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Zhu Y, Kong L, Wang X, Xu J, Qian X, Yang Y, Xu Z, Zhu KY. Rolling circle transcription: A new system to produce RNA microspheres for improving RNAi efficiency in an agriculturally important lepidopteran pest (Mythimna separate). PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 197:105680. [PMID: 38072537 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2023.105680] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
We applied a new RNA interference (RNAi) system using rolling circle transcription (RCT) technology to generate RNA microspheres (RMS) for targeting two key chitin synthetic pathway genes [chitin synthase A (CHSA), chitin synthase B (CHSB)] in the larvae of the oriental armyworm (Mythimna separate), a RNAi-unsusceptible agriculturally important lepidopteran pest. Feeding the third-instar larvae with the RMS-CHSA- or RMS-CHSB-treated corn leaf discs suppressed the expression of CHSA by 81.7% or CHSB by 88.1%, respectively, at 72 h. The silencing of CHSA consequently affected the larval development, including the reduced body weight (54.0%) and length (41.3%), as evaluated on the 7th day, and caused significant larval mortalities (51.1%) as evaluated on the 14th day. Similar results were obtained with the larvae fed RMS-CHSB. We also compared RNAi efficiencies among different strategies: 1) two multi-target RMS [i.e., RMS-(CHSA + CHSB), RMS-CHSA + RMS-CHSB], and 2) multi-target RMS and single-target RMS (i.e., either RMS-CHSA or RMS-CHSB) and found no significant differences in RNAi efficiency. By using Cy3-labeled RMS, we confirmed that RMS can be rapidly internalized into Sf9 cells (<6 h). The rapid cellular uptake of RMS accompanied with significant RNAi efficiency through larval feeding suggests that the RCT-based RNAi system can be readily applied to study the gene functions and further developed as bio-pesticides for insect pest management. Additionally, our new RNAi system takes the advantage of the microRNA (miRNA)-mediated RNAi pathway using miRNA duplexes generated in vivo from the RMS by the target insect. The system can be used for RNAi in a wide range of insect species, including lepidopteran insects which often exhibit extremely low RNAi efficiency using other RNAi approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Zhu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Linghao Kong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Xinqian Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Jiazheng Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Xuhong Qian
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Yangyang Yang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China.
| | - Zhiping Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China.
| | - Kun Yan Zhu
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506-4004, USA
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Zhang C, Ding Y, Zhou M, Tang Y, Chen R, Chen Y, Wen Y, Wang S. RNAi-mediated CHS-2 silencing affects the synthesis of chitin and the formation of the peritrophic membrane in the midgut of Aedes albopictus larvae. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:259. [PMID: 37533099 PMCID: PMC10394979 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05865-3] [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: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mosquitoes are an important vector of viral transmission, and due to the complexity of the pathogens they transmit, vector control may be the most effective strategy to control mosquito-borne diseases. Chitin is required for insect growth and development and is absent in higher animals and plants, so regulating the chitin synthesis pathway can serve as a potentially effective means to control vector insects. Most of the current research on the chitin synthase (CHS) gene is focused on chitin synthase-1 (CHS-1), while relatively little is known about chitin synthase-2 (CHS-2). RESULTS The CHS-2 gene of Ae. albopictus is highly conserved and closely related to that of Aedes aegypti. The expression of CHS-2 in the third-instar larvae and pupal stage of Ae. albopictus was relatively high, and CHS-2 expression in adult mosquitoes reached the highest value 24 h after blood-feeding. In the fourth-instar larvae of Ae. albopictus, CHS-2 expression was significantly higher in the midgut than in the epidermis. Silencing CHS-2 in Ae. albopictus larvae had no effect on larval survival and emergence. The expression of four genes related to chitin synthesis enzymes was significantly upregulated, the expression level of three genes was unchanged, and only the expression level of GFAT was significantly downregulated. The expression of chitin metabolism-related genes was also upregulated after silencing. The level of chitin in the midgut of Ae. albopictus larvae was significantly decreased, while the chitinase activity was unchanged. The epithelium of the midgut showed vacuolization, cell invagination and partial cell rupture, and the structure of the peritrophic membrane was destroyed or even absent. METHODS The expression of CHS-2 in different developmental stages and tissues of Aedes albopictus was detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (qPCR). After silencing CHS-2 of the fourth-instar larvae of Ae. albopictus by RNA interference (RNAi), the expression levels of genes related to chitin metabolism, chitin content and chitinase activity in the larvae were detected. The structure of peritrophic membrane in the midgut of the fourth-instar larvae after silencing was observed by paraffin section and hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. CONCLUSION CHS-2 can affect midgut chitin synthesis and breakdown by regulating chitin metabolic pathway-related genes and is involved in the formation of the midgut peritrophic membrane in Ae. albopictus, playing an important role in growth and development. It may be a potential target for enhancing other control methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Zhang
- Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | | | - Min Zhou
- Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ya Tang
- Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Rufei Chen
- Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | | | - Yating Wen
- Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shigui Wang
- Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China.
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Chen Q, Sun M, Wang H, Liang X, Yin M, Lin T. Characterization of Chitin Synthase B Gene ( HvChsb) and the Effects on Feeding Behavior in Heortia vitessoides Moore. INSECTS 2023; 14:608. [PMID: 37504614 PMCID: PMC10380562 DOI: 10.3390/insects14070608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The chitin synthase B gene is a key enzyme in the chitin synthesis of insect peritrophic matrix (PM), which affects insects' feeding behavior. The chitin synthase B gene was cloned from the transcription library of Heortia vitessoides Moore. RT-qPCR showed that HvChsb was highly expressed in the larval stage of H. vitessoides, especially on the first day of the pre-pupal stage, as well as in the midgut of larvae and the abdomen of adults. After starvation treatment, HvChsb was found to be significantly inhibited over time. After 48 h of starvation, the feeding experiment showed that HvChsb increased with the prolongation of the re-feeding time. The experimental data showed that feeding affected the expression of HvChsb. HvChsb was effectively silenced via RNA interference; thus, its function was lost, significantly decreasing the survival rate of H. vitessoides. The survival rate from larval-to-pupal stages was only 43.33%, and this rate was accompanied by abnormal phenotypes. It can be seen that HvChsb plays a key role in the average growth and development of H. vitessoides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingling Chen
- College of Forestry and Landscape Architecture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Mingxu Sun
- College of Forestry and Landscape Architecture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Hanyang Wang
- College of Forestry and Landscape Architecture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xiaohan Liang
- College of Forestry and Landscape Architecture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Mingliang Yin
- College of Forestry and Landscape Architecture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Tong Lin
- College of Forestry and Landscape Architecture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
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Ren M, Lu J, Li D, Yang J, Zhang Y, Dong J, Niu Y, Zhou X, Zhang X. Identification and Functional Characterization of Two Chitin Synthases in the Black Cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY 2023; 116:574-583. [PMID: 36757382 DOI: 10.1093/jee/toac193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The black cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel), a seasonal migrant and a prolific generalist, can feed on nearly all vegetables and grain crops, causing considerable economic impacts on a global scale. Given its cryptic nature, A. ipsilon management has been extremely challenging. Chitin synthase (CHS), a key enzyme involved in chitin biosynthetic pathway and crucially important for the growth and development of insects, is the molecular target of chitin synthesis inhibitors, a group of broad-spectrum insecticides that is compatible with Integrated Pest Management practices. In this study, we investigated the potential of targeting chitin synthases to control A. ipsilon. As a result, two chitin synthases, AiCHS1 and AiCHS2, were identified and cloned from A. ipsilon. The temporal-spatial distribution study showed that AiCHS1 was predominantly expressed at the pupal stage and most abundant among tissues of head capsule and integument, while AiCHS2 was mainly expressed at the sixth instar larval stage and tissues of foregut and midgut. RNAi-based functional study confirmed gene silencing caused significant reduction in the expression levels of the corresponding mRNA, as well as resulted in abnormal pupation and mortality, respectively. Furthermore, under the treatment of lufenuron, a chitin synthesis inhibitor, A. ipsilon responded with an elevated expression in AiCHS1 and AiCHS2, while larvae showed difficulty in shedding old cuticle, and a cumulative mortality of 69.24% at 48 h. In summary, chitin synthases are crucial for chitin biosynthesis in A. ipsilon and can be targeted for the control (e.g., RNAi-based biopesticides) of this devastating insect pest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meifeng Ren
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Junjiao Lu
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Daqi Li
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jing Yang
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yuying Zhang
- College of Plant Protection, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Jinming Dong
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yanbing Niu
- College of Life Sciences, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
| | - Xuguo Zhou
- Department of Entomology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Xianhong Zhang
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, China
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Zhong F, Yu L, Jiang X, Chen Y, Wang S, Chao L, Jiang Z, He B, Xu C, Wang S, Tang B, Duan H, Wu Y. Potential inhibitory effects of compounds ZK-PI-5 and ZK-PI-9 on trehalose and chitin metabolism in Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith). Front Physiol 2023; 14:1178996. [PMID: 37064912 PMCID: PMC10090375 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1178996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction:Spodoptera frugiperda is an omnivorous agricultural pest which is great dangerous for grain output.Methods: In order to investigate the effects of potential trehalase inhibitors, ZK-PI-5 and ZK-PI-9, on the growth and development of S. frugiperda, and to identify new avenues for S. frugiperda control, we measured the content of the trehalose, glucose, glycogen and chitin, enzyme activity, and gene expression levels in trehalose and chitin metabolism of S. frugiperda. Besides, their growth and development were also observed.Results: The results showed that ZK-PI-9 significantly reduced trehalase activity and ZK-PI-5 significantly reduced membraned-bound trehalase activity. Moreover, ZK-PI-5 inhibited the expression of SfTRE2, SfCHS2, and SfCHT, thus affecting the chitin metabolism. In addition, the mortality of S. frugiperda in pupal stage and eclosion stage increased significantly after treatment with ZK-PI-5 and ZK-PI-9, which affected their development stage and caused death phenotype (abnormal pupation and difficulty in breaking pupa).Discussion: These results have provided a theoretical basis for the application of trehalase inhibitors in the control of agricultural pests to promote future global grain yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhong
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liuhe Yu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinyi Jiang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Chen
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Sitong Wang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lei Chao
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyang Jiang
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Biner He
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Caidi Xu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shigui Wang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bin Tang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Tang, ; Hongxia Duan, ; Yan Wu,
| | - Hongxia Duan
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Tang, ; Hongxia Duan, ; Yan Wu,
| | - Yan Wu
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, Department of Biology and Engineering of Environment, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Tang, ; Hongxia Duan, ; Yan Wu,
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Ribeiro TP, Vasquez DDN, Macedo LLP, Lourenço-Tessutti IT, Valença DC, Oliveira-Neto OB, Paes-de-Melo B, Rodrigues-Silva PL, Firmino AAP, Basso MF, Lins CBJ, Neves MR, Moura SM, Tripode BMD, Miranda JE, Silva MCM, Grossi-de-Sa MF. Stabilized Double-Stranded RNA Strategy Improves Cotton Resistance to CBW ( Anthonomus grandis). Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13713. [PMID: 36430188 PMCID: PMC9691246 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232213713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cotton is the most important crop for fiber production worldwide. However, the cotton boll weevil (CBW) is an insect pest that causes significant economic losses in infested areas. Current control methods are costly, inefficient, and environmentally hazardous. Herein, we generated transgenic cotton lines expressing double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) molecules to trigger RNA interference-mediated gene silencing in CBW. Thus, we targeted three essential genes coding for chitin synthase 2, vitellogenin, and ecdysis-triggering hormone receptor. The stability of expressed dsRNAs was improved by designing a structured RNA based on a viroid genome architecture. We transformed cotton embryos by inserting a promoter-driven expression cassette that overexpressed the dsRNA into flower buds. The transgenic cotton plants were characterized, and positive PCR transformed events were detected with an average heritability of 80%. Expression of dsRNAs was confirmed in floral buds by RT-qPCR, and the T1 cotton plant generation was challenged with fertilized CBW females. After 30 days, data showed high mortality (around 70%) in oviposited yolks. In adult insects fed on transgenic lines, chitin synthase II and vitellogenin showed reduced expression in larvae and adults, respectively. Developmental delays and abnormalities were also observed in these individuals. Our data remark on the potential of transgenic cotton based on a viroid-structured dsRNA to control CBW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuanne P. Ribeiro
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- Biotechnology and Molecular Biology Department, Federal University of Brasilia (UnB), Brasilia 70910-900, DF, Brazil
| | - Daniel D. N. Vasquez
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- Genetic and Molecular Biology Department, Catholic University of Brasilia (UCB), Brasilia 71966-700, DF, Brazil
| | - Leonardo L. P. Macedo
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | - Isabela T. Lourenço-Tessutti
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | - David C. Valença
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | - Osmundo B. Oliveira-Neto
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Integrated Faculties of the Educational Union of Planalto Central, Brasilia 70675-760, DF, Brazil
| | - Bruno Paes-de-Melo
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | | | - Alexandre A. P. Firmino
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- Max Planck Institute Molecular Plant Physiol, 14476 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Marcos F. Basso
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | - Camila B. J. Lins
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | - Maysa R. Neves
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | - Stefanie M. Moura
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | | | | | - Maria C. M. Silva
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | - Maria F. Grossi-de-Sa
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- Genetic and Molecular Biology Department, Catholic University of Brasilia (UCB), Brasilia 71966-700, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
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Lu Q, Cui H, Li W, Liu T, Chen Q, Yang Q. Synthetic Nanoscale RNAi Constructs as Pesticides for the Control of Locust Migratoria. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2022; 70:10762-10770. [PMID: 36000580 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c04195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The low efficiency of RNA interference (RNAi) in insects via the oral administration of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is a considerable obstacle preventing its application in insect pest control. The instability of dsRNA and insufficient dsRNA uptake are known to limit the RNAi efficiency. To overcome these limitations, the block copolymer poly(ethylene glycol)-polylysine(thiol) [PEG-PLys(SH)] was designed in this study to form well-defined, core-shell nanoparticles to protect dsRNA from premature degradation and to facilitate its movement through various physiological barriers. The developed material had excellent structural stability and dsRNA-protecting capacity, thereby enabling the prolonged survival of dsRNA in the digestive tract for endocytosis into the midgut cells of the migratory locust, Locusta migratoria. After encapsulation of a dsLmCHS2 payload (a midgut gene), a 60% down-regulation of LmCHS2, accompanied with observations of amorphous and discontinuous linings of the peritrophic matrix and abnormal phenotypes, was observed. In addition, the elaborated nanoscale dsRNA condensates appeared to readily extravasate through the narrow fenestrations in the linings of midgut epithelial cells into the hemolymph and be distributed throughout the body. After encapsulation of a dsLmCHS1 payload (a cuticle gene), a distinctive lethal phenotype with molting failure was observed as a result of a 50% down-regulation in LmCHS1. The persistent leaf adherence of these dsRNA constructs was also capable of resisting continuous rinsing. Therefore, these dsRNA constructs represent a robust type of RNAi pesticide, which has potential as a versatile pesticide against a variety of molecular targets for the control of destructive insects and insects resistant to conventional pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Lu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Hongyan Cui
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Wenda Li
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Tian Liu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Qixian Chen
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Qing Yang
- Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen Branch, Shenzhen 518120, China
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
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Spatial Distribution and Retention in Loblolly Pine Seedlings of Exogenous dsRNAs Applied through Roots. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169167. [PMID: 36012434 PMCID: PMC9409306 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Exogenously applied double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) can induce potent host specific gene knockdown and mortality in insects. The deployment of RNA-interference (RNAi) technologies for pest suppression is gaining traction in both agriculture and horticulture, but its implementation in forest systems is lagging. While numerous forest pests have demonstrated susceptibility to RNAi mediated gene silencing, including the southern pine beetle (SPB), Dendroctonus frontalis, multiple barriers stand between laboratory screening and real-world deployment. One such barrier is dsRNA delivery. One possible delivery method is through host plants, but an understanding of exogenous dsRNA movement through plant tissues is essential. Therefore, we sought to understand the translocation and persistence of dsRNAs designed for SPB throughout woody plant tissues after hydroponic exposure. Loblolly pine, Pinus taeda, seedlings were exposed to dsRNAs as a root soak, followed by destructive sampling. Total RNA was extracted from different tissue types including root, stem, crown, needle, and meristem, after which gel electrophoresis confirmed the recovery of the exogenous dsRNAs, which were further verified using Sanger sequencing. Both techniques confirmed the presence of the exogenously applied target dsRNAs in each tissue type after 1, 3, 5, and 7 d of dsRNA exposure. These findings suggest that root drench applications of exogenous dsRNAs could provide a viable delivery route for RNAi technology designed to combat tree feeding pests.
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9
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Molecular Characterization of UDP- N-Acetylglucosamine Pyrophosphorylase and Its Role in the Growth and Development of the White-Backed Planthopper Sogatella furcifera (Hemiptera: Delphacidae). Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13081340. [PMID: 35893078 PMCID: PMC9332809 DOI: 10.3390/genes13081340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
UDP-N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylase (UAP) is a key enzyme in the chitin biosynthesis pathway of insects. Here, we described the gene SfUAP in the white-backed planthopper Sogatella furcifera (Horváth) with an open reading frame of 1470 bp. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) suggested that SfUAP exhibits a different developmental expression pattern and a higher expression after molting. The highest expression of SfUAP was observed in the integument tissues of adults, whereas head tissues showed negligible expression. RNAi-based gene silencing decreased the mRNA transcript levels in S. furcifera nymphs injected with double-stranded RNA of SfUAP. Finally, SfUAP silencing led to 84% mortality and malformed phenotypes in nymphs. Thus, our results can help better understand the role of SfUAP in S. furcifera.
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Zhu W, Duan Y, Chen J, Merzendorfer H, Zou X, Yang Q. SERCA interacts with chitin synthase and participates in cuticular chitin biogenesis in Drosophila. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 145:103783. [PMID: 35525402 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2022.103783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The biogenesis of chitin, a major structural polysaccharide found in the cuticle and peritrophic matrix, is crucial for insect growth and development. Chitin synthase, a membrane-integral β-glycosyltransferase, has been identified as the core of the chitin biogenesis machinery. However, a yet unknown number of auxiliary proteins appear to assist in chitin biosynthesis, whose precise function remains elusive. Here, we identified a sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA), in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, as a chitin biogenesis-associated protein. The physical interaction between DmSERCA and epidermal chitin synthase (Krotzkopf verkehrt, Kkv) was demonstrated and analyzed using split-ubiquitin membrane yeast two-hybrid, bimolecular fluorescent complementation, pull-down, and immunoprecipitation assays. The interaction involves N-terminal regions (aa 48-81 and aa 247-33) and C-terminal regions (aa 743-783 and aa 824-859) of DmSERCA and two N-terminal regions (aa 121-179 and aa 369-539) of Kkv, all of which are predicted be transmembrane helices. While tissue-specific knock-down of DmSERCA in the epidermis caused larval and pupal lethality, the knock-down of DmSERCA in wings resulted in smaller and crinkled wings, a significant decrease in chitin deposition, and the loss of chitin lamellar structure. Although DmSERCA is well-known for its role in muscular contraction, this study reveals a novel role in chitin synthesis, contributing to our knowledge on the machinery of chitin biogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixing Zhu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2, Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Yanwei Duan
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2, Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Jiqiang Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Hans Merzendorfer
- Institute of Biology, University of Siegen, Adolf-Reichwein-Strasse 2, Siegen, 57068, Germany
| | - Xu Zou
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Qing Yang
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2, Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China; State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, China; Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No 7 Pengfei Road, Shenzhen, 518120, China.
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Chitin and cuticle proteins form the cuticular layer in the spinning duct of silkworm. Acta Biomater 2022; 145:260-271. [PMID: 35364319 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.03.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Chitin is found in the exoskeleton and peritrophic matrix of arthropods, but recent studies have also identified chitin in the spinning duct of silk-spinning arthropods. Here, we report the presence and function of chitin and cuticle proteins ASSCP1 and ASSCP2 in the spinning duct of silkworm. We show that chitin and these proteins are co-located in the cuticular layer of the spinning duct. Ultrastructural analysis indicates that the cuticular layer has a multilayer structure by layered stacking of the chitin laminae. After knocking down ASSCP1 and ASSCP2, the fine structure of this layer was disrupted, which had negative impacts on the mechanical properties of silk. This work clarifies the function of chitin in the spinning duct of silkworm. Chitin and cuticle proteins are the main components of the cuticular layer, providing the shearing stress during silk fibrillogenesis and regulating the final mechanical properties of silk. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Recent studies have identified chitin in the spinning duct of silk-spinning arthropods. However, the role of chitin in this specific organ remains unclear. This study reports that chitin and cuticle proteins form the cuticular layer, a unique structure of the spinning duct of silkworm. This layer with a precise laminate structure gives the spinning duct flexible properties, provides shearing forces for silk fibrillogenesis, and contributes to silk final mechanical properties. Our work clarifies the component, ultrastructure, and biological significance of the silkworm cuticular layer, describes the specific process of silk fiber formation, and proposes new molecular targets (chitin and cuticle proteins) for the improvement of animal silks.
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Glucosamine-6-phosphate N-acetyltransferase gene silencing by parental RNA interference in rice leaf folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). Sci Rep 2022; 12:2141. [PMID: 35136178 PMCID: PMC8825807 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06193-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Parental RNAi (pRNAi) is a response of RNA interference in which treated insect pests progenies showed a gene silencing phenotypes. pRNAi of CmGNA gene has been studied in Cnaphalocrocis medinalis via injection. Our results showed significant reduction in ovulation per female that was 26% and 35.26% in G1 and G2 generations, respectively. Significant reduction of hatched eggs per female were observed 23.53% and 45.26% as compared to control in G1–G2 generations, respectively. We also observed the significant variation in the sex ratio between female (40% and 53%) in G1–G2 generations, and in male (65%) in G1 generation as compared to control. Our results also demonstrated the significant larval mortality (63% and 55%) and pupal mortality (55% and 41%), and significant reduction of mRNA expression level in G1 and G2 generations. Our findings have confirmed that effectiveness of pRNAi induced silencing on the CmGNA target gene in G1–G2 generations of C. medinalis. These results suggested the potential role of pRNAi in insect pest resistance management strategies.
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Ossa Ossa GA, Villegas Estrada B, Valencia Jiménez A. CARACTERIZACIÓN Y DISMINUCIÓN EN LA EXPRESIÓN DE UNA QUITINA SINTASA MEDIADA POR ARNi EN Hypothenemus hampei (CURCULIONIDAE). ACTA BIOLÓGICA COLOMBIANA 2021. [DOI: 10.15446/abc.v27n2.89981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
La broca del café, Hypothenemus hampei, es un insecto plaga que causa daños significativos al grano de café y grandes pérdidas económicas a los productores en todo el mundo. Al igual que otros insectos, la broca de café requiere de quitina sintasas (CHS) para la biosíntesis de la quitina, componente principal del exoesqueleto del insecto, y de vital importancia para su crecimiento y desarrollo. En este estudio, el gen CHS1 de la broca del café (HhCHS1) fue identificado, caracterizado y posteriormente silenciado mediante el uso de ARNi, mecanismo que permite degradar el ARNm e interrumpir la expresión de proteínas de interés en un organismo. Los perfiles de expresión del gen HhCHS1, medidos por RT-qPCR, mostraron niveles de expresión diferencial en las diferentes etapas del desarrollo del insecto. Los niveles más altos de expresión se encontraron en larvas de segundo estadio (L2) y machos adultos. El ARNcd administrado por vía oral, a concentraciones de 2 µg/100 µL, generó un silenciamiento efectivo del gen HhCHS1 (84 %) después de 7 días de tratamiento. Estos resultados sugieren que el gen HhCHS1 desempeña un papel importante en el desarrollo del insecto, y que, por ende, podría usarse como objetivo para desarrollar nuevas estrategias de manejo de este insecto plaga, mediante el uso de ARNi.
Palabras Clave: ARNcd, café, insecto plaga, quitina-sintasa, RT-qPCR.
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Jiang LH, Mu LL, Jin L, Anjum AA, Li GQ. RNAi for chitin synthase 1 rather than 2 causes growth delay and molting defect in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 178:104934. [PMID: 34446203 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2021.104934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Chitin synthase (CHS) plays a critical role in chitin synthesis and excretion. In most insects, CHSs have been segregated into 1 and 2 classes. CHS1 is responsible for chitin production in the ectodermally-derived epidermal cells. CHS2 is dedicated to chitin biosynthesis in the midgut peritrophic matrix (PM). Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata is a serious pest of Solanaceae and Cucurbitaceae plants. In this study, we identified HvCHS1 and HvCHS2. We found that HvCHS1 was abundantly transcribed in the larval tracheae and epidermis, whereas HvCHS2 was mainly expressed in the guts. Escherichia coli HT115 expressed double stranded RNAs targeting HvCHS1 and HvCHS2 (dsCHS1 and dsCHS2) were used to immerse potato foliage and the treated leaves were provided to the newly-molted fourth- and third-instar larvae. Ingestion of dsCHS1 by the fourth-instar larvae significantly diminished the target mRNA level and had slight influence on the expression of HvCHS2. In contrast, consumption of dsCHS2 significantly lowered the target mRNA level but triggered the transcription of HvCHS1. Knockdown of HvCHS1, rather than HvCHS2, arrested larval development and impaired larva-pupa-adult transition. A large proportion of HvCHS1 hypomorphs became stunting prepupae, deformed pupae or misshapen adults. Moreover, knockdown of HvCHS1 damaged gut integrity, decreased cuticle thickness, and delayed the formation of newly-generated cuticle layer during ecdysis. Furthermore, depletion of HvCHS1 inhibited the development of trachea system and thinned tracheal taenidia. Ingestion of dsCHS1 at the third-instar stage caused similar but severe negative effects. Our results demonstrated that HvCHS1 is responsible for chitin biosynthesis during ecdysis. Moreover, HvCHS1 is a potential amenable target gene and young larvae are more susceptible to dsRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Hong Jiang
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Li-Li Mu
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Lin Jin
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Ahmad Ali Anjum
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Guo-Qing Li
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
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15
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Physiological characterization of chitin synthase A responsible for the biosynthesis of cuticle chitin in Culex pipiens pallens (Diptera: Culicidae). Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:234. [PMID: 33933137 PMCID: PMC8088658 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04741-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The pathogens transmitted by mosquitoes to humans and animals cause several emerging and resurgent infectious diseases. Increasing insecticide resistance requires rational action to control the target vector population. Chitin is indispensable for insect growth and development and absent from vertebrates and higher plants. Chitin synthase A (CHSA) is a crucial enzyme in chitin synthesis; therefore, identifying and characterizing how CHSA determines chitin content may contribute to the development of novel vector control strategies. Results The injection of small interfering RNA targeting CHSA (siCHSA) to knockdown CHSA transcripts in larval, pupal and adult stages of Culex pipiens pallens resulted in the appearance of different lethal phenotypes. When larval and pupal stages were injected with siCHSA, CHSA knockdown prevented larval molting, pupation and adult eclosion, and affected the production of chitin and chitin degradation, which resulted in an ecdysis defect phenotype of mosquitoes. When siCHSA was injected into mosquitoes in the adult stage, CHSA knockdown also affected the laminar organization of the mesoderm and the formation of pseudo-orthogonal patterns of the large fibers of the endoderm. Conclusion We provide a systematic and comprehensive description of the effects of CHSA on morphogenesis and metamorphosis. The results show that CHSA not only affects chitin synthesis during molting, but also might be involved in chitin degradation. Our results further show that CHSA is important for the structural integrity of the adult mosquito cuticle. Graphic abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04741-2.
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Lin YB, Rong JJ, Wei XF, Sui ZX, Xiao J, Huang DW. Proteomics and ultrastructural analysis of Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) larval peritrophic matrix. Proteome Sci 2021; 19:7. [PMID: 33836751 PMCID: PMC8035744 DOI: 10.1186/s12953-021-00175-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) has significant economic potential. The larvae can be used in financially viable waste management systems, as they are voracious feeders able to efficiently convert low-quality waste into valuable biomass. However, most studies on H. illucens in recent decades have focused on optimizing their breeding and bioconversion conditions, while information on their biology is limited. METHODS About 200 fifth instar well-fed larvae were sacrificed in this work. The liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and scanning electron microscopy were employed in this study to perform a proteomic and ultrastructural analysis of the peritrophic matrix (PM) of H. illucens larvae. RESULTS A total of 565 proteins were identified in the PM samples of H. illucen, of which 177 proteins were predicted to contain signal peptides, bioinformatics analysis and manual curation determined 88 proteins may be associated with the PM, with functions in digestion, immunity, PM modulation, and others. The ultrastructure of the H. illucens larval PM observed by scanning electron microscopy shows a unique diamond-shaped chitin grid texture. CONCLUSIONS It is the first and most comprehensive proteomics research about the PM of H. illucens larvae to date. All the proteins identified in this work has been discussed in details, except several unnamed or uncharacterized proteins, which should not be ignored and need further study. A comparison of the ultrastructure between H. illucens larval PM and those of other insects as observed by SEM indicates that the PM displays diverse textures on an ultra-micro scale and we suscept a unique diamond-shaped chitin grid texture may help H. illucens larval to hold more food. This work deepens our understanding of the molecular architecture and ultrastructure of the H. illucens larval PM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Bo Lin
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jing-Jing Rong
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xun-Fan Wei
- Institute of Entomology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Zhuo-Xiao Sui
- Institute of Entomology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Jinhua Xiao
- Institute of Entomology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Da-Wei Huang
- Institute of Entomology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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Fang Y, Park MG, Choi JY, Park DH, Wang M, Kim HJ, Kim WJ, Je YH. Insecticidal and synergistic activity of dsRNAs targeting buprofezin-specific genes against the small brown planthopper, Laodelphax striatellus. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 105:e21739. [PMID: 32929790 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21739] [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: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The small brown planthopper, Laodelphax striatellus, is a dangerous pest in rice fields. Although buprofezin has been used to control L. striatellus for more than a decade, the occurrence of buprofezin-resistant L. striatellus has been recently reported. To develop an alternative pest control strategy, comparative transcriptome analysis of buprofezin-treated and nontreated L. striatellus was performed to screen the buprofezin-specific target genes for RNA interference (RNAi) application. Among six genes downregulated in the buprofezin-treated L. striatellus, RNAi-based silencing of the lipophorin precursor, endocuticle structure glycoprotein, and chitin synthase significantly induced the lethality of L. striatellus in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, a cocktail of double-stranded RNAs against these three genes showed synergistic effects with buprofezin. These results provide RNAi-based effective approaches to control L. striatellus as well as an efficient method to identify novel target genes for RNAi application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Fang
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min G Park
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Y Choi
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong H Park
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Minghui Wang
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun J Kim
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo J Kim
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon H Je
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute for Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Shao ZM, Li YJ, Ding JH, Liu ZX, Zhang XR, Wang J, Sheng S, Wu FA. Identification, Characterization, and Functional Analysis of Chitin Synthase Genes in Glyphodes pyloalis Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21134656. [PMID: 32629944 PMCID: PMC7370082 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21134656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Glyphodes pyloalis Walker (G. pyloalis) causes significant damage to mulberry every year, and we currently lack effective and environmentally friendly ways to control the pest. Chitin synthase (CHS) is a critical regulatory enzyme related to chitin biosynthesis, which plays a vital role in the growth and development of insects. The function of CHS in G. pyloalis, however, has not been studied. In this study, two chitin synthase genes (GpCHSA and GpCHSB) were screened from our previously created transcriptome database. The complete coding sequences of the two genes are 5,955 bp and 5,896 bp, respectively. Expression of GpCHSA and GpCHSB could be detected throughout all developmental stages. Relatively high expression levels of GpCHSA occurred in the head and integument and GpCHSB was most highly expressed in the midgut. Moreover, silencing of GpCHSA and GpCHSB using dsRNA reduced expression of downstream chitin metabolism pathway genes and resulted in abnormal development and wings stretching, but did not affect normal pupating of larvae. Furthermore, the inhibitor of chitin synthesis diflubenzuron (DFB) was used to further validate the RNAi result. DFB treatment significantly improved expression of GpCHSA, except GpCHSB, and their downstream genes, and also effected G. Pyloali molting at 48 h (62% mortality rate) and 72 h (90% mortality rate), respectively. These results show that GpCHSA and GpCHSB play critical roles in the development and wing stretching in G. pyloalis adults, indicating that the genes are attractive potential pest control targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuo-Min Shao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-M.S.); (Y.-J.L.); (J.-H.D.); (Z.-X.L.); (X.-R.Z.); (J.W.); (S.S.)
| | - Yi-Jiangcheng Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-M.S.); (Y.-J.L.); (J.-H.D.); (Z.-X.L.); (X.-R.Z.); (J.W.); (S.S.)
| | - Jian-Hao Ding
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-M.S.); (Y.-J.L.); (J.-H.D.); (Z.-X.L.); (X.-R.Z.); (J.W.); (S.S.)
| | - Zhi-Xiang Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-M.S.); (Y.-J.L.); (J.-H.D.); (Z.-X.L.); (X.-R.Z.); (J.W.); (S.S.)
| | - Xiao-Rui Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-M.S.); (Y.-J.L.); (J.-H.D.); (Z.-X.L.); (X.-R.Z.); (J.W.); (S.S.)
| | - Jun Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-M.S.); (Y.-J.L.); (J.-H.D.); (Z.-X.L.); (X.-R.Z.); (J.W.); (S.S.)
- Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Mulberry Genetic Improvement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sericultural Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Zhenjiang 212018, China
| | - Sheng Sheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-M.S.); (Y.-J.L.); (J.-H.D.); (Z.-X.L.); (X.-R.Z.); (J.W.); (S.S.)
- Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Mulberry Genetic Improvement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sericultural Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Zhenjiang 212018, China
| | - Fu-An Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-M.S.); (Y.-J.L.); (J.-H.D.); (Z.-X.L.); (X.-R.Z.); (J.W.); (S.S.)
- Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Mulberry Genetic Improvement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sericultural Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Zhenjiang 212018, China
- Correspondence:
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19
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Shao ZM, Li YJ, Zhang XR, Chu J, Ma JH, Liu ZX, Wang J, Sheng S, Wu FA. Identification and Functional Study of Chitin Metabolism and Detoxification-Related Genes in Glyphodes pyloalis Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) Based on Transcriptome Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051904. [PMID: 32164390 PMCID: PMC7084822 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Glyphodes pyloalis Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralididae) is a serious pest in the sericulture industry, which has caused damage and losses in recent years. With the widespread use of insecticides, the insecticide resistance of G. pyloalis has becomes increasingly apparent. In order to find other effective methods to control G. pyloalis, this study performed a transcriptome analysis of the midgut, integument, and whole larvae. Transcriptome data were annotated with KEGG and GO, and they have been shown to be of high quality by RT-qPCR. The different significant categories of differentially expressed genes between the midgut and the integument suggested that the transcriptome data could be used for next analysis. With the exception of Dda9 (GpCDA5), 19 genes were involved in chitin metabolism, most of which had close protein–protein interactions. Among them, the expression levels of 11 genes, including GpCHSA, GpCDA1, GpCDA2, GpCDA4, GPCHT1, GPCHT2a, GPCHT3a, GPCHT7, GpTre1, GpTre2, and GpRtv were higher in the integument than in the midgut, while the expression levels of the last eight genes, including GpCHSB, GpCDA5, GpCHT2b, GpCHT3b, GpCHT-h, GpPAGM, GpNAGK, and GpUAP, were higher in the midgut than in the integument. Moreover, 282 detoxification-related genes were identified and can be divided into 10 categories, including cytochrome P450, glutathione S-transferase, carboxylesterase, nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, aquaporin, chloride channel, methoprene-tolerant, serine protease inhibitor, sodium channel, and calcium channel. In order to further study the function of chitin metabolism-related genes, dsRNA injection knocked down the expression of GpCDA1 and GpCHT3a, resulting in the significant downregulation of its downstream genes. These results provide an overview of chitin metabolism and detoxification of G. pyloalis and lay the foundation for the effective control of this pest in the sericulture industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuo-min Shao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Yi-jiangcheng Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Xiao-rui Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Jie Chu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Jia-hui Ma
- Zhenjiang Runshen Sericulture Development Co., Ltd, Zhenjiang 212001, China;
| | - Zhi-xiang Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Jun Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
- The Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Mulberry Genetic Improvement, Ministry of Agriculture, Sericultural Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Zhenjiang 212018, China
| | - Sheng Sheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
- The Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Mulberry Genetic Improvement, Ministry of Agriculture, Sericultural Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Zhenjiang 212018, China
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (F.-a.W.)
| | - Fu-an Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
- The Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Mulberry Genetic Improvement, Ministry of Agriculture, Sericultural Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Zhenjiang 212018, China
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (F.-a.W.)
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Rana S, Rajurkar AB, Kumar KK, Mohankumar S. Comparative Analysis of Chitin SynthaseA dsRNA Mediated RNA Interference for Management of Crop Pests of Different Families of Lepidoptera. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2020; 11:427. [PMID: 32362904 PMCID: PMC7182115 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2020.00427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a sequence-specific down-regulation in the expression of a particular gene, induced by double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). Feeding of dsRNA either directly or through transgenic plants expressing dsRNA of insect genes has been proven successful against lepidopteran and coleopteran pests, establishing an additional alternative to control insect pests. Lepidopteran crop pests including Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) (Noctuidae), Chilo partellus (Swinhoe) (Crambidae), Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus) (Plutellidae), and Maruca vitrata (Fabricius) (Pyralidae) are the devastating pests of a variety of crops. To tap the potential of RNAi against insect pests, a gene coding for the key enzyme in chitin biosynthesis in arthropods, the chitin synthaseA (CHSA), has been targeted through an exogenous delivery of dsRNA and plant-mediated RNAi. The introduction of dsCHSA caused "Half ecdysis" and "Black body" type lethal phenotypes and a significant reduction in larval body weight. Subsequent RT-qPCR analysis demonstrated the down-regulation of CHSA gene transcripts from 1.38- to 8.33-fold in the four target species. Meanwhile, when S. litura larvae fed with leaves of transgenic tobacco plants expressing dsSlCHSA, the mRNA abundance of CHSA gene was significantly decreased resulting in lethal phenotypes like "Double head formation," "Half ecdysis," and "Black body." In addition, abnormalities in pupal-adult and adult stage were also documented, strongly suggesting the RNAi effect of CHSA gene at late developmental stages. Overall, the results demonstrated that CHSA gene expression in Lepidopteran crop pests could be suppressed by application of dsRNA either as feeding or through transgenic crop plants.
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Yang X, Yin Q, Xu Y, Li X, Sun Y, Ma L, Zhou D, Shen B. Molecular and physiological characterization of the chitin synthase B gene isolated from Culex pipiens pallens (Diptera: Culicidae). Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:614. [PMID: 31888727 PMCID: PMC6937787 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3867-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The growth and development of insects is strictly dependent on the precise regulation of chitin synthase (CHS), which is absent in vertebrates and plants. Therefore, CHS represents an attractive target for insecticides. At present, the research on the CHS gene in mosquitoes, especially its biological functions, remains limited. RESULTS The full-length cDNA of the chitin synthase B gene in Culex pipiens pallens (CpCHSB) was prepared and consists of 5158 nucleotides with an open reading frame (ORF) of 4722 nucleotides encoding a protein of 1573 amino acid residues. Among different tissues, CpCHSB gene is mainly expressed in the midgut tissue with the highest expression in adult mosquitoes. Knockdown of CpCHSB in the larval stage significantly lowered the chitin content (16.5%) decreased body size (reduced by 25.6% in the larval stage and by 25.6% in the adult stage), and diminished reproduction (20%). Injecting siCHSB into adult mosquito mainly decreased reproduction (27%). CONCLUSIONS CpCHSB plays essential roles in growth and development, by severely reducing larval chitin content, midgut permeability, and reducing the number of female mosquito offspring. These results indicate that CHSB may serve as a potential novel target for exploring biosafe insecticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoshan Yang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qi Yin
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xixi Li
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lei Ma
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dan Zhou
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Bo Shen
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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Liu X, Cooper AMW, Yu Z, Silver K, Zhang J, Zhu KY. Progress and prospects of arthropod chitin pathways and structures as targets for pest management. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 161:33-46. [PMID: 31685194 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2019.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Chitin is a structural component of the arthropod cuticular exoskeleton and the peritrophic matrix of the gut, which play crucial roles in growth and development. In the past few decades, our understanding of the composition, biosynthesis, assembly, degradation, and regulation of chitinous structures has increased. Many chemicals have been developed that target chitin biosynthesis (benzoyphenyl ureas, etoxazole), chitin degradation (allosamidin, psammaplin), and chitin regulation (benzoyl hydrazines), thus resulting in molting deformities and lethality. In addition, proteins that disrupt chitin structures, such as lectins, proteases, and chitinases have been utilized to halt feeding and induce mortality. Chitin-degrading enzymes, such as chitinases are also useful for improving the efficacy of bio-insecticides. Transgenic plants, baculoviruses, fungi, and bacteria have been engineered to express chitinases from a variety of organisms for control of arthropod pests. In addition, RNA interference targeting genes involved in chitin pathways and structures are now being investigated for the development of environmentally friendly pest management strategies. This review describes the chemicals and proteins used to target chitin structures and enzymes for arthropod pest management, as well as pest management strategies based upon these compounds, such as plant-incorporated-protectants and recombinant entomopathogens. Recent advances in RNA interference-based pest management, and how this technology can be used to target chitin pathways and structures are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojian Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | | | - Zhitao Yu
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Kristopher Silver
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China.
| | - Kun Yan Zhu
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
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23
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Hegedus DD, Toprak U, Erlandson M. Peritrophic matrix formation. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 117:103898. [PMID: 31211963 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2019.103898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dwayne D Hegedus
- Molecular Genetics Section, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Saskatoon, SK, Canada; Department of Food and Bioproduct Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
| | - Umut Toprak
- Molecular Genetics Section, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Saskatoon, SK, Canada; Department of Food and Bioproduct Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada; Molecular Entomology Laboratory, College of Agriculture, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Martin Erlandson
- Molecular Genetics Section, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Saskatoon, SK, Canada; Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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Yu RR, Liu WM, Zhao XM, Zhang M, Li DQ, Zuber R, Ma EB, Zhu KY, Moussian B, Zhang JZ. LmCDA1 organizes the cuticle by chitin deacetylation in Locusta migratoria. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 28:301-312. [PMID: 30471154 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Cells produce an extracellular matrix (ECM) with a stereotypic organization that is important for tissue function. The insect cuticle is a layered ECM that mainly consists of the polysaccharide chitin and associated proteins adopting a quasi-crystalline structure. Our understanding of the molecular mechanisms deployed during construction of the highly ordered protein-chitin ECM so far is limited. In this study, we report on the role of the chitin deacetylase 1 (LmCDA1) in the organization of the protein-chitin ECM in the migratory locust Locusta migratoria, and LmCDA1 localizes predominantly to the apical tier of the protein-chitin ECM, but it is also found in lower regions. Reduction of LmCDA1 function correlates with lower amounts of chitin and impedes conversion of chitin to chitosan by deacetylation. Establishment of the quasi-crystalline architecture of the protein-chitin ECM is, however, independent of LmCDA1 activity, but it is dependent on another chitin deacetylase, LmCDA2, which has no detectable effects on chitin deacetylation and, as shown previously, no influence on chitin content. Our data reveal that LmCDA1 and LmCDA2 act in parallel and independently from each other in defining the dimensions of the cuticle. Both enzymes are non-uniformly distributed within the protein-chitin matrix, suggesting a site-autonomous function.
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Affiliation(s)
- R-R Yu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
- Department of Biology, Taiyuan Normal University, Taiyuan, China
| | - W-M Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - X-M Zhao
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - M Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - D-Q Li
- Institute of Plant Protection, Shanxi Academy of Agricultural Science, Taiyuan, China
| | - R Zuber
- Angewandte Zoologie, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - E-B Ma
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - K Y Zhu
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - B Moussian
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, iBV, Parc Valrose, Nice CEDEX 2, France
| | - J-Z Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
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25
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Liu X, Cooper AMW, Zhang J, Zhu KY. Biosynthesis, modifications and degradation of chitin in the formation and turnover of peritrophic matrix in insects. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 114:109-115. [PMID: 30902530 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2019.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The peritrophic matrix (PM) is an extracellular, semi-permeable biocomposite that lines the midgut of most insects. The PM serves as the first defense in the midgut to resist microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria and other pathogens, and to protect epithelial cells from mechanical damage. The PM also separates the midgut lumen into different compartments, which play important roles in nutrient ingestion and digestion. The PM is a highly dynamic structure that consists mainly of chitin fibers cross-linked by proteins, glycoproteins, and proteoglycans. The PM is continuously biosynthesized, assembled, and degraded in response to feeding and development. Chitin chains are synthesized by several enzymes and organized in several hierarchical levels, in which various PM-associated proteins appear to be essential for maintaining the structural integrity and physiological function of the PM. This review summarizes research advances on molecular components of the PM and their functions, as well as related proteins and enzymes that contribute to PM formation and modification. Crucial gaps in our current understanding of the PM are also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojian Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | | | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China.
| | - Kun Yan Zhu
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
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26
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Wang Z, Yang H, Zhou C, Yang WJ, Jin DC, Long GY. Molecular cloning, expression, and functional analysis of the chitin synthase 1 gene and its two alternative splicing variants in the white-backed planthopper, Sogatella furcifera (Hemiptera: Delphacidae). Sci Rep 2019; 9:1087. [PMID: 30705372 PMCID: PMC6355952 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-37488-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Chitin synthase is responsible for chitin synthesis in the cuticles and cuticular linings of other tissues in insects. We cloned two alternative splicing variants of the chitin synthase 1 gene (SfCHS1) from the white-backed planthopper, Sogatella furcifera. The full-length cDNA of the two variants (SfCHS1a and SfCHS1b) consists of 6408 bp, contains a 4719-bp open reading frame encoding 1572 amino acids, and has 5′ and 3′ non-coding regions of 283 and 1406 bp, respectively. The two splicing variants occur at the same position in the cDNA sequence between base pairs 4115 and 4291, and consist of 177 nucleotides that encode 59 amino acids but show 74.6% identity at the amino acid level. Analysis in different developmental stages showed that expression of SfCHS1 and SfCHS1a were highest just after molting, whereas SfCHS1b reached its highest expression level 2 days after molting. Further, SfCHS1 and SfCHS1a were mainly expressed in the integument, whereas SfCHS1b was predominately expressed in the gut and fat body. RNAi-based gene silencing inhibited transcript levels of the corresponding mRNAs in S. furcifera nymphs injected with double-stranded RNA of SfCHS1, SfCHS1a, and SfCHS1b, resulted in malformed phenotypes, and killed most of the treated nymphs. Our results indicate that SfCHS1 may be a potential target gene for RNAi-based S. furcifera control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Wang
- Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Regions, Guiyang, 550025, P. R. China.,College of Environment and Life Sciences, Kaili University, Kaili, 556011, P. R. China
| | - Hong Yang
- Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Regions, Guiyang, 550025, P. R. China. .,College of Tobacco Science of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, P. R. China.
| | - Cao Zhou
- Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Regions, Guiyang, 550025, P. R. China
| | - Wen-Jia Yang
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insects of the Mountainous Region, College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang, 550005, P. R. China
| | - Dao-Chao Jin
- Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Regions, Guiyang, 550025, P. R. China.
| | - Gui-Yun Long
- Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Regions, Guiyang, 550025, P. R. China
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27
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Liu X, Zhang J, Zhu KY. Chitin in Arthropods: Biosynthesis, Modification, and Metabolism. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1142:169-207. [PMID: 31102247 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-7318-3_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Chitin is a structural constituent of extracellular matrices including the cuticle of the exoskeleton and the peritrophic matrix (PM) of the midgut in arthropods. Chitin chains are synthesized through multiple biochemical reactions, organized in several hierarchical levels and associated with various proteins that give their unique physicochemical characteristics of the cuticle and PM. Because, arthropod growth and morphogenesis are dependent on the capability of remodeling chitin-containing structures, chitin biosynthesis and degradation are highly regulated, allowing ecdysis and regeneration of the cuticle and PM. Over the past 20 years, much progress has been made in understanding the physiological functions of chitinous matrices. In this chapter, we mainly discussed the biochemical processes of chitin biosynthesis, modification and degradation, and various enzymes involved in these processes. We also discussed cuticular proteins and PM proteins, which largely determine the physicochemical properties of the cuticle and PM. Although rapid advances in genomics, proteomics, RNA interference, and other technologies have considerably facilitated our research in chitin biosynthesis, modification, and metabolism in recent years, many aspects of these processes are still partially understood. Further research is needed in understanding how the structural organization of chitin synthase in plasma membrane accommodate chitin biosynthesis, transport of chitin chain across the plasma membrane, and release of the chitin chain from the enzyme. Other research is also needed in elucidating the roles of chitin deacetylases in chitin organization and the mechanism controlling the formation of different types of chitin in arthropods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojian Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030006, China
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030006, China.
| | - Kun Yan Zhu
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, 123 Waters Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA.
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28
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Liu XJ, Sun YW, Li DQ, Li S, Ma EB, Zhang JZ. Identification of LmUAP1 as a 20-hydroxyecdysone response gene in the chitin biosynthesis pathway from the migratory locust, Locusta migratoria. INSECT SCIENCE 2018; 25:211-221. [PMID: 27696733 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2016] [Revised: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
In Locusta migratoria, we found that two chitin biosynthesis genes, UDP N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylase gene LmUAP1 and chitin synthase gene LmCHS1, are expressed mainly in the integument and are responsible for cuticle formation. However, whether these genes are regulated by 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) is still largely unclear. Here, we showed the developmental expression pattern of LmUAP1, LmCHS1 and the corresponding 20E titer during the last instar nymph stage of locust. RNA interference (RNAi) directed toward a common region of the two isoforms of LmEcR (LmEcRcom) reduced the expression level of LmUAP1, while there was no difference in the expression of LmCHS1. Meantime, injection of 20E in vivo induced the expression of LmUAP1 but not LmCHS1. Further, we found injection-based RNAi of LmEcRcom resulted in 100% mortality. The locusts failed to molt with no apolysis, and maintained in the nymph stage until death. In conclusion, our preliminary results indicated that LmUAP1 in the chitin biosynthesis pathway is a 20E late-response gene and LmEcR plays an essential role in locust growth and development, which could be a good potential target for RNAi-based pest control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Jian Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Ya-Wen Sun
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
- College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Da-Qi Li
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Sheng Li
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - En-Bo Ma
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jian-Zhen Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
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29
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Zhao X, Qin Z, Liu W, Liu X, Moussian B, Ma E, Li S, Zhang J. Nuclear receptor HR3 controls locust molt by regulating chitin synthesis and degradation genes of Locusta migratoria. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 92:1-11. [PMID: 29113754 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
During growth and development of insects, the steroid hormone 20-Hydroxyecdysone (20E) regulates the molting process through activation of a series of genes including E74, E75 and HR3 by the 20E receptor EcR. Here, we analyzed the function of LmHR3 in the migratory locust Locusta migratoria. By sequence comparison, we first identified and characterized the putative nuclear receptor protein (LmHR3) based on L. migratoria transcriptome data. The full length cDNA is 2272 bp long encoding a protein of 455 amino acids that contains a DNA binding domain (zinc finger) and a ligand binding domain. Phylogenetic analyses showed that LmHR3 has a high homology with the ortholog from Blattaria. RT-qPCR results revealed that LmHR3 has a low level expression in the early days of 5th instar nymphs, and then increases and peaks at day 6, followed by a decrease to low levels before ecdysis. The LmHR3, hence, coincides with the profile of circulating 20E levels. Indeed, we show that transcription of LmHR3 is induced by 20E in vivo, and significantly suppressed by successfully knocking down expression of LmEcR. After injection of dsRNA for LmHR3 (dsLmHR3) at day 2 of earlier instar nymphs (3rd and 4th instar) and final instar nymphs (5th instar), none of the nymphs were able to molt normally, and eventually died. Chitin staining and ultra-structural analysis showed that both the synthesis of the new cuticle and the degradation of the old cuticle were blocked in the dsLmHR3 treated nymphs. Especially, chitin synthesis genes (LmUAP1 and LmCHS1) and chitinase genes (LmCHT5 and LmCHT10) were significantly down-regulated in the dsLmHR3 treatment group. Together, our results suggest that LmHR3 is involved in the control of chitin synthesis and degradation during L. migratoria molting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Zhao
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Zhongyu Qin
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China; College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Weimin Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Xiaojian Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Bernard Moussian
- Angewandte Zoologie, TU Dresden, Zellescher Weg 20b, Dresden 01217, Germany; iBV, Universit e Nice, Parc Valrose, Nice 06000, France
| | - Enbo Ma
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Sheng Li
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Sciences and School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China.
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Macedo L, Antonino de Souza Junior J, Coelho R, Fonseca F, Firmino A, Silva M, Fragoso R, Albuquerque E, Silva M, de Almeida Engler J, Terra W, Grossi-de-Sa M. Knocking down chitin synthase 2 by RNAi is lethal to the cotton boll weevil. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biori.2017.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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31
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Spit J, Badisco L, Vergauwen L, Knapen D, Vanden Broeck J. Microarray-based annotation of the gut transcriptome of the migratory locust, Locusta migratoria. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2016; 25:745-756. [PMID: 27479692 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The migratory locust, Locusta migratoria, is a serious agricultural pest and important insect model in the study of insect digestion and feeding behaviour. The gut is one of the primary interfaces between the insect and its environment. Nevertheless, knowledge on the gut transcriptome of L. migratoria is still very limited. Here, 48 802 expressed sequence tags were extracted from publicly available databases and their expression in larval gut and/or brain tissue was determined using microarray hybridization. Our data show 2765 transcripts predominantly or exclusively expressed in the gut. Many transcripts had putative functions closely related to the physiological functions of the gut as a muscular digestive organ and as the first barrier against microorganisms and a wide range of toxins. By means of a ranking procedure based on the relative signal intensity, we estimated 15% of the transcripts to show high expression levels, the highest belonging to diverse digestive enzymes and muscle-related proteins. We also found evidence for very high expression of an allergen protein, which could have important implications, as locusts form a traditional food source in various parts of the world, and were also recently added to the list of insects fit for human consumption in Europe. Interestingly, many highly expressed sequences have as yet unknown functions. Taken together, the present data provide significant insight into locust larval gut physiology, and will be valuable for future studies on the insect gut.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Spit
- Department of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Zoological Institute KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - L Badisco
- Department of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Zoological Institute KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - L Vergauwen
- Systemic Physiological and Ecotoxicological Research (SPHERE), Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
- Zebrafishlab, Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - D Knapen
- Systemic Physiological and Ecotoxicological Research (SPHERE), Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
- Zebrafishlab, Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - J Vanden Broeck
- Department of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Zoological Institute KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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32
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Sandoval-Mojica AF, Scharf ME. Silencing gut genes associated with the peritrophic matrix of Reticulitermes flavipes (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae) increases susceptibility to termiticides. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2016; 25:734-744. [PMID: 27515783 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The peritrophic matrix (PM) is a noncellular structure that lines the gut of most insects. Because of its close involvement in digestive processes and its role as a barrier against pathogens and toxins, the PM is an attractive target for pest management strategies. The objectives of this study were to (1) reduce the expression of a chitin synthase gene (Reticulitermes flavipes chitin synthase B, RfCHSB), a putative peritrophin [R. flavipes Protein with Peritrophin-A domain 1, (RfPPAD1)] and a confirmed peritrophin [R. flavipes Protein with Peritrophin-A domain 2 (RfPPAD2)] in R. flavipes by means of RNA interference, and (2) to evaluate the susceptibility of R. flavipes to termiticides and a bacterial pathogen, after silencing the target genes. Force feeding termites with 55 and 100 ng of long double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs), targeting RfCHSB and RfPPAD2, respectively, resulted in the highest levels of transcript suppression. RfCHSB expression was reduced by 70%, whereas the transcript level of RfPPAD2 was decreased by 90%. Force feeding 100 ng/termite of a long RfPPAD1 dsRNA reduced the expression of the transcript by 30%. Challenging termites with imidacloprid, chlorantraniliprole and noviflumuron, after silencing RfCHSB, significantly increased termite mortality. Force feeding termites a dsRNA cocktail, targeting RfCHSB, RfPPAD1 and RfPPAD2, caused the highest significant increase in termite mortality after challenging the insects with imidacloprid. These results demonstrate the viability of the R. flavipes PM as a target in termite pest management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M E Scharf
- Department of Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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Shi JF, Mu LL, Chen X, Guo WC, Li GQ. RNA interference of chitin synthase genes inhibits chitin biosynthesis and affects larval performance in Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say). Int J Biol Sci 2016; 12:1319-1331. [PMID: 27877084 PMCID: PMC5118778 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.14464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 09/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Dietary introduction of bacterially expressed double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) has great potential for management of Leptinotarsa decemlineata. Identification of the most attractive candidate genes for RNA interference (RNAi) is the first step. In the present paper, three complete chitin synthase cDNA sequences (LdChSAa, LdChSAb and LdChSB) were cloned. LdChSAa and LdChSAb, two splicing variants of LdChSA gene, were highly expressed in ectodermally-derived epidermal cells forming epidermis, trachea, foregut and hindgut, whereas LdChSB was mainly transcribed in midgut cells. Feeding bacterially expressed dsChSA (derived from a common fragment of LdChSAa and LdChSAb), dsChSAa, dsChSAb and dsChSB in the second- and fourth-instar larvae specifically knocked down their target mRNAs. RNAi of LdChSAa+LdChSAb and LdChSAa lowered chitin contents in whole body and integument samples, and thinned tracheal taenidia. The resulting larvae failed to ecdyse, pupate, or emerge as adults. Comparably, knockdown of LdChSAb mainly affected pupal-adult molting. The LdChSAb RNAi pupae did not completely shed the old larval exuviae, which caused failure of adult emergence. In contrast, silencing of LdChSB significantly reduced foliage consumption, decreased chitin content in midgut sample, damaged midgut peritrophic matrix, and retarded larval growth. As a result, the development of the LdChSB RNAi hypomorphs was arrested. Our data reveal that these LdChSs are among the effective candidate genes for an RNAi-based control strategy against L. decemlineata.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Feng Shi
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Li-Li Mu
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Xu Chen
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Wen-Chao Guo
- Department of Plant Protection, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences
| | - Guo-Qing Li
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
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miR-71 and miR-263 Jointly Regulate Target Genes Chitin synthase and Chitinase to Control Locust Molting. PLoS Genet 2016; 12:e1006257. [PMID: 27532544 PMCID: PMC4988631 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1006257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chitin synthase and chitinase play crucial roles in chitin biosynthesis and degradation during insect molting. Silencing of Dicer-1 results in reduced levels of mature miRNAs and severely blocks molting in the migratory locust. However, the regulatory mechanism of miRNAs in the molting process of locusts has remained elusive. In this study, we found that in chitin metabolism, two crucial enzymes, chitin synthase (CHS) and chitinase (CHT) were regulated by miR-71 and miR-263 during nymph molting. The coding sequence of CHS1 and the 3'-untranslated region of CHT10 contain functional binding sites for miR-71 and miR-263, respectively. miR-71/miR-263 displayed cellular co-localization with their target genes in epidermal cells and directly interacted with CHS1 and CHT10 in the locust integument, respectively. Injections of miR-71 and miR-263 agomirs suppressed the expression of CHS1 and CHT10, which consequently altered chitin production of new and old cuticles and resulted in a molting-defective phenotype in locusts. Unexpectedly, reduced expression of miR-71 and miR-263 increased CHS1 and CHT10 mRNA expression and led to molting defects similar to those induced by miRNA delivery. This study reveals a novel function and balancing modulation pattern of two miRNAs in chitin biosynthesis and degradation, and it provides insight into the underlying molecular mechanisms of the molting process in locusts.
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Xiong KC, Wang J, Li JH, Deng YQ, Pu P, Fan H, Liu YH. RNA interference of a trehalose-6-phosphate synthase gene reveals its roles during larval-pupal metamorphosis in Bactrocera minax (Diptera: Tephritidae). JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2016; 91-92:84-92. [PMID: 27405007 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2016.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Revised: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Trehalose is the major blood sugar in insects, which plays a crucial role as an instant source of energy and the starting substrate for chitin biosynthesis. In insects, trehalose is synthesized by catalysis of an important enzyme, trehalose-6-phosphate synthase (TPS). In the present study, a trehalose-6-phosphate synthase gene from Bactrocera minax (BmTPS) was cloned and characterized. BmTPS contained an open reading frame of 2445 nucleotides encoding a protein of 814 amino acids with a predicted molecular weight of 92.05kDa. BmTPS was detectable in all developmental stages of Bactrocera minax and expressed higher in the final- (third-) instar larvae. Tissue-specific expression patterns of BmTPS showed that it was mainly expressed in the fat body. The 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) induced the expression of BmTPS and three genes in the chitin biosynthesis pathway. Moreover, injection of double-stranded RNA into third-instar larvae successfully silenced the transcription of BmTPS in B. minax, and thereby decreased the activity of TPS and trehalose content. Additionally, silencing of BmTPS inhibited the expression of three key genes in the chitin biosynthesis pathway and exhibited 52% death and abnormal phenotypes. The findings demonstrate that BmTPS is indispensable for larval-pupal metamorphosis. Besides, the establishment of RNAi experimental system in B. minax would lay a solid foundation for further investigation of molecular biology and physiology of this pest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Cai Xiong
- Institute of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Institute of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Jia-Hao Li
- Institute of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Yu-Qing Deng
- National Citrus Virus Exclusion Center, Citrus Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing 400712, China
| | - Po Pu
- Institute of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Huan Fan
- Institute of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Ying-Hong Liu
- Institute of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China.
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Song TQ, Yang ML, Wang YL, Liu Q, Wang HM, Zhang J, Li T. Cuticular protein LmTwdl1 is involved in molt development of the migratory locust. INSECT SCIENCE 2016; 23:520-530. [PMID: 27430427 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 03/12/2016] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The cuticle, an essential structure for insects, is produced from cuticular proteins and chitin via a series of biochemical reactions. Tweedle genes are important members of the cuticular protein family and have four conserved motifs binding to chitin. Tweedle family genes have been found to play a profound effect on cuticle development. Here, we report that the cuticular protein gene LmTwdl1 of Locusta migratoria belongs to the Tweedle family. In situ hybridization showed that LmTwdl1 is localized to epidermal cells of the cuticle. The expression patterns of LmTwdl1 showed low expression in the cuticle during the early and middle stages of the fifth-instar nymphs; in contrast, its expression rapidly increased in the late stages of fifth-instar nymphs. We performed RNA interference to examine the function of LmTwdl1 in locusts. Silencing of LmTwdl1 resulted in high mortality during the molting process before the next stage. Also, the epicuticle of nymphs failed to molt, tended to be thinner and the arrangement of chitin in the procuticle appeared to be disordered compare to the control group. These results demonstrate that LmTwdl1 plays a critical role in molting, which contributes to a better understanding of the distinct functions of the Tweedle family in locusts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Qi Song
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan and State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Mei-Ling Yang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan and State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Li Wang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan and State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan and State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hui-Min Wang
- Beijing Institutes of Life Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Beijing Institutes of Life Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Li
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan and State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Shang F, Xiong Y, Xia WK, Wei DD, Wei D, Wang JJ. Identification, characterization and functional analysis of a chitin synthase gene in the brown citrus aphid, Toxoptera citricida (Hemiptera, Aphididae). INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2016; 25:422-430. [PMID: 26991909 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Chitin synthase (CHS) is a crucial enzyme involved in the final step of the insect chitin biosynthetic pathway. In this study, we cloned the full-length cDNA sequence of a chitin synthase gene (TCiCHS) from the brown citrus aphid, Toxoptera citricida, an important citrus pest and the main vector of citrus tristeza virus worldwide. TCiCHS was expressed during the entire lifecycle and in all insect tissues examined. Expression was highest in first-second-instar nymphs, nymph-adult transitions and in the abdomen (6.7-fold higher than head). Embryos had a higher expression level than the integument. Fourth-instar nymphs were exposed to 5 and 500 mg/l concentrations of the chitin synthesis inhibitor diflubenzuron (DFB) for 48 h and had the highest mortality at the 500 mg/l concentration. The mRNA expression levels of TCiCHS were significantly enhanced upon the exposure of nymphs to both low and high DFB concentrations. Silencing of TCiCHS occurred through plant-mediated double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) feeding. Most dsRNA-fed nymphs were unable to moult to the next stage, and the expression of TCiCHS decreased 48% compared with controls. These results demonstrate that TCiCHS plays an important role in nymph to adult development, is possibly help identify molecular targets for To. citricida control.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Shang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Y Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - W-K Xia
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Zhaotong City Branch of Yunnan Provincial Tobacco Corporation, Zhaotong, China
| | - D-D Wei
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - D Wei
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - J-J Wang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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Gutiérrez-Cabrera AE, Córdoba-Aguilar A, Zenteno E, Lowenberger C, Espinoza B. Origin, evolution and function of the hemipteran perimicrovillar membrane with emphasis on Reduviidae that transmit Chagas disease. BULLETIN OF ENTOMOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2016; 106:279-291. [PMID: 26639621 DOI: 10.1017/s0007485315000929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The peritrophic matrix is a chitin-protein structure that envelops the food bolus in the midgut of the majority of insects, but is absent in some groups which have, instead, an unusual extra-cellular lipoprotein membrane named the perimicrovillar membrane. The presence of the perimicrovillar membrane (PMM) allows these insects to exploit restricted ecological niches during all life stages. It is found only in some members of the superorder Paraneoptera and many of these species are of medical and economic importance. In this review we present an overview of the midgut and the digestive system of insects with an emphasis on the order Paraneoptera and differences found across phylogenetic groups. We discuss the importance of the PMM in Hemiptera and the apparent conservation of this structure among hemipteran groups, suggesting that the basic mechanism of PMM production is the same for different hemipteran species. We propose that the PMM is intimately involved in the interaction with parasites and as such should be a target for biological and chemical control of hemipteran insects of economic and medical importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Gutiérrez-Cabrera
- Departamento de Inmunología,Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas,Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México,Apdo. 70228,Circuito Exterior,Ciudad Universitaria,04510,Coyoacán,Distrito Federal,México
| | - A Córdoba-Aguilar
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva,Instituto de Ecología,Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México,Apdo. P. 70-275,Circuito Exterior,Ciudad Universitaria,04510,Coyoacán,Distrito Federal,Mexico
| | - E Zenteno
- Departamento de Bioquímica,Facultad de Medicina,Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México,Ciudad Universitaria,04510 D.F.,Mexico
| | - C Lowenberger
- Department of Biological Sciences,Simon Fraser University,Burnaby, B.C., V5A 1S6,Canada
| | - B Espinoza
- Departamento de Inmunología,Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas,Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México,Apdo. 70228,Circuito Exterior,Ciudad Universitaria,04510,Coyoacán,Distrito Federal,México
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Sandoval-Mojica AF, Scharf ME. GUT GENES ASSOCIATED WITH THE PERITROPHIC MATRIX IN Reticulitermes flavipes (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae): IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERIZATION. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2016; 92:127-142. [PMID: 27087028 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The peritrophic matrix (PM) is an acellular structure that lines the gut of most insects. It is an attractive target for pest management strategies because of its close involvement in digestive processes and role as a barrier against pathogens and toxins. The purpose of this study was to identify and characterize the genes that translate for principal components of the Reticulitermes flavipes PM. Genes encoding a gut chitin synthase (CHS), two proteins with peritrophin-A domains, and a chitin deacetylase were identified from an R. flavipes symbiont-free gut cDNA library, a pyrosequencing study of termite lignocellulose digestion, and a metatranscriptomic analysis of R. flavipes fed on agricultural biomass. Quantitative expression analysis of the identified genes, in the termite digestive tract, revealed that the transcripts coding for a CHS (RfCHSB) and the proteins with peritrophin-A domains (RfPPAD1 and RfPPAD2) were predominantly expressed in the midgut, suggesting an association with the PM. The peritrophin identity of the RfPPAD2 gene was confirmed by immunodetection of its translated peptide in the midgut and PM. The discovery and characterization of PM components of R. flavipes provides a basis for further investigation of the viability of this structure as a target for candidate termiticides.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael E Scharf
- Department of Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
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Shi JF, Fu J, Mu LL, Guo WC, Li GQ. Two Leptinotarsa uridine diphosphate N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylases are specialized for chitin synthesis in larval epidermal cuticle and midgut peritrophic matrix. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2016; 68:1-12. [PMID: 26592348 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2015.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2015] [Revised: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Uridine diphosphate-N-acetylglucosamine-pyrophosphorylase (UAP) is involved in the biosynthesis of chitin, an essential component of the epidermal cuticle and midgut peritrophic matrix (PM) in insects. In the present paper, two putative LdUAP genes were cloned in Leptinotarsa decemlineata. In vivo bioassay revealed that 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) and an ecdysteroid agonist halofenozide activated the expression of the two LdUAPs, whereas a decrease in 20E by RNA interference (RNAi) of an ecdysteroidogenesis gene LdSHD and a 20E signaling gene LdFTZ-F1 repressed the expression. Juvenile hormone (JH), a JH analog pyriproxyfen and an increase in JH by RNAi of an allatostatin gene LdAS-C downregulated LdUAP1 but upregulated LdUAP2, whereas a decrease in JH by silencing of a JH biosynthesis gene LdJHAMT had converse effects. Thus, expression of LdUAPs responded to both 20E and JH. Moreover, knockdown of LdUAP1 reduced chitin contents in whole larvae and integument samples, thinned tracheal taenidia, impaired larval-larval molt, larval-pupal ecdysis and adult emergence. In contrast, silencing of LdUAP2 significantly reduced foliage consumption, decreased chitin content in midgut samples, damaged PM, and retarded larval growth. The resulting larvae had lighter fresh weights, smaller body sizes and depleted fat body. As a result, the development was arrested. Combined knockdown of LdUAP1 and LdUAP2 caused an additive negative effect. Our data suggest that LdUAP1 and LdUAP2 have specialized functions in biosynthesizing chitin in the epidermal cuticle and PM respectively in L. decemlineata.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Feng Shi
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Jia Fu
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Li-Li Mu
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Wen-Chao Guo
- Department of Plant Protection, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Urumqi 830091, China.
| | - Guo-Qing Li
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
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Zhu KY, Merzendorfer H, Zhang W, Zhang J, Muthukrishnan S. Biosynthesis, Turnover, and Functions of Chitin in Insects. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ENTOMOLOGY 2016; 61:177-96. [PMID: 26982439 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-ento-010715-023933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Chitin is a major component of the exoskeleton and the peritrophic matrix of insects. It forms complex structures in association with different assortments of cuticle and peritrophic matrix proteins to yield biocomposites with a wide range of physicochemical and mechanical properties. The growth and development of insects are intimately coupled with the biosynthesis, turnover, and modification of chitin. The genes encoding numerous enzymes of chitin metabolism and proteins that associate with and organize chitin have been uncovered by bioinformatics analyses. Many of these proteins are encoded by sets of large gene families. There is specialization among members within each family, which function in particular tissues or developmental stages. Chitin-containing matrices are dynamically modified at every developmental stage and are under developmental and/or physiological control. A thorough understanding of the diverse processes associated with the assembly and turnover of these chitinous matrices offers many strategies to achieve selective pest control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Wenqing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China;
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China;
| | - Subbaratnam Muthukrishnan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506; ,
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Yang WJ, Wu YB, Chen L, Xu KK, Xie YF, Wang JJ. Two Chitin Biosynthesis Pathway Genes in Bactrocera dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae): Molecular Characteristics, Expression Patterns, and Roles in Larval-Pupal Transition. JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY 2015; 108:2433-2442. [PMID: 26453732 DOI: 10.1093/jee/tov186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Glucose-6-phosphate isomerase (G6PI) and UDP-N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylase (UAP), two key components in the chitin biosynthesis pathway, are critical for insect growth and metamorphosis. In this study, we identified the genes BdG6PI and BdUAP from the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel). The open reading frames (ORFs) of BdG6PI (1,491 bp) and BdUAP (1,677 bp) encoded 496 and 558 amino acid residues, respectively. Multiple sequence alignments showed that BdG6PI and BdUAP had high amino acid sequence identity with other insect homologues. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis indicated that BdG6PI was mainly expressed in the early stages of third-instar larvae and adults, while significantly higher expression of BdUAP was observed in adults. Both transcripts were expressed highly in the Malpighian tubules, but only slightly in the tracheae. The expression of both BdG6PI and BdUAP was significantly up-regulated by 20-hydroxyecdysone exposure and down-regulated by starvation. Moreover, injection of double-stranded RNAs of BdG6PI and BdUAP into third-instar larvae significantly reduced the corresponding gene expressions. Additionally, silencing of BdUAP resulted in 65% death and abnormal phenotypes of larvae, while silencing of BdG6PI had a slight effect on insect molting. These findings provide some data on the roles of BdG6PI and BdUAP in B. dorsalis and demonstrate the potential role for BdUAP in larval-pupal transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jia Yang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China. College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550005, P. R. China.
| | - Yi-Bei Wu
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
| | - Li Chen
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
| | - Kang-Kang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China. College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550005, P. R. China
| | - Yi-Fei Xie
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
| | - Jin-Jun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China.
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Shirk PD, Perera OP, Shelby KS, Furlong RB, LoVullo ED, Popham HJR. Unique synteny and alternate splicing of the chitin synthases in closely related heliothine moths. Gene 2015; 574:121-39. [PMID: 26253161 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2015.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Revised: 07/20/2015] [Accepted: 08/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Chitin is an extracellular biopolymer that contributes to the cuticular structural matrix in arthropods. As a consequence of its rigid structure, the chitinous cuticle must be shed and replaced to accommodate growth. Two chitin synthase genes that encode for chitin synthase A (ChSA), which produces cuticular exoskeleton, and chitin synthase B (ChSB), which produces peritrophic membrane, were characterized in the genomes of two heliothine moths: the corn earworm/cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and the cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). In both moths, the two genes were arranged in tandem with the same orientation on the same strand with ChSB located 5' of ChSA. Sequence comparisons showed that the coding sequences were highly conserved with homologues from other species but that the tandem juxtaposed genomic arrangement of the two genes was unique in these insects. The mechanism that has led to this arrangement is unclear but is most likely a recent recombinational event. Transcript mapping of HzChSB and HzChSA in H. zea demonstrated that both transcripts were differentially spliced in various tissues and larval stages. The identification of the HzChSB-E12b alternate spliced transcript is the first report of alternate splicing for the ChSB group. The importance of this splice form is not clear because the protein produced would lack any enzymatic activity but retain the membrane insertion motifs. As for other insects, these genes provide an important target for potential control through RNAi but also provide a subject for broad scale genomic recombinational events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul D Shirk
- USDA ARS CMAVE, 1700 SW 23rd Drive, Gainesville, FL 32608 USA.
| | | | - Kent S Shelby
- USDA ARS BCIRL, 1503 S. Providence, Columbia, MO 65203 USA.
| | | | - Eric D LoVullo
- USDA ARS CMAVE, 1700 SW 23rd Drive, Gainesville, FL 32608 USA.
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Teixeira ADD, Marques-Araújo S, Zanuncio JC, Serrão JE. Peritrophic membrane origin in adult bees (Hymenoptera): immunolocalization. Micron 2014; 68:91-97. [PMID: 25464146 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2014.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2014] [Revised: 09/19/2014] [Accepted: 09/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The midgut is a region of the digestive tract of bees with the lumen lined by a peritrophic membrane that is composed of chitin and proteins (peritrophins). The origin of the peritrophins in the midgut of adult bees is unknown. This study used an anti-peritrophin 55-kDa antibody to immunolocalize the sites of the peritrophic membrane synthesis in nine species of adult bees' representatives of different families and sociability levels. In all studied species the peritrophin-55 is produced by digestive cells in the entire midgut in the rough endoplasmic reticulum following transference to Golgi apparatus and released by secretory vesicles, which fuses with the plasma membrane and microvilli. Thus, in the representatives of different groups of bees, the PM is of type I.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Solange Marques-Araújo
- Departamento de Entomologia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-000 Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - José Cola Zanuncio
- Departamento de Entomologia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-000 Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - José Eduado Serrão
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-000 Viçosa, MG, Brazil.
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Weiss BL, Savage AF, Griffith BC, Wu Y, Aksoy S. The peritrophic matrix mediates differential infection outcomes in the tsetse fly gut following challenge with commensal, pathogenic, and parasitic microbes. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2014; 193:773-82. [PMID: 24913976 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1400163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The insect gut is lined by a protective, chitinous peritrophic matrix (PM) that separates immunoreactive epithelial cells from microbes present within the luminal contents. Tsetse flies (Glossina spp.) imbibe vertebrate blood exclusively and can be exposed to foreign microorganisms during the feeding process. We used RNA interference-based reverse genetics to inhibit the production of a structurally robust PM and then observed how this procedure impacted infection outcomes after per os challenge with exogenous bacteria (Enterobacter sp. and Serratia marcescens strain Db11) and parasitic African trypanosomes. Enterobacter and Serratia proliferation was impeded in tsetse that lacked an intact PM because these flies expressed the antimicrobial peptide gene, attacin, earlier in the infection process than did their counterparts that housed a fully developed PM. After challenge with trypanosomes, attacin expression was latent in tsetse that lacked an intact PM, and these flies were thus highly susceptible to parasite infection. Our results suggest that immunodeficiency signaling pathway effectors, as opposed to reactive oxygen intermediates, serve as the first line of defense in tsetse's gut after the ingestion of exogenous microorganisms. Furthermore, tsetse's PM is not a physical impediment to infection establishment, but instead serves as a barrier that regulates the fly's ability to immunologically detect and respond to the presence of these microbes. Collectively, our findings indicate that effective insect antimicrobial responses depend largely upon the coordination of multiple host and microbe-specific developmental factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian L Weiss
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Amy F Savage
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Bridget C Griffith
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Yineng Wu
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Serap Aksoy
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520
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46
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Yao J, Buschman LL, Lu N, Khajuria C, Zhu KY. Changes in gene expression in the larval gut of Ostrinia nubilalis in Response to Bacillus thuringiensis Cry1Ab protoxin ingestion. Toxins (Basel) 2014; 6:1274-94. [PMID: 24704690 PMCID: PMC4014733 DOI: 10.3390/toxins6041274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2013] [Revised: 03/13/2014] [Accepted: 03/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
We developed a microarray based on 2895 unique transcripts assembled from 15,000 cDNA sequences from the European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis) larval gut. This microarray was used to monitor gene expression in early third-instar larvae of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)-susceptible O. nubilalis after 6 h feeding on diet, with or without the Bt Cry1Ab protoxin. We identified 174 transcripts, for which the expression was changed more than two-fold in the gut of the larvae fed Cry1Ab protoxin (p < 0.05), representing 80 down-regulated and 94 up-regulated transcripts. Among 174 differentially expressed transcripts, 13 transcripts putatively encode proteins that are potentially involved in Bt toxicity, and these transcripts include eight serine proteases, three aminopeptidases, one alkaline phosphatase, and one cadherin. The expressions of trypsin-like protease and three aminopeptidase transcripts were variable, but two potential Bt-binding proteins, alkaline phosphatase and cadherin were consistently up-regulated in larvae fed Cry1Ab protoxin. The significantly up and down-regulated transcripts may be involved in Cry1Ab toxicity by activation, degradation, toxin binding, and other related cellular responses. This study is a preliminary survey of Cry1Ab protoxin-induced transcriptional responses in O. nubilalis gut and our results are expected to help with further studies on Bt toxin-insect interactions at the molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianxiu Yao
- Department of Entomology, 123 Waters Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
| | - Lawrent L Buschman
- Department of Entomology, 123 Waters Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
| | - Nanyan Lu
- Bioinformatics Center, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
| | - Chitvan Khajuria
- Department of Entomology, 123 Waters Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
| | - Kun Yan Zhu
- Department of Entomology, 123 Waters Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
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47
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Chen L, Yang WJ, Cong L, Xu KK, Wang JJ. Molecular cloning, characterization and mRNA expression of a chitin synthase 2 gene from the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae). Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:17055-72. [PMID: 23965972 PMCID: PMC3759951 DOI: 10.3390/ijms140817055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2013] [Revised: 07/20/2013] [Accepted: 08/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Chitin synthase (CHS), a potential target for eco-friendly insecticides, plays an essential role in chitin formation in insects. In this study, a full-length cDNA encoding chitin synthase 2 (BdCHS2) was cloned and characterized in the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis. The BdCHS2 cDNA had 4417 nucleotides, containing an open reading frame of 4122 nucleotides, which encoded 1373 amino acid residues with a predicted molecular weight of 158.5 kDa. Phylogenetic analysis with other insect CHSs suggested that BdCHS2 belongs to insect CHS2. The BdCHS2 transcript was predominately found in midgut but was detected at low levels in fat body, Malpighian tubules, integument, and trachea. Moreover, BdCHS2 was expressed in all developmental stages, and highly expressed in the feeding stages. There was a positive relationship between BdCHS2 expression and total chitin content during development. Furthermore, both the gene expression and chitin content in midgut decreased when the insect was fed for 24 h, then starved for 24 h, while they increased dramatically and rapidly under the condition of starvation for 24 h then feeding for 24 h. These results suggest that BdCHS2 may play an important role in regulating chitin content of the midgut, and subsequently affect the growth and development of B. dorsalis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Chen
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China.
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48
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Liu X, Li F, Li D, Ma E, Zhang W, Zhu KY, Zhang J. Molecular and functional analysis of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine Pyrophosphorylases from the Migratory Locust, Locusta migratoria. PLoS One 2013; 8:e71970. [PMID: 23977188 PMCID: PMC3747057 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0071970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2013] [Accepted: 07/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
UDP-N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylases (UAP) function in the formation of extracellular matrix by producing N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) residues needed for chitin biosynthesis and protein glycosylation. Herein, we report two UAP cDNA's derived from two different genes (LmUAP1 and LmUAP2) in the migratory locust Locusta migratoria. Both the cDNA and their deduced amino acid sequences showed about 70% identities between the two genes. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that LmUAP1 and LmUAP2 derive from a relatively recent gene duplication event. Both LmUAP1 and LmUAP2 were widely expressed in all the major tissues besides chitin-containing tissues. However, the two genes exhibited different developmental expression patterns. High expression of LmUAP1 was detected during early embryogenesis, then decreased greatly, and slowly increased before egg hatch. During nymphal development, the highest expression of LmUAP1 appeared just after molting but declined in each inter-molting period and then increased before molting to the next stage, whereas LmUAP2 was more consistently expressed throughout all these stages. When the early second- and fifth-instar nymphs (1-day-old) were injected with LmUAP1 double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), 100% mortality was observed 2 days after the injection. When the middle second- and fifth-instar nymphs (3- to 4-day-old) were injected with LmUAP1 dsRNA, 100% mortality was observed during their next molting process. In contrast, when the insects at the same stages were injected with LmUAP2 dsRNA, these insects were able to develop normally and molt to the next stage successfully. It is presumed that the lethality caused by RNAi of LmUAP1 is due to reduced chitin biosynthesis of the integument and midgut, whereas LmUAP2 is not essential for locust development at least in nymph stage. This study is expected to help better understand different functions of UAP1 and UAP2 in the locust and other insect species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojian Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Feng Li
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Daqi Li
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Enbo Ma
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenqing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kun Yan Zhu
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
- * E-mail: (KYZ); (JZ)
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
- * E-mail: (KYZ); (JZ)
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49
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Nunes FMF, Aleixo AC, Barchuk AR, Bomtorin AD, Grozinger CM, Simões ZLP. Non-Target Effects of Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP)-Derived Double-Stranded RNA (dsRNA-GFP) Used in Honey Bee RNA Interference (RNAi) Assays. INSECTS 2013; 4:90-103. [PMID: 26466797 PMCID: PMC4553431 DOI: 10.3390/insects4010090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2012] [Revised: 12/10/2012] [Accepted: 12/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
RNA interference has been frequently applied to modulate gene function in organisms where the production and maintenance of mutants is challenging, as in our model of study, the honey bee, Apis mellifera. A green fluorescent protein (GFP)-derived double-stranded RNA (dsRNA-GFP) is currently commonly used as control in honey bee RNAi experiments, since its gene does not exist in the A. mellifera genome. Although dsRNA-GFP is not expected to trigger RNAi responses in treated bees, undesirable effects on gene expression, pigmentation or developmental timing are often observed. Here, we performed three independent experiments using microarrays to examine the effect of dsRNA-GFP treatment (introduced by feeding) on global gene expression patterns in developing worker bees. Our data revealed that the expression of nearly 1,400 genes was altered in response to dsRNA-GFP, representing around 10% of known honey bee genes. Expression changes appear to be the result of both direct off-target effects and indirect downstream secondary effects; indeed, there were several instances of sequence similarity between putative siRNAs generated from the dsRNA-GFP construct and genes whose expression levels were altered. In general, the affected genes are involved in important developmental and metabolic processes associated with RNA processing and transport, hormone metabolism, immunity, response to external stimulus and to stress. These results suggest that multiple dsRNA controls should be employed in RNAi studies in honey bees. Furthermore, any RNAi studies involving these genes affected by dsRNA-GFP in our studies should use a different dsRNA control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis M F Nunes
- Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil.
| | - Aline C Aleixo
- Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil.
| | - Angel R Barchuk
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Tecidual e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, 37130-000, Brazil.
| | - Ana D Bomtorin
- Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil.
| | - Christina M Grozinger
- Department of Entomology, Center for Pollinator Research, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, 16802, Pennsylvania, USA.
| | - Zilá L P Simões
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14040-901, Brazil.
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50
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Bansal R, Mian MAR, Mittapalli O, Michel AP. Characterization of a chitin synthase encoding gene and effect of diflubenzuron in soybean aphid, Aphis glycines. Int J Biol Sci 2012; 8:1323-34. [PMID: 23139631 PMCID: PMC3492791 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.4189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2012] [Accepted: 10/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Chitin synthases are critical enzymes for synthesis of chitin and thus for subsequent growth and development in insects. We identified the cDNA of chitin synthase gene (CHS) in Aphis glycines, the soybean aphid, which is a serious pest of soybean. The full-length cDNA of CHS in A. glycines (AyCHS) was 5802 bp long with an open reading frame of 4704 bp that encoded for a 1567 amino acid residues protein. The predicted AyCHS protein had a molecular mass of 180.05 kDa and its amino acid sequence contained all the signature motifs (EDR, QRRRW and TWGTR) of chitin synthases. The quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) analysis revealed that AyCHS was expressed in all major tissues (gut, fat body and integument); however, it had the highest expression in integument (~3.5 fold compared to gut). Interestingly, the expression of AyCHS in developing embryos was nearly 7 fold higher compared to adult integument, which probably is a reflection of embryonic molts in hemimetabolus insects. Expression analysis in different developmental stages of A. glycines revealed a consistent AyCHS expression in all stages. Further, through leaf dip bioassay, we tested the effect of diflubenzuron (DFB, Dimilin ®), a chitin-synthesis inhibitor, on A. glycines' survival, fecundity and body weight. When fed with soybean leaves previously dipped in 50 ppm DFB solution, A. glycines nymphs suffered significantly higher mortality compared to control. A. glycines nymphs feeding on diflubenzuron treated leaves showed a slightly enhanced expression (1.67 fold) of AyCHS compared to nymphs on untreated leaves. We discussed the potential applications of the current study to develop novel management strategies using chitin-synthesis inhibitors and using RNAi by knocking down AyCHS expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raman Bansal
- Department of Entomology, Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH 44691, USA
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