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Hu W, Peng Z, Lv J, Zhang Q, Wang X, Xia Q. Developmental and nuclear proteomic signatures characterize the temporal regulation of fibroin synthesis during the last molting-feeding transition of silkworm. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 274:133028. [PMID: 38857725 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Silkworm fibroins are natural proteinaceous macromolecules and provide core mechanical properties to silk fibers. The synthesis process of fibroins is posterior silk gland (PSG)-exclusive and appears active at the feeding stage and inactive at the molting stage. However, the molecular mechanisms controlling it remain elusive. Here, the silk gland's physiological and nuclear proteomic features were used to characterize changes in its structure and development from molting to feeding stages. The temporal expression profile and immunofluorescence analyses revealed a synchronous transcriptional on-off mode of fibroin genes. Next, the comparative nuclear proteome of the PSG during the last molting-feeding transition identified 798 differentially abundant proteins (DAPs), including 42 transcription factors and 15 epigenetic factors. Protein-protein interaction network analysis showed a "CTCF-FOX-HOX-SOX" association with activated expressions at the molting stage, suggesting a relatively complex and multifactorial regulation of the PSG at the molting stage. In addition, FAIRE-seq verification indicated "closed" and "open" conformations of fibroin gene promoters at the molting and feeding stages, respectively. Such proteome combined with chromatin accessibility analysis revealed the detailed signature of protein factors involved in the temporal regulation of fibroin synthesis and provided insights into silk gland development as well as silk production in silkworms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbo Hu
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
| | - Zhangchuan Peng
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Chongqing Institute of Advanced Pathology, Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing 401329, China
| | - Jinfeng Lv
- Institute for Silk and Related Biomaterials Research, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Quan Zhang
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Xiaogang Wang
- School of Basic Medical Science, Chongqing College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400065, China
| | - Qingyou Xia
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
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2
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Xu X, Pu S, Jiang M, Hu X, Wang Q, Yu J, Chu J, Wei G, Wang L. Knockout of nuclear receptor HR38 gene impairs pupal-adult development in silkworm Bombyx mori. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 33:29-40. [PMID: 37738573 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear receptors are ligand-regulated transcription factors that play important role in regulating insect metamorphosis through the ecdysone signalling pathway. In this study, we investigated the nuclear receptor HR38 gene in Bombyx mori (BmHR38), belonging to the NR4A subfamily. BmHR38 mRNA was highly expressed in the head and epidermis at the pupal stage. The expression of the BmHR38 gene was influenced by different doses of 20E at different times. A BmHR38 deletion mutant silkworm was generated using the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/Cas9 system. Compared with the wild-type B. mori, the BmHR38 deletion mutant resulted in abnormal development during the pupal stage, leading to either failed eclosion or the formation of abnormal adult wings. After silencing of BmHR38 in the pupal stage, the phenotype of pupa or moth had no significant change, but it did result in reduced egg production. The mRNA levels of USP, E75 and E74 were significantly increased, while the transcript levels of FTZ-F1 were suppressed after RNA interference. Furthermore, interference with BmHR38 also inhibited the expressions of chitin metabolism genes, including Chs1, Chs2, Chi, Chi-h and CDA. Our results suggest that BmHR38 is essential for pupal development and pupa-adult metamorphosis in B. mori by regulating the expression of NRs and chitin metabolism genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Xu
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Resource Insect Biology and Innovative Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Shangkun Pu
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Resource Insect Biology and Innovative Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Mouzhen Jiang
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Resource Insect Biology and Innovative Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Hu
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Resource Insect Biology and Innovative Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Qing Wang
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Resource Insect Biology and Innovative Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Resource Insect Biology and Innovative Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Jianghong Chu
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Resource Insect Biology and Innovative Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Guoqing Wei
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Resource Insect Biology and Innovative Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Resource Insect Biology and Innovative Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
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3
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Zhang Q, Hua X, Sun Y, Lin Z, Cao Y, Zhao P, Xia Q. Dynamic chromatin conformation and accessibility changes mediate the spatial-specific gene regulatory network in Bombyx mori. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 240:124415. [PMID: 37060980 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
Silk gland genes of Bombyx mori can have strict spatial expression patterns, which impact their functions and silk quality; however, our understanding of their regulation mechanisms is currently insufficient. To address this, the middle silk gland (MSG) and posterior silk gland (PSG) of the silkworm were investigated. Gene ontology annotation showed that spatially specific expressed genes were involved in the formation of H3k9me and chromatin topology. Chromatin conformation data generated by Hi-C showed that the topologically associated domain boundaries around FibL and Sericin1 genes were significantly different between MSG and PSG. Changes in chromatin conformation led to changes in chromatin activity, which significantly affected the expression of nearby genes in silkworm. Chromatin accessibility regions of MSG and PSG were analyzed using FAIRE-seq, and 1006 transcription factor motifs were identified in open chromatin regions. Furthermore, the spatial-specific expression patterns of silk gland genes were mainly associated with homeobox-contained transcription factors, such as POU-M2, which was specifically bound and relatively highly expressed in the MSG. The regulatory network mediated by POU-M2 regulated most of the spatial-specific expressed genes in MSG, such as ADH1. These results can aid in improving silk performance, optimizing silkworm breeding, and improving the gene spatial regulatory model research for insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Zhang
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory for Germplasm Creation in Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 400715 Chongqing, China; Engineering Laboratory of Sericultural and Functional Genome and Biotechnology, Development and Reform Commission, 400715 Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoting Hua
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory for Germplasm Creation in Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 400715 Chongqing, China; Engineering Laboratory of Sericultural and Functional Genome and Biotechnology, Development and Reform Commission, 400715 Chongqing, China
| | - Yueting Sun
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory for Germplasm Creation in Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 400715 Chongqing, China
| | - Zhongying Lin
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China
| | - Yang Cao
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory for Germplasm Creation in Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 400715 Chongqing, China; Engineering Laboratory of Sericultural and Functional Genome and Biotechnology, Development and Reform Commission, 400715 Chongqing, China.
| | - Ping Zhao
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory for Germplasm Creation in Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 400715 Chongqing, China; Engineering Laboratory of Sericultural and Functional Genome and Biotechnology, Development and Reform Commission, 400715 Chongqing, China.
| | - Qingyou Xia
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory for Germplasm Creation in Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 400715 Chongqing, China; Engineering Laboratory of Sericultural and Functional Genome and Biotechnology, Development and Reform Commission, 400715 Chongqing, China.
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4
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Guo K, Dong Z, Zhang X, Chen Y, Li Y, Jiang W, Qin L, Zhang Y, Guo Z, Xia Q, Zhao P. Analysis of histomorphometric and proteome dynamics inside the silk gland lumen of Bombyx mori revealed the dynamic change of silk protein during the molt stage. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 236:123926. [PMID: 36889618 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Silkworms spin different silks at different growth stages for specific purposes. The silk spun before the end of each instar is stronger than that at the beginning of each instar and cocoon silk. However, the compositional changes in silk proteins during this process are unknown. Consequently, we performed histomorphological and proteomic analyses of the silk gland to characterize changes from the instar end to the next instar beginning. The silk glands were collected on day 3 of third- and fourth-instar larvae (III-3 and IV-3) and the beginning of fourth-instar larvae (IV-0). Proteomic analysis identified 2961 proteins from all silk glands. Silk proteins P25 and Ser5 were significantly more abundant in III-3 and IV-3 than in IV-0, and many cuticular proteins and protease inhibitors increased significantly in IV-0 compared with III-3 and IV-3. This shift may cause mechanical property differences between the instar end and beginning silk. Using section staining, qPCR, and western blotting, we found for the first time that silk proteins were degraded first and then resynthesized during the molting stage. Furthermore, we revealed that fibroinase mediated the changes of silk proteins during molting. Our results provide insights into the molecular mechanisms of silk proteins dynamic regulation during molting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiyu Guo
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory for Germplasm Creation in Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 400715 Chongqing, China; Engineering Laboratory of Sericultural and Functional Genome and Biotechnology, Development and Reform Commission, 400715 Chongqing, China
| | - Zhaoming Dong
- Key Laboratory for Germplasm Creation in Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 400715 Chongqing, China; Engineering Laboratory of Sericultural and Functional Genome and Biotechnology, Development and Reform Commission, 400715 Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaolu Zhang
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory for Germplasm Creation in Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 400715 Chongqing, China; Engineering Laboratory of Sericultural and Functional Genome and Biotechnology, Development and Reform Commission, 400715 Chongqing, China
| | - Yuqing Chen
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Li
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory for Germplasm Creation in Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 400715 Chongqing, China; Engineering Laboratory of Sericultural and Functional Genome and Biotechnology, Development and Reform Commission, 400715 Chongqing, China
| | - Wenchao Jiang
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory for Germplasm Creation in Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 400715 Chongqing, China; Engineering Laboratory of Sericultural and Functional Genome and Biotechnology, Development and Reform Commission, 400715 Chongqing, China
| | - Lixia Qin
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory for Germplasm Creation in Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 400715 Chongqing, China; Engineering Laboratory of Sericultural and Functional Genome and Biotechnology, Development and Reform Commission, 400715 Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory for Germplasm Creation in Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 400715 Chongqing, China; Engineering Laboratory of Sericultural and Functional Genome and Biotechnology, Development and Reform Commission, 400715 Chongqing, China
| | - Zhouguanrui Guo
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China
| | - Qingyou Xia
- Key Laboratory for Germplasm Creation in Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 400715 Chongqing, China; Engineering Laboratory of Sericultural and Functional Genome and Biotechnology, Development and Reform Commission, 400715 Chongqing, China
| | - Ping Zhao
- Biological Science Research Center, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory for Germplasm Creation in Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 400715 Chongqing, China; Engineering Laboratory of Sericultural and Functional Genome and Biotechnology, Development and Reform Commission, 400715 Chongqing, China.
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5
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Lu W, Zhang T, Zhang Q, Zhang N, Jia L, Ma S, Xia Q. FibH Gene Complete Sequences (FibHome) Revealed Silkworm Pedigree. INSECTS 2023; 14:244. [PMID: 36975929 PMCID: PMC10055898 DOI: 10.3390/insects14030244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The highly repetitive and variable fibroin heavy chain (FibH) gene can be used as a silkworm identification; however, only a few complete FibH sequences are known. In this study, we extracted and examined 264 FibH gene complete sequences (FibHome) from a high-resolution silkworm pan-genome. The average FibH lengths of the wild silkworm, local, and improved strains were 19,698 bp, 16,427 bp, and 15,795 bp, respectively. All FibH sequences had a conserved 5' and 3' terminal non-repetitive (5' and 3' TNR, 99.74% and 99.99% identity, respectively) sequence and a variable repetitive core (RC). The RCs differed greatly, but they all shared the same motif. During domestication or breeding, the FibH gene mutated with hexanucleotide (GGTGCT) as the core unit. Numerous variations existed that were not unique to wild and domesticated silkworms. However, the transcriptional factor binding sites, such as fibroin modulator-binding protein, were highly conserved and had 100% identity in the FibH gene's intron and upstream sequences. The local and improved strains with the same FibH gene were divided into four families using this gene as a marker. Family I contained a maximum of 62 strains with the optional FibH (Opti-FibH, 15,960 bp) gene. This study provides new insights into FibH variations and silkworm breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Integrative Science Center of Gerplasm Greation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City & Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Tong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Integrative Science Center of Gerplasm Greation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City & Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Quan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Integrative Science Center of Gerplasm Greation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City & Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Na Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Integrative Science Center of Gerplasm Greation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City & Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Ling Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Integrative Science Center of Gerplasm Greation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City & Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Sanyuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Integrative Science Center of Gerplasm Greation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City & Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Qingyou Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Integrative Science Center of Gerplasm Greation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City & Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
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6
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Cao J, Zheng HS, Zhang R, Xu YP, Pan H, Li S, Liu C, Cheng TC. Dimmed gene knockout shortens larval growth and reduces silk yield in the silkworm, Bombyx mori. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 32:26-35. [PMID: 36082617 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12810] [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: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The bHLH domain transcription factor, Bombyx mori-derived dimmed (Bmdimm), is directly regulated by the JH-BmMet/BmSRC-BmKr-h1 pathway and plays a key role in regulating the expression of FibH, which codes the main component of silk protein. However, the other roles of Bmdimm in silk protein synthesis remain unclear. Here, we established a Bmdimm knockout (KO) line containing a 7-bp deletion via CRISPR/Cas9 system, which led to the absence of the bHLH domain. The expression level of silk protein genes and silk yield decreased significantly in the Bmdimm KO line. Moreover, knocking out Bmdimm led to shortened larval stages and significant weight loss in larvae and adults. Bmdimm was found to be highly expressed in the silk gland, but it was also expressed in the fat body. The expression level of Bmkr-h1 in the fat body was significantly downregulated in the Bmdimm KO line. Exogenous JHA treatment upregulated Bmkr-h1 and rescued the phenotype of larval growth in the Bmdimm KO line. In conclusion, knocking out Bmdimm led to a shortened larval stage via the inhibition of Bmkr-h1 expression, then reduced silk yield. These findings help to elucidate the regulatory mechanism of fibroin synthesis and larval development in silkworms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hong-Sheng Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ran Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yong-Ping Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Huan Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ting-Cai Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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7
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Ma Y, Zeng W, Ba Y, Luo Q, Ou Y, Liu R, Ma J, Tang Y, Hu J, Wang H, Tang X, Mu Y, Li Q, Chen Y, Ran Y, Xiang Z, Xu H. A single-cell transcriptomic atlas characterizes the silk-producing organ in the silkworm. Nat Commun 2022; 13:3316. [PMID: 35680954 PMCID: PMC9184679 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-31003-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The silk gland of the domesticated silkworm Bombyx mori, is a remarkable organ that produces vast amounts of silk with exceptional properties. Little is known about which silk gland cells execute silk protein synthesis and its precise spatiotemporal control. Here, we use single-cell RNA sequencing to build a comprehensive cell atlas of the silkworm silk gland, consisting of 14,972 high-quality cells representing 10 distinct cell types, in three early developmental stages. We annotate all 10 cell types and determine their distributions in each region of the silk gland. Additionally, we decode the developmental trajectory and gene expression status of silk gland cells. Finally, we discover marker genes involved in the regulation of silk gland development and silk protein synthesis. Altogether, this work reveals the heterogeneity of silkworm silk gland cells and their gene expression dynamics, affording a deeper understanding of silk-producing organs at the single-cell level. The molecular underpinning of silk-producing organs is not well characterized. Here the authors use single-cell RNA sequencing to build an atlas of the silkworm silk gland and reveal the heterogeneity of silk gland cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Wenhui Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yongbing Ba
- Shanghai OE Biotech. Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 201212, China
| | - Qin Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yao Ou
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Rongpeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Jingwen Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yiyun Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Jie Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Haomiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Xuan Tang
- Shanghai OE Biotech. Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 201212, China
| | - Yuanyuan Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Qingjun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yuqin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yiting Ran
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Zhonghuai Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Hanfu Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
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8
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Genome-wide survey and characterization of transcription factors in the silk gland of the silkworm, Bombyx mori. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259870. [PMID: 34762712 PMCID: PMC8584736 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) are key proteins that modulate gene transcription and thereby lead to changes in the gene expression profile and the subsequent alteration of cellular functions. In the silk gland (SG) of silkworm Bombyx mori, an important silk-producing insect, TFs are of vital importance in the regulation of silk protein synthesis in this organ. However, which TFs exist and express in the SG remains largely unknown. Here, we report the large-scale identification of TFs in the SG based on available full-length transcript sequences and the most recent version of silkworm genome data. In total, 348 candidate TFs were identified by strict filtration and were classified into 56 TF families. Chromosomal distribution, motif composition, and phylogenetic relationship analyses revealed the typical characteristics of these TFs. In addition, the expression patterns of 348 TFs in various tissues of B. mori, especially the SG of fourth-molt (4LM) and day-3 and day-4 fifth-instar (5L3D and 5L4D) larvae, were investigated based on public RNA-seq data and gene microarray data, followed by spatiotemporal verification of TF expression levels by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). This report describes the first comprehensive analysis of TFs in the B. mori SG. The results can serve as a baseline for further studies of the roles of TFs in the B. mori SG.
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New insights into the proteins interacting with the promoters of silkworm fibroin genes. Sci Rep 2021; 11:15880. [PMID: 34354143 PMCID: PMC8342599 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95400-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The silkworm, Bombyx mori, is a silk-producing insect that has contributed greatly to human society. The silk gland of B. mori is a specialized organ responsible for synthesizing silk fibroin and sericin proteins under control of numerous factors. However, which factors are involved in direct silk protein synthesis regulation remains largely unknown. We report the identification of promoter-interacting proteins (PIPs) necessary for the regulation of genes encoding fibroin proteins, including the fibroin heavy chain (fibH), fibroin light chain (fibL), and a 25-kD polypeptide protein (P25). In the fourth larval molting stage (M4) or day 5 fifth-instar larvae (L5D5), a total of 198, 292, and 247 or 330, 305, and 460 proteins interacting with the promoter region of fibH, fibL and P25, respectively, were identified from the posterior silk gland by DNA pull-down combined with mass spectrometry. Many PIPs were particularly involved in ribosome- and metabolism-related pathways. Additionally, 135 and 212 proteins were identified as common PIPs of fibH, fibL and P25 in M4 and L5D5, respectively. Among all PIPs, we identified 31 potential transcription factors, such as Y-box and poly A-binding proteins, which play roles in nucleotide binding, ATP binding, or protein folding. This study provides the first in-depth profile of proteins interacting with fibroin gene promoters and contributes to a better understanding of silk protein synthesis regulation.
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Enhanced Myc Expression in Silkworm Silk Gland Promotes DNA Replication and Silk Production. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12040361. [PMID: 33919579 PMCID: PMC8073660 DOI: 10.3390/insects12040361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Based on a transgenic approach, enhancing Myc expression in the silkworm posterior silk gland (PSG), which was driven by the promoter of the fibroin heavy chain (FibH) gene, was performed for investigating the biological functions of Myc in silk gland. Enhanced Myc expression elevated the cocoon size. This elevation might be resulted from the increasing of FibH expression and DNA content in the PSG cells by promoting the transcription of the genes that are involved in DNA replication. Abstract Silkworm is an economically important insect that synthetizes silk proteins for silk production in silk gland, and silk gland cells undergo endoreplication during larval period. Transcription factor Myc is essential for cell growth and proliferation. Although silkworm Myc gene has been identified previously, its biological functions in silkworm silk gland are still largely unknown. In this study, we examined whether enhanced Myc expression in silk gland could facilitate cell growth and silk production. Based on a transgenic approach, Myc was driven by the promoter of the fibroin heavy chain (FibH) gene to be successfully overexpressed in posterior silk gland. Enhanced Myc expression in the PSG elevated FibH expression by about 20% compared to the control, and also increased the weight and shell rate of the cocoon shell. Further investigation confirmed that Myc overexpression increased nucleus size and DNA content of the PSG cells by promoting the transcription of the genes involved in DNA replication. Therefore, we conclude that enhanced Myc expression promotes DNA replication and silk protein expression in endoreplicating silk gland cells, which subsequently raises silk yield.
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Zhang W, Ma L, Liu X, Peng Y, Liang G, Xiao H. Dissecting the roles of FTZ-F1 in larval molting and pupation, and the sublethal effects of methoxyfenozide on Helicoverpa armigera. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2021; 77:1328-1338. [PMID: 33078511 DOI: 10.1002/ps.6146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In holometabolous insects, the major developmental transitions - larval molting and pupation - are triggered by a pulse of 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) and coordinated by juvenile hormone. Methoxyfenozide (MF), an ecdysteroid agonist, represents a new class of insect growth regulators and is effective against lepidopteran pests. Fushi-tarazu factor 1 (FTZ-F1) is an ecdysone-inducible transcription factor. To date, the effect of MF on 20E-response genes remains unclear, and we speculate the involvement of FTZ-F1 in MF's growth regulating effect. RESULTS MF at LC25 and LC10 caused severe ecdysis failure in Helicoverpa armigera, extended their larval duration, lowered their pupal weight, and reduced the respiratory, pupation and emergence rates. Furthermore, sublethal doses of MF inhibited ecdysteroidogenesis and lowered the intrinsic 20E titer, but showed an inductive effect on 20E-response genes including HaFTZ-F1. HaFTZ-F1, predominantly expressed in larval epidermis, was markedly upregulated before or right after larval ecdysis, and maintained a high level in prepupal stage. Knockdown of HaFTZ-F1 in 4th-instar larvae severely impaired larval ecdysis, whereas its knockdown in final-instar larvae caused abnormal pupation. Moreover, knocking down HaFTZ-F1 downregulated three critical ecdysteroidogenesis genes, lowered 20E titer, and suppressed the expression of 20E receptors and 20E-response genes. The introduction of 20E into HaFTZ-F1-RNAi larvae partly relieved the negative effects on the 20E-induced signaling cascade. CONCLUSION Our findings reveal the adverse effects of sublethal doses of MF on the development of H. armigera and elucidate the resulting perturbations on the 20E-induced signaling cascade; we propose that HaFTZ-F1 regulates ecdysis and pupation by mediating 20E titer and its signaling pathway. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanna Zhang
- Institute of Entomology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Long Ma
- College of Life Sciences, Jiangxi Science & Technology Normal University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiangya Liu
- Institute of Entomology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yingchuan Peng
- Institute of Entomology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Gemei Liang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Haijun Xiao
- Institute of Entomology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
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12
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Lu Z, Li M, Fang Y, Qu J, Ye W, Dai M, Bian D, Mao T, Li F, Sun H, Li B. The mechanism of damage to the posterior silk gland by trace amounts of acetamiprid in the silkworm, Bombyx mori. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 170:104676. [PMID: 32980056 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2020.104676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Acetamiprid is a new neonicotinoid insecticide widely used in the prevention and control of pests in agriculture. However, its residues in the environment affect the cocooning of the silkworm, Bombyx mori (B. mori), a non-target insect. To investigate the mechanism of damage, B. mori larvae were fed with trace amounts of acetamiprid (0.15 mg/L). At 96 h after exposure, the larvae showed signs of poisoning and decreased body weight, resulting in reduced survival and ratio of cocoon shell. At 48 h and 96 h after exposure, the residues in the posterior silk gland (PSG), which is responsible for synthesizing silk fibroin, were 0.72 μg/mg and 1.21 μg/mg, respectively, as measured by high performance liquid chromatography, indicating that acetamiprid can accumulate in the PSG. Moreover, pathological sections and transmission electron microscopy also demonstrate the damage of the PSG by acetamiprid. Digital gene expression (DGE) and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that genes related to metabolism, stress responses and inflammation were significantly up-regulated after exposure. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis showed that the transcript levels of FMBP-1 and FTZ-F1 (transcription factors for synthesizing silk protein) were up-regulated by 2.55-and 1.56-fold, respectively, and the transcript levels of fibroin heavy chain (Fib-H), fibroin light chain (Fib-L), P25, Bmsage and Bmdimm were down-regulated by 0.75-, 0.76-, 0.65-, 0.44- and 0.40-fold, respectively. The results indicate that accumulated acetamiprid causes damage to the PSG and leads to reduced expression of genes responsible for synthesizing silk fibroin. Our data provide reference for evaluating the safety of acetamiprid residues in the environment for non-target insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengting Lu
- School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Mengxue Li
- School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Yilong Fang
- School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Jianwei Qu
- School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Wentao Ye
- School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Minli Dai
- School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Dandan Bian
- School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Tingting Mao
- School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Fanchi Li
- School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China; Sericulture Institute of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Haina Sun
- School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China; Sericulture Institute of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Bing Li
- School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China; Sericulture Institute of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China.
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13
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Cong J, Tao C, Zhang X, Zhang H, Cheng T, Liu C. Transgenic Ectopic Overexpression of Broad Complex ( BrC-Z2) in the Silk Gland Inhibits the Expression of Silk Fibroin Genes of Bombyx mori. INSECTS 2020; 11:insects11060374. [PMID: 32560131 PMCID: PMC7349191 DOI: 10.3390/insects11060374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Bombyx mori silk protein genes are strictly turned on and off in different developmental stages under the hormone periodically change. The broad complex (BrC) is a transcription factor mediating 20-hydroxyecdysone action, which plays important roles during metamorphosis. Here, we observed that two isoforms of BmBrC (BmBrC-Z2 and BmBrC-Z4) exhibited contrasting expression patterns with fibroin genes (FibH, FibL and P25) in the posterior silk gland (PSG), suggesting that BmBrC may negatively regulate fibroin genes. Transgenic lines were constructed to ectopically overexpress BmBrC-Z2 in the PSG. The silk protein genes in the transgenic line were decreased to almost half of that in the wild type. The silk yield was decreased significantly. In addition, the expression levels of regulatory factors (BmKr-h1 and BmDimm) response to juvenile hormone (JH) signal were inhibited significantly. Then exogenous JH in the BmBrC-Z2 overexpressed lines can inhibit the expression of BmBrC-Z2 and activate the expression of silk protein genes and restore the silk yield to the level of the wild type. These results indicated that BmBrC may inhibit fibroin genes by repressing the JH signal pathway, which would assist in deciphering the comprehensive regulation mechanism of silk protein genes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Chun Liu
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-23-68251753; Fax: 86-23-68251128
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Chen Y, Bai B, Yan H, Wen F, Qin D, Jander G, Xia Q, Wang G. Systemic disruption of the homeostasis of transfer RNA isopentenyltransferase causes growth and development abnormalities in Bombyx mori. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 28:380-391. [PMID: 30548717 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Isopentenylation at A37 (i6 A37) of some transfer RNAs (tRNAs) plays a vital role in regulating the efficiency and fidelity of protein synthesis. However, whether insects, which are well known for their highly efficient protein synthesis machinery, employ this regulatory mechanism remains uninvestigated. In the current study, a candidate tRNA isopentenyltransferase (IPT) gene with three alternative splicing isoforms (BmIPT1-BmIPT3) was identified in Bombyx mori (silkworm). Only BmIPT1 could complement a yeast mutant lacking tRNA IPT. Phylogenetic analysis showed that silkworm tRNA IPT is conserved in the Lepidoptera. BmIPT was expressed in all B. mori tissues and organs that were investigated, but was expressed at a significantly higher level in silk glands of the fourth instar compared to the first day of the fifth instar. Interestingly, BmIPT was expressed at a significantly higher level in the domesticated silkworm, B. mori, than in wild Bombyx mandarina in multiple tissues and organs. Knock-down of BmIPT by RNA interference caused severe abnormalities in silk spinning and metamorphosis. Constitutive overexpression of BmIPT1 using a cytoplasmic actin 4 promoter in B. mori raised its messenger RNA level more than sixfold compared with nontransgenic insects and led to significant decreases in the body weight and cocoon shell ratio. Together, these results confirm the first functional tRNA IPT in insects and show that a suitable expression level of tRNA IPT is vital for silk spinning, normal growth, and metamorphosis. Thus, i6 A modification at position A37 in tRNA probably plays an important role in B. mori protein synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - B Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - H Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - F Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - D Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - G Jander
- Boyce Thompson Institute, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Q Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericultural Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - G Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericultural Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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15
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Zhang X, Chang H, Dong Z, Zhang Y, Zhao D, Ye L, Xia Q, Zhao P. Comparative Proteome Analysis Reveals that Cuticular Proteins Analogous to Peritrophin-Motif Proteins are Involved in the Regeneration of Chitin Layer in the Silk Gland of Bombyx mori at the Molting Stage. Proteomics 2018; 18:e1700389. [PMID: 29687606 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201700389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2017] [Revised: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The silk gland of silkworm produces silk proteins during larval development. Many studies have long focused on the silk gland of the fifth instar larvae, but few have investigated this gland at other larval stages. In the present study, the silk gland proteomes of the fourth instar and fourth molt are analyzed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. In total, 2654 proteins are identified from the silk gland. A high abundance of ribosomal proteins and RR-motif chitin-binding proteins is identified during day 2 of the fourth instar (IV-2) larval developmental stage, and the expression of cuticular proteins analogous to peritrophin (CPAP)-motif chitin-binding proteins is higher during the fourth molt (IV-M). In all, nine enzymes are found to be involved in the chitin regeneration pathway in the silk gland. Among them, two chitinase and two chitin deacetylases are identified as CPAP-motif proteins. Furthermore, the expression of CPAP3-G, the most abundant CPAP-motif cuticular protein in the silk gland during the IV-M stage, is investigated using western blot and immunofluorescence analyses; CPAP3-G shows a reverse changing trend with chitin in the silk gland. The findings of this study suggest that CPAP-motif chitin-binding proteins are involved in the degradation of the chitin layer in the silk gland. The data have been deposited to the ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD008677.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China
| | - Huaipu Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China
| | - Zhaoming Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China.,College of Biotechnology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
| | - Dongchao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China
| | - Lin Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China
| | - Qingyou Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China
| | - Ping Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China
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Genome-wide open chromatin regions and their effects on the regulation of silk protein genes in Bombyx mori. Sci Rep 2017; 7:12919. [PMID: 29018289 PMCID: PMC5635003 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-13186-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleosome-depleted open chromatin regions (OCRs) often harbor transcription factor (TF) binding sites that are associated with active DNA regulatory elements. To investigate the regulation of silk-protein genes, DNA molecules isolated from the silk glands of third-day fifth-instar silkworm larvae and embryo-derived (BmE) cells were subjected to formal dehyde-assisted isolation of regulatory elements (FAIRE) and high-throughput sequencing. In total, 68,000 OCRs were identified, and a number of TF-binding motifs were predicted. In particular, OCRs located near silk-protein genes contained potential binding sites for functional TFs. Moreover, many TFs were found to bind to clusters of OCRs upstream of silk-protein genes, and to regulate the expression of these genes. The expression of silk protein genes may be related not only to regulating TFs (such as fkh, Bmdimm, and Bmsage), but also to developmental and hormone-induced TFs (such as zen, eve, Br, and eip74ef). Elucidation of genome-wide OCRs and their regulatory motifs in silk protein genes will provide valuable data and clues for characterizing the mechanisms of transcriptional control of silk protein genes.
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