Gandra
- Dow AgroSciences, 9330 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268, United States
| | - Kenneth E Narva
- Dow AgroSciences, 9330 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268, United States
| | - Blair D Siegfried
- University of Nebraska, Department of Entomology, 103 Entomology Hall, Lincoln, NE 68583-0816, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Expression study of the hunchback ortholog in embryos of the onychophoran Euperipatoides rowelli. Dev Genes Evol 2015; 225:207-19. [DOI: 10.1007/s00427-015-0505-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|