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Zhang ZL, Xu QY, Zhang R, Shen C, Bao HB, Luo GH, Fang JC. The irregular developmental duration mainly caused by the broad-complex in Chilo suppressalis. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 204:106090. [PMID: 39277403 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.106090] [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: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 08/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/17/2024]
Abstract
Chilo suppressalis, a critical rice stem borer pest, poses significant challenges to rice production due to its overlapping generations and irregular developmental duration. These characteristics complicate pest management strategies. According to the dynamic analysis of the overwintering adults of C. suppressalis in fields, it indicates that the phenomenon of irregular development of C. suppressalis exists widely and continuously. This study delves into the potential role of the Broad-Complex (Br-C) gene in the developmental duration of C. suppressalis. Four isoforms of Br-C, named CsBr-C Z1, CsBr-C Z2, CsBr-C Z4, and CsBr-C Z7, were identified. After CsBr-Cs RNAi, the duration of larva development spans extended obviously. And, the average developmental duration of dsCsBr-Cs feeding individuals increased obviously. Meanwhile, the average developmental duration of the dsCsBr-C Z2 feeding group was the longest among all the RNAi groups. After dsCsBr-Cs feeding continuously, individuals pupated at different instars changed obviously: the proportion of individuals pupated at the 5th instar decreased and pupated at the 7th instar or higher increased significantly. Moreover, the pupation rate of dsCsBr-Cs (except dsCsBr-C Z7) were significantly lower than that of dsGFP. The same results were obtained from the mutagenesis in CsBr-C genes mediated by CRISPR/Cas9. The average developmental duration of CsBr-Cs knockout individuals was significantly prolonged. And, the instar of pupation in knockout individuals was also delayed significantly. In conclusion, this work showed that CsBr-Cs played a crucial role in pupal commitment and affected the developmental duration of C. suppressalis significantly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Ling Zhang
- College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Qing-Yu Xu
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Ru Zhang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Chen Shen
- College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Hai-Bo Bao
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Guang-Hua Luo
- College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210014, China.
| | - Ji-Chao Fang
- College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210014, China.
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2
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Aguirre PAU, Martins KM, López CDD, Sánchez FO, Castaño AT, Velásquez CMR, Vidal AP. Effect of nanoformulation Azadirachta indica on some factors associated with the vectorial capacity and competence of Anopheles aquasalis experimentally infected with Plasmodium vivax. Acta Trop 2024; 255:107223. [PMID: 38642694 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Malaria remains a highly prevalent infectious disease worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Effectively controlling of mosquitoes transmitting of Plasmodium spp. is crucial in to control this disease. A promising strategy involves utilizing plant-derived products, such as the Neem tree (Azadirachta indica), known for its secondary metabolites with biological activity against various insect groups of agricultural and public health importance. This study investigated the effects of a nanoformulation prototype Neem on factors linked to the vector competence of Anopheles aquasalis, a malaria vector in Latin America. Different concentrations of the nanoformulation were supplied through sugar solution and blood feeding, assessing impacts on longevity, fecundity, fertility, and transgenerational survival from larvae to adults. Additionally, the effects of the Neem nanoformulation and NeemAZAL® formulation on the sporogonic cycle of P. vivax were evaluated. Overall, significant impacts were observed at 100 ppm and 1,000 ppm concentrations on adult survival patterns and on survival of the F1 generation. A trend of reduced oviposition and hatching rates was also noted in nanoformulation-consuming groups, with fertility and fecundity declining proportionally to the concentration. Additionally, a significant decrease in the infection rate and intensity of P. vivax was observed in the 1,000 ppm group, with a mean of 3 oocysts per female compared to the control's 27 oocysts per female. In the commercial formulation, the highest tested concentration of 3 ppm yielded 5.36 oocysts per female. Concerning sporozoite numbers, there was a reduction of 52 % and 87 % at the highest concentrations compared to the control group. In conclusion, these findings suggest that the A. indica nanoformulation is a potential as a tool for malaria control through reduction in the vector longevity and reproductive capacity, possibly leading to decreased vector population densities. Moreover, the nanoformulation interfered with the sporogonic development of P. vivax. However, further basic research on Neem formulations, their effects, and mechanisms of action is imperative to gain a more specific perspective for safe field implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Keillen Monick Martins
- Laboratório de Doenças Transmissíveis na Amazônia, Instituto Leônidas e Maria Deane, FIOCRUZ Amazônia, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Adriana Pabón Vidal
- Grupo Malaria, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
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3
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Lye PY, Shiraki C, Fukushima Y, Takaki K, Liew MWO, Yamamoto M, Wakabayashi K, Mori H, Kotani E. Cytotoxin-mediated silk gland organ dysfunction diverts resources to enhance silkworm fecundity by potentiating nutrient-sensing IIS/TOR pathways. iScience 2024; 27:108853. [PMID: 38303707 PMCID: PMC10830876 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.108853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Energy reserves, primarily stored in the insect's fat body, are essential for physiological processes such as reproduction and cocoon formation. However, whether these processes are mutually constraining is unknown. Here, we showed that cocoon-free silkworms accumulate amino acid constituents of silk proteins in the hemolymph and maintain lipid and sugar reserves in the pupal fat body by repressing the expression of sericin and fibroin genes in the middle and posterior silk glands, respectively, via butterfly pierisin-1A catalytic domain expression. This, in turn, upregulates insulin/insulin-like signaling and target of rapamycin (IIS/TOR) signaling, which enhances vitellogenesis and accelerates ovarian development, thus contributing to increased fecundity. The impacts of semi-starvation on fecundity and egg hatchability were also less pronounced in cocoon-free silkworms compared with wildtype silkworms. These data uncover the resource allocation trade-off between cocoon formation and fecundity and demonstrate that nutritional signaling plays a role in regulating silkworm reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Ying Lye
- Department of Applied Biology, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8585, Japan
| | - Chika Shiraki
- Department of Applied Biology, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8585, Japan
| | - Yuta Fukushima
- Department of Applied Biology, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8585, Japan
| | - Keiko Takaki
- Department of Applied Biology, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8585, Japan
- Biomedical Research Center, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8585, Japan
| | - Mervyn Wing On Liew
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden, Penang 11800, Malaysia
| | - Masafumi Yamamoto
- ICLAS Monitoring Center, Central Institute for Experimental Animals, 3-25-12 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki 210-0821, Japan
| | - Keiji Wakabayashi
- Graduate Division of Nutritional and Environmental Sciences, University of Shizuoka, 52-1 Yada, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka 422-8526, Japan
| | - Hajime Mori
- Department of Applied Biology, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8585, Japan
| | - Eiji Kotani
- Department of Applied Biology, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8585, Japan
- Biomedical Research Center, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8585, Japan
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4
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Maritz-Olivier C, Ferreira M, Olivier NA, Crafford J, Stutzer C. Mining gene expression data for rational identification of novel drug targets and vaccine candidates against the cattle tick, Rhipicephalus microplus. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2023; 91:291-317. [PMID: 37755526 PMCID: PMC10562289 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-023-00838-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Control of complex parasites via vaccination remains challenging, with the current combination of vaccines and small drugs remaining the choice for an integrated control strategy. Studies conducted to date, are providing evidence that multicomponent vaccines will be needed for the development of protective vaccines against endo- and ectoparasites, though multicomponent vaccines require an in-depth understanding of parasite biology which remains insufficient for ticks. With the rapid development and spread of acaricide resistance in ticks, new targets for acaricide development also remains to be identified, along with novel targets that can be exploited for the design of lead compounds. In this study, we analysed the differential gene expression of Rhipicephalus microplus ticks that were fed on cattle vaccinated with a multi-component vaccine (Bm86 and 3 putative Bm86-binding proteins). The data was scrutinised for the identification of vaccine targets, small drug targets and novel pathways that can be evaluated in future studies. Limitations associated with targeting novel proteins for vaccine and/or drug design is also discussed and placed into the context of challenges arising when targeting large protein families and intracellular localised proteins. Lastly, this study provide insight into how Bm86-based vaccines may reduce successful uptake and digestion of the bloodmeal and overall tick fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Maritz-Olivier
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa.
| | - Mariëtte Ferreira
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Nicholas A Olivier
- DNA Microarray Laboratory, Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Jan Crafford
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Christian Stutzer
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa.
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Wang M, Wang Y, Chang M, Wang X, Shi Z, Raikhel AS, Zou Z. Ecdysone signaling mediates the trade-off between immunity and reproduction via suppression of amyloids in the mosquito Aedes aegypti. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010837. [PMID: 36137163 PMCID: PMC9531809 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The balance between immunity and reproduction is essential for many key physiological functions. We report that to maintain an optimal fertility, 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) and the ecdysone receptor (EcR) downregulate the immune deficiency (IMD) pathway during the post blood meal phase (PBM) of the Aedes aegypti reproductive cycle. RNA interference-mediated depletion of EcR elicited an increased expression of the IMD pathway components, and these mosquitoes were more resistant to infection by Gram-negative bacteria. Moreover, 20E and EcR recruit Pirk-like, the mosquito ortholog of Drosophila melanogaster Pirk. CRISPR-Cas9 knockout of Pirk-like has shown that it represses the IMD pathway by interfering with IMD-mediated formation of amyloid aggregates. 20E and EcR disruption of the amyloid formation is pivotal for maintaining normal yolk protein production and fertility. Additionally, 20E and its receptor EcR directly induce Pirk-like to interfere with cRHIM-mediated formation of amyloid. Our study highlights the vital role of 20E in governing the trade-off between immunity and reproduction. Pirk-like might be a potential target for new methods to control mosquito reproduction and pathogen transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanhong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mengmeng Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xueli Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zuokun Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Alexander S. Raikhel
- Department of Entomology and Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, California, United States of America
- * E-mail: (ASR); (ZZ)
| | - Zhen Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- * E-mail: (ASR); (ZZ)
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Gong C, Wang Y, Huang Q, Xu Z, Zhang Y, Hasnain A, Zhan X, He Y, Zhang T, Shen L, Pu J, Awais M, Wang X. Maf regulates the overexpression of CYP307A1, which is involved in the fitness advantage of bistrifluron-resistant Spodoptera litura (Fab.) (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera). ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 234:113425. [PMID: 35325711 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.113425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Spodoptera litura is a widely distributed multifeeding pest, that has developed high resistance to many chemical insecticides. In the present study, a bistrifluron-resistant (Bis-SEL) strain showing 113.8-fold resistance ratio relative to a bistrifluron-susceptible (Bis-UNSEL) strain was obtained and showed a fitness advantage (resurgence). First, we found that the observed resurgence might have resulted from Maf transcription factor overexpression in the Bis-SEL strain, which would influence the synthesis of ecdysone and chitin. Additionally, a co-expression relationship between Maf and CYP307A1 was verified by weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) and qRT-PCR, and the expression of CYP307A1, a key gene in ecdysone synthesis, was significantly downregulated by Maf interference. The assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with high-throughput sequencing (ATAC-seq) and a yeast one-hybrid showed that Maf could bind to the cncc:maf-s element in the CYP307A1 promoter region. The synthesis of ecdysone, which stimulated chitin synthesis, was also decreased significantly following Maf and CYP307A1 interference. Therefore, the upregulation of Maf expression leaded to the upregulation CYP307A1 expression, which led to an increase in the synthesis of ecdysone, resulting in resurgence accompanied by resistance to bistrifluron.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changwei Gong
- College of Agriculture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yumeng Wang
- College of Agriculture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Qian Huang
- College of Agriculture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Zhengze Xu
- College of Agriculture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yuming Zhang
- College of Agriculture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Ali Hasnain
- College of Agriculture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Xiaoxu Zhan
- College of Agriculture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yunfeng He
- College of Agriculture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Tianyi Zhang
- College of Agriculture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Litao Shen
- College of Agriculture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Jian Pu
- College of Agriculture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Muhammad Awais
- College of Agriculture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Xuegui Wang
- College of Agriculture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China.
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7
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Li J, Liu J, Chi B, Chen P, Liu Y. 20E and MAPK signal pathway involved in the effect of reproduction caused by cyantraniliprole in Bactrocera dorsalis Hendel (Diptera: Tephritidae). PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2022; 78:63-72. [PMID: 34418274 DOI: 10.1002/ps.6607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is a common phenomenon that insecticides affect insect reproduction and insect hormones. After cyantraniliprole treatment, the egg production and remating behavior of female Bactrocera dorsalis were affected, a phenomenon of 'hormesis' appeared, but the change at the molecular level was unknown. Therefore, we investigated the fertility, insect hormone titers and transcription levels and used RNAi to prove the function of genes, to explore the molecular mechanism of cyantraniliprole causing reproductive changes in female B. dorsalis. RESULTS LC20 treatment promoted egg production, while LC50 treatment inhibited it. Both high and low concentrations inhibited female ovaries' development and reduced the length of the ovarian tubes. Among insect hormones, only the titer of 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) changed significantly. According to the KEGG pathway enrichment analysis of RNA-seq, there are significant differences in insect hormone synthesis and MAPK signal pathways between treatments. Furthermore, 20E biosynthetic genes, BdVgs and BdVgR were all down-regulated, and multiple MAPK signaling pathway genes were up-regulated. Based on qRT-PCR, the expression of BdCyp307A1, BdCyp302A1, BdMEKK4 and BdMAP2K6 within 1-11 days after treatment were consistent with the change of 20E titer. The BdVg1 and BdVg2 in LC50 were still suppressed, while the LC20 returned to normal in 9-11 days. RNAi indicated that BdMEKK4 and BdMAP2K6 participated in the transcriptional regulation of BdCyp307A1 and BdCyp302A1, then affected the levels of BdVgs. CONCLUSION Cyantraniliprole affected 20E through MAPK signal pathway, causing many genes to be down-regulated during the early period but up-regulated during the late period, ultimately affecting the reproduction of B. dorsalis. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianying Li
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Shandong Agriculture and Engineering University, Jinan, China
| | - Baojie Chi
- Shandong Agriculture and Engineering University, Jinan, China
| | - Peng Chen
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Yongjie Liu
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
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Elgendy AM, Mohamed AA, Duvic B, Tufail M, Takeda M. Involvement of Cis-Acting Elements in Molecular Regulation of JH-Mediated Vitellogenin Gene 2 of Female Periplaneta americana. Front Physiol 2021; 12:723072. [PMID: 34526913 PMCID: PMC8435907 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.723072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitellogenins (Vgs) are yolk protein precursors that are regulated by juvenile hormone (JH) and/or 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) in insects. JH acts as the principal gonadotropin that stimulates vitellogenesis in hemimetabolous insects. In this study, we cloned and characterized the Periplaneta americana Vitellogenin 2 (Vg2) promoter. Multiple sites for putative transcription factor binding were predicted for the 1,804 bp Vg2 promoter region, such as the Broad-Complex, ecdysone response element (EcRE), GATA, Hairy, JH response element (JHRE), and Methoprene (Met)-binding motif, among others. Luciferase reporter assay has identified that construct -177 bp is enough to support JH III induction but not 20E suppression. This 38 bp region (from -177 to -139 bp) contains two conserved response element half-sites separated by 2 nucleotides spacer (DR2) and is designated as Vg2RE (-168GAGTCACGGAGTCGCCGCTG-149). Mutation assay and luciferase assay data using mutated constructs verified the crucial role of G residues in Vg2RE for binding the isolated fat body nuclear protein. In Sf9 cells, a luciferase reporter placed under the control of a minimal promoter containing Vg2RE was induced by JH III in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Nuclear proteins isolated from previtellogenic female fat body cells bound to Vg2RE, and this binding was outcompeted by a 50-fold excess of cold Drosophila melanogaster DR4 and Galleria mellonella JH binding protein response elements (Chorion factor-I/Ultraspiracle). Affinity pull-down experiment with nuclear extracts of previtellogenic female fat body, using 31-bp probe Vg2RE as bait, yielded a 71 kDa candidate nuclear protein that may mediate the regulatory action of the JH III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azza M Elgendy
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.,Department of Agrobioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Amr A Mohamed
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | | | - Muhammad Tufail
- Department of Agrobioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Hyogo, Japan.,Ghazi University, Dera Ghazi Khan, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Makio Takeda
- Department of Agrobioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Hyogo, Japan
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9
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Ekoka E, Maharaj S, Nardini L, Dahan-Moss Y, Koekemoer LL. 20-Hydroxyecdysone (20E) signaling as a promising target for the chemical control of malaria vectors. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:86. [PMID: 33514413 PMCID: PMC7844807 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04558-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
With the rapid development and spread of resistance to insecticides among anopheline malaria vectors, the efficacy of current World Health Organization (WHO)-approved insecticides targeting these vectors is under threat. This has led to the development of novel interventions, including improved and enhanced insecticide formulations with new targets or synergists or with added sterilants and/or antimalarials, among others. To date, several studies in mosquitoes have revealed that the 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) signaling pathway regulates both vector abundance and competence, two parameters that influence malaria transmission. Therefore, insecticides which target 20E signaling (e.g. methoxyfenozide and halofenozide) may be an asset for malaria vector control. While such insecticides are already commercially available for lepidopteran and coleopteran pests, they still need to be approved by the WHO for malaria vector control programs. Until recently, chemicals targeting 20E signaling were considered to be insect growth regulators, and their effect was mostly studied against immature mosquito stages. However, in the last few years, promising results have been obtained by applying methoxyfenozide or halofenozide (two compounds that boost 20E signaling) to Anopheles populations at different phases of their life-cycle. In addition, preliminary studies suggest that methoxyfenozide resistance is unstable, causing the insects substantial fitness costs, thereby potentially circumventing one of the biggest challenges faced by current vector control efforts. In this review, we first describe the 20E signaling pathway in mosquitoes and then summarize the mechanisms whereby 20E signaling regulates the physiological processes associated with vector competence and vector abundance. Finally, we discuss the potential of using chemicals targeting 20E signaling to control malaria vectors.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Elodie Ekoka
- WITS Research Institute for Malaria, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa. .,Centre for Emerging, Zoonotic & Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Surina Maharaj
- WITS Research Institute for Malaria, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Centre for Emerging, Zoonotic & Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Luisa Nardini
- WITS Research Institute for Malaria, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Centre for Emerging, Zoonotic & Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Yael Dahan-Moss
- WITS Research Institute for Malaria, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Centre for Emerging, Zoonotic & Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lizette L Koekemoer
- WITS Research Institute for Malaria, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Centre for Emerging, Zoonotic & Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
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10
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Zhou J, Chen J, Shu Y. Lead stress affects the reproduction of Spodoptera litura but not by regulating the vitellogenin gene promoter. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 208:111581. [PMID: 33396104 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) stress affects hormone-mediated responses (e.g., reproduction) in insects. In this study, the effects of Pb stress (12.5-50 mg Pb/kg in larval artificial diets) on the reproduction of the common cutworm Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) were investigated after 7 generations. The results showed that Pb stress did not reduce the longevity of adult females, but 50 mg Pb/kg significantly reduced the longevity of adult males, regardless of the generation. After 50 mg Pb/kg stress for one or 7 generations, the peak time of egg-laying was delayed, and egg production and hatchability were decreased significantly. The vitellin content in eggs was significantly inhibited by Pb stress. The S. litura vitellogenin (Vg) gene promoter was cloned and analyzed. Multiple putative transcription factors were predicted for the 2321 bp Vg promoter region, including the TATA box, GATA, basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor, Broad-Complex (BR-C) binding sites, etc. The fragment from -2222 to -211 bp of the Vg promoter was the activation domain for Vg, whereas the region from -211 to -55 bp repressed the activity of the Vg promoter. The construct promoter (-782/+76) in Trichoplusia ni (Hi5) cells significantly improved Vg expression, which was not affected by Pb stress (1 or 10 mg/ml). Therefore, Pb stress significantly inhibited the reproduction of S. litura but not by regulating the Vg promoter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialiang Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009, China
| | - Jin Chen
- Department of Ecology, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yinghua Shu
- Department of Ecology, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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11
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Rotenberg D, Baumann AA, Ben-Mahmoud S, Christiaens O, Dermauw W, Ioannidis P, Jacobs CGC, Vargas Jentzsch IM, Oliver JE, Poelchau MF, Rajarapu SP, Schneweis DJ, Snoeck S, Taning CNT, Wei D, Widana Gamage SMK, Hughes DST, Murali SC, Bailey ST, Bejerman NE, Holmes CJ, Jennings EC, Rosendale AJ, Rosselot A, Hervey K, Schneweis BA, Cheng S, Childers C, Simão FA, Dietzgen RG, Chao H, Dinh H, Doddapaneni HV, Dugan S, Han Y, Lee SL, Muzny DM, Qu J, Worley KC, Benoit JB, Friedrich M, Jones JW, Panfilio KA, Park Y, Robertson HM, Smagghe G, Ullman DE, van der Zee M, Van Leeuwen T, Veenstra JA, Waterhouse RM, Weirauch MT, Werren JH, Whitfield AE, Zdobnov EM, Gibbs RA, Richards S. Genome-enabled insights into the biology of thrips as crop pests. BMC Biol 2020; 18:142. [PMID: 33070780 PMCID: PMC7570057 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-020-00862-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), is a globally invasive pest and plant virus vector on a wide array of food, fiber, and ornamental crops. The underlying genetic mechanisms of the processes governing thrips pest and vector biology, feeding behaviors, ecology, and insecticide resistance are largely unknown. To address this gap, we present the F. occidentalis draft genome assembly and official gene set. RESULTS We report on the first genome sequence for any member of the insect order Thysanoptera. Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Ortholog (BUSCO) assessments of the genome assembly (size = 415.8 Mb, scaffold N50 = 948.9 kb) revealed a relatively complete and well-annotated assembly in comparison to other insect genomes. The genome is unusually GC-rich (50%) compared to other insect genomes to date. The official gene set (OGS v1.0) contains 16,859 genes, of which ~ 10% were manually verified and corrected by our consortium. We focused on manual annotation, phylogenetic, and expression evidence analyses for gene sets centered on primary themes in the life histories and activities of plant-colonizing insects. Highlights include the following: (1) divergent clades and large expansions in genes associated with environmental sensing (chemosensory receptors) and detoxification (CYP4, CYP6, and CCE enzymes) of substances encountered in agricultural environments; (2) a comprehensive set of salivary gland genes supported by enriched expression; (3) apparent absence of members of the IMD innate immune defense pathway; and (4) developmental- and sex-specific expression analyses of genes associated with progression from larvae to adulthood through neometaboly, a distinct form of maturation differing from either incomplete or complete metamorphosis in the Insecta. CONCLUSIONS Analysis of the F. occidentalis genome offers insights into the polyphagous behavior of this insect pest that finds, colonizes, and survives on a widely diverse array of plants. The genomic resources presented here enable a more complete analysis of insect evolution and biology, providing a missing taxon for contemporary insect genomics-based analyses. Our study also offers a genomic benchmark for molecular and evolutionary investigations of other Thysanoptera species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorith Rotenberg
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA.
| | - Aaron A Baumann
- Virology Section, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, A239 VTH, 2407 River Drive, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - Sulley Ben-Mahmoud
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Olivier Christiaens
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wannes Dermauw
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Panagiotis Ioannidis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Vassilika Vouton, 70013, Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School, and Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Chris G C Jacobs
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, 2333 BE, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Iris M Vargas Jentzsch
- Institute for Zoology: Developmental Biology, University of Cologne, 50674, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jonathan E Oliver
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of Georgia - Tifton Campus, Tifton, GA, 31793-5737, USA
| | | | - Swapna Priya Rajarapu
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Derek J Schneweis
- Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Simon Snoeck
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Clauvis N T Taning
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dong Wei
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China and Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Daniel S T Hughes
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Shwetha C Murali
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Samuel T Bailey
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | | | - Christopher J Holmes
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | - Emily C Jennings
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | - Andrew J Rosendale
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
- Department of Biology, Mount St. Joseph University, Cincinnati, OH, 45233, USA
| | - Andrew Rosselot
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | - Kaylee Hervey
- Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Brandi A Schneweis
- Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Sammy Cheng
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 14627, USA
| | | | - Felipe A Simão
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School, and Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ralf G Dietzgen
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Hsu Chao
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Huyen Dinh
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Harsha Vardhan Doddapaneni
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Shannon Dugan
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Yi Han
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Sandra L Lee
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Donna M Muzny
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Jiaxin Qu
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Kim C Worley
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Joshua B Benoit
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | - Markus Friedrich
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA
| | - Jeffery W Jones
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA
| | - Kristen A Panfilio
- Institute for Zoology: Developmental Biology, University of Cologne, 50674, Cologne, Germany
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Campus, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Yoonseong Park
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Hugh M Robertson
- Department of Entomology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China and Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Diane E Ullman
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | | | - Thomas Van Leeuwen
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jan A Veenstra
- INCIA UMR 5287 CNRS, University of Bordeaux, Pessac, France
| | - Robert M Waterhouse
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Lausanne, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Matthew T Weirauch
- Center for Autoimmune Genomics and Etiology, Divisions of Biomedical Informatics and Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - John H Werren
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 14627, USA
| | - Anna E Whitfield
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Evgeny M Zdobnov
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School, and Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Richard A Gibbs
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Stephen Richards
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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12
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Kakani P, Gupta L, Kumar S. Heme-Peroxidase 2, a Peroxinectin-Like Gene, Regulates Bacterial Homeostasis in Anopheles stephensi Midgut. Front Physiol 2020; 11:572340. [PMID: 33013485 PMCID: PMC7506126 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.572340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The dynamic nature of mosquito gut microbiome is associated with different stages of development and feeding behaviors. Therefore, mosquito gut harbors a wide range of endogenous microbes that promote numerous life processes such as, nutrition, reproduction and immunity. In addition, gut microbiota also play an important role in the regulation of Plasmodium (malaria parasite) development. Thus, understanding the mechanism of microbial homeostasis in mosquito gut might be one of the strategies to manipulate malaria parasite development. In the present study, we characterized a 692 amino acids long secreted midgut heme-peroxidase 2 (AsHPX2) in Anopheles stephensi, the major Indian malaria vector. The presence of putative integrin binding motifs, LDV (Leu-Asp-Val), indicated its peroxinectin-like nature. Our phylogenetic analysis revealed that AsHPX2 is a Culicinae lineage-specific gene. RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated silencing of AsHPX2 gene significantly enhanced the growth of midgut bacteria in sugar-fed mosquitoes against sham-treated controls. Interestingly, blood-feeding drastically reduced AsHPX2 gene expression and enhanced the growth of midgut bacteria. These results revealed a negative correlation between the expression of AsHPX2 gene and gut bacterial growth. We proposed that AsHPX2, being a mosquito-specific gene, might serve as a "potent target" to manipulate midgut microbiota and vector competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parik Kakani
- Molecular Parasitology and Vector Biology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani, India.,Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal, India
| | - Lalita Gupta
- Molecular Parasitology and Vector Biology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani, India.,Department of Zoology, Chaudhary Bansi Lal University, Bhiwani, India
| | - Sanjeev Kumar
- Molecular Parasitology and Vector Biology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani, India.,Department of Biotechnology, Chaudhary Bansi Lal University, Bhiwani, India
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13
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Asad M, Munir F, Xu X, Li M, Jiang Y, Chu L, Yang G. Functional characterization of the cis-regulatory region for the vitellogenin gene in Plutella xylostella. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 29:137-147. [PMID: 31850544 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The vitellogenin gene promoter (VgP) is an essential cis-regulatory element that plays a significant role in transcription of the vitellogenin (Vg) gene, leading to the production of yolk protein in insects, including lepidopterans. However, the function of VgP is still not clear in Plutella xylostella. Here, we cloned a 5.1 kb DNA fragment of the cis-regulatory region adjacent to the 5' end of the Vg gene of P. xylostella (PxVg). We identified two promoter sites in that 5' upstream sequence of PxVg and performed in vitro analysis of two promoter sequences (PxVgP1, 4.9 kb, and PxVgP2, 2.9 kb) in the embryonic cell line of P. xylostella. PxVgP2 exhibited higher enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) expression, so PxVgP2 was used for in vivo analysis. Strong EGFP fluorescence was observed in adult females and the fat body of females, with low expression in embryos. Our results suggest that PxVgP is an important stage-, tissue- and sex-specific endogenous cis-regulatory element in P. xylostella.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Asad
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Pest Control, Fujian Province University, Fuzhou, China
| | - F Munir
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Pest Control, Fujian Province University, Fuzhou, China
| | - X Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Pest Control, Fujian Province University, Fuzhou, China
| | - M Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Pest Control, Fujian Province University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Y Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Pest Control, Fujian Province University, Fuzhou, China
| | - L Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Pest Control, Fujian Province University, Fuzhou, China
| | - G Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Pest Control, Fujian Province University, Fuzhou, China
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14
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Wang YF, Chen XD, Wang G, Li QY, Liang XY, Sima YH, Xu SQ. Influence of hyperproteinemia on reproductive development in an invertebrate model. Int J Biol Sci 2019; 15:2170-2181. [PMID: 31592097 PMCID: PMC6775287 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.33310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperproteinemia is a severe metabolic disease characterized by abnormally elevated plasma protein concentrations (PPC). However, there is currently no reliable animal model for PPC, and the pathological mechanism of hyperproteinemia thus remains unclear. In this study, we evaluated the effects of hyperproteinemia on reproductive development in an invertebrate silkworm model with a controllable PPC and no primary disease effects. High PPC inhibited the synthesis of vitellogenin and 30K protein essential for female ovarian development in the fat body of metabolic tissues, and inhibited their transport through the hemolymph to the ovary. High PPC also induced programmed cell death in testis and ovary cells, slowed the development of germ cells, and significantly reduced the reproductive coefficient. Furthermore, the intensities and mechanisms of high-PPC-induced reproductive toxicity differed between sexes in this silkworm model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Feng Wang
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.,Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology & Ecology (IABE), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Xue-Dong Chen
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.,Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology & Ecology (IABE), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Guang Wang
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.,Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology & Ecology (IABE), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Qiu-Ying Li
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.,Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology & Ecology (IABE), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Xin-Yin Liang
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.,Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology & Ecology (IABE), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yang-Hu Sima
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.,Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology & Ecology (IABE), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Shi-Qing Xu
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.,Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology & Ecology (IABE), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
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15
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Zhao J, Hao D, Xiao L, Tan Y, Jiang Y, Bai L, Wang K. Molecular and functional properties of two Spodoptera exigua acetylcholinesterase genes. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 101:e21554. [PMID: 31033012 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is a vital enzyme that hydrolyzes acetylcholine. Here, full-length complementary DNAs (cDNAs) of two acetylcholinesterase genes (SeAce1 and SeAce2) were obtained from Spodoptera exigua, a widespread phytophagous pest in agriculture. The complete SeAce1 cDNA comprised 5447 nucleotides including an open reading frame (ORF) encoding 694 amino acids, while SeAce2 cDNA encompassed a 1917-bp ORF which would likely yield 638 amino acids. Both SeAce1 and SeAce2 contained specific characteristics of functional AChE. A phylogenetic tree of all lepidopteran insect Aces showed S. exigua clustered with S. litura, Helicoverpa assulta, and H. armigera, all of which are Noctuidae. In S. exigua, SeAce1 gene expression levels (reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction [RT-PCR] and quantitative RT-PCR) were markedly increased compared with SeAce2 in all developmental phases and tissue types. Both genes were down regulated by inserting the corresponding dsRNAs in 5th instar larvae, which resulted in 56.7% (SeAce1) and 24.6% (SeAce2) death. Downregulation of both SeAce1 and SeAce2 significantly reduced fecundity and vitellogenin gene expression in S. exigua. These results revealed the biological functions of the two Ace genes (SeAce1 and SeAce2), providing novel insights into the development of strategies for controlling insect pests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhao
- College of Forestry, Co-Innovation Center for the Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Dejun Hao
- College of Forestry, Co-Innovation Center for the Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liubin Xiao
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Yongan Tan
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Yiping Jiang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Lixin Bai
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Kai Wang
- College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Jingling Institute of Technology, Nanjing, China
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16
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Li X, Jin B, Dong Y, Chen X, Tu Z, Gu J. Two of the three Transformer-2 genes are required for ovarian development in Aedes albopictus. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 109:92-105. [PMID: 30914323 PMCID: PMC6636634 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2019.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
In Drosophila melanogaster, transformer-2 (tra2) plays an essential role in the sex-specific splicing of doublesex (dsx) and fruitless (fru), two key transcription factor genes that program sexual differentiation and regulate sexual behavior. In the present study, the sequences and expression profiles of three tra2 (Aalbtra2) genes in the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus (Ae. albopictus) were characterized. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that these paralogs resulted from two duplication events. The first occurred in the common ancestor of Culicidae, giving rise to the tra2-α and tra2-β clades that are found across divergent mosquito genera, including Aedes, Culex, and Anopheles. The second occurred within the tra2-α clade, giving rise to tra2-γ in Ae. albopictus. In addition to the conserved RNA recognition motif (RRM), arginine-rich/serine-rich regions (RS domains) and a linker region, a glycine-rich region located between the RRM and RS2 was observed in Tra2-α and Tra2-γ of Ae. albopictus that has not yet been described in the Tra2 proteins of dipteran insects. Quantitative real-time PCR detected relatively high levels of transcripts from all three tra2 paralogs in 0-2 h embryos, suggesting maternal deposition of these transcripts. All three Aalbtra2 genes were highly expressed in the ovary, while Aalbtra2-β was also highly expressed in the testis. RNAi-mediated knockdown of any or all Aalbtra2 genes did not result in an obvious switch of the sex-specificity in dsx and fru splicing in the whole-body samples. However, knockdown of transcripts from all three tra2 genes significantly reduced the female isoform of dsx mRNA and increased the male isoform of the dsx mRNA in both the ovary and the fat body in adult females. Furthermore, knockdown of either Aalbtra2-α or Aalbtra2-γ or all three Aalbtra2 led to a decrease in ovariole number and ovary size after a blood meal. Taken together, these results indicate that two of the three tra2 genes affect female ovarian development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaocong Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Binbin Jin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Yunqiao Dong
- Reproductive Medical Centre of Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511442, China
| | - Xiaoguang Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China.
| | - Zhijian Tu
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, USA
| | - Jinbao Gu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China.
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Zhen C, Yang H, Luo S, Huang J, Wu J. Broad-complex Z3 contributes to the ecdysone-mediated transcriptional regulation of the vitellogenin gene in Bombus lantschouensis. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0207275. [PMID: 30440013 PMCID: PMC6237364 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
During reproduction, vitellogenin (Vg), as an egg yolk precursor, is critical in sexually mature females of oviparous species including some insects. The transcription of Vg is usually mediated by hormones such as juvenile hormone (JH), ecdysteroids and some neuropeptides. In this study, the structure of the Vg gene from the bumblebee Bombus lantschouensis, (BlVg) was determined by sequencing and assembly. BlVg was found to be expressed at higher levels in reproductive queens than in virgins by quantitative real-time PCR analysis. Tissue-specific expression analysis showed that BlVg was expressed at the highest levels in the fat bodies of both virgin and reproductive queens. Prediction of the BlVg promoter revealed the presence of ecdysteroid-responsive cis-regulatory elements (CREs) containing one Broad-Complex zinc-finger isoform 3 (BR-C Z3), and one ecdysone-induced protein 74A (E74A). In addition, luciferase reporter expression, driven by the 5' -regulatory region of the BlVg gene, from -1517 bp to +895 bp downstream of the start codon, was induced by treatment with 20-hydroxyecdysone (20-E). Moreover, the luciferase activity of the BlVg promoter was elevated by only BlBrC-Z3 when Sf9 cells were cotransfected with four BlBrC isoforms respectively. BlVg promoter-mediated luciferase activation was significantly reduced when the putative BrC-Z3 CRE in the promoter was mutated. In summary, this report describes the first study of vitellogenin gene regulation at the transcriptional level in bumblebees and demonstrates that the ecdysone-induced transcription of the BlVg gene is mediated by the binding of BlBrC-Z3 to the BrC-Z3 CRE in the BlVg promoter in bumblebees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congai Zhen
- Key Laboratory for Insect-Pollinator Biology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Huipeng Yang
- Key Laboratory for Insect-Pollinator Biology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Shudong Luo
- Key Laboratory for Insect-Pollinator Biology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Jiaxing Huang
- Key Laboratory for Insect-Pollinator Biology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- * E-mail: (JW); (JH)
| | - Jie Wu
- Key Laboratory for Insect-Pollinator Biology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- * E-mail: (JW); (JH)
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Xu QY, Meng QW, Deng P, Fu KY, Guo WC, Li GQ. Requirement of Leptinotarsa decemlineata gene within the 74EF puff for larval-pupal metamorphosis and appendage growth. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 27:439-453. [PMID: 29582498 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Two Drosophila melanogaster E-twenty-six domain transcription factor isoforms (E74A and E74B) act differentially at the start of the 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) signalling cascade to regulate larval-pupal metamorphosis. In the present paper, we identified the two isoforms (LdE74A and LdE74B) in Leptinotarsa decemlineata. During the larval development stage, the mRNA transcript levels of the two LdE74 isoforms were correlated with circulating 20E titres. In vitro midgut culture and in vivo dietary supplementation with 20E revealed that the presence of 20E induced expression peaks of both LdE74A and LdE74B, with similar patterns observed for the two isoforms. Moreover, the mRNA transcript levels of both LdE74A and LdE74B isoforms were significantly downregulated in the L. decemlineata ecdysone receptor RNA interference (RNAi) specimens, but not in the LdE75 RNAi beetles. Ingestion of 20E reduced the larval fresh weights and shortened the larval development period, irrespective of knockdown of LdE74 or not. RNAi of LdE74 did not affect 20E-induced expression of the Ecdysone induced protein 75-hormone receptor 3-fushi tarazu factor 1 (E75-HR3-FTZ-F1) transcriptional cascade. Thus, it seems that LdE74 mediates 20E signalling independent of the E75-HR3-FTZ-F1 transcriptional cascade. Furthermore, silencing of both LdE74 isoforms caused failure of ecdysis. Most of the LdE74 RNAi beetles remained as prepupae. The LdE74 RNAi prepupae exhibited adult character-like forms underneath after removal of the apolysed larval cuticle. Their appendages such as antennae, legs and wings were shorter than those of control larvae. Only a few LdE74 RNAi larvae finally became deformed pupae, with shortened antennae and legs. Therefore, LdE74 is required for larval-pupal metamorphosis and appendage growth in L. decemlineata.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q-Y Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Crop Pest Management in Eastern China (Agricultural Ministry of China), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Q-W Meng
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Crop Pest Management in Eastern China (Agricultural Ministry of China), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - P Deng
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Crop Pest Management in Eastern China (Agricultural Ministry of China), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - K-Y Fu
- Department of Plant Protection, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Urumqi, China
| | - W-C Guo
- Department of Plant Protection, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Urumqi, China
| | - G-Q Li
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Crop Pest Management in Eastern China (Agricultural Ministry of China), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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Dong D, Zhang Y, Smykal V, Ling L, Raikhel AS. HR38, an ortholog of NR4A family nuclear receptors, mediates 20-hydroxyecdysone regulation of carbohydrate metabolism during mosquito reproduction. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 96. [PMID: 29526770 PMCID: PMC5959765 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2018.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The Aedes aegypti mosquito is the principal vector for many dangerous human viral diseases. Carbohydrate metabolism (CM) is essential for supplying the energy necessary for host seeking, blood digestion and rapid egg development of this vector insect. The steroid hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) and the ecdysone receptor (EcR) are important regulators of CM, coordinating it with female reproductive events. We report here that the NR4A nuclear receptor AHR38 plays a critical role in mediating these actions of 20E and EcR. AHR38 RNA interference (RNAi) depletion in female mosquitoes blocked the transcriptional activation of CM genes encoding phosphoglucomutase (PGM) and trehalose-6-phophate synthase (TPS); it caused an increase of glycogen accumulation and a decrease of the circulating sugar trehalose. This treatment also resulted in a dramatic reduction in fecundity. Considering that these phenotypes resulting from AHR38 RNAi depletion are similar to those of EcR RNAi, we investigated a possible connection between these transcription factors in CM regulation. EcR RNAi inhibits the AHR38 gene expression. Moreover, the 20E-induced EcR complex directly activates AHR38 by binding to the ecdysone response element (EcRE) in the upstream regulatory region of this gene. The present work has implicated AHR38 in the 20E-mediated control of CM and provided new insight into mechanisms of 20E regulation of metabolism during female mosquito reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dujuan Dong
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA; Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA; Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-Resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Vlastimil Smykal
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Lin Ling
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Alexander S Raikhel
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA; Institute for Integrative Genomic Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
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Roy S, Saha TT, Zou Z, Raikhel AS. Regulatory Pathways Controlling Female Insect Reproduction. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ENTOMOLOGY 2018; 63:489-511. [PMID: 29058980 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-ento-020117-043258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 302] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The synthesis of vitellogenin and its uptake by maturing oocytes during egg maturation are essential for successful female reproduction. These events are regulated by the juvenile hormones and ecdysteroids and by the nutritional signaling pathway regulated by neuropeptides. Juvenile hormones act as gonadotropins, regulating vitellogenesis in most insects, but ecdysteroids control this process in Diptera and some Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera. The complex crosstalk between the juvenile hormones, ecdysteroids, and nutritional signaling pathways differs distinctly depending on the reproductive strategies adopted by various insects. Molecular studies within the past decade have revealed much about the relationships among, and the role of, these pathways with respect to regulation of insect reproduction. Here, we review the role of juvenile hormones, ecdysteroids, and nutritional signaling, along with that of microRNAs, in regulating female insect reproduction at the molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sourav Roy
- Department of Entomology, Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, and Center for Disease Vector Research, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, USA; , ,
| | - Tusar T Saha
- Department of Entomology, Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, and Center for Disease Vector Research, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, USA; , ,
| | - Zhen Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China;
| | - Alexander S Raikhel
- Department of Entomology, Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, and Center for Disease Vector Research, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, USA; , ,
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Jiang J, Xu Y, Lin X. Role of Broad-Complex ( Br) and Krüppel homolog 1 ( Kr-h1) in the Ovary Development of Nilaparvata lugens. Front Physiol 2017; 8:1013. [PMID: 29270133 PMCID: PMC5724046 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.01013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian development plays an important role in the life history of insects and is crucial for control of the insect population. The metamorphosis of an insect is precisely regulated by the interaction of the juvenile hormone and ecdysone. To understand the role of NlBr and NlKr-h1 in ovary development, we used RNA interference (RNAi) to down-regulate the expression of Broad-Complex (Br) and Krüppel homolog 1 (Kr-h1), two important down-stream transcription factors of juvenile hormone and ecdysone signaling. We further investigated their effects on metamorphosis and ovary development. The results showed that both NlBr and NlKr-h1 are induced by ecdysone. The down-regulation of NlBr and NlKr-h1 alone or together by RNAi is more effective than the topical application of ecdysone on the number of ovarioles, suggesting the necessity of NlBr and NlKr-h1 in determining the number of ovarioles. The ovarian grade was significantly increased/decreased by the topical application of ecdysone and down-regulation of NlBr and NlKr-h1. The pre-oviposition period was also increased. When NlBr and NlKr-h1 were down-regulated together, the ovary grade was not significantly different compared to the control (dsGFP), indicating that the development of the ovary is under the control of both NlBr and NlKr-h1. The interaction between the NlBr and NlKr-h1 on the number of ovarioles and the development of the ovary indicates cross-talk between both juvenile hormone and ecdysone signaling at the transcription level in the brown planthopper. Both genes are nuclear transcription factors and may regulate signaling via down-stream genes. These results would help to both enhance the current understanding of the regulatory mechanism of the interaction between juvenile hormone and ecdysone signaling pathways during ovarian development and to design chemicals to control pests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianru Jiang
- College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yili Xu
- College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinda Lin
- College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, China
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22
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Yang C, Lin Y, Liu H, Shen G, Luo J, Zhang H, Peng Z, Chen E, Xing R, Han C, Xia Q. The Broad Complex isoform 2 (BrC-Z2) transcriptional factor plays a critical role in vitellogenin transcription in the silkworm Bombyx mori. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2014; 1840:2674-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2014.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2014] [Revised: 04/22/2014] [Accepted: 05/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Chan SF, He JG, Chu KH, Sun CB. The Shrimp Heat Shock Cognate 70 Functions as a Negative Regulator in Vitellogenin Gene Expression1. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:14. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.117200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Costa-da-Silva AL, Kojin BB, Marinotti O, James AA, Capurro ML. Expression and accumulation of the two-domain odorant-binding protein AaegOBP45 in the ovaries of blood-fed Aedes aegypti. Parasit Vectors 2013; 6:364. [PMID: 24367904 PMCID: PMC3892079 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-6-364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are the main vectors of dengue viruses. Despite global efforts to reduce the prevalence of dengue using integrated vector management strategies, innovative alternatives are necessary to help prevent virus transmission. Detailed characterizations of Ae. aegypti genes and their products provide information about the biology of mosquitoes and may serve as foundations for the design of new vector control methods. Findings We studied the Ae. aegypti gene, AAEL010714, that encodes a two-domain odorant-binding protein, AaegOBP45. The predicted gene structure and sequence were validated, although single nucleotide polymorphisms were observed. Transcriptional and translational products accumulate in the ovaries of blood fed females and are not detected or are at low abundance in other tissues. Conclusions We validated the Ae. aegypti AAEL010714 gene sequence and characterized the expression profile of a two-domain OBP expressed in ovaries. We propose that AaegOBP45 function as a component of the mosquito eggshell.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Luis Costa-da-Silva
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Laboratório de Mosquitos Geneticamente Modificados, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil.
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Mane-Padros D, Cruz J, Cheng A, Raikhel AS. A critical role of the nuclear receptor HR3 in regulation of gonadotrophic cycles of the mosquito Aedes aegypti. PLoS One 2012; 7:e45019. [PMID: 23049766 PMCID: PMC3458863 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0045019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2012] [Accepted: 08/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The orphan nuclear receptor HR3 is essential for developmental switches during insect development and metamorphosis regulated by 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E). Reproduction of female mosquitoes of the major vector of Dengue fever, Aedes aegypti, is cyclic because of its dependence on blood feeding. 20E is an important hormone regulating vitellogenic events in this mosquito; however, any role for HR3 in 20E-driven reproductive events has not been known. Using RNA interference (RNAi) approach, we demonstrated that Aedes HR3 plays a critical role in a timely termination of expression of the vitellogenin (Vg) gene encoding the major yolk protein precursor. It is also important for downregulation of the Target-of-Rapamycin pathway and activation of programmed autophagy in the Aedes fat body at the end of vitellogenesis. HR3 is critical in activating betaFTZ-F1, EcRB and USPA, the expressions of which are highly elevated at the end of vitellogenesis. RNAi depletion of HR3 (iHR3) prior to the first gonadotrophic cycle affects a normal progression of the second gonadotrophic cycle. Most of ovaries 24 h post second blood meal from iHR3 females in the second cycle were small with follicles that were only slightly different in length from of those of resting stage. In addition, these iHR3 females laid a significantly reduced number of eggs per mosquito as compared to those of iMal and the wild type. Our results indicate an important role of HR3 in regulation of 20E-regulated developmental switches during reproductive cycles of A. aegypti females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Mane-Padros
- Department of Entomology and Institute of Integrative Genome Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Josefa Cruz
- Department of Entomology and Institute of Integrative Genome Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Andrew Cheng
- Department of Entomology and Institute of Integrative Genome Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Alexander S. Raikhel
- Department of Entomology and Institute of Integrative Genome Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Cruz J, Mane-Padros D, Zou Z, Raikhel AS. Distinct roles of isoforms of the heme-liganded nuclear receptor E75, an insect ortholog of the vertebrate Rev-erb, in mosquito reproduction. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 349:262-71. [PMID: 22115961 PMCID: PMC3306807 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2011] [Revised: 10/15/2011] [Accepted: 11/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Mosquitoes are adapted to using vertebrate blood as a nutrient source to promote egg development and as a consequence serve as disease vectors. Blood-meal activated reproductive events in female mosquitoes are hormonally and nutritionally controlled with an insect steroid hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) playing a central role. The nuclear receptor E75 is an essential factor in the 20E genetic hierarchy, however functions of its three isoforms - E75A, E75B, and E75C - in mosquito reproduction are unclear. By means of specific RNA interference depletion of E75 isoforms, we identified their distinct roles in regulating the level and timing of expression of key genes involved in vitellogenesis in the fat body (an insect analog of vertebrate liver and adipose tissue) of the mosquito Aedes aegypti. Heme is required in a high level of expression of 20E-controlled genes in the fat body, and this heme action depends on E75. Thus, in mosquitoes, heme is an important signaling molecule, serving as a sensor of the availability of a protein meal for egg development. Disruption of this signaling pathway could be explored in the design of mosquito control approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Alexander S. Raikhel
- Corresponding author: Department of Entomology and Institute of Integrative Genome Biology, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, CA 92521, USA. Tel: +1 951 827 2129;
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Bryant B, Raikhel AS. Programmed autophagy in the fat body of Aedes aegypti is required to maintain egg maturation cycles. PLoS One 2011; 6:e25502. [PMID: 22125592 PMCID: PMC3219638 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0025502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2011] [Accepted: 09/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy plays a pivotal role by allowing cells to recycle cellular components under conditions of stress, starvation, development and cancer. In this work, we have demonstrated that programmed autophagy in the mosquito fat body plays a critical role in maintaining of developmental switches required for normal progression of gonadotrophic cycles. Mosquitoes must feed on vertebrate blood for their egg development, with each gonadotrophic cycle being tightly coupled to a separate blood meal. As a consequence, some mosquito species are vectors of pathogens that cause devastating diseases in humans and domestic animals, most importantly malaria and Dengue fever. Hence, deciphering mechanisms to control egg developmental cycles is of paramount importance for devising novel approaches for mosquito control. Central to egg development is vitellogenesis, the production of yolk protein precursors in the fat body, the tissue analogous to a vertebrate liver, and their subsequent specific accumulation in developing oocytes. During each egg developmental cycle, the fat body undergoes a developmental program that includes previtellogenic build-up of biosynthetic machinery, intense production of yolk protein precursors, and termination of vitellogenesis. The importance of autophagy for termination of vitellogenesis was confirmed by RNA interference (RNAi) depletions of several autophagic genes (ATGs), which inhibited autophagy and resulted in untimely hyper activation of TOR and prolonged production of the major yolk protein precursor, vitellogenin (Vg). RNAi depletion of the ecdysone receptor (EcR) demonstrated its activating role of autophagy. Depletion of the autophagic genes and of EcR led to inhibition of the competence factor, betaFTZ-F1, which is required for ecdysone-mediated developmental transitions. Moreover, autophagy-incompetent female mosquitoes were unable to complete the second reproductive cycle and exhibited retardation and abnormalities in egg maturation. Thus, our study has revealed a novel function of programmed autophagy in maintaining egg maturation cycles in mosquitoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart Bryant
- Department of Entomology, Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Alexander S. Raikhel
- Department of Entomology, Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
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Lin GGH, Kozaki T, Scott JG. Hormone receptor-like in 96 and Broad-Complex modulate phenobarbital induced transcription of cytochrome P450 CYP6D1 in Drosophila S2 cells. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2011; 20:87-95. [PMID: 21029232 PMCID: PMC3033192 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2583.2010.01047.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Phenobarbital (PB) is a prototypical inducer for studies of xenobiotic responses in animals. In mammals, the nuclear receptors constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) and pregnane X receptor (PXR) have been identified as key transcription factors regulating PB induced transcription of xenobiotic responsive genes. In insects, much less is known about the transcription factors involved in regulating PB induced transcription, although CAR and PXR have a single orthologue hormone receptor-like in 96 (HR96) in Drosophila melanogaster. Using dual luciferase reporter assays in Drosophila Schneider (S2) cells, constructs containing variable lengths of the promoter of the PB inducible cytochrome P450 CYP6D1 were evaluated in the presence and absence of PB. The promoter region between -330 and -280 (relative to the position of transcription start site, +1) was found to be critical for PB induction. Putative binding sites for Drosophila Broad-Complex (BR-C) and deformed (Dfd) were identified within this promoter region using TFsearch. RNA interference (RNAi) treatment of S2 cells in conjunction with CYP6D1 promoter assays showed that suppression of Drosophila HR96 and BR-C transcription in S2 cells resulted in a significant decrease and increase, respectively, of PB induction. Effects of HR96 and BR-C in mediating PB induction were PB specific and PB dependent. This represents new functional evidence that Drosophila HR96 and BR-C can act as an activator and repressor, respectively, in regulating PB induced transcription in insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- G G-H Lin
- Department of Entomology, Comstock Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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Araujo RV, Maciel C, Hartfelder K, Capurro ML. Effects of Plasmodium gallinaceum on hemolymph physiology of Aedes aegypti during parasite development. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2011; 57:265-273. [PMID: 21112329 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2010.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2010] [Revised: 11/10/2010] [Accepted: 11/19/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Insect disease vectors show diminished fecundity when infected with Plasmodium. This phenomenon has already been demonstrated in laboratory models such as Aedes aegypti, Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles stephensi. This study demonstrates several changes in physiological processes of A. aegypti occurring upon infection with Plasmodium gallinaceum, such as reduced ecdysteroid levels in hemolymph as well as altered expression patterns for genes involved in vitellogenesis, lipid transport and immune response. Furthermore, we could show that P. gallinaceum infected A. aegypti presented a reduction in reproductive fitness, accompanied by an activated innate immune response and increase in lipophorin expression, with the latter possibly representing a nutritional resource for Plasmodium sporozoites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Vieira Araujo
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina de São Paulo, Universidade de São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Buaklin A, Klinbunga S, Mensveta P. Identification and expression analysis of the Broad-Complex core protein isoform 6 (BR-C Z6) gene in the giant tiger shrimp Penaeus monodon (Penaeidae: Decapoda). GENETICS AND MOLECULAR RESEARCH 2011; 10:2290-306. [DOI: 10.4238/2011.october.3.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Negri I. Wolbachia as an "infectious" extrinsic factor manipulating host signaling pathways. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2011; 2:115. [PMID: 22654845 PMCID: PMC3356060 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2011.00115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2011] [Accepted: 12/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Wolbachia pipientis is a widespread endosymbiont of filarial nematodes and arthropods. While in worms the symbiosis is obligate, in arthropods Wolbachia induces several reproductive manipulations (i.e., cytoplasmic incompatibility, parthenogenesis, feminization of genetic males, and male-killing) in order to increase the number of infected females. These various phenotypic effects may be linked to differences in host physiology, and in particular to endocrine-related processes governing growth, development, and reproduction. Indeed, a number of evidences links Wolbachia symbiosis to insulin and ecdysteroid signaling, two multilayered pathways known to work antagonistically, jointly or even independently for the regulation of different molecular networks. At present it is not clear whether Wolbachia manipulates one pathway, thus affecting other related metabolic networks, or if it targets both pathways, even interacting at several points in each of them. Interestingly, in view of the interplay between hormone signaling and epigenetic machinery, a direct influence of the "infection" on hormonal signaling involving ecdysteroids might be achievable through the manipulation of the host's epigenetic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Negri
- Department of Exploitation and Protection of the Agricultural and Forestry Resources, Università di TorinoGrugliasco, Italy
- Koiné – Environmental ConsultingParma, Italy
- *Correspondence: Ilaria Negri, Department of Exploitation and Protection of the Agricultural and Forestry Resources, Università di Torino, Via L. da Vinci, 44, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy. e-mail:
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Profile of Alexander S. Raikhel. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2010; 107:22381-3. [DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1018340108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Telang A, Peterson B, Frame L, Baker E, Brown MR. Analysis of molecular markers for metamorphic competency and their response to starvation or feeding in the mosquito, Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae). JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2010; 56:1925-34. [PMID: 20816681 PMCID: PMC2966511 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2010.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2010] [Revised: 08/18/2010] [Accepted: 08/23/2010] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The nutritional condition of fourth instar larvae of the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti, governs female longevity and egg production, both are key determinants of pathogen transmission. As well, nutrition provisions larval growth and development and attains its greatest pace in the last larval instar in preparation for metamorphosis to an adult. These developmental processes are regulated by a complex endocrine interplay of juvenile hormone, neuropeptides, and ecdysteroids that is nutrition sensitive. We previously determined that feeding for only 24h post-ecdysis was sufficient for fourth instar Ae. aegypti larvae to reach critical weight and accumulate sufficient nutritional stores to commit to metamorphosis. To understand the genetic basis of metamorphic commitment in Ae. aegypti, we profiled the expression of 16 genes known to be involved in the endocrine and nutritional regulation of insect metamorphosis in two ways. The first set is a developmental profile from the beginning of the fourth instar to early pupae, and the second set is for fourth instars starved or fed for up to 36 h. By comparing the two sets, we found that seven of the genes (AaegCYP302, AaegJHE43357, AaegBrCZ4, AaegCPF1-2, AaegCPR-7, AaegPpl, and AaegSlif) were expressed during metamorphic commitment in fourth instars and in fed but not starved larvae. Based on these results, the seven genes alone or in combination may serve as molecular indicators of nutritional and metamorphic status of fourth instar Ae. aegypti larvae and possibly other mosquito species in field and laboratory studies to gauge sub-lethal effects of novel and traditional cultural or chemical controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Telang
- Department of Biology, University of Richmond, Richmond, VA 23173, USA.
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Horigane M, Shinoda T, Honda H, Taylor D. Characterization of a vitellogenin gene reveals two phase regulation of vitellogenesis by engorgement and mating in the soft tick Ornithodoros moubata (Acari: Argasidae). INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2010; 19:501-515. [PMID: 20456507 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2583.2010.01007.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Synthesis of the precursor yolk protein vitellogenin (Vg) occurs after engorgement in haematophagous arthropods. We identified the Vg cDNA of the soft tick Ornithodoros moubata (OmVg) and compared its expression in mated and virgin females. Both mated and virgin females showed increases in OmVg expression after engorgement but expression was higher in mated females than virgin females particularly as time advanced. Delayed mating in virgin females induced an increase in OmVg expression. OmVg expression was observed in the midgut and fat body by whole mount in situ hybridization, but enlarged fat body with high expression occurred in only mated females during the late phase of vitellogenesis. Therefore, engorgement initially induces OmVg expression but mating is necessary for continued Vg expression to produce mature eggs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Horigane
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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Wang HB, Moriyama M, Iwanaga M, Kawasaki H. Ecdysone directly and indirectly regulates a cuticle protein gene, BMWCP10, in the wing disc of Bombyx mori. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2010; 40:453-459. [PMID: 20399856 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2010.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2010] [Revised: 04/05/2010] [Accepted: 04/09/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The hormonal regulation of cuticle protein genes is a good model to study the molecular mechanism of signaling by ecdysteroids, which initiates each of the major developmental transitions in insects. This study was conducted to clarify the regulation of the expression of an ecdysone-inducible cuticle protein gene, BMWCP10. Induction of the BMWCP10 transcript by ecdysone was partly inhibited in the presence of cycloheximide, which implies that the BMWCP10 promoter is directly and indirectly activated by ecdysone. Using electrophoretic mobility shift analysis and a competition experiment, we identified a putative ecdysone response element (EcRE1) located at positions -93 to -81 relative to the transcription start site. Site-directed mutagenesis of this site, followed by introduction into wing discs, dramatically abolished the reporter activity. This EcRE1 is necessary for the activation of the promoter by 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) in the wing disc, since the mutation of EcRE1 caused loss of responsiveness to 20E. Collectively, the data obtained in our current and previous work indicate that ecdysone receptor and Broad-Complex Z2 (BR-Z2) are required for maximal BMWCP10 expression in wing disc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua-Bing Wang
- Faculty of Agriculture, Utsunomiya University, 350 Mine, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 321-8505, Japan
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Li S, Mead EA, Liang S, Tu Z. Direct sequencing and expression analysis of a large number of miRNAs in Aedes aegypti and a multi-species survey of novel mosquito miRNAs. BMC Genomics 2009; 10:581. [PMID: 19961592 PMCID: PMC2797818 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-10-581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2009] [Accepted: 12/04/2009] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a novel class of gene regulators whose biogenesis involves hairpin structures called precursor miRNAs, or pre-miRNAs. A pre-miRNA is processed to make a miRNA:miRNA* duplex, which is then separated to generate a mature miRNA and a miRNA*. The mature miRNAs play key regulatory roles during embryonic development as well as other cellular processes. They are also implicated in control of viral infection as well as innate immunity. Direct experimental evidence for mosquito miRNAs has been recently reported in anopheline mosquitoes based on small-scale cloning efforts. Results We obtained approximately 130, 000 small RNA sequences from the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti, by 454 sequencing of samples that were isolated from mixed-age embryos and midguts from sugar-fed and blood-fed females, respectively. We also performed bioinformatics analysis on the Ae. aegypti genome assembly to identify evidence for additional miRNAs. The combination of these approaches uncovered 98 different pre-miRNAs in Ae. aegypti which could produce 86 distinct miRNAs. Thirteen miRNAs, including eight novel miRNAs identified in this study, are currently only found in mosquitoes. We also identified five potential revisions to previously annotated miRNAs at the miRNA termini, two cases of highly abundant miRNA* sequences, 14 miRNA clusters, and 17 cases where more than one pre-miRNA hairpin produces the same or highly similar mature miRNAs. A number of miRNAs showed higher levels in midgut from blood-fed female than that from sugar-fed female, which was confirmed by northern blots on two of these miRNAs. Northern blots also revealed several miRNAs that showed stage-specific expression. Detailed expression analysis of eight of the 13 mosquito-specific miRNAs in four divergent mosquito genera identified cases of clearly conserved expression patterns and obvious differences. Four of the 13 miRNAs are specific to certain lineage(s) within mosquitoes. Conclusion This study provides the first systematic analysis of miRNAs in Ae. aegypti and offers a substantially expanded list of miRNAs for all mosquitoes. New insights were gained on the evolution of conserved and lineage-specific miRNAs in mosquitoes. The expression profiles of a few miRNAs suggest stage-specific functions and functions related to embryonic development or blood feeding. A better understanding of the functions of these miRNAs will offer new insights in mosquito biology and may lead to novel approaches to combat mosquito-borne infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
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Wang HB, Nita M, Iwanaga M, Kawasaki H. betaFTZ-F1 and Broad-Complex positively regulate the transcription of the wing cuticle protein gene, BMWCP5, in wing discs of Bombyx mori. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2009; 39:624-633. [PMID: 19580866 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2009.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2009] [Revised: 06/15/2009] [Accepted: 06/28/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The present study was undertaken to clarify the mechanism regulating cuticle protein gene expression. Expression of BMWCP5 was strong at around pupation and weak at the mid-pupal stage in wing tissues of Bombyx mori. We analyzed the upstream region of the BMWCP5 gene using a transient reporter assay with a gene gun system to identify the regulatory elements responsible for its unique expression pattern. We identified two betaFTZ-F1 binding sites to be important cis-acting elements for the transcription activation of the luciferase reporter gene by an ecdysone pulse. Site-directed mutagenesis of these sites, followed by introduction into wing discs, significantly decreased the reporter activity. We also found that the regions carrying the binding sites for the ecdysone-responsive factor BR-C Z4 (BR-Z4) were responsible for the hormonal enhancement of the reporter gene activity in wing discs. Mutation of the BR-Z4 binding sites decreased the reporter activity. The nuclear proteins that bound to these betaFTZ-F1 and BR-Z4 sites were identified by an electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). The results demonstrate for the first time that the BR-Z4 isoform can bind to the upstream region of the cuticle protein gene, BMWCP5, and activate its expression. The results also suggest that the BMWCP5 transcription is primarily regulated by the ecdysone pulse through betaFTZ-F1, and the stage-specific enhancement is brought about through BR-Z4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua-Bing Wang
- Faculty of Agriculture, Utsunomiya University, 350 Mine, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 321-8505, Japan
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Nita M, Wang HB, Zhong YS, Mita K, Iwanaga M, Kawasaki H. Analysis of ecdysone-pulse responsive region of BMWCP2 in wing disc of Bombyx mori. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2009; 153:101-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2009.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2008] [Revised: 02/05/2009] [Accepted: 02/05/2009] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Cruz J, Sieglaff DH, Arensburger P, Atkinson PW, Raikhel AS. Nuclear receptors in the mosquito Aedes aegypti. FEBS J 2009; 276:1233-54. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2008.06860.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Sengul MS, Tu Z. Characterization and expression of the odorant-binding protein 7 gene in Anopheles stephensi and comparative analysis among five mosquito species. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2008; 17:631-645. [PMID: 18811600 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2583.2008.00837.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) are important molecular players in insect olfaction, which has a great influence on the host-seeking behaviour of mosquitoes and other disease vectors. The mRNA level of the Anopheles gambiae Obp7 gene (Agam-Obp7) is higher in the adult female antennae and is slightly reduced in the female heads after blood-feeding. Here we report the cloning, sequencing, chromosomal mapping and transcript analysis of Aste-Obp7, the Obp7 gene from the Asian malaria mosquito Anopheles stephensi. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR showed that in adult female mosquitoes, Aste-Obp7 was expressed abundantly in the antennae, much less in pooled maxillary palp and proboscis and at the lowest level in the legs. The Aste-Obp7 level in female antennae was significantly higher than in male antennae and it slightly increased 24 h after a bloodmeal. The same pattern held for leg samples as well. The Aste-Obp7 mRNA level dropped more than 10-fold in the female maxillary palp and proboscis after a bloodmeal, although it was still significantly higher than in the males. Together, the above expression profiles suggest that Aste-Obp7 probably functions in female olfaction and may possibly be involved in behaviour related to blood-feeding. We also characterized the Obp7 gene from Anopheles quadriannulatus. Comparison among Anopheles Obp7 genes revealed conserved noncoding sequences that contain potential regulatory elements. The coding sequence and gene structure of Obp7 as well as local synteny of surrounding genes are conserved among the three Anopheles species and two divergent mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti and Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus. OBP7 protein phylogeny is congruent with the mosquito phylogeny and there is evidence of purifying selection acting on the mosquito Obp7 gene. Comparative genomics analysis will improve our understanding of the evolution and regulation of genes involved in mosquito olfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Sengul
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
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Campbell CL, Black WC, Hess AM, Foy BD. Comparative genomics of small RNA regulatory pathway components in vector mosquitoes. BMC Genomics 2008; 9:425. [PMID: 18801182 PMCID: PMC2566310 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-9-425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2008] [Accepted: 09/18/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Small RNA regulatory pathways (SRRPs) control key aspects of development and anti-viral defense in metazoans. Members of the Argonaute family of catalytic enzymes degrade target RNAs in each of these pathways. SRRPs include the microRNA, small interfering RNA (siRNA) and PIWI-type gene silencing pathways. Mosquitoes generate viral siRNAs when infected with RNA arboviruses. However, in some mosquitoes, arboviruses survive antiviral RNA interference (RNAi) and are transmitted via mosquito bite to a subsequent host. Increased knowledge of these pathways and functional components should increase understanding of the limitations of anti-viral defense in vector mosquitoes. To do this, we compared the genomic structure of SRRP components across three mosquito species and three major small RNA pathways. Results The Ae. aegypti, An. gambiae and Cx. pipiens genomes encode putative orthologs for all major components of the miRNA, siRNA, and piRNA pathways. Ae. aegypti and Cx. pipiens have undergone expansion of Argonaute and PIWI subfamily genes. Phylogenetic analyses were performed for these protein families. In addition, sequence pattern recognition algorithms MEME, MDScan and Weeder were used to identify upstream regulatory motifs for all SRRP components. Statistical analyses confirmed enrichment of species-specific and pathway-specific cis-elements over the rest of the genome. Conclusion Analysis of Argonaute and PIWI subfamily genes suggests that the small regulatory RNA pathways of the major arbovirus vectors, Ae. aegypti and Cx. pipiens, are evolving faster than those of the malaria vector An. gambiae and D. melanogaster. Further, protein and genomic features suggest functional differences between subclasses of PIWI proteins and provide a basis for future analyses. Common UCR elements among SRRP components indicate that 1) key components from the miRNA, siRNA, and piRNA pathways contain NF-kappaB-related and Broad complex transcription factor binding sites, 2) purifying selection has occurred to maintain common pathway-specific elements across mosquito species and 3) species-specific differences in upstream elements suggest that there may be differences in regulatory control among mosquito species. Implications for arbovirus vector competence in mosquitoes are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corey L Campbell
- Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology Department, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, USA.
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