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Bottino-Rojas V, James AA. Use of Insect Promoters in Genetic Engineering to Control Mosquito-Borne Diseases. Biomolecules 2022; 13:biom13010016. [PMID: 36671401 PMCID: PMC9855440 DOI: 10.3390/biom13010016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mosquito transgenesis and gene-drive technologies provide the basis for developing promising new tools for vector-borne disease prevention by either suppressing wild mosquito populations or reducing their capacity from transmitting pathogens. Many studies of the regulatory DNA and promoters of genes with robust sex-, tissue- and stage-specific expression profiles have supported the development of new tools and strategies that could bring mosquito-borne diseases under control. Although the list of regulatory elements available is significant, only a limited set of those can reliably drive spatial-temporal expression. Here, we review the advances in our ability to express beneficial and other genes in mosquitoes, and highlight the information needed for the development of new mosquito-control and anti-disease strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Bottino-Rojas
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Anthony A. James
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Correspondence:
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2
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Genetics tools for corpora allata specific gene expression in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20426. [PMID: 36443489 PMCID: PMC9705396 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25009-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Juvenile hormone (JH) is synthesized by the corpora allata (CA) and controls development and reproduction in insects. Therefore, achieving tissue-specific expression of transgenes in the CA would be beneficial for mosquito research and control. Different CA promoters have been used to drive transgene expression in Drosophila, but mosquito CA-specific promoters have not been identified. Using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, we integrated transgenes encoding the reporter green fluorescent protein (GFP) close to the transcription start site of juvenile hormone acid methyl transferase (JHAMT), a locus encoding a JH biosynthetic enzyme, specifically and highly expressed in the CA of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Transgenic individuals showed specific GFP expression in the CA but failed to reproduce the full pattern of jhamt spatiotemporal expression. In addition, we created GeneSwitch driver and responder mosquito lines expressing an inducible fluorescent marker, enabling the temporal regulation of the transgene via the presence or absence of an inducer drug. The use of the GeneSwitch system has not previously been reported in mosquitoes and provides a new inducible binary system that can control transgene expression in Aedes aegypti.
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Elgendy AM, Mohamed AA, Duvic B, Tufail M, Takeda M. Involvement of Cis-Acting Elements in Molecular Regulation of JH-Mediated Vitellogenin Gene 2 of Female Periplaneta americana. Front Physiol 2021; 12:723072. [PMID: 34526913 PMCID: PMC8435907 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.723072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitellogenins (Vgs) are yolk protein precursors that are regulated by juvenile hormone (JH) and/or 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) in insects. JH acts as the principal gonadotropin that stimulates vitellogenesis in hemimetabolous insects. In this study, we cloned and characterized the Periplaneta americana Vitellogenin 2 (Vg2) promoter. Multiple sites for putative transcription factor binding were predicted for the 1,804 bp Vg2 promoter region, such as the Broad-Complex, ecdysone response element (EcRE), GATA, Hairy, JH response element (JHRE), and Methoprene (Met)-binding motif, among others. Luciferase reporter assay has identified that construct -177 bp is enough to support JH III induction but not 20E suppression. This 38 bp region (from -177 to -139 bp) contains two conserved response element half-sites separated by 2 nucleotides spacer (DR2) and is designated as Vg2RE (-168GAGTCACGGAGTCGCCGCTG-149). Mutation assay and luciferase assay data using mutated constructs verified the crucial role of G residues in Vg2RE for binding the isolated fat body nuclear protein. In Sf9 cells, a luciferase reporter placed under the control of a minimal promoter containing Vg2RE was induced by JH III in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Nuclear proteins isolated from previtellogenic female fat body cells bound to Vg2RE, and this binding was outcompeted by a 50-fold excess of cold Drosophila melanogaster DR4 and Galleria mellonella JH binding protein response elements (Chorion factor-I/Ultraspiracle). Affinity pull-down experiment with nuclear extracts of previtellogenic female fat body, using 31-bp probe Vg2RE as bait, yielded a 71 kDa candidate nuclear protein that may mediate the regulatory action of the JH III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azza M Elgendy
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.,Department of Agrobioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Amr A Mohamed
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | | | - Muhammad Tufail
- Department of Agrobioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Hyogo, Japan.,Ghazi University, Dera Ghazi Khan, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Makio Takeda
- Department of Agrobioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Hyogo, Japan
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Hoermann A, Tapanelli S, Capriotti P, Del Corsano G, Masters EK, Habtewold T, Christophides GK, Windbichler N. Converting endogenous genes of the malaria mosquito into simple non-autonomous gene drives for population replacement. eLife 2021; 10:58791. [PMID: 33845943 PMCID: PMC8043746 DOI: 10.7554/elife.58791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene drives for mosquito population replacement are promising tools for malaria control. However, there is currently no clear pathway for safely testing such tools in endemic countries. The lack of well-characterized promoters for infection-relevant tissues and regulatory hurdles are further obstacles for their design and use. Here we explore how minimal genetic modifications of endogenous mosquito genes can convert them directly into non-autonomous gene drives without disrupting their expression. We co-opted the native regulatory sequences of three midgut-specific loci of the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae to host a prototypical antimalarial molecule and guide-RNAs encoded within artificial introns that support efficient gene drive. We assess the propensity of these modifications to interfere with the development of Plasmodium falciparum and their effect on fitness. Because of their inherent simplicity and passive mode of drive such traits could form part of an acceptable testing pathway of gene drives for malaria eradication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Hoermann
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sofia Tapanelli
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paolo Capriotti
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ellen Kg Masters
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tibebu Habtewold
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Nikolai Windbichler
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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5
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Chakraborty M, Ramaiah A, Adolfi A, Halas P, Kaduskar B, Ngo LT, Jayaprasad S, Paul K, Whadgar S, Srinivasan S, Subramani S, Bier E, James AA, Emerson JJ. Hidden genomic features of an invasive malaria vector, Anopheles stephensi, revealed by a chromosome-level genome assembly. BMC Biol 2021; 19:28. [PMID: 33568145 PMCID: PMC7876825 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-021-00963-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mosquito Anopheles stephensi is a vector of urban malaria in Asia that recently invaded Africa. Studying the genetic basis of vectorial capacity and engineering genetic interventions are both impeded by limitations of a vector's genome assembly. The existing assemblies of An. stephensi are draft-quality and contain thousands of sequence gaps, potentially missing genetic elements important for its biology and evolution. RESULTS To access previously intractable genomic regions, we generated a reference-grade genome assembly and full transcript annotations that achieve a new standard for reference genomes of disease vectors. Here, we report novel species-specific transposable element (TE) families and insertions in functional genetic elements, demonstrating the widespread role of TEs in genome evolution and phenotypic variation. We discovered 29 previously hidden members of insecticide resistance genes, uncovering new candidate genetic elements for the widespread insecticide resistance observed in An. stephensi. We identified 2.4 Mb of the Y chromosome and seven new male-linked gene candidates, representing the most extensive coverage of the Y chromosome in any mosquito. By tracking full-length mRNA for > 15 days following blood feeding, we discover distinct roles of previously uncharacterized genes in blood metabolism and female reproduction. The Y-linked heterochromatin landscape reveals extensive accumulation of long-terminal repeat retrotransposons throughout the evolution and degeneration of this chromosome. Finally, we identify a novel Y-linked putative transcription factor that is expressed constitutively throughout male development and adulthood, suggesting an important role. CONCLUSION Collectively, these results and resources underscore the significance of previously hidden genomic elements in the biology of malaria mosquitoes and will accelerate the development of genetic control strategies of malaria transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahul Chakraborty
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Arunachalam Ramaiah
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0335, USA
- Tata Institute for Genetics and Society, Center at inStem, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560065, India
| | - Adriana Adolfi
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Paige Halas
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Bhagyashree Kaduskar
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0335, USA
- Tata Institute for Genetics and Society, Center at inStem, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560065, India
| | - Luna Thanh Ngo
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Suvratha Jayaprasad
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bangalore, KA, 560100, India
| | - Kiran Paul
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bangalore, KA, 560100, India
| | - Saurabh Whadgar
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bangalore, KA, 560100, India
| | - Subhashini Srinivasan
- Tata Institute for Genetics and Society, Center at inStem, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560065, India
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bangalore, KA, 560100, India
| | - Suresh Subramani
- Tata Institute for Genetics and Society, Center at inStem, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560065, India
- Section of Molecular Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0322, USA
- Tata Institute for Genetics and Society, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0335, USA
| | - Ethan Bier
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0335, USA
- Tata Institute for Genetics and Society, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0335, USA
| | - Anthony A James
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Tata Institute for Genetics and Society, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0335, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - J J Emerson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Center for Complex Biological Systems, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
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6
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Zhou J, Chen J, Shu Y. Lead stress affects the reproduction of Spodoptera litura but not by regulating the vitellogenin gene promoter. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 208:111581. [PMID: 33396104 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) stress affects hormone-mediated responses (e.g., reproduction) in insects. In this study, the effects of Pb stress (12.5-50 mg Pb/kg in larval artificial diets) on the reproduction of the common cutworm Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) were investigated after 7 generations. The results showed that Pb stress did not reduce the longevity of adult females, but 50 mg Pb/kg significantly reduced the longevity of adult males, regardless of the generation. After 50 mg Pb/kg stress for one or 7 generations, the peak time of egg-laying was delayed, and egg production and hatchability were decreased significantly. The vitellin content in eggs was significantly inhibited by Pb stress. The S. litura vitellogenin (Vg) gene promoter was cloned and analyzed. Multiple putative transcription factors were predicted for the 2321 bp Vg promoter region, including the TATA box, GATA, basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor, Broad-Complex (BR-C) binding sites, etc. The fragment from -2222 to -211 bp of the Vg promoter was the activation domain for Vg, whereas the region from -211 to -55 bp repressed the activity of the Vg promoter. The construct promoter (-782/+76) in Trichoplusia ni (Hi5) cells significantly improved Vg expression, which was not affected by Pb stress (1 or 10 mg/ml). Therefore, Pb stress significantly inhibited the reproduction of S. litura but not by regulating the Vg promoter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialiang Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009, China
| | - Jin Chen
- Department of Ecology, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yinghua Shu
- Department of Ecology, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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7
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Cas9-Mediated Gene-Editing in the Malaria Mosquito Anopheles stephensi by ReMOT Control. G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS 2020; 10:1353-1360. [PMID: 32122959 PMCID: PMC7144067 DOI: 10.1534/g3.120.401133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Innovative tools are essential for advancing malaria control and depend on an understanding of molecular mechanisms governing transmission of malaria parasites by Anopheles mosquitoes. CRISPR/Cas9-based gene disruption is a powerful method to uncover underlying biology of vector-pathogen interactions and can itself form the basis of mosquito control strategies. However, embryo injection methods used to genetically manipulate mosquitoes (especially Anopheles) are difficult and inefficient, particularly for non-specialist laboratories. Here, we adapted the ReMOT Control (Receptor-mediated Ovary Transduction of Cargo) technique to deliver Cas9 ribonucleoprotein complex to adult mosquito ovaries, generating targeted and heritable mutations in the malaria vector Anopheles stephensi without injecting embryos. In Anopheles, ReMOT Control gene editing was as efficient as standard embryo injections. The application of ReMOT Control to Anopheles opens the power of CRISPR/Cas9 methods to malaria laboratories that lack the equipment or expertise to perform embryo injections and establishes the flexibility of ReMOT Control for diverse mosquito species.
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8
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Asad M, Munir F, Xu X, Li M, Jiang Y, Chu L, Yang G. Functional characterization of the cis-regulatory region for the vitellogenin gene in Plutella xylostella. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 29:137-147. [PMID: 31850544 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The vitellogenin gene promoter (VgP) is an essential cis-regulatory element that plays a significant role in transcription of the vitellogenin (Vg) gene, leading to the production of yolk protein in insects, including lepidopterans. However, the function of VgP is still not clear in Plutella xylostella. Here, we cloned a 5.1 kb DNA fragment of the cis-regulatory region adjacent to the 5' end of the Vg gene of P. xylostella (PxVg). We identified two promoter sites in that 5' upstream sequence of PxVg and performed in vitro analysis of two promoter sequences (PxVgP1, 4.9 kb, and PxVgP2, 2.9 kb) in the embryonic cell line of P. xylostella. PxVgP2 exhibited higher enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) expression, so PxVgP2 was used for in vivo analysis. Strong EGFP fluorescence was observed in adult females and the fat body of females, with low expression in embryos. Our results suggest that PxVgP is an important stage-, tissue- and sex-specific endogenous cis-regulatory element in P. xylostella.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Asad
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Pest Control, Fujian Province University, Fuzhou, China
| | - F Munir
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Pest Control, Fujian Province University, Fuzhou, China
| | - X Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Pest Control, Fujian Province University, Fuzhou, China
| | - M Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Pest Control, Fujian Province University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Y Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Pest Control, Fujian Province University, Fuzhou, China
| | - L Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Pest Control, Fujian Province University, Fuzhou, China
| | - G Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Pest Control, Fujian Province University, Fuzhou, China
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Experimental population modification of the malaria vector mosquito, Anopheles stephensi. PLoS Genet 2019; 15:e1008440. [PMID: 31856182 PMCID: PMC6922335 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Small laboratory cage trials of non-drive and gene-drive strains of the Asian malaria vector mosquito, Anopheles stephensi, were used to investigate release ratios and other strain properties for their impact on transgene spread during simulated population modification. We evaluated the effects of transgenes on survival, male contributions to next-generation populations, female reproductive success and the impact of accumulation of gene drive-resistant genomic target sites resulting from nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ) mutagenesis during Cas9, guide RNA-mediated cleavage. Experiments with a non-drive, autosomally-linked malaria-resistance gene cassette showed ‘full introduction’ (100% of the insects have at least one copy of the transgene) within 8 weeks (≤ 3 generations) following weekly releases of 10:1 transgenic:wild-type males in an overlapping generation trial design. Male release ratios of 1:1 resulted in cages where mosquitoes with at least one copy of the transgene fluctuated around 50%. In comparison, two of three cages in which the malaria-resistance genes were linked to a gene-drive system in an overlapping generation, single 1:1 release reached full introduction in 6–8 generations with a third cage at ~80% within the same time. Release ratios of 0.1:1 failed to establish the transgenes. A non-overlapping generation, single-release trial of the same gene-drive strain resulted in two of three cages reaching 100% introduction within 6–12 generations following a 1:1 transgenic:wild-type male release. Two of three cages with 0.33:1 transgenic:wild-type male single releases achieved full introduction in 13–16 generations. All populations exhibiting full introduction went extinct within three generations due to a significant load on females having disruptions of both copies of the target gene, kynurenine hydroxylase. While repeated releases of high-ratio (10:1) non-drive constructs could achieve full introduction, results from the 1:1 release ratios across all experimental designs favor the use of gene drive, both for efficiency and anticipated cost of the control programs. The experimental introduction of manipulated genes into insect species has a long history in basic genetics. Recent advances in genome editing technologies have spurred considerable effort to exploit these methodologies to provide genetic solutions to some of the worst medical and agricultural problems caused by insects. Insect population suppression and population modification approaches have been proposed to control transmission of vector-borne diseases, including malaria. We used small cage trials to explore the efficacy of non-drive and gene-drive releases to deliver anti-malarial effector genes to a vector mosquito, Anopheles stephensi. We show that both approaches can work to introduce genes to high percentages, but as expected, the gene-drive approaches were more efficient in that they needed only a single release with a much lower number of released insects. The gene-drive females in our studies exhibited a significant load that resulted in some cage populations going to extinction. Furthermore, the accumulation of drive-resistant target genes prevented full introduction of the transgenes in those cages that did not go extinct. While none of the strains evaluated here are proposed for open release, these laboratory cage trials reveal features that can be used to improve next-generation gene-drive strains for population modification.
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10
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Mongkol W, Nguitragool W, Sattabongkot J, Kubera A. Blood-induced differential gene expression in Anopheles dirus evaluated using RNA sequencing. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2018; 32:399-406. [PMID: 29885058 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Malaria parasites are transmitted through blood feeding by female Anopheline mosquitoes. Unveiling the blood-feeding process will improve understanding of vector biology. Anopheles dirus (Diptera: Culicidae) is one of the primary malaria vectors in the Greater Mekong Subregion, the epicentre of malaria drug resistance. In this study, differential gene expression between sugar- and blood-fed An. dirus was investigated by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). A total of 589 transcripts were found to be upregulated and 703 transcripts downregulated as a result of blood feeding. Transcriptional differences were found in genes involved in blood digestion, peritrophic matrix formation, oogenesis and vitellogenesis. The expression levels of several genes were validated by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The present results provide better understanding of An. dirus biology in relation to its blood feeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Mongkol
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - W Nguitragool
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - J Sattabongkot
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - A Kubera
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Advanced Studies in Tropical Natural Resources, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
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11
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Macias VM, Jimenez AJ, Burini-Kojin B, Pledger D, Jasinskiene N, Phong CH, Chu K, Fazekas A, Martin K, Marinotti O, James AA. nanos-Driven expression of piggyBac transposase induces mobilization of a synthetic autonomous transposon in the malaria vector mosquito, Anopheles stephensi. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 87:81-89. [PMID: 28676355 PMCID: PMC5580807 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2017.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Revised: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Transposons are a class of selfish DNA elements that can mobilize within a genome. If mobilization is accompanied by an increase in copy number (replicative transposition), the transposon may sweep through a population until it is fixed in all of its interbreeding members. This introgression has been proposed as the basis for drive systems to move genes with desirable phenotypes into target species. One such application would be to use them to move a gene conferring resistance to malaria parasites throughout a population of vector mosquitos. We assessed the feasibility of using the piggyBac transposon as a gene-drive mechanism to distribute anti-malarial transgenes in populations of the malaria vector, Anopheles stephensi. We designed synthetic gene constructs that express the piggyBac transposase in the female germline using the control DNA of the An. stephensi nanos orthologous gene linked to marker genes to monitor inheritance. Two remobilization events were observed with a frequency of one every 23 generations, a rate far below what would be useful to drive anti-pathogen transgenes into wild mosquito populations. We discuss the possibility of optimizing this system and the impetus to do so.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa M Macias
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, 3205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA 92697-3900, United States.
| | - Alyssa J Jimenez
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, 3205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA 92697-3900, United States.
| | - Bianca Burini-Kojin
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, 3205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA 92697-3900, United States.
| | - David Pledger
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, 3205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA 92697-3900, United States.
| | - Nijole Jasinskiene
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, 3205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA 92697-3900, United States.
| | - Celine Hien Phong
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, 3205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA 92697-3900, United States.
| | - Karen Chu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, 3205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA 92697-3900, United States.
| | - Aniko Fazekas
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, 3205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA 92697-3900, United States.
| | - Kelcie Martin
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, 3205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA 92697-3900, United States.
| | - Osvaldo Marinotti
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, 3205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA 92697-3900, United States.
| | - Anthony A James
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, 3205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA 92697-3900, United States; Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, B240 Med Sci Bldg., School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-4025, United States.
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Highly efficient Cas9-mediated gene drive for population modification of the malaria vector mosquito Anopheles stephensi. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:E6736-43. [PMID: 26598698 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1521077112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 597] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic engineering technologies can be used both to create transgenic mosquitoes carrying antipathogen effector genes targeting human malaria parasites and to generate gene-drive systems capable of introgressing the genes throughout wild vector populations. We developed a highly effective autonomous Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)-associated protein 9 (Cas9)-mediated gene-drive system in the Asian malaria vector Anopheles stephensi, adapted from the mutagenic chain reaction (MCR). This specific system results in progeny of males and females derived from transgenic males exhibiting a high frequency of germ-line gene conversion consistent with homology-directed repair (HDR). This system copies an ∼ 17-kb construct from its site of insertion to its homologous chromosome in a faithful, site-specific manner. Dual anti-Plasmodium falciparum effector genes, a marker gene, and the autonomous gene-drive components are introgressed into ∼ 99.5% of the progeny following outcrosses of transgenic lines to wild-type mosquitoes. The effector genes remain transcriptionally inducible upon blood feeding. In contrast to the efficient conversion in individuals expressing Cas9 only in the germ line, males and females derived from transgenic females, which are expected to have drive component molecules in the egg, produce progeny with a high frequency of mutations in the targeted genome sequence, resulting in near-Mendelian inheritance ratios of the transgene. Such mutant alleles result presumably from nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ) events before the segregation of somatic and germ-line lineages early in development. These data support the design of this system to be active strictly within the germ line. Strains based on this technology could sustain control and elimination as part of the malaria eradication agenda.
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Criscione F, O'Brochta DA, Reid W. Genetic technologies for disease vectors. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2015; 10:90-97. [PMID: 29588019 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2015.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Revised: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The first genetic technologies for insect vectors of disease were introduced 20 years ago. As of today there are 12 classes of genetic technologies used as functional genomic tools for insect vectors of important diseases. Although the applications of genetic technologies in insect disease vectors have been conducted primarily in mosquitoes, other insect systems could benefit from current technologies. While the various technological platforms are likely to function in diverse arthropods, the delivery of these technologies to cells and tissues of interest is the major technical constraint that limits their widespread adoption. Increased community resources of various types would enhance the adoption of these technologies and potentially eliminate technical limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Criscione
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, College Park, 9600 Gudelsky Drive, Rockville, MD 20850, United States.
| | - David A O'Brochta
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, 9600 Gudelsky Drive, Rockville, MD 20850, United States.
| | - William Reid
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, College Park, 9600 Gudelsky Drive, Rockville, MD 20850, United States.
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14
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Arik AJ, Hun LV, Quicke K, Piatt M, Ziegler R, Scaraffia PY, Badgandi H, Riehle MA. Increased Akt signaling in the mosquito fat body increases adult survivorship. FASEB J 2014; 29:1404-13. [PMID: 25550465 DOI: 10.1096/fj.14-261479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2014] [Accepted: 11/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Akt signaling regulates diverse physiologies in a wide range of organisms. We examine the impact of increased Akt signaling in the fat body of 2 mosquito species, the Asian malaria mosquito Anopheles stephensi and the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti. Overexpression of a myristoylated and active form of A. stephensi and Ae. aegypti Akt in the fat body of transgenic mosquitoes led to activation of the downstream signaling molecules forkhead box O (FOXO) and p70 S6 kinase in a tissue and blood meal-specific manner. In both species, increased Akt signaling in the fat body after blood feeding significantly increased adult survivorship relative to nontransgenic sibling controls. In A. stephensi, survivorship was increased by 15% to 45%, while in Ae. aegypti, it increased 14% to 47%. Transgenic mosquitoes fed only sugar, and thus not expressing active Akt, had no significant difference in survivorship relative to nontransgenic siblings. Expression of active Akt also increased expression of fat body vitellogenin, but the number of viable eggs did not differ significantly between transgenic and nontransgenic controls. This work demonstrates a novel mechanism of enhanced survivorship through increased Akt signaling in the fat bodies of multiple mosquito genera and provides new tools to unlock the molecular underpinnings of aging in eukaryotic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anam J Arik
- *Department of Entomology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Department of Tropical Medicine, Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; and Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Lewis V Hun
- *Department of Entomology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Department of Tropical Medicine, Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; and Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Kendra Quicke
- *Department of Entomology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Department of Tropical Medicine, Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; and Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Michael Piatt
- *Department of Entomology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Department of Tropical Medicine, Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; and Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Rolf Ziegler
- *Department of Entomology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Department of Tropical Medicine, Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; and Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Patricia Y Scaraffia
- *Department of Entomology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Department of Tropical Medicine, Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; and Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Hemant Badgandi
- *Department of Entomology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Department of Tropical Medicine, Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; and Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Michael A Riehle
- *Department of Entomology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Department of Tropical Medicine, Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; and Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
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15
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Xu J, Wang YQ, Li ZQ, Ling L, Zeng BS, You L, Chen YZ, Aslam AFM, Huang YP, Tan AJ. Functional characterization of the vitellogenin promoter in the silkworm, Bombyx mori. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2014; 23:550-557. [PMID: 24828437 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Genetic transformation and genome editing technologies have been successfully established in the lepidopteran insect model, the domesticated silkworm, Bombyx mori, providing great potential for functional genomics and practical applications. However, the current lack of cis-regulatory elements in B. mori gene manipulation research limits further exploitation in functional gene analysis. In the present study, we characterized a B. mori endogenous promoter, Bmvgp, which is a 798-bp DNA sequence adjacent to the 5'-end of the vitellogenin gene (Bmvg). PiggyBac-based transgenic analysis shows that Bmvgp precisely directs expression of a reporter gene, enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP), in a sex-, tissue- and stage-specific manner. In transgenic animals, EGFP expression can be detected in the female fat body from larval-pupal ecdysis to the following pupal and adult stage. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that EGFP expression can be activated by 20-hydroxyecdysone, which is consistent with endogenous Bmvg expression. These data indicate that Bmvgp is an effective endogenous cis-regulatory element in B. mori.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Xu
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Shanghai, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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16
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Park SW, Goo TW, Kim SR, Choi GH. Hemocyte-specific Promoter for the Development of Transgenic Silkworm, Bombyx mori. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.7852/ijie.2012.25.1.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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17
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Isaacs AT, Jasinskiene N, Tretiakov M, Thiery I, Zettor A, Bourgouin C, James AA. Transgenic Anopheles stephensi coexpressing single-chain antibodies resist Plasmodium falciparum development. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2012; 109:E1922-30. [PMID: 22689959 PMCID: PMC3396534 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1207738109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes expressing m1C3, m4B7, or m2A10 single-chain antibodies (scFvs) have significantly lower levels of infection compared to controls when challenged with Plasmodium falciparum, a human malaria pathogen. These scFvs are derived from antibodies specific to a parasite chitinase, the 25 kDa protein and the circumsporozoite protein, respectively. Transgenes comprising m2A10 in combination with either m1C3 or m4B7 were inserted into previously-characterized mosquito chromosomal "docking" sites using site-specific recombination. Transgene expression was evaluated at four different genomic locations and a docking site that permitted tissue- and sex-specific expression was researched further. Fitness studies of docking site and dual scFv transgene strains detected only one significant fitness cost: adult docking-site males displayed a late-onset reduction in survival. The m4B7/m2A10 mosquitoes challenged with P. falciparum had few or no sporozoites, the parasite stage infective to humans, in three of four experiments. No sporozoites were detected in m1C3/m2A10 mosquitoes in challenge experiments when both genes were induced at developmentally relevant times. These studies support the conclusion that expression of a single copy of a dual scFv transgene can completely inhibit parasite development without imposing a fitness cost on the mosquito.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison T. Isaacs
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-4500
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-3900
| | - Nijole Jasinskiene
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-3900
| | - Mikhail Tretiakov
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-3900
| | - Isabelle Thiery
- Institut Pasteur, Center for Production and Infection of Anopheles, 75724 Paris, cedex 15, France; and
| | - Agnès Zettor
- Institut Pasteur, Center for Production and Infection of Anopheles, 75724 Paris, cedex 15, France; and
| | - Catherine Bourgouin
- Institut Pasteur, Center for Production and Infection of Anopheles, 75724 Paris, cedex 15, France; and
- Institut Pasteur, Unité Génétique et Génomique des Insectes Vecteurs-Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique URA 3012, 75724 Paris, cedex 15, France
| | - Anthony A. James
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-4500
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-3900
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18
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Dong Y, Das S, Cirimotich C, Souza-Neto JA, McLean KJ, Dimopoulos G. Engineered anopheles immunity to Plasmodium infection. PLoS Pathog 2011; 7:e1002458. [PMID: 22216006 PMCID: PMC3245315 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1002458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2011] [Accepted: 11/09/2011] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A causative agent of human malaria, Plasmodium falciparum, is transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes. The malaria parasite is under intensive attack from the mosquito's innate immune system during its sporogonic development. We have used genetic engineering to create immune-enhanced Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes through blood meal-inducible expression of a transgene encoding the IMD pathway-controlled NF-kB Rel2 transcription factor in the midgut and fat-body tissue. Transgenic mosquitoes showed greater resistance to Plasmodium and microbial infection as a result of timely concerted tissue-specific immune attacks involving multiple effectors. The relatively weak impact of this genetic modification on mosquito fitness under laboratory conditions encourages further investigation of this approach for malaria control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuemei Dong
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Suchismita Das
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Chris Cirimotich
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jayme A. Souza-Neto
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Kyle J. McLean
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - George Dimopoulos
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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19
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Isaacs AT, Li F, Jasinskiene N, Chen X, Nirmala X, Marinotti O, Vinetz JM, James AA. Engineered resistance to Plasmodium falciparum development in transgenic Anopheles stephensi. PLoS Pathog 2011; 7:e1002017. [PMID: 21533066 PMCID: PMC3080844 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1002017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2010] [Accepted: 02/10/2011] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Transposon-mediated transformation was used to produce Anopheles
stephensi that express single-chain antibodies (scFvs) designed to
target the human malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum. The
scFvs, m1C3, m4B7, and m2A10, are derived from mouse monoclonal antibodies that
inhibit either ookinete invasion of the midgut or sporozoite invasion of
salivary glands. The scFvs that target the parasite surface, m4B7 and m2A10,
were fused to an Anopheles gambiae antimicrobial peptide,
Cecropin A. Previously-characterized Anopheles cis-acting DNA
regulatory elements were included in the transgenes to coordinate scFv
production with parasite development. Gene amplification and immunoblot analyses
showed promoter-specific increases in transgene expression in blood-fed females.
Transgenic mosquito lines expressing each of the scFv genes had significantly
lower infection levels than controls when challenged with P.
falciparum. Malaria eradication will require vector-control strategies that are both
self-sustaining and not affected by migration of infected humans and mosquitoes.
Replacement of wild malaria-susceptible mosquito populations with transgenic
strains refractory to parasite development could interrupt the cycle of disease
transmission and support eradication efforts. Production of P.
falciparum-resistant mosquitoes is a necessary first step towards
investigating the population replacement strategy. Here we show that An.
stephensi engineered to produce P.
falciparum-targeting effector molecules are resistant to this important
human malaria parasite. Two of the three effector molecules represent a novel
combination of components derived from the immune systems of mosquitoes and
mice. An important feature of these molecules is that they are unlikely to
significantly harm the mosquito, as the mosquito component is an
Anopheles antimicrobial peptide with activity against
Plasmodium, while the other component is based on a murine
antibody selected for its ability to bind specifically to a parasite protein.
Transgenes with this design coupled with a gene-drive system could be used
alongside vaccines and drugs to provide sustainable local elimination of malaria
as part of a long-term strategy for eradication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison T. Isaacs
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine,
University of California, Irvine, California, United States of
America
| | - Fengwu Li
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of
California-San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California, United States of
America
| | - Nijole Jasinskiene
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of
California, Irvine, California, United States of America
| | - Xiaoguang Chen
- Department of Parasitology, School of Public Health and Tropical
Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guang Zhou, GD, China
| | - Xavier Nirmala
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of Florida,
Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- USDA/ARS, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology,
Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Osvaldo Marinotti
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of
California, Irvine, California, United States of America
| | - Joseph M. Vinetz
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of
California-San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California, United States of
America
| | - Anthony A. James
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine,
University of California, Irvine, California, United States of
America
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of
California, Irvine, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Nolan T, Petris E, Müller HM, Cronin A, Catteruccia F, Crisanti A. Analysis of two novel midgut-specific promoters driving transgene expression in Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes. PLoS One 2011; 6:e16471. [PMID: 21326609 PMCID: PMC3033896 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0016471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2010] [Accepted: 12/17/2010] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Tissue-specific promoters controlling the expression of transgenes in Anopheles mosquitoes represent a valuable tool both for studying the interaction between these malaria vectors and the Plasmodium parasites they transmit and for novel malaria control strategies based on developing Plasmodium-refractory mosquitoes by expressing anti-parasitic genes. With this aim we have studied the promoter regions of two genes from the most important malaria vector, Anopheles gambiae, whose expression is strongly induced upon blood feeding. Results We analysed the A. gambiae Antryp1 and G12 genes, which we have shown to be midgut-specific and maximally expressed at 24 hours post-bloodmeal (PBM). Antryp1, required for bloodmeal digestion, encodes one member of a family of 7 trypsin genes. The G12 gene, of unknown function, was previously identified in our laboratory in a screen for genes induced in response to a bloodmeal. We fused 1.1 kb of the upstream regions containing the putative promoter of these genes to reporter genes and transformed these into the Indian malaria vector A. stephensi to see if we could recapitulate the expression pattern of the endogenous genes. Both the Antryp1 and G12 upstream regions were able to drive female-predominant, midgut-specific expression in transgenic mosquitoes. Expression of the Antryp1-driven reporter in transgenic A. stephensi lines was low, undetectable by northern blot analysis, and failed to fully match the induction kinetics of the endogenous Antryp1 gene in A. gambiae. This incomplete conservation of expression suggests either subtle differences in the transcriptional machinery between A. stephensi and A. gambiae or that the upstream region chosen lacked all the control elements. In contrast, the G12 upstream region was able to faithfully reproduce the expression profile of the endogenous A. gambiae gene, showing female midgut specificity in the adult mosquito and massive induction PBM, peaking at 24 hours. Conclusions Our studies on two putative blood-meal induced, midgut-specific promoters validate the use of G12 upstream regulatory regions to drive targeted transgene expression coinciding spatially and temporally with pre-sporogonic stages of Plasmodium parasites in the mosquito, offering the possibility of manipulating vector competence or performing functional studies on vector-parasite interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Nolan
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elisa Petris
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hans-Michael Müller
- Heidelberg University Biochemistry Centre, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ann Cronin
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Flaminia Catteruccia
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- * E-mail: (FC); (ACrisanti)
| | - Andrea Crisanti
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (FC); (ACrisanti)
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Malaria vector control: from past to future. Parasitol Res 2011; 108:757-79. [PMID: 21229263 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-010-2232-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2010] [Accepted: 10/06/2010] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Malaria is one of the most common vector-borne diseases widespread in the tropical and subtropical regions. Despite considerable success of malaria control programs in the past, malaria still continues as a major public health problem in several countries. Vector control is an essential part for reducing malaria transmission and became less effective in recent years, due to many technical and administrative reasons, including poor or no adoption of alternative tools. Of the different strategies available for vector control, the most successful are indoor residual spraying and insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), including long-lasting ITNs and materials. Earlier DDT spray has shown spectacular success in decimating disease vectors but resulted in development of insecticide resistance, and to control the resistant mosquitoes, organophosphates, carbamates, and synthetic pyrethroids were introduced in indoor residual spraying with needed success but subsequently resulted in the development of widespread multiple insecticide resistance in vectors. Vector control in many countries still use insecticides in the absence of viable alternatives. Few developments for vector control, using ovitraps, space spray, biological control agents, etc., were encouraging when used in limited scale. Likewise, recent introduction of safer vector control agents, such as insect growth regulators, biocontrol agents, and natural plant products have yet to gain the needed scale of utility for vector control. Bacterial pesticides are promising and are effective in many countries. Environmental management has shown sufficient promise for vector control and disease management but still needs advocacy for inter-sectoral coordination and sometimes are very work-intensive. The more recent genetic manipulation and sterile insect techniques are under development and consideration for use in routine vector control and for these, standardized procedures and methods are available but need thorough understanding of biology, ethical considerations, and sufficiently trained manpower for implementation being technically intensive methods. All the methods mentioned in the review that are being implemented or proposed for implementation needs effective inter-sectoral coordination and community participation. The latest strategy is evolution-proof insecticides that include fungal biopesticides, Wolbachia, and Denso virus that essentially manipulate the life cycle of the mosquitoes were found effective but needs more research. However, for effective vector control, integrated vector management methods, involving use of combination of effective tools, is needed and is also suggested by Global Malaria Control Strategy. This review article raises issues associated with the present-day vector control strategies and state opportunities with a focus on ongoing research and recent advances to enable to sustain the gains achieved so far.
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Provost-Javier KN, Chen S, Rasgon JL. Vitellogenin gene expression in autogenous Culex tarsalis. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2010; 19:423-429. [PMID: 20456510 PMCID: PMC2907424 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2583.2010.00999.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Autogeny, the ability of a mosquito to mature an initial batch of eggs without blood feeding, is an alternative reproductive strategy with important implications for vector-borne disease transmission. Regulation of the major yolk protein (vitellogenin; Vg) genes during bloodmeal-induced oogenesis is well studied, but little is known about regulation of vitellogenesis in autogenous mosquitoes. We characterized the expression of four vitellogenin genes (Vg1a, Vg1b, Vg2a and Vg2b) in an autogenous strain of the West Nile Virus vector, Culex tarsalis. All vitellogenin genes were expressed during autogenous reproduction and following a bloodmeal, although the intensity and duration of expression varied amongst genes. Quantitative PCR analysis of vitellogenin transcription during autogeny revealed a similar temporal pattern to known vitellogenin expression profiles in anautogenous Aedes aegypti. Vitellogenin transcript, primarily produced from the Vg1b gene, was also detected in the larval and pupal stages of development, but no detectable vitellogenin protein was produced during this time period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie N. Provost-Javier
- The W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205
| | - Song Chen
- The W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205
| | - Jason L. Rasgon
- The W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205
- The Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD, 21205
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Chen S, Armistead JS, Provost-Javier KN, Sakamoto JM, Rasgon JL. Duplication, concerted evolution and purifying selection drive the evolution of mosquito vitellogenin genes. BMC Evol Biol 2010; 10:142. [PMID: 20465817 PMCID: PMC2875236 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2148-10-142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2009] [Accepted: 05/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mosquito vitellogenin (Vtg) genes belong to a small multiple gene family that encodes the major yolk protein precursors required for egg production. Multiple Vtg genes have been cloned and characterized from several mosquito species, but their origin and molecular evolution are poorly understood. Results Here we used in silico and molecular cloning techniques to identify and characterize the evolution of the Vtg gene family from the genera Culex, Aedes/Ochlerotatus, and Anopheles. We identified the probable ancestral Vtg gene among different mosquito species by its conserved association with a novel gene approximately one kilobase upstream of the start codon. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the Vtg gene family arose by duplication events, but that the pattern of duplication was different in each mosquito genera. Signatures of purifying selection were detected in Culex, Aedes and Anopheles. Gene conversion is a major driver of concerted evolution in Culex, while unequal crossover is likely the major driver of concerted evolution in Anopheles. In Aedes, smaller fragments have undergone gene conversion events. Conclusions The study shows concerted evolution and purifying selection shaped the evolution of mosquito Vtg genes following gene duplication. Additionally, similar evolutionary patterns were observed in the Vtg genes from other invertebrate and vertebrate organisms, suggesting that duplication, concerted evolution and purifying selection may be the major evolutionary forces driving Vtg gene evolution across highly divergent taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Chen
- The W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Transgenesis and paratransgenesis to control insect-borne diseases: current status and future challenges. Parasitol Int 2009; 59:1-8. [PMID: 19819346 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2009.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2009] [Revised: 09/29/2009] [Accepted: 10/03/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Insect-borne diseases cause significant human morbidity and mortality. Current control and preventive methods against vector-borne diseases rely mainly on insecticides. The emergence of insecticide resistance in many disease vectors highlights the necessity to develop new strategies to control these insects. Vector transgenesis and paratransgenesis are novel strategies that aim at reducing insect vectorial capacity, or seek to eliminate transmission of pathogens such as Plasmodium sp., Trypanosoma sp., and Dengue virus currently being developed. Vector transgenesis relies on direct genetic manipulation of disease vectors making them incapable of functioning as vectors of a given pathogen. Paratransgenesis focuses on utilizing genetically modified insect symbionts to express molecules within the vector that are deleterious to pathogens they transmit. Despite the many successes achieved in developing such techniques in the last several years, many significant barriers remain and need to be overcome prior to any of these approaches become a reality. Here, we highlight the current status of these strategies, pointing out advantages and constraints, and also explore issues that need to be resolved before the establishment of transgenesis and paratransgenesis as tools to prevent vector-borne diseases.
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Antonova Y, Alvarez KS, Kim YJ, Kokoza V, Raikhel AS. The role of NF-kappaB factor REL2 in the Aedes aegypti immune response. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2009; 39:303-14. [PMID: 19552893 PMCID: PMC2702699 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2009.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2008] [Revised: 01/07/2009] [Accepted: 01/13/2009] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Mosquitoes transmit numerous diseases that continue to be an enormous burden on public health worldwide. Transgenic mosquitoes impervious to vector-borne pathogens, in concert with vector control and drug and vaccine development, comprise an arsenal of means anticipated to defeat mosquito-spread diseases in the future. Mosquito transgenesis allows tissue-specific manipulation of their major immune pathways and enhances the ability to study mosquito-pathogen interactions. Here, we report the generation of two independent transgenic strains of Aedes aegypti overexpressing the NF-?B transcriptional factor REL2, a homologue of Drosophila Relish, which is shown to be under the control of the vitellogenin promoter in the mosquito fat body after a blood meal. We show that this REL2 overexpression in the fat body results in transcriptional activation of Defensins A, C, and D, and Cecropins A and N, as well as translation and secretion of Defensin A protein into the hemolymph. We also demonstrate that induction of REL2 results in the increased resistance of the mosquito to tested Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Importantly, induction of transgenic REL2 leads to the significant decrease in susceptibility of A. aegypti to Plasmodium gallinaceum infection. Consistently, RNAi knockdown of REL2 in wild-type mosquitoes results in a delay in Defensin A and Cecropin A expression in response to infection and in increased susceptibility to both bacteria and P. gallinaceum. Moreover, our transgenic assays demonstrate that the N-terminus of the mosquito REL2, which includes the His/Gln-rich and serine-rich regions, plays a role in its transactivation properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yevgeniya Antonova
- Graduate Program in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Kanwal S. Alvarez
- Graduate Program in Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | | | - Vladimir Kokoza
- Department of Entomology, and the Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Alexander S. Raikhel
- Department of Entomology, and the Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
- Author for correspondence: Alexander S. Raikhel, Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, Watkins Drive, CA 92521; Tel. 951-827-2129, Fax. 951 827-2130; E-mail address:
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Sperança MA, Capurro ML. Perspectives in the control of infectious diseases by transgenic mosquitoes in the post-genomic era--a review. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2008; 102:425-33. [PMID: 17612761 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762007005000054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2006] [Accepted: 04/10/2007] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Arthropod-borne diseases caused by a variety of microorganisms such as dengue virus and malaria parasites afflict billions of people worldwide imposing major economic and social burdens. Despite many efforts, vaccines against diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, with the exception of yellow fever, are not available. Control of such infectious pathogens is mainly performed by vector management and treatment of affected individuals with drugs. However, the numbers of insecticide-resistant insects and drug-resistant parasites are increasing. Therefore, inspired in recent years by a lot of new data produced by genomics and post-genomics research, several scientific groups have been working on different strategies to control infectious arthropod-borne diseases. This review focuses on recent advances and perspectives towards construction of transgenic mosquitoes refractory to malaria parasites and dengue virus transmission.
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Abstract
Research on gene expression in mosquitoes is motivated by both basic and applied interests. Studies of genes involved in hematophagy, reproduction, olfaction, and immune responses reveal an exquisite confluence of biological adaptations that result in these highly-successful life forms. The requirement of female mosquitoes for a bloodmeal for propagation has been exploited by a wide diversity of viral, protozoan and metazoan pathogens as part of their life cycles. Identifying genes involved in host-seeking, blood feeding and digestion, reproduction, insecticide resistance and susceptibility/refractoriness to pathogen development is expected to provide the bases for the development of novel methods to control mosquito-borne diseases. Advances in mosquito transgenesis technologies, the availability of whole genome sequence information, mass sequencing and analyses of transcriptomes and RNAi techniques will assist development of these tools as well as deepen the understanding of the underlying genetic components for biological phenomena characteristic of these insect species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Guang Chen
- Department of Parasitology, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guang Zhou, GD 510515, People's Republic of China
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