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Molfini M, Muzzi M, Mancini E, Bologna MA, Di Giulio A. The cranial apparatus glands of the canthariphilous Pyrochroa coccinea (Coleoptera: Pyrochroidae: Pyrochroinae), and their implications in sexual behaviour. ARTHROPOD STRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT 2023; 77:101316. [PMID: 37924698 DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2023.101316] [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: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Some Pyrochroidae species are known as "canthariphilous" for their attraction to cantharidin (CTD), a toxic terpene with anti-predatory effects, produced in nature by only two beetle families (Meloidae and Oedemeridae). It has been demonstrated that males of Neopyrochroa flabellata ingesting CTD are positively selected by females. Indeed, the compound is re-emitted from a glandular cranial apparatus as secretions that are licked up by females during courtship behaviour, inducing copulation. Herein, we provide the first description of the glands associated to the cranial apparatus of male Pyrochroinae using the European species Pyrochroa coccinea as a model. Morphological analyses show that the cranial apparatus consists of a concave pit lined with short setae retaining secretions emitted through numerous glandular pores. Ultrastructural investigations reveal the presence of two different class 3 glands (Gl.A and Gl.B), intermixed at the level of the pit but exhibiting distinct features. Gl.A are mainly characterised by short conducting canals, rounded nuclei and electrondense vesicles while Gl.B are characterised by long conducting canals, irregular nuclei, vesicles containing a particulate substance and a multifolded plasma membrane. Observations of sexual behaviour are also reported for P. coccinea and compared to N. flabellata, confirming the involvement of cranial apparatus secretions in courtship behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Molfini
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Muzzi
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy; Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Microscopia Elettronica (LIME), Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy.
| | - Emiliano Mancini
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco A Bologna
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Andrea Di Giulio
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Giglio ML, Boland W, Heras H. Egg toxic compounds in the animal kingdom. A comprehensive review. Nat Prod Rep 2022; 39:1938-1969. [PMID: 35916025 DOI: 10.1039/d2np00029f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Covering: 1951 to 2022Packed with nutrients and unable to escape, eggs are the most vulnerable stage of an animal's life cycle. Consequently, many species have evolved chemical defenses and teamed up their eggs with a vast array of toxic molecules for defense against predators, parasites, or pathogens. However, studies on egg toxins are rather scarce and the available information is scattered. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of animal egg toxins and to analyze the trends and patterns with respect to the chemistry and biosynthesis of these toxins. We analyzed their ecology, distribution, sources, occurrence, structure, function, relative toxicity, and mechanistic aspects and include a brief section on the aposematic coloration of toxic eggs. We propose criteria for a multiparametric classification that accounts for the complexity of analyzing the full set of toxins of animal eggs. Around 100 properly identified egg toxins are found in 188 species, distributed in 5 phyla: cnidarians (2) platyhelminths (2), mollusks (9), arthropods (125), and chordates (50). Their scattered pattern among animals suggests that species have evolved this strategy independently on numerous occasions. Alkaloids are the most abundant and widespread, among the 13 types of egg toxins recognized. Egg toxins are derived directly from the environment or are endogenously synthesized, and most of them are transferred by females inside the eggs. Their toxicity ranges from ρmol kg-1 to mmol kg-1, and for some species, experiments support their role in predation deterrence. There is still a huge gap in information to complete the whole picture of this field and the number of toxic eggs seems largely underestimated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matías L Giglio
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata "Prof. Dr Rodolfo R. Brenner", INIBIOLP, CONICET CCT La Plata - Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 60 y 120, 1900 La Plata, Argentina.
| | - Wilhelm Boland
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
| | - Horacio Heras
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata "Prof. Dr Rodolfo R. Brenner", INIBIOLP, CONICET CCT La Plata - Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 60 y 120, 1900 La Plata, Argentina. .,Cátedra de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), La Plata, Argentina
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Szadziewski R, Gwizdalska-Kentzer M, Bologna MA, Molfini M. A new canthariphilous species of the genus Atrichopogon Kieffer, 1906 from central Italy (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae). THE EUROPEAN ZOOLOGICAL JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/24750263.2022.2066209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- R. Szadziewski
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology and Parasitology, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - M. Gwizdalska-Kentzer
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology and Parasitology, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - M. A. Bologna
- Department of Science, University of Roma Tre, Rome, Italy
| | - M. Molfini
- Department of Science, University of Roma Tre, Rome, Italy
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Molfini M, Stefanuto L, Gisondi S, Gasperi T, Di Giulio A, Mancini E, Bologna MA. New Evidence of Canthariphily: Tilloidea transversalis (Coleoptera: Cleridae) Sequestering Cantharidin From Lydus trimaculatus (Coleoptera: Meloidae). JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2022; 22:6618873. [PMID: 35762395 PMCID: PMC9237715 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/ieac035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Cantharidin (CTD) is a defensive compound autogenously and exclusively produced by two phylogenetically related beetle families: Meloidae and Oedemeridae. Although this molecule usually acts as a strong deterrent against potential predators and parasites, some arthropod species, collectively named 'canthariphilous species', are attracted to CTD. Some species can sequester CTD from the CTD-producing species, using it as a chemical defense against enemies. The present paper focuses on the first-ever description of canthariphilous interactions between a checkered beetle species (Coleoptera: Cleridae) and a CTD -producing species. Field observations revealed individuals of the phytophagous beetle Tilloidea transversalis (Charpentier, 1825) (Coleoptera: Cleridae) biting individuals of the blister beetle Lydus trimaculatus (Fabricius, 1775) (Coleoptera: Meloidae). Laboratory behavioral experiments followed to verify if this peculiar behavior of T. transversalis also occurs on other co-occurring species. Moreover, chemical analyses were performed to assess whether T. transversalis can sequester CTD. Our results show that T. transversalis only attacks CTD-producing species. However, while chemical analyses prove that T. transversalis can sequester CTD from the hemolymph of L. trimaculatus, some clues (based on a CTD-baited traps sampling) suggest that this beetle, contrarily to other canthariphilous species, does not appear to show a high attraction to pure synthetic CTD. Thus, other unknown signals, alone or in combination with CTD, could be implicated in triggering the canthariphilous behaviors of T. transversalis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luca Stefanuto
- Department of Science, University of Roma Tre, Viale Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Gisondi
- Consiglio per la Ricerca in Agricoltura e l’Analisi dell’Economia Agraria, Centro di Ricerca Difesa e Certificazione, Via di Lanciola 12/a, 50125 Firenze, Italy
| | - Tecla Gasperi
- Department of Science, University of Roma Tre, Viale Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Di Giulio
- Department of Science, University of Roma Tre, Viale Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Emiliano Mancini
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies ‘Charles Darwin’, Sapienza University, Viale dell’Università 32, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco A Bologna
- Department of Science, University of Roma Tre, Viale Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
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Male Accessory Glands of Blister Beetles and Cantharidin Release: A Comparative Ultrastructural Analysis. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13020132. [PMID: 35206706 PMCID: PMC8875262 DOI: 10.3390/insects13020132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Meloidae, also called blister beetles, are known to actively produce cantharidin, a toxic terpene with a defensive function that is released externally by reflex bleeding, and that is also stored in large quantities in the male accessory glands. These glands are involved in the transfer of terpene from males to females, which receive cantharidin via spermatophores as a nuptial gift to be used for their own protection and that of the eggs. However, it is still debated whether the male accessory glands can actively produce the terpene or if they only mediate its transfer, since neither the cantharidin-producing organ nor the metabolic pathway are known to date. The focus of the work is to analyze comparatively the accessory glands of males in representative Meloidae species to provide morphological evidences that can contribute to this debate. The results highlight the complexity of the accessory gland system, consisting of three different types of glands that are highly variable between species with the exception of one, which remains conserved even in independent phyletic lines. This gland is a good candidate for hypothesizing a direct role in cantharidin production and/or concentration. Abstract Members of the family Meloidae are known to produce cantharidin, a highly toxic monoterpene found in their hemolymph and exuded as droplets capable of deterring many predators. As a nuptial gift, males transfer large amounts of cantharidin to females via a spermatophore, which is formed by specific accessory glands containing high concentrations of this terpene. Using light, electron and ion beam microscopy, the ultrastructural features of the three pairs of male accessory glands as well as the glandular part of the vasa deferentia were comparatively investigated in seven species of blister beetles belonging to five different tribes and two subfamilies. All gland pairs examined share common features such as mesodermal derivation, the presence of muscle sheath, a developed rough endoplasmic reticulum, abundant mitochondria, secretory vesicles, and microvillated apical membranes. Within the same species, glands exhibit distinctive features, suggesting that each pair is responsible for the formation of a specific substance. The vasa deferentia, while showing many similarities within the family, often exhibit features unique to each of the individual species investigated, whereas the accessory glands of the first and second pairs display the highest degree of ultrastructural variability. A comparison across the species shows an interesting constancy limited to ultrastructural features in the third pair of accessory glands. The similarities and differences among the species are discussed in the light of the available literature and in relation to the potential role that blister beetles’ male accessory glands could play in the storage and management of cantharidin.
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Du C, Li W, Fu Z, Yi C, Liu X, Yue B. De novo transcriptome assemblies of Epicauta tibialis provide insights into the sexual dimorphism in the production of cantharidin. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 106:e21784. [PMID: 33719055 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Blister beetles have medicinal uses for their defensive secretion cantharidin, which has curative effects on many cancers and other diseases. It was demonstrated that sexual dimorphism exists in the production of cantharidin between male and female adults. This study performed a de novo assembly of Epicauta tibialis transcriptomes and analyzed the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between male and female adults to help to find genes and pathways associated with cantharidin biosynthesis. A total of 99,295,624 paired reads were generated, and more than 7 Gb transcriptome data for each sample were obtained after trimming. The clean data were used to de novo assemble and then cluster into 27,355 unigenes, with a mean length of 1442 bp and an N50 of 2725 bp. Of these, 14,314 (52.33%) unigenes were annotated by protein databases. Differential expression analysis identified 284 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between male and female adults. Nearly 239 DEGs were up-regulated in male adults than in female adults, while 45 DEGs were down-regulated. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genomes pathway enrichment manifested that seven up-regulated DEGs in male adults were assigned to the terpenoid biosynthesis pathway, to which 19 unigenes were annotated. The DEGs in the terpenoid biosynthesis pathway between male and female adults may be responsible for the sexual dimorphism in cantharidin production. The up-regulated genes assigned to the pathway in male adults may play a significant role in cantharidin biosynthesis, and its biosynthesis process is probably via the mevalonate pathway. The results would be helpful to better understand and reveal the complicated mechanism of the cantharidin biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Du
- Baotou Teachers College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Bautou, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Wujiao Li
- Key Laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
- Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, P.R. China
| | - Zhaohui Fu
- Baotou Teachers College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Bautou, P.R. China
| | - Chunyan Yi
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management of Southwest Crops, Institute of Plant Protection, Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Xu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management of Southwest Crops, Institute of Plant Protection, Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Bisong Yue
- Key Laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
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Jakovac-Strajn B, Brozić D, Tavčar-Kalcher G, Babič J, Trilar T, Vengust M. Entomological Surveillance and Cantharidin Concentrations in Mylabris variabilis and Epicauta rufidorsum Blister Beetles in Slovenia. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:220. [PMID: 33477415 PMCID: PMC7830541 DOI: 10.3390/ani11010220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
True blister beetles (genus Epicauta, family Meloidae) produce cantharidin, which can cause toxicosis in humans and animals. Some recent reports suggest that poisoning by the blister beetle has occurred in the Mediterranean part of Slovenia, which has never been reported before. Drought and modern harvesting techniques are thought to increase the likelihood of blister beetle forage contamination and cantharidin intoxication in animals. A survey of fields associated with blister beetle contamination was conducted and the Meloid species present were identified. Entomological surveillance was conducted for Mylabris variabilis and Epicauta rufidorsum. Cantharidin concentrations were also measured in both blister beetle species. Cantharidin concentration in Mylabris variabilis (n = 17) ranged from 0.038 to 0.354 µg/mg (mean 0.151 µg/mg). Cantharidin concentration in Epicauta rufidorsum (n = 36) ranged from 0.055 to 0.341 µg/mg (mean 0.142 µg/mg). Both species exhibited variable concentrations of cantharidin that could not be associated with their biology, sex, age, size, and/or reproductive status. Epicauta rufidorsum have never previously been studied as a possible source of forage contamination, nor have cantharidin concentrations been determined in this species. It is the most likely source of forage contamination due to its abundance in the investigated fields, its swarming activity, and its tendency to reside in the green parts of plants immediately after cutting. Delaying the simultaneous processing and storage of forage after cutting would reduce the likelihood of forage contamination by blister beetles, as they can then retreat to the ground or fly away.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breda Jakovac-Strajn
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (B.J.-S.); (G.T.-K.); (J.B.)
| | - Diana Brozić
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Heinzelova 55, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Gabrijela Tavčar-Kalcher
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (B.J.-S.); (G.T.-K.); (J.B.)
| | - Janja Babič
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (B.J.-S.); (G.T.-K.); (J.B.)
| | - Tomi Trilar
- Slovenian Museum of Natural History, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Modest Vengust
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (B.J.-S.); (G.T.-K.); (J.B.)
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Anti-cancer, anti-biofilm, and anti-inflammatory properties of hen’s albumen: A photodynamic approach. Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther 2019; 28:1-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2019.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Jiang M, Lü S, Zhang Y. The Potential Organ Involved in Cantharidin Biosynthesis in Epicauta chinensis Laporte (Coleoptera: Meloidae). JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2017; 17:3105946. [PMID: 28423415 PMCID: PMC5633858 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/iex021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Cantharidin, a terpenoid defensive toxin mainly produced by blister beetles, is among the most widely known insect natural products in the world. However, little is known about the site of cantharidin biosynthesis in vivo. Our previous research showed that 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutary-CoA reductase (HMGR) is an essential enzyme in cantharidin biosynthesis. In this report, we further investigated cantharidin titer and HMGR mRNA expression levels in different tissues of male and female Epicauta chinensis, and performed a comparative analysis of HMGR transcript levels in male Tenebrio molitor, a Tenebrionidae beetle that cannot produce cantharidin. HMGR transcripts had a positive correlation with cantharidin production. Furthermore, the specifically high amounts of HMGR transcript and abundant cantharidin production in fat body of male E. chinensis indicated the process of cantharidin synthesis may occur in the fat body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management, National Ministry of Education, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China (; ; )
| | - Shumin Lü
- Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management, National Ministry of Education, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China (; ; )
| | - Yalin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management, National Ministry of Education, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China (; ; )
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Hashimoto K, Sugawara H, Hayashi F. Sclerotised spines in the female bursa associated with male's spermatophore production in cantharidin-producing false blister beetles. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2016; 93-94:18-27. [PMID: 27498144 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2016.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Revised: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Cantharidin is a defence chemical synthesised in only two beetle families Meloidae and Oedemeridae. In Meloidae, cantharidin is used as a defence chemical in eggs. However, in Oedemeridae the function of cantharidin remains unclear. Based on morphological comparison of female internal reproductive organs in 39 species of Oedemeridae, we found that some species have sclerotised spines in the bursa copulatrix (bursal spines), while others have no such spines. Molecular phylogenetic trees inferred from mitochondrial 16S and nuclear 28S rRNA gene sequences suggested multiple evolutionary origins of bursal spines from an ancestor without spines. In the species which lacked spines, males transferred small amounts of ejaculates to females; however, in species with spines, males transferred large spermatophores. Deposited spermatophores gradually disappeared in the bursa, probably owing to absorption. To compare the amounts of cantharidin in eggs laid by species with and without bursal spines, we constructed a new bioassay system using the small beetle Mecynotarsus tenuipes from the family Anthicidae. M. tenuipes individuals were attracted to droplets of cantharidin/acetone solution, and the level of attraction increased with cantharidin concentration. This bioassay demonstrated that the eggs of Nacerdes caudata and N. katoi, both of which species have conspicuous bursal spines, contain more cantharidin than the eggs of N. waterhousei, which lacks spines. In the former species, males transfer large spermatophores to the female, and spermatophores are eventually broken down and digested within the female's spiny bursa. Thus, females with bursal spines may be able to provide more cantharidin to their eggs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosei Hashimoto
- Department of Biology, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Minamiosawa 1-1, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan.
| | - Hirotaka Sugawara
- Department of Biology, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Minamiosawa 1-1, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan
| | - Fumio Hayashi
- Department of Biology, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Minamiosawa 1-1, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan
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11
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Lü S, Jiang M, Huo T, Li X, Zhang Y. 3-hydroxy-3-methyl glutaryl coenzyme A reductase: an essential actor in the biosynthesis of cantharidin in the blister beetle Epicauta chinensis Laporte. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2016; 25:58-71. [PMID: 26566751 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Cantharidin (C(10)H(12)O(4)) is a monoterpene defensive toxin in insects involved in chemical defence as well as in courtship and mating behaviours. It is relatively well known in the medical literature because of its high anticancer activity and as an effective therapy for molluscum contagiosum. However, little is known about its biosynthesis pathway in vivo, and no enzyme involved in cantharidin biosynthesis has been identified. The purpose of this study was to identify the crucial enzyme that is involved in the biosynthesis of cantharidin. Using the homology cloning method, a 3-hydroxy-3-methyl glutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGR) gene, the rate-limiting enzyme in the mevalonate pathway, was cloned from the blister beetle Epicauta chinensis. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR and gas chromatography methods revealed that the HMGR transcripts had a positive correlation with cantharidin production in the beetles (R = 0.891). RNA interference (RNAi) knockdown of HMGR mRNA expression was achieved by microinjection of a specific double-stranded RNA with more than 90% RNAi efficiency, and an apparent decrease of cantharidin production was observed. Furthermore, the HMGR mRNA was greatly upregulated by exogenous juvenile hormone III (JH III), and cantharidin production was also raised in males; however, when injecting the JH III with RNAi of HMGR mRNA at the same time, cantharidin production did not rise. These results demonstrate that HMGR is an essential enzyme in cantharidin biosynthesis in the blister beetle E. chinensis, which further verifies previous research results demonstrating that cantharidin is synthesized de novo by the mevalonate pathway in blister beetles.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Lü
- Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management, National Ministry of Education, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - M Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management, National Ministry of Education, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - T Huo
- Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management, National Ministry of Education, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - X Li
- Department of Entomology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Y Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management, National Ministry of Education, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
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12
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Abtahi S, Nikbakhtzadeh M, Vatandoost H, Mehdinia A, Rahimi-Foroshani A, Shayeghi M. Quantitative characterization of cantharidin in the false blister beetle, Oedemera podagrariae ventralis, of the southern slopes of Mount Elborz, Iran. JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2012; 12:152. [PMID: 23461394 PMCID: PMC3646608 DOI: 10.1673/031.012.15201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2011] [Accepted: 08/18/2011] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Cantharidin, a potent vesicant and antifeedant agent, is produced by two families of beetles, Meloidae and Oedemeridae (Coleoptera). In this study, the cantharidin content of oedemerid beetles of central Iran was investigated using the GC-MS method. Cantharidin in both sexes of Oedemera podagrariae ventralis Meïneïtrieãs (Oedemeridae) was found in an average of 3.89 µg/beetle in males and 21.68 µg/beetle in females, which are amounts sufficient to irritate human skin. The average of cantharidin in virgin and coupled beetles was 1.35 and 1.62 (µg cantharidin/mg of beetle) respectively. Females had five to six times more cantharidin in their bodies than males, but there was no significant difference between the amount of cantharidin in virgin and coupled females. The results of this study revealed the production of cantharidin in both sexes of beetle.
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Affiliation(s)
- S.M. Abtahi
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M.R. Nikbakhtzadeh
- Department of EEOB, 300 Aronoff Laboratory, 318 W 12th Avenue, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - H. Vatandoost
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A. Mehdinia
- Department of Marine Living Resources, Iranian National Institute for Oceanography, Tehran, Iran
| | - A. Rahimi-Foroshani
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M. Shayeghi
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Nikbakhtzadeh MR, Vahedi M, Vatandoost H, Mehdinia A. Origin, transfer and distribution of cantharidin-related compounds in the blister beetle Hycleus scabiosae. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2012. [DOI: 10.1590/s1678-91992012000100011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - M Vahedi
- Tarbiat Modares University, Iran
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Mehdinia A, Asiabi M, Jabbari A, Abtahi SM. Analysis of cantharidin in false blister beetles (Coleoptera: Oedemeridae) by headspace solid-phase microextraction and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2011; 879:2897-901. [PMID: 21907641 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2011.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2010] [Revised: 08/04/2011] [Accepted: 08/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) coupled to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method was developed to determine a type of terpenoid named as cantharidin in the false blister beetles, family Oedemeridae. The experimental parameters for HS-SPME method were optimized. Six commercial fibers for HS-SPME method development were tested and the divinylbenzene/carboxene/polydimethylsiloxane fiber was selected to provide the best detection of analyzed compound. The calibration curve showed linearity in the range of 0.1-50 μg mL(-1), correlation coefficient (R(2)=0.992), limit of detection (0.01 ng mL(-1)) and quantitation (0.04 ng mL(-1)) were obtained for the proposed method. The relative standard deviations of intra-day and inter-day assays were 7.8 and 3.4%, respectively. The recovery values, obtained after spiking the beetle samples by three concentration levels of standard solution, were higher than 87%. The results indicated the successful application of the proposed method on the analysis of cantharidin from the false blister beetles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mehdinia
- Department of Marine Living Resources, Iranian National Institute for Oceanography, Tehran, Iran.
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Phylogeny and evolutionary history of the blister beetles (Coleoptera, Meloidae). Mol Phylogenet Evol 2008; 48:679-93. [PMID: 18514547 DOI: 10.1016/j.ympev.2008.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2007] [Revised: 03/11/2008] [Accepted: 04/09/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Nikbakhtzadeh MR, Dettner K, Boland W, Gäde G, Dötterl S. Intraspecific transfer of cantharidin within selected members of the family Meloidae (Insecta: Coleoptera). JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2007; 53:890-9. [PMID: 17493632 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2007.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2006] [Revised: 02/10/2007] [Accepted: 02/16/2007] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The use of deuterium-labelled cantharidin (CAN-D(2)) to study details of cantharidin transfer in blister beetles indicates that the dynamics of organ-selective cantharidin accumulation may differ over time. Although the accessory glands absorb a high amount of CAN-D(2) in the short term, they ultimately accumulate less than the testes. Confirming previous studies, the last steps in the pathway of biosynthesis of cantharidin occur in the male's body distantly from the reproductive system but the ultimate product, cantharidin, is transported into the male reproductive tract via the membrane of the accessory glands. From there it first transfers preferentially to the epididimis and the vas deferens, followed by final deposition in the testes. Most, if not all, of the cantharidin passes internally within the sexual organs; hemolymph transport is not involved. In female meloids, cantharidin enters the genitalia from the male as a nuptial gift. High amounts are first absorbed by the spermatophoral receptacle followed by spreading through the ovaries and an ultimate accumulation in the eggs. The amount taken up by the ovaries remains considerably lower than that of the receptacle. Over time these two organs stop accumulating cantharidin, while the bursa copulatrix starts to incorporate the gift actively. The accumulated amount taken up by bursa is mainly supplied by the receptacle and ovaries suggesting that an internal transfer of cantharidin is used in females as the main transport route.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmood Reza Nikbakhtzadeh
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Entomology, College of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modarres University, P.O. Box 14115-331, Tehran, Iran.
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Nikbakhtzadeh MR, Hemp C, Ebrahimi B. Further evidence for the role of Cantharidin in the mating behaviour of blister beetles (Coleoptera: Meloidae). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.1080/17386357.2007.9647327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Occurrence of terpene anhydride Palasonin and Palasoninimide in blister beetle Hycleus lunata (Coleoptera: Meloidae). BIOCHEM SYST ECOL 2003. [DOI: 10.1016/s0305-1978(02)00069-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Dettner K. Inter- and Intraspecific Transfer of Toxic Insect Compound Cantharidin. ECOLOGICAL STUDIES 1997. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-60725-7_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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