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Pandey P, Shrestha B, Lee Y. Avoiding alkaline taste through ionotropic receptors. iScience 2024; 27:110087. [PMID: 38947501 PMCID: PMC11214294 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110087] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Taste organs contain distinct gustatory receptors that help organisms differentiate between nourishing and potentially harmful foods. The detection of high pH levels plays a crucial role in food selection, but the specific gustatory receptors responsible for perceiving elevated pH in foods have remained unknown. By using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism, we have uncovered the involvement of ionotropic receptors (IRs) in avoiding high-pH foods. Our study involved a combination of behavioral tests and electrophysiological analyses, which led to the identification of six Irs from bitter-sensing gustatory receptor neurons essential for rejecting food items with elevated pH levels. Using the same methodology, our study reevaluated the significance of Alka and OtopLa. The findings highlight that Alka, in conjunction with IRs, is crucial for detecting alkaline substances, whereas OtopLa does not contribute to this process. Overall, our study offers valuable insights into the intricate mechanisms governing taste perception in organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prakash Pandey
- Department of Bio & Fermentation Convergence Technology, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea
| | - Bhanu Shrestha
- Department of Bio & Fermentation Convergence Technology, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngseok Lee
- Department of Bio & Fermentation Convergence Technology, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea
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2
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Medeiros AM, Hobbiss AF, Borges G, Moita M, Mendes CS. Mechanosensory bristles mediate avoidance behavior by triggering sustained local motor activity in Drosophila melanogaster. Curr Biol 2024:S0960-9822(24)00664-X. [PMID: 38861987 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
During locomotion, most vertebrates-and invertebrates such as Drosophila melanogaster-are able to quickly adapt to terrain irregularities or avoid physical threats by integrating sensory information along with motor commands. Key to this adaptability are leg mechanosensory structures, which assist in motor coordination by transmitting external cues and proprioceptive information to motor centers in the central nervous system. Nevertheless, how different mechanosensory structures engage these locomotor centers remains poorly understood. Here, we tested the role of mechanosensory structures in movement initiation by optogenetically stimulating specific classes of leg sensory structures. We found that stimulation of leg mechanosensory bristles (MsBs) and the femoral chordotonal organ (ChO) is sufficient to initiate forward movement in immobile animals. While the stimulation of the ChO required brain centers to induce forward movement, unexpectedly, brief stimulation of leg MsBs triggered a fast response and sustained motor activity dependent only on the ventral nerve cord (VNC). Moreover, this leg-MsB-mediated movement lacked inter- and intra-leg coordination but preserved antagonistic muscle activity within joints. Finally, we show that leg-MsB activation mediates strong avoidance behavior away from the stimulus source, which is preserved even in the absence of a central brain. Overall, our data show that mechanosensory stimulation can elicit a fast motor response, independently of central brain commands, to evade potentially harmful stimuli. In addition, it sheds light on how specific sensory circuits modulate motor control, including initiation of movement, allowing a better understanding of how different levels of coordination are controlled by the VNC and central brain locomotor circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra M Medeiros
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Anna F Hobbiss
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal; Champalimaud Research, Champalimaud Center for the Unknown, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Gonçalo Borges
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Marta Moita
- Champalimaud Research, Champalimaud Center for the Unknown, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - César S Mendes
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal.
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3
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Long T, Mohapatra P, Ballou S, Menuz K. Odorant receptor co-receptors affect expression of tuning receptors in Drosophila. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1390557. [PMID: 38832356 PMCID: PMC11145718 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1390557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Insects detect odorants using two large families of heteromeric receptors, the Odorant Receptors (ORs) and Ionotropic Receptors (IRs). Most OR and IR genes encode odorant-binding "tuning" subunits, whereas four (Orco, Ir8a, Ir25a, and Ir76b) encode co-receptor subunits required for receptor function. Olfactory neurons are thought to degenerate in the absence of Orco in ants and bees, and limited data suggest this may happen to some olfactory neurons in Drosophila fruit flies as well. Here, we thoroughly examined the role of co-receptors on olfactory neuron survival in Drosophila. Leveraging knowledge that olfactory neuron classes are defined by the expression of different tuning receptors, we used tuning receptor expression in antennal transcriptomes as a proxy for the survival of distinct olfactory neuron classes. Consistent with olfactory neuron degeneration, expression of many OR-family tuning receptors is decreased in Orco mutants relative to controls, and transcript loss is progressive with age. The effects of Orco are highly receptor-dependent, with expression of some receptor transcripts nearly eliminated and others unaffected. Surprisingly, further studies revealed that olfactory neuron classes with reduced tuning receptor expression generally survive in Orco mutant flies. Furthermore, there is little apoptosis or neuronal loss in the antenna of these flies. We went on to investigate the effects of IR family co-receptor mutants using similar approaches and found that expression of IR tuning receptors is decreased in the absence of Ir8a and Ir25a, but not Ir76b. As in Orco mutants, Ir8a-dependent olfactory neurons mostly endure despite near-absent expression of associated tuning receptors. Finally, we used differential expression analysis to identify other antennal genes whose expression is changed in IR and OR co-receptor mutants. Taken together, our data indicate that odorant co-receptors are necessary for maintaining expression of many tuning receptors at the mRNA level. Further, most Drosophila olfactory neurons persist in OR and IR co-receptor mutants, suggesting that the impact of co-receptors on neuronal survival may vary across insect species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng Long
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Pratyajit Mohapatra
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Sydney Ballou
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Karen Menuz
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- Connecticut Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
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4
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Whitehead SC, Sahai SY, Stonemetz J, Yapici N. Exploration-exploitation trade-off is regulated by metabolic state and taste value in Drosophila. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.13.594045. [PMID: 38798663 PMCID: PMC11118379 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.13.594045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Similar to other animals, the fly, Drosophila melanogaster, changes its foraging strategy from exploration to exploitation upon encountering a nutrient-rich food source. However, the impact of metabolic state or taste/nutrient value on exploration vs. exploitation decisions in flies is poorly understood. Here, we developed a one-source foraging assay that uses automated video tracking coupled with high-resolution measurements of food ingestion to investigate the behavioral variables flies use when foraging for food with different taste/caloric values and when in different metabolic states. We found that flies alter their foraging and ingestive behaviors based on their hunger state and the concentration of the sucrose solution. Interestingly, sugar-blind flies did not transition from exploration to exploitation upon finding a high-concentration sucrose solution, suggesting that taste sensory input, as opposed to post-ingestive nutrient feedback, plays a crucial role in determining the foraging decisions of flies. Using a Generalized Linear Model (GLM), we showed that hunger state and sugar volume ingested, but not the nutrient or taste value of the food, influence flies' radial distance to the food source, a strong indicator of exploitation. Our behavioral paradigm and theoretical framework offer a promising avenue for investigating the neural mechanisms underlying state and value-based foraging decisions in flies, setting the stage for systematically identifying the neuronal circuits that drive these behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel C. Whitehead
- Department of Physics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY,14853, USA
- Current address: California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Saumya Y. Sahai
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Current address: Amazon.com LLC, USA
| | - Jamie Stonemetz
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Current address: Department of Biology, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, USA
| | - Nilay Yapici
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
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Renthal R. Arthropod repellent interactions with olfactory receptors and ionotropic receptors analyzed by molecular modeling. CURRENT RESEARCH IN INSECT SCIENCE 2024; 5:100082. [PMID: 38765913 PMCID: PMC11101704 DOI: 10.1016/j.cris.2024.100082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
The main insect chemoreceptors are olfactory receptors (ORs), gustatory receptors (GRs) and ionotropic receptors (IRs). The odorant binding sites of many insect ORs appear to be occluded and inaccessible from the surface of the receptor protein, based on the three-dimensional structure of OR5 from the jumping bristletail Machilis hrabei (MhraOR5) and a survey of a sample of vinegar fly (Drosophila melanogaster) OR structures obtained from artificial intellegence (A.I.) modeling. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the occluded site can become accessible through tunnels that transiently open and close. The present study extends this analysis to examine seventeen ORs and one GR docking with ligands that have known valence: nine that signal attraction and nine that signal aversion. All but one of the receptors displayed occluded ligand binding sites analogous to MhraOR5, and docking software predicted the known attractant and repellent ligands will bind to the occluded sites. Docking of the repellent DEET was examined, and more than half of the OR ligand sites were predicted to bind DEET, including receptors that signal aversion as well as those that signal attraction. However, DEET may not actually have access to all the attractant binding sites. The larger size and lower flexibility of repellent molecules may restrict their passage through the tunnel bottlenecks, which could act as filters to select access to the ligand binding sites. In contrast to ORs and GRs, the IR ligand binding site is in an extracellular domain known to undergo a large conformational change from an open to a closed state. A.I. models of two D. melanogaster IRs of known valence and two blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) IRs having unknown ligands were computationally tested for attractant and repellent binding. The ligand-binding sites in the closed state appear inaccessible to the protein surface, so attractants and repellents must bind initially at an accessible site in the open state before triggering the conformational change. In some IRs, repellent binding sites were identified at exterior sites adjacent to the ligand-binding site. These may be allosteric sites that, when occupied by repellents, can stabilize the open state of an attractant IR, or stabilize the closed state of an IR in the absence of its activating ligand. The model of D. melanogaster IR64a suggests a possible molecular mechanism for the activation of this IR by H+. The amino acids involved in this proposed mechanism are conserved in IR64a from several Dipteran pest species and disease vectors, potentially offering a route to discovery of new repellents that act via the allosteric site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Renthal
- Department of Neuroscience, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
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6
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Han X, Weng M, Shi W, Wen Y, Long Y, Hu X, Ji G, Zhu Y, Wen X, Zhang F, Wu S. The Neurotranscriptome of Monochamus alternatus. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4553. [PMID: 38674138 PMCID: PMC11050616 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The Japanese pine sawyer Monochamus alternatus serves as the primary vector for pine wilt disease, a devastating pine disease that poses a significant threat to the sustainable development of forestry in the Eurasian region. Currently, trap devices based on informational compounds have played a crucial role in monitoring and controlling the M. alternatus population. However, the specific proteins within M. alternatus involved in recognizing the aforementioned informational compounds remain largely unclear. To elucidate the spatiotemporal distribution of M. alternatus chemosensory-related genes, this study conducted neural transcriptome analyses to investigate gene expression patterns in different body parts during the feeding and mating stages of both male and female beetles. The results revealed that 15 genes in the gustatory receptor (GR) gene family exhibited high expression in the mouthparts, most genes in the odorant binding protein (OBP) gene family exhibited high expression across all body parts, 22 genes in the odorant receptor (OR) gene family exhibited high expression in the antennae, a significant number of genes in the chemosensory protein (CSP) and sensory neuron membrane protein (SNMP) gene families exhibited high expression in both the mouthparts and antennae, and 30 genes in the ionotropic receptors (IR) gene family were expressed in the antennae. Through co-expression analyses, it was observed that 34 genes in the IR gene family were co-expressed across the four developmental stages. The Antenna IR subfamily and IR8a/Ir25a subfamily exhibited relatively high expression levels in the antennae, while the Kainate subfamily, NMDA subfamily, and Divergent subfamily exhibited predominantly high expression in the facial region. MalIR33 is expressed only during the feeding stage of M. alternatus, the MalIR37 gene exhibits specific expression in male beetles, the MalIR34 gene exhibits specific expression during the feeding stage in male beetles, the MalIR8 and MalIR39 genes exhibit specific expression during the feeding stage in female beetles, and MalIR8 is expressed only during two developmental stages in male beetles and during the mating stage in female beetles. The IR gene family exhibits gene-specific expression in different spatiotemporal contexts, laying the foundation for the subsequent selection of functional genes and facilitating the full utilization of host plant volatiles and insect sex pheromones, thereby enabling the development of more efficient attractants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohong Han
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Mingqing Weng
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Wenchao Shi
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yingxin Wen
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yirong Long
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Xinran Hu
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Guoxi Ji
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yukun Zhu
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Xuanye Wen
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Feiping Zhang
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Songqing Wu
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Fujian Colleges and Universities Engineering Research Institute of Conservation and Utilization of Natural Bioresources, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
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Arntsen C, Guillemin J, Audette K, Stanley M. Tastant-receptor interactions: insights from the fruit fly. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1394697. [PMID: 38665300 PMCID: PMC11043608 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1394697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Across species, taste provides important chemical information about potential food sources and the surrounding environment. As details about the chemicals and receptors responsible for gustation are discovered, a complex view of the taste system is emerging with significant contributions from research using the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, as a model organism. In this brief review, we summarize recent advances in Drosophila gustation and their relevance to taste research more broadly. Our goal is to highlight the molecular mechanisms underlying the first step of gustatory circuits: ligand-receptor interactions in primary taste cells. After an introduction to the Drosophila taste system and how it encodes the canonical taste modalities sweet, bitter, and salty, we describe recent insights into the complex nature of carboxylic acid and amino acid detection in the context of sour and umami taste, respectively. Our analysis extends to non-canonical taste modalities including metals, fatty acids, and bacterial components, and highlights unexpected receptors and signaling pathways that have recently been identified in Drosophila taste cells. Comparing the intricate molecular and cellular underpinnings of how ligands are detected in vivo in fruit flies reveals both specific and promiscuous receptor selectivity for taste encoding. Throughout this review, we compare and contextualize these Drosophila findings with mammalian research to not only emphasize the conservation of these chemosensory systems, but to demonstrate the power of this model organism in elucidating the neurobiology of taste and feeding.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Molly Stanley
- Department of Biology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States
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8
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Haga-Yamanaka S, Nunez-Flores R, Scott CA, Perry S, Chen ST, Pontrello C, Nair MG, Ray A. Plasticity of gene expression in the nervous system by exposure to environmental odorants that inhibit HDACs. eLife 2024; 12:RP86823. [PMID: 38411140 PMCID: PMC10942631 DOI: 10.7554/elife.86823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Eukaryotes respond to secreted metabolites from the microbiome. However, little is known about the effects of exposure to volatiles emitted by microbes or in the environment that we are exposed to over longer durations. Using Drosophila melanogaster, we evaluated a yeast-emitted volatile, diacetyl, found at high levels around fermenting fruits where they spend long periods of time. Exposure to the diacetyl molecules in headspace alters gene expression in the antenna. In vitro experiments demonstrated that diacetyl and structurally related volatiles inhibited conserved histone deacetylases (HDACs), increased histone-H3K9 acetylation in human cells, and caused changes in gene expression in both Drosophila and mice. Diacetyl crosses the blood-brain barrier and exposure caused modulation of gene expression in the mouse brain, therefore showing potential as a neuro-therapeutic. Using two separate disease models previously known to be responsive to HDAC inhibitors, we evaluated the physiological effects of volatile exposure. Diacetyl exposure halted proliferation of a neuroblastoma cell line in culture. Exposure to diacetyl vapors slowed progression of neurodegeneration in a Drosophila model for Huntington's disease. These changes strongly suggest that certain volatiles in the surroundings can have profound effects on histone acetylation, gene expression, and physiology in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachiko Haga-Yamanaka
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, University of CaliforniaRiversideUnited States
| | - Rogelio Nunez-Flores
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, University of CaliforniaRiversideUnited States
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of CaliforniaRiversideUnited States
| | - Christi A Scott
- Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology Program, University of CaliforniaRiversideUnited States
| | - Sarah Perry
- Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics Program, University of CaliforniaRiversideUnited States
| | - Stephanie Turner Chen
- Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology Program, University of CaliforniaRiversideUnited States
| | - Crystal Pontrello
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, University of CaliforniaRiversideUnited States
| | - Meera G Nair
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of CaliforniaRiversideUnited States
| | - Anandasankar Ray
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, University of CaliforniaRiversideUnited States
- Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology Program, University of CaliforniaRiversideUnited States
- Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics Program, University of CaliforniaRiversideUnited States
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9
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Bontonou G, Saint-Leandre B, Kafle T, Baticle T, Hassan A, Sánchez-Alcañiz JA, Arguello JR. Evolution of chemosensory tissues and cells across ecologically diverse Drosophilids. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1047. [PMID: 38316749 PMCID: PMC10844241 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44558-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemosensory tissues exhibit significant between-species variability, yet the evolution of gene expression and cell types underlying this diversity remain poorly understood. To address these questions, we conducted transcriptomic analyses of five chemosensory tissues from six Drosophila species and integrated the findings with single-cell datasets. While stabilizing selection predominantly shapes chemosensory transcriptomes, thousands of genes in each tissue have evolved expression differences. Genes that have changed expression in one tissue have often changed in multiple other tissues but at different past epochs and are more likely to be cell type-specific than unchanged genes. Notably, chemosensory-related genes have undergone widespread expression changes, with numerous species-specific gains/losses including novel chemoreceptors expression patterns. Sex differences are also pervasive, including a D. melanogaster-specific excess of male-biased expression in sensory and muscle cells in its forelegs. Together, our analyses provide new insights for understanding evolutionary changes in chemosensory tissues at both global and individual gene levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwénaëlle Bontonou
- Department of Ecology & Evolution, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Bastien Saint-Leandre
- Department of Ecology & Evolution, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Tane Kafle
- Department of Ecology & Evolution, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tess Baticle
- Department of Ecology & Evolution, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Afrah Hassan
- Department of Ecology & Evolution, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - J Roman Arguello
- Department of Ecology & Evolution, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
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10
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Walker III WB, Cattaneo AM, Stout JL, Evans ML, Garczynski SF. Chemosensory Receptor Expression in the Abdomen Tip of the Female Codling Moth, Cydia pomonella L. (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). INSECTS 2023; 14:948. [PMID: 38132621 PMCID: PMC10743790 DOI: 10.3390/insects14120948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
In insects, the chemical senses influence most vital behaviors, including mate seeking and egg laying; these sensory modalities are predominantly governed by odorant receptors (ORs), ionotropic receptors (IRs), and gustatory receptors (GRs). The codling moth, Cydia pomonella, is a global pest of apple, pear, and walnut, and semiochemically based management strategies limit the economic impacts of this species. The previous report of expression of a candidate pheromone-responsive OR in female codling moth ovipositor and pheromone glands raises further questions about the chemosensory capacity of these organs. With an RNA-sequencing approach, we examined chemoreceptors' expression in the female codling moth abdomen tip, sampling tissues from mated and unmated females and pupae. We report 37 ORs, 22 GRs, and 18 IRs expressed in our transcriptome showing overlap with receptors expressed in adult antennae as well as non-antennal candidate receptors. A quantitative PCR approach was also taken to assess the effect of mating on OR expression in adult female moths, revealing a few genes to be upregulated or downregulating after mating. These results provide a better understanding of the chemosensory role of codling moth female abdomen tip organs in female-specific behaviors. Future research will determine the function of specific receptors to augment current semiochemical-based strategies for codling moth management.
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Affiliation(s)
- William B. Walker III
- Temperate Tree Fruit and Vegetable Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture—Agricultural Research Service, Wapato, WA 98951, USA; (J.L.S.); (M.L.E.)
| | - Alberto M. Cattaneo
- Chemical Ecology Group, Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Lomma (Campus Alnarp), 234 56 Skåne, Sweden;
| | - Jennifer L. Stout
- Temperate Tree Fruit and Vegetable Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture—Agricultural Research Service, Wapato, WA 98951, USA; (J.L.S.); (M.L.E.)
| | - MacKenzie L. Evans
- Temperate Tree Fruit and Vegetable Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture—Agricultural Research Service, Wapato, WA 98951, USA; (J.L.S.); (M.L.E.)
| | - Stephen F. Garczynski
- Temperate Tree Fruit and Vegetable Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture—Agricultural Research Service, Wapato, WA 98951, USA; (J.L.S.); (M.L.E.)
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11
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Dweck HKM, Carlson JR. Diverse mechanisms of taste coding in Drosophila. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadj7032. [PMID: 37976361 PMCID: PMC10656072 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj7032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Taste systems encode chemical cues that drive vital behaviors. We have elucidated noncanonical features of taste coding using an unconventional kind of electrophysiological analysis. We find that taste neurons of Drosophila are much more sensitive than previously thought. They have a low spontaneous firing frequency that depends on taste receptors. Taste neurons have a dual function as olfactory neurons: They are activated by most tested odorants, including N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET), at a distance. DEET can also inhibit certain taste neurons, revealing that there are two modes of taste response: activation and inhibition. We characterize electrophysiological OFF responses and find that the tastants that elicit them are related in structure. OFF responses link tastant identity to behavior: the magnitude of the OFF response elicited by a tastant correlated with the egg laying behavior it elicited. In summary, the sensitivity and coding capacity of the taste system are much greater than previously known.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hany K M Dweck
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Department of Entomology, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - John R Carlson
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
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12
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Dey M, Brown E, Charlu S, Keene A, Dahanukar A. Evolution of fatty acid taste in drosophilids. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113297. [PMID: 37864792 PMCID: PMC10697176 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Comparative studies of related but ecologically distinct species can reveal how the nervous system evolves to drive behaviors that are particularly suited to certain environments. Drosophila melanogaster is a generalist that feeds and oviposits on most overripe fruits. A sibling species, D. sechellia, is an obligate specialist of Morinda citrifolia (noni) fruit, which is rich in fatty acids (FAs). To understand evolution of noni taste preference, we characterized behavioral and cellular responses to noni-associated FAs in three related drosophilids. We find that mixtures of sugar and noni FAs evoke strong aversion in the generalist species but not in D. sechellia. Surveys of taste sensory responses reveal noni FA- and species-specific differences in at least two mechanisms-bitter neuron activation and sweet neuron inhibition-that correlate with shifts in noni preference. Chemoreceptor mutant analysis in D. melanogaster predicts that multiple genetic changes account for evolution of gustatory preference in D. sechellia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali Dey
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Elizabeth Brown
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Sandhya Charlu
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Alex Keene
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Anupama Dahanukar
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA; Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA; Department of Molecular, Cell & Systems Biology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
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13
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Manrique G, Rojas JC, Lorenzo Figueiras AN, Barrozo RB, Guerenstein PG. Highlights, challenges, and perspectives in basic and applied chemical ecology of triatomines. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2023; 59:101101. [PMID: 37595884 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2023.101101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Triatomines are vectors of Chagas disease. Due to failures in their control, there is an urgent need for more efficient and environmentally friendly monitoring and control tools. These hematophagous insects rely heavily on chemical information from the environment to detect hosts and cues/signals from conspecifics. Chemical ecology includes the elucidation of the functional role of chemicals mediating interactions between organisms. Studies on the chemical ecology of triatomines are leading to novel methods for their monitor and control. Thus, laboratory tests to develop chemical attractants and repellents are promissory and have led to the design of, for example, efficient baited traps. However, the monitoring and control tools proposed until now have not been as effective in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Manrique
- Laboratorio de Fisiología de Insectos, Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada (IBBEA), CONICET-UBA, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Julio C Rojas
- Departamento de Ecología de Artrópodos y Manejo de Plagas, El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Carretera Antiguo Aeropuerto km 2.5, Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico
| | - Alicia N Lorenzo Figueiras
- Laboratorio de Fisiología de Insectos, Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada (IBBEA), CONICET-UBA, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Romina B Barrozo
- Laboratorio de Neuroetología de Insectos, Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada (IBBEA), CONICET-UBA, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pablo G Guerenstein
- Laboratorio de Estudio de la Biología de Insectos, Centro de Investigación Científica y Transferencia Tecnológica a la Producción (CONICET-UADER-Gob de Entre Ríos), Diamante, Entre Ríos, Argentina; Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional de Entre Ríos, Oro Verde, Entre Ríos, Argentina.
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14
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Ha TS, Sengupta S, Powell J, Smith DP. An angiotensin converting enzyme homolog is required for volatile pheromone detection, odorant binding protein secretion and normal courtship behavior in Drosophila melanogaster. Genetics 2023; 224:iyad109. [PMID: 37283550 PMCID: PMC10484059 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyad109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In many arthropods, including insects responsible for transmission of human diseases, behaviors that include mating, aggregation, and aggression are triggered by detection of pheromones. Extracellular odorant binding proteins are critical for pheromone detection in many insects and are secreted into the fluid bathing the olfactory neuron dendrites. In Drosophila melanogaster, the odorant binding protein LUSH is essential for normal sensitivity to the volatile sex pheromone, 11-cis vaccenyl acetate (cVA). Using a genetic screen for cVA pheromone insensitivity, we identified ANCE-3, a homolog of human angiotensin converting enzyme that is required for detection of cVA pheromone. The mutants have normal dose-response curves for food odors, although olfactory neuron amplitudes are reduced in all olfactory neurons examined. ance-3 mutants have profound delays in mating, and the courtship defects are primarily but not exclusively due to loss of ance-3 function in males. We demonstrate that ANCE-3 is required in the sensillae support cells for normal reproductive behavior, and that localization of odorant binding proteins to the sensillum lymph is blocked in the mutants. Expression of an ance-3 cDNA in sensillae support cells completely rescues the cVA responses, LUSH localization, and courtship defects. We show the courtship latency defects are not due to effects on olfactory neurons in the antenna nor mediated through ORCO receptors, but instead stem from ANCE-3-dependent effects on chemosensory sensillae in other body parts. These findings reveal an unexpected factor critical for pheromone detection with profound influence on reproductive behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tal Soo Ha
- Department of Biomedical Science, Daegu University, 201 Daegudae-ro, Gyeongsan-si, Gyeongbuk, 38453 Republic of Korea
| | - Samarpita Sengupta
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX 75390-9111, USA
- Department of Physician Assistant Studies, School of Health Professions, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX 75390-9111, USA
| | - Jordan Powell
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX 75390-9111, USA
| | - Dean P Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX 75390-9111, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX 75390-9111, USA
- O’Donnell Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX 75390-9111, USA
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15
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Liu P, Guo J, Wei H, Feng L, Gao Z, Zhang T. Genome-wide identification of candidate chemosensory receptors in the bean bug Riptortus pedestris (Hemiptera: Alydidae) and the functional verification of its odorant receptor co-receptor (Orco) in recognizing aggregation pheromone. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1224009. [PMID: 37520822 PMCID: PMC10375722 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1224009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
A sophisticated and sensitive olfactory system plays a vital role in the survival and reproduction of insects. Chemosensory receptors are indispensable for the molecular recognition and discrimination of semiochemicals. Riptortus pedestris is a notorious pest of legume plants, resulting in yield losses and quality decreases in soybeans. It is well accepted that R. pedestris highly relies on its olfactory system in detecting aggregation pheromones, host volatiles, and pesticides; however, little research focused on its chemosensory receptors. In the present study, we identified 237 odorant receptors (ORs), 42 gustatory receptors (GRs), and 31 ionotropic receptors (IRs) from the reported genome of R. pedestris, and analyzed their phylogenetic relationship with other hemipteran species. Through the results of RNA-seq and real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR), we found that RpedORs displayed different expression levels in the antennae of R. pedestris at different development stages. To further verify the function of odorant receptor co-receptor (Orco), an obligate and unique insect OR, we silenced RpedOrco by RNA interference (RNAi) method. The results showed that silencing RpedOrco could significantly impair the response to aggregation pheromone in R. pedestris, indicating that RpedOrco plays an essential role in odorant detection. Our results can provide the theoretical foundations for revealing the olfactory recognition mechanism of R. pedestris and help explore and develop novel olfactory-based agents against this pest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panjing Liu
- Key Laboratory of IPM on Crops in Northern Region of North China, Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Plant Protection, Hebei Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Integrated Pest Management Center of Hebei Province, Baoding, China
| | - Jianglong Guo
- Key Laboratory of IPM on Crops in Northern Region of North China, Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Plant Protection, Hebei Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Integrated Pest Management Center of Hebei Province, Baoding, China
| | - Hongyi Wei
- Institute of Entomology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Likai Feng
- Institute of Plant Protection, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, China
| | - Zhanlin Gao
- Key Laboratory of IPM on Crops in Northern Region of North China, Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Plant Protection, Hebei Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Integrated Pest Management Center of Hebei Province, Baoding, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of IPM on Crops in Northern Region of North China, Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Plant Protection, Hebei Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Integrated Pest Management Center of Hebei Province, Baoding, China
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16
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Hopkins BR, Barmina O, Kopp A. A single-cell atlas of the sexually dimorphic Drosophila foreleg and its sensory organs during development. PLoS Biol 2023; 21:e3002148. [PMID: 37379332 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
To respond to the world around them, animals rely on the input of a network of sensory organs distributed throughout the body. Distinct classes of sensory organs are specialized for the detection of specific stimuli such as strain, pressure, or taste. The features that underlie this specialization relate both to the neurons that innervate sensory organs and the accessory cells they comprise. To understand the genetic basis of this diversity of cell types, both within and between sensory organs, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing on the first tarsal segment of the male Drosophila melanogaster foreleg during pupal development. This tissue displays a wide variety of functionally and structurally distinct sensory organs, including campaniform sensilla, mechanosensory bristles, and chemosensory taste bristles, as well as the sex comb, a recently evolved male-specific structure. In this study, we characterize the cellular landscape in which the sensory organs reside, identify a novel cell type that contributes to the construction of the neural lamella, and resolve the transcriptomic differences among support cells within and between sensory organs. We identify the genes that distinguish between mechanosensory and chemosensory neurons, resolve a combinatorial transcription factor code that defines 4 distinct classes of gustatory neurons and several types of mechanosensory neurons, and match the expression of sensory receptor genes to specific neuron classes. Collectively, our work identifies core genetic features of a variety of sensory organs and provides a rich, annotated resource for studying their development and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben R Hopkins
- Department of Evolution and Ecology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Olga Barmina
- Department of Evolution and Ecology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Artyom Kopp
- Department of Evolution and Ecology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
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17
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Taisz I, Donà E, Münch D, Bailey SN, Morris BJ, Meechan KI, Stevens KM, Varela-Martínez I, Gkantia M, Schlegel P, Ribeiro C, Jefferis GSXE, Galili DS. Generating parallel representations of position and identity in the olfactory system. Cell 2023; 186:2556-2573.e22. [PMID: 37236194 PMCID: PMC10403364 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.04.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
In Drosophila, a dedicated olfactory channel senses a male pheromone, cis-vaccenyl acetate (cVA), promoting female courtship while repelling males. Here, we show that separate cVA-processing streams extract qualitative and positional information. cVA sensory neurons respond to concentration differences in a 5-mm range around a male. Second-order projection neurons encode the angular position of a male by detecting inter-antennal differences in cVA concentration, which are amplified through contralateral inhibition. At the third circuit layer, we identify 47 cell types with diverse input-output connectivity. One population responds tonically to male flies, a second is tuned to olfactory looming, while a third integrates cVA and taste to coincidentally promote female mating. The separation of olfactory features resembles the mammalian what and where visual streams; together with multisensory integration, this enables behavioral responses appropriate to specific ethological contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- István Taisz
- Neurobiology Division, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
| | - Erika Donà
- Neurobiology Division, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Billy J Morris
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Katie M Stevens
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Marina Gkantia
- Neurobiology Division, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
| | - Philipp Schlegel
- Neurobiology Division, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK; Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Gregory S X E Jefferis
- Neurobiology Division, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK; Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Dana S Galili
- Neurobiology Division, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK.
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18
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Li X, Sun Y, Gao S, Li Y, Liu L, Zhu Y. Taste coding of heavy metal ion-induced avoidance in Drosophila. iScience 2023; 26:106607. [PMID: 37128604 PMCID: PMC10148117 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106607] [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: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing pollution of heavy metals poses great risks to animals globally. Their survival likely relies on an ability to detect and avoid harmful heavy metal ions (HMIs). Currently, little is known about the neural mechanisms of HMI detection. Here, we show that Drosophila and related species of Drosophilidae actively avoid toxic HMIs at micromolar concentrations. The high sensitivity to HMIs is biologically relevant. Particularly, their sensitivity to cadmium is as high as that to the most bitter substance, denatonium. Detection of HMIs in food requires Gr66a + gustatory neurons but is independent of bitter-taste receptors. In these neurons, the ionotropic receptors IR76b, IR25a, and IR7a are required for the perception of heavy metals. Furthermore, IR47a mediates the activation of a distinct group of non-Gr66a + gustatory neurons elicited by HMIs. Together, our findings reveal a surprising taste quality represented by noxious metal ions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaonan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 15 Datun Road, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuanjie Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 15 Datun Road, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 15 Datun Road, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 15 Datun Road, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Li Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 15 Datun Road, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 15 Datun Road, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Corresponding author
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19
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Zhang L, Sun H, Grosse-Wilde E, Zhang L, Hansson BS, Dweck HKM. Cross-generation pheromonal communication drives Drosophila oviposition site choice. Curr Biol 2023; 33:2095-2103.e3. [PMID: 37098339 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.03.090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
In a heterogeneous and changing environment, oviposition site selection strongly affects the survival and fitness of the offspring.1,2 Similarly, competition between larvae affects their prospects.3 However, little is known about the involvement of pheromones in regulating these processes.4,5,6,7,8 Here, we show that mated females of Drosophila melanogaster prefer to lay eggs on substrates containing extracts of conspecific larvae. After analyzing these extracts chemically, we test each compound in an oviposition assay and find that mated females display a dose-dependent preference to lay eggs on substrates spiked with (Z)-9-octadecenoic acid ethyl ester (OE). This egg-laying preference relies on gustatory receptor Gr32a and tarsal sensory neurons expressing this receptor. The concentration of OE also regulates larval place choice in a dose-dependent manner. Physiologically, OE activates female tarsal Gr32a+ neurons. In conclusion, our results reveal a cross-generation communication strategy essential for oviposition site selection and regulation of larval density.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Zhang
- College of Grassland Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Yuanmingyuan West Rd. 2, Beijing 100193, China; Department of Evolutionary Neuroethology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll-Str. 8, 07745 Jena, Germany.
| | - Huiwen Sun
- College of Grassland Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Yuanmingyuan West Rd. 2, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Ewald Grosse-Wilde
- Department of Evolutionary Neuroethology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll-Str. 8, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Long Zhang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Gongye North Rd. 202, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Bill S Hansson
- Department of Evolutionary Neuroethology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll-Str. 8, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Hany K M Dweck
- Department of Evolutionary Neuroethology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll-Str. 8, 07745 Jena, Germany
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20
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Benton R, Dahanukar A. Chemosensory Coding in Drosophila Single Sensilla. Cold Spring Harb Protoc 2023; 2023:107803-pdb.top. [PMID: 36446528 DOI: 10.1101/pdb.top107803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The chemical senses-smell and taste-detect and discriminate an enormous diversity of environmental stimuli and provide fascinating but challenging models to investigate how sensory cues are represented in the brain. Important stimulus-coding events occur in peripheral sensory neurons, which express specific combinations of chemosensory receptors with defined ligand-response profiles. These receptors convert ligand recognition into spatial and temporal patterns of neural activity that are transmitted to, and interpreted in, central brain regions. Drosophila melanogaster provides an attractive model to study chemosensory coding because it possesses relatively simple peripheral olfactory and gustatory systems that display many organizational parallels to those of vertebrates. Moreover, nearly all peripheral chemosensory neurons have been molecularly characterized and are accessible for physiological analysis, as they are exposed on the surface of sensory organs housed in specialized hairs called sensilla. Here, we briefly review anatomical, molecular, and physiological properties of adult Drosophila olfactory and gustatory systems and provide background to methods for electrophysiological recordings of ligand-evoked activity from different types of chemosensory sensilla.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Benton
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anupama Dahanukar
- Department of Molecular, Cell & Systems Biology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, USA
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21
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Wang X, Liu H, Xie G, Wang W, Yang Y. Identification and expression analyses of the olfactory-related genes in different tissues' transcriptome of a predacious soldier beetle, Podabrus annulatus (Coleoptera, Cantharidae). ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 112:e21997. [PMID: 36656761 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
We sequenced and analyzed the transcriptomes from different tissues of the soldier beetle, Podabrus annulatus (Coleoptera: Cantharidae), and obtained 75.74 Gb clean reads which were assembled into 95,274 unigenes. Among these transcripts, 25,484 unigenes of highly quality were annotated. Based on annotation and tBLASTn results, we identified a total of 101 candidate olfactory-related genes for the first time, including 11 putative odorant-binding proteins (OBPs), 6 chemosensory proteins (CSP), 50 olfactory receptors (ORs), 25 gustatory receptors (GRs), 6 ionotropic receptors (IRs), and 3 sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs). BLASTX best-hit results indicated that these chemosensory genes were most identical to their respective orthologs from Photinus pyralis. Phylogenetic analyses also revealed that the ORs, GRs, and IRs of Podabrus annulatus are closely related to those of Photinus pyralis. The fragment per kilobase per million mapped fragments (FPKM) values showed that the PannOBP2, PannOBP3, and PannOBP10 were predominantly expressed in the antennae, PannOBP1 in the abdomen-thorax, while others were not identified to be tissue-specific. These olfactory-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) demonstrated different roles in the olfactory system of Podabrus annulatus. This study establishes the groundwork for future research into the molecular mechanism of olfactory recognition in Podabrus annulatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application, School of Life Science, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding, China
- College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Haoyu Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application, School of Life Science, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Guanglin Xie
- College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Wenkai Wang
- College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Yuxia Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application, School of Life Science, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding, China
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22
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Titos I, Juginović A, Vaccaro A, Nambara K, Gorelik P, Mazor O, Rogulja D. A gut-secreted peptide suppresses arousability from sleep. Cell 2023; 186:1382-1397.e21. [PMID: 36958331 PMCID: PMC10216829 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
Suppressing sensory arousal is critical for sleep, with deeper sleep requiring stronger sensory suppression. The mechanisms that enable sleeping animals to largely ignore their surroundings are not well understood. We show that the responsiveness of sleeping flies and mice to mechanical vibrations is better suppressed when the diet is protein rich. In flies, we describe a signaling pathway through which information about ingested proteins is conveyed from the gut to the brain to help suppress arousability. Higher protein concentration in the gut leads to increased activity of enteroendocrine cells that release the peptide CCHa1. CCHa1 signals to a small group of dopamine neurons in the brain to modulate their activity; the dopaminergic activity regulates the behavioral responsiveness of animals to vibrations. The CCHa1 pathway and dietary proteins do not influence responsiveness to all sensory inputs, showing that during sleep, different information streams can be gated through independent mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Titos
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alen Juginović
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alexandra Vaccaro
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Keishi Nambara
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Pavel Gorelik
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ofer Mazor
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Dragana Rogulja
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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23
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Walker WB, Mori BA, Cattaneo AM, Gonzalez F, Witzgall P, Becher PG. Comparative transcriptomic assessment of the chemosensory receptor repertoire of Drosophila suzukii adult and larval olfactory organs. COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY. PART D, GENOMICS & PROTEOMICS 2023; 45:101049. [PMID: 36528931 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2022.101049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The spotted wing Drosophila, Drosophila suzukii, has emerged within the past decade as an invasive species on a global scale, and is one of the most economically important pests in fruit and berry production in Europe and North America. Insect ecology, to a strong degree, depends on the chemosensory modalities of smell and taste. Extensive research on the sensory receptors of the olfactory and gustatory systems in Drosophila melanogaster provide an excellent frame of reference to better understand the fundamentals of the chemosensory systems of D. suzukii. This knowledge may enhance the development of semiochemicals for sustainable management of D. suzukii, which is urgently needed. Here, using a transcriptomic approach we report the chemosensory receptor expression profiles in D. suzukii female and male antennae, and for the first time, in larval heads including the dorsal organ that houses larval olfactory sensory neurons. In D. suzukii adults, we generally observed a lack of sexually dimorphic expression levels in male and female antennae. While there was generally conservation of antennal expression of odorant and ionotropic receptor orthologues for D. melanogaster and D. suzukii, gustatory receptors showed more distinct species-specific profiles. In larval head tissues, for all three receptor gene families, there was also a greater degree of species-specific gene expression patterns. Analysis of chemosensory receptor repertoires in the pest species, D. suzukii relative to those of the genetic model D. melanogaster enables comparative studies of the chemosensory, physiology, and ecology of D. suzukii.
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Affiliation(s)
- William B Walker
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden; USDA-ARS Temperate Tree Fruit and Vegetable Research Unit, 5230 Konnowac Pass Road, Wapato, WA 98951, USA.
| | - Boyd A Mori
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden; Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, 4-10 Agriculture/Forestry Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2P5, Canada.
| | - Alberto M Cattaneo
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden.
| | - Francisco Gonzalez
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden; Department of Research and Development, ChemTica Internacional S.A., Apdo. 640-3100, Santo Domingo, Heredia, Costa Rica.
| | - Peter Witzgall
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden.
| | - Paul G Becher
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden.
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24
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Mi T, Mack JO, Koolmees W, Lyon Q, Yochimowitz L, Teng ZQ, Jiang P, Montell C, Zhang YV. Alkaline taste sensation through the alkaliphile chloride channel in Drosophila. Nat Metab 2023; 5:466-480. [PMID: 36941450 PMCID: PMC10665042 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-023-00765-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
The sense of taste is an important sentinel governing what should or should not be ingested by an animal, with high pH sensation playing a critical role in food selection. Here we explore the molecular identities of taste receptors detecting the basic pH of food using Drosophila melanogaster as a model. We identify a chloride channel named alkaliphile (Alka), which is both necessary and sufficient for aversive taste responses to basic food. Alka forms a high-pH-gated chloride channel and is specifically expressed in a subset of gustatory receptor neurons (GRNs). Optogenetic activation of alka-expressing GRNs is sufficient to suppress attractive feeding responses to sucrose. Conversely, inactivation of these GRNs causes severe impairments in the aversion to high pH. Altogether, our discovery of Alka as an alkaline taste receptor lays the groundwork for future research on alkaline taste sensation in other animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingwei Mi
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - John O Mack
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Quinn Lyon
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Zhao-Qian Teng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Peihua Jiang
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Craig Montell
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Yali V Zhang
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Department of Physiology, The Diabetes Research Center, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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25
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Raji JI, Konopka JK, Potter CJ. A spatial map of antennal-expressed ionotropic receptors in the malaria mosquito. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112101. [PMID: 36773296 PMCID: PMC10412736 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The mosquito's antenna represents its main olfactory appendage for detecting volatile chemical cues from the environment. Whole-mount fluorescence in situ hybridization of ionotropic receptors (IRs) expressed in the antennae reveals that the antenna might be divisible into proximal and distal functional domains. The number of IR-positive cells appear stereotyped within each antennal segment (flagellomere). Highly expressed odor-tuning IRs exhibit distinct co-localization patterns with the IR coreceptors Ir8a, Ir25a, and Ir76b that might predict their functional properties. Genetic knockin and in vivo functional imaging of IR41c-expressing neurons indicate both odor-induced activation and inhibition in response to select amine compounds. Targeted mutagenesis of IR41c does not abolish behavioral responses to the amine compounds. Our study provides a comprehensive map of IR-expressing neurons in the main olfactory appendage of mosquitoes. These findings show organizing principles of Anopheles IR-expressing neurons, which might underlie their functional contribution to the detection of behaviorally relevant odors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua I Raji
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Joanna K Konopka
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Christopher J Potter
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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26
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Reisenman CE, Wong J, Vedagarbha N, Livelo C, Scott K. Taste adaptations associated with host specialization in the specialist Drosophila sechellia. J Exp Biol 2023; 226:jeb244641. [PMID: 36637369 PMCID: PMC10088416 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.244641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Chemosensory-driven host plant specialization is a major force mediating insect ecological adaptation and speciation. Drosophila sechellia, a species endemic to the Seychelles islands, feeds and oviposits on Morinda citrifolia almost exclusively. This fruit is harmless to D. sechellia but toxic to other Drosophilidae, including the closely related generalists D. simulans and D. melanogaster, because of its high content of fatty acids. While several olfactory adaptations mediating D. sechellia's preference for its host have been uncovered, the role of taste has been much less examined. We found that D. sechellia has reduced taste and feeding aversion to bitter compounds and host fatty acids that are aversive to D. melanogaster and D. simulans. The loss of aversion to canavanine, coumarin and fatty acids arose in the D. sechellia lineage, as its sister species D. simulans showed responses akin to those of D. melanogaster. Drosophila sechellia has increased taste and feeding responses towards M. citrifolia. These results are in line with D. sechellia's loss of genes that encode bitter gustatory receptors (GRs) in D. melanogaster. We found that two GR genes which are lost in D. sechellia, GR39a.a and GR28b.a, influence the reduction of aversive responses to some bitter compounds. Also, D. sechellia has increased appetite for a prominent host fatty acid compound that is toxic to its relatives. Our results support the hypothesis that changes in the taste system, specifically a reduction of sensitivity to bitter compounds that deter generalist ancestors, contribute to the specialization of D. sechellia for its host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina E. Reisenman
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720-3200, USA
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720-3200, USA
- Essig Museum of Entomology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Joshua Wong
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720-3200, USA
| | - Namrata Vedagarbha
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720-3200, USA
| | | | - Kristin Scott
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720-3200, USA
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27
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Zhang X, Jiang Z, Jiao X, Yu Y, Wang Z, Hou Y, Duan G, Du W, Ruan C, Zhang J, Hu Y. Genome Assembly and Comparative Analysis of the Egg Parasitoid Wasp Trichogramma dendrolimi Shed Light on the Composition and Evolution of Olfactory Receptors and Venoms. INSECTS 2023; 14:144. [PMID: 36835713 PMCID: PMC9960361 DOI: 10.3390/insects14020144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Trichogramma dendrolimi is one of the most successfully industrialized Trichogramma species used to control agricultural and forestry pests in China. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying its host recognition and parasitism remain largely unknown, partially due to the limited genome information of this parasitoid wasp. Here, we present a high-quality de novo assembly of T. dendrolimi through a combination of Illumina and PacBio sequencing technologies. The final assembly had a length of 215.2 Mb and contains 316 scaffolds with a scaffold N50 size of 1.41 Mb. Repetitive sequences with a length of 63.4 Mb and 12,785 protein-coding genes were identified. Significantly expanded gene families were identified to be involved in the development and regulatory processes, while remarkably contracted gene families were involved in the transport processes in T. dendrolimi. The olfactory and venom-associated genes were identified in T. dendrolimi and 24 other hymenopteran species, using uniform methods combining BLAST and HMM profiling. The identified venom genes of T. dendrolimi were enriched in antioxidant activity, tricarboxylic acid cycle, response to oxidative stress and cell redox homeostasis. Our study provides an important resource for comparative genomics and functional studies to interpret the molecular mechanisms underlying host recognition and parasitism of Trichogramma species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Natural Enemies, Institute of Biological Control, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Zhuo Jiang
- Engineering Research Center of Natural Enemies, Institute of Biological Control, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Xilin Jiao
- Engineering Research Center of Natural Enemies, Institute of Biological Control, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Engineering Research Center of Natural Enemies, Institute of Biological Control, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Zhenan Wang
- Department of Plant Pathology, College of Plant Protection, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Yangyang Hou
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Guohua Duan
- Department of Plant Pathology, College of Plant Protection, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Wenmei Du
- Engineering Research Center of Natural Enemies, Institute of Biological Control, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Changchun Ruan
- Engineering Research Center of Natural Enemies, Institute of Biological Control, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Junjie Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Natural Enemies, Institute of Biological Control, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Ying Hu
- Engineering Research Center of Natural Enemies, Institute of Biological Control, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
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28
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Coates BS, Walden KKO, Lata D, Vellichirammal NN, Mitchell RF, Andersson MN, McKay R, Lorenzen MD, Grubbs N, Wang YH, Han J, Xuan JL, Willadsen P, Wang H, French BW, Bansal R, Sedky S, Souza D, Bunn D, Meinke LJ, Miller NJ, Siegfried BD, Sappington TW, Robertson HM. A draft Diabrotica virgifera virgifera genome: insights into control and host plant adaption by a major maize pest insect. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:19. [PMID: 36639634 PMCID: PMC9840275 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-08990-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adaptations by arthropod pests to host plant defenses of crops determine their impacts on agricultural production. The larval host range of western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), is restricted to maize and a few grasses. Resistance of D. v. virgifera to crop rotation practices and multiple insecticides contributes to its status as the most damaging pest of cultivated maize in North America and Europe. The extent to which adaptations by this pest contributes to host plant specialization remains unknown. RESULTS A 2.42 Gb draft D. v. virgifera genome, Dvir_v2.0, was assembled from short shotgun reads and scaffolded using long-insert mate-pair, transcriptome and linked read data. K-mer analysis predicted a repeat content of ≥ 61.5%. Ortholog assignments for Dvir_2.0 RefSeq models predict a greater number of species-specific gene duplications, including expansions in ATP binding cassette transporter and chemosensory gene families, than in other Coleoptera. A majority of annotated D. v. virgifera cytochrome P450s belong to CYP4, 6, and 9 clades. A total of 5,404 transcripts were differentially-expressed between D. v. virgifera larvae fed maize roots compared to alternative host (Miscanthus), a marginal host (Panicum virgatum), a poor host (Sorghum bicolor) and starvation treatments; Among differentially-expressed transcripts, 1,908 were shared across treatments and the least number were between Miscanthus compared to maize. Differentially-expressed transcripts were enriched for putative spliceosome, proteosome, and intracellular transport functions. General stress pathway functions were unique and enriched among up-regulated transcripts in marginal host, poor host, and starvation responses compared to responses on primary (maize) and alternate hosts. CONCLUSIONS Manual annotation of D. v. virgifera Dvir_2.0 RefSeq models predicted expansion of paralogs with gene families putatively involved in insecticide resistance and chemosensory perception. Our study also suggests that adaptations of D. v. virgifera larvae to feeding on an alternate host plant invoke fewer transcriptional changes compared to marginal or poor hosts. The shared up-regulation of stress response pathways between marginal host and poor host, and starvation treatments may reflect nutrient deprivation. This study provides insight into transcriptomic responses of larval feeding on different host plants and resources for genomic research on this economically significant pest of maize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brad S. Coates
- grid.508983.fCorn Insects & Crop Genetics Research Unit, USDA-ARS, 2310 Pammel Dr, 532 Science II, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011 USA
| | - Kimberly K. O. Walden
- grid.35403.310000 0004 1936 9991Roy J. Carver Biotechnology Center, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, Urbana, IL USA
| | - Dimpal Lata
- grid.62813.3e0000 0004 1936 7806Department of Biology, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL USA
| | | | - Robert F. Mitchell
- grid.267474.40000 0001 0674 4543University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI USA
| | - Martin N. Andersson
- grid.4514.40000 0001 0930 2361Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Rachel McKay
- grid.267474.40000 0001 0674 4543University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI USA
| | - Marcé D. Lorenzen
- grid.40803.3f0000 0001 2173 6074Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC USA
| | - Nathaniel Grubbs
- grid.40803.3f0000 0001 2173 6074Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC USA
| | - Yu-Hui Wang
- grid.40803.3f0000 0001 2173 6074Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC USA
| | - Jinlong Han
- grid.40803.3f0000 0001 2173 6074Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC USA
| | - Jing Li Xuan
- grid.40803.3f0000 0001 2173 6074Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC USA
| | - Peter Willadsen
- grid.40803.3f0000 0001 2173 6074Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC USA
| | - Huichun Wang
- grid.24434.350000 0004 1937 0060Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE USA
| | - B. Wade French
- grid.508981.dIntegrated Crop Systems Research Unit, USDA-ARS, Brookings, SD USA
| | - Raman Bansal
- grid.512850.bUSDA-ARS, San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Sciences Center, Parlier, CA USA
| | - Sammy Sedky
- grid.512850.bUSDA-ARS, San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Sciences Center, Parlier, CA USA
| | - Dariane Souza
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Entomology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Dakota Bunn
- grid.62813.3e0000 0004 1936 7806Department of Biology, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Lance J. Meinke
- grid.24434.350000 0004 1937 0060Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE USA
| | - Nicholas J. Miller
- grid.62813.3e0000 0004 1936 7806Department of Biology, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Blair D. Siegfried
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Entomology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Thomas W. Sappington
- grid.508983.fCorn Insects & Crop Genetics Research Unit, USDA-ARS, 2310 Pammel Dr, 532 Science II, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011 USA
| | - Hugh M. Robertson
- grid.35403.310000 0004 1936 9991Department of Entomology, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, Urbana, IL USA
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29
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Johny J, Diallo S, Lukšan O, Shewale M, Kalinová B, Hanus R, Große-Wilde E. Conserved orthology in termite chemosensory gene families. Front Ecol Evol 2023. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2022.1065947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Termites are eusocial insects known to use a variety of pheromones in tasks necessary for maintenance of their societies. As such, olfaction and pheromone communication in termites has been an object of intense study; trail-following pheromones (TFPs) and sex-pairing pheromones (SPPs), for example, have been identified in many termite species. In contrast, the molecular basis of olfactory detection is understudied in the group. Here, we present chemosensory genes of three species of termites belonging to three distinct lineages, Neotermes cubanus (Kalotermitidae), Prorhinotermes simplex (Rhinotermitidae), and Inquilinitermes inquilinus (Termitidae). Using antennal transcriptome screening of termite workers, we identified the chemosensory genes, which allowed us to perform phylogenetic analysis. We found a comparatively large repertoires of odorant receptors (ORs), gustatory receptors (GRs), ionotropic receptors (IRs), odorant binding proteins (OBPs), chemosensory proteins (CSPs), and sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs). The evolutionary analysis of termite chemosensory genes revealed Isoptera-specific expansions with a 1:1 orthologous pattern, indicating the existence of conserved olfactory functions. Our findings on basal eusocial insects will further enhance our understanding of the molecular underpinnings of eusociality and the evolution of olfactory communication in termites.
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30
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Bansal S, Lin S. Transcriptional Genetically Encoded Calcium Indicators in Drosophila. Cold Spring Harb Protoc 2023; 2023:8-18. [PMID: 36167674 DOI: 10.1101/pdb.top107797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Knowing which neurons are active during behavior is a crucial step toward understanding how nervous systems work. Neuronal activation is generally accompanied by an increase in intracellular calcium levels. Therefore, intracellular calcium levels are widely used as a proxy for neuronal activity. Many types of synthetic components and bioluminescent or fluorescent proteins that report transient and long-term changes in intracellular calcium levels have been developed over the past 60 years. Calcium indicators that enable imaging of the dynamic activity of a large ensemble of neurons in behaving animals have revolutionized the field of neuroscience. Among these, transcription-based genetically encoded calcium indicators (transcriptional GECIs) have proven easy to use and do not depend on sophisticated imaging systems, offering unique advantages over other types of calcium indicators. Here, we describe the two currently available fly transcriptional GECIs-calcium-dependent nuclear import of LexA (CaLexA) and transcriptional reporter of intracellular calcium (TRIC)-and review studies that have used them. In the accompanying protocol, we present step-by-step details for generating CaLexA- and TRIC-ready flies and for imaging CaLexA and TRIC signals in dissected brains after experimental manipulations of intact free-moving flies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Bansal
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan
| | - Suewei Lin
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan
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31
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Dong JF, Yang HB, Li DX, Yu HQ, Tian CH. Identification and expression analysis of chemosensory receptors in the tarsi of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith). Front Physiol 2023; 14:1177297. [PMID: 37101698 PMCID: PMC10123274 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1177297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemosensation of tarsi provides moths with the ability to detect chemical signals which are important for food recognition. However, molecular mechanisms underlying the chemosensory roles of tarsi are still unknown. The fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda is a serious moth pest that can damage many plants worldwide. In the current study, we conducted transcriptome sequencing with total RNA extracted from S. frugiperda tarsi. Through sequence assembly and gene annotation, 23 odorant receptors 10 gustatory receptors and 10 inotropic receptors (IRs) were identified. Further phylogenetic analysis with these genes and homologs from other insect species indicated specific genes, including ORco, carbon dioxide receptors, fructose receptor, IR co-receptors, and sugar receptors were expressed in the tarsi of S. frugiperda. Expression profiling with RT-qPCR in different tissues of adult S. frugiperda showed that most annotated SfruORs and SfruIRs were mainly expressed in the antennae, and most SfruGRs were mainly expressed in the proboscises. However, SfruOR30, SfruGR9, SfruIR60a, SfruIR64a, SfruIR75d, and SfruIR76b were also highly enriched in the tarsi of S. frugiperda. Especially SfruGR9, the putative fructose receptor, was predominantly expressed in the tarsi, and with its levels significantly higher in the female tarsi than in the male ones. Moreover, SfruIR60a was also found to be expressed with higher levels in the tarsi than in other tissues. This study not only improves our insight into the tarsal chemoreception systems of S. frugiperda but also provides useful information for further functional studies of chemosensory receptors in S. frugiperda tarsi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Feng Dong
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Hai-Bo Yang
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Ding-Xu Li
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Hong-Qi Yu
- Information Center of Ministry of Natural Resources, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Hong-Qi Yu, ; Cai-Hong Tian,
| | - Cai-Hong Tian
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- *Correspondence: Hong-Qi Yu, ; Cai-Hong Tian,
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32
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Vernier CL, Leitner N, Zelle KM, Foltz M, Dutton S, Liang X, Halloran S, Millar JG, Ben-Shahar Y. A pleiotropic chemoreceptor facilitates the production and perception of mating pheromones. iScience 2022; 26:105882. [PMID: 36691619 PMCID: PMC9860498 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Optimal mating decisions depend on the robust coupling of signal production and perception because independent changes in either could carry a fitness cost. However, since the perception and production of mating signals are often mediated by different tissues and cell types, the mechanisms that drive and maintain their coupling remain unknown for most animal species. Here, we show that in Drosophila, behavioral responses to, and the production of, a putative inhibitory mating pheromone are co-regulated by Gr8a, a member of the Gustatory receptor gene family. Specifically, through behavioral and pheromonal data, we found that Gr8a independently regulates the behavioral responses of males and females to a putative inhibitory pheromone, as well as its production in the fat body and oenocytes of males. Overall, these findings provide a relatively simple molecular explanation for how pleiotropic receptors maintain robust mating signaling systems at the population and species levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassondra L. Vernier
- Department of Biology, Washington University in Saint Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, Saint Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Nicole Leitner
- Department of Biology, Washington University in Saint Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, Saint Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Kathleen M. Zelle
- Department of Biology, Washington University in Saint Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, Saint Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Merrin Foltz
- Department of Biology, Washington University in Saint Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, Saint Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Sophia Dutton
- Department of Biology, Washington University in Saint Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, Saint Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Xitong Liang
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 South Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Sean Halloran
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Jocelyn G. Millar
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Yehuda Ben-Shahar
- Department of Biology, Washington University in Saint Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, Saint Louis, MO 63130, USA,Corresponding author
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Ren M, Yang Y, Heng KHY, Ng LY, Chong CYY, Ng YT, Gorur-Shandilya S, Lee RMQ, Lim KL, Zhang J, Koh TW. MED13 and glycolysis are conserved modifiers of α-synuclein-associated neurodegeneration. Cell Rep 2022; 41:111852. [PMID: 36543134 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
α-Synuclein (α-syn) is important in synucleinopathies such as Parkinson's disease (PD). While genome-wide association studies (GWASs) of synucleinopathies have identified many risk loci, the underlying genes have not been shown for most loci. Using Drosophila, we screened 3,471 mutant chromosomes for genetic modifiers of α-synuclein and identified 12 genes. Eleven modifiers have human orthologs associated with diseases, including MED13 and CDC27, which lie within PD GWAS loci. Drosophila Skd/Med13 and glycolytic enzymes are co-upregulated by α-syn-associated neurodegeneration. While elevated α-syn compromises mitochondrial function, co-expressing skd/Med13 RNAi and α-syn synergistically increase the ratio of oxidized-to-reduced glutathione. The resulting neurodegeneration can be suppressed by overexpressing a glycolytic enzyme or treatment with deferoxamine, suggesting that compensatory glycolysis is neuroprotective. In addition, the functional relationship between α-synuclein, MED13, and glycolytic enzymes is conserved between flies and mice. We propose that hypoxia-inducible factor and MED13 are part of a druggable pathway for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengda Ren
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, Singapore 117604, Singapore; Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117558, Singapore; Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 308207, Singapore; National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore 308433, Singapore
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Pathology, Zhejiang University First Affiliated Hospital and School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310002, China
| | | | - Lu Yi Ng
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, Singapore 117604, Singapore
| | | | - Yan Ting Ng
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, Singapore 117604, Singapore
| | | | - Rachel Min Qi Lee
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, Singapore 117604, Singapore; Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117558, Singapore
| | - Kah Leong Lim
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 308207, Singapore; National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore 308433, Singapore
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Zhejiang University First Affiliated Hospital and School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310002, China; China National Health and Disease Human Brain Tissue Resource Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310002, China
| | - Tong-Wey Koh
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, Singapore 117604, Singapore; Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117558, Singapore.
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Yuan TT, Luo ZJ, Luo ZX, Cai XM, Bian L, Xiu CL, Fu NX, Chen ZM, Zhang LW, Li ZQ. Olfactory Gene Families in Scopula subpunctaria and Candidates for Type-II Sex Pheromone Detection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415775. [PMID: 36555416 PMCID: PMC9779464 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Scopula subpunctaria, an abundant pest in tea gardens, produce type-II sex pheromone components, which are critical for its communicative and reproductive abilities; however, genes encoding the proteins involved in the detection of type-II sex pheromone components have rarely been documented in moths. In the present study, we sequenced the transcriptomes of the male and female S. subpunctaria antennae. A total of 150 candidate olfaction genes, comprising 58 odorant receptors (SsubORs), 26 ionotropic receptors (SsubIRs), 24 chemosensory proteins (SsubCSPs), 40 odorant-binding proteins (SsubOBPs), and 2 sensory neuron membrane proteins (SsubSNMPs) were identified in S. subpunctaria. Phylogenetic analysis, qPCR, and mRNA abundance analysis results suggested that SsubOR46 may be the Orco (non-traditional odorant receptor, a subfamily of ORs) of S. subpunctaria. SsubOR9, SsubOR53, and SsubOR55 belonged to the pheromone receptor (PR) clades which have a higher expression in male antennae. Interestingly, SsubOR44 was uniquely expressed in the antennae, with a higher expression in males than in females. SsubOBP25, SsubOBP27, and SsubOBP28 were clustered into the moth pheromone-binding protein (PBP) sub-family, and they were uniquely expressed in the antennae, with a higher expression in males than in females. SsubOBP19, a member of the GOBP2 group, was the most abundant OBP in the antennae. These findings indicate that these olfactory genes, comprising five candidate PRs, three candidate PBPs, and one candidate GOBP2, may be involved in type II sex pheromone detection. As well as these genes, most of the remaining SsubORs, and all of the SsubIRs, showed a considerably higher expression in the female antennae than in the male antennae. Many of these, including SsubOR40, SsubOR42, SsubOR43, and SsubIR26, were more abundant in female antennae. These olfactory and ionotropic receptors may be related to the detection of host plant volatiles. The results of this present study provide a basis for exploring the olfaction mechanisms in S. subpunctaria, with a focus on the genes involved in type II sex pheromones. The evolutionary analyses in our study provide new insights into the differentiation and evolution of lepidopteran PRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Ting Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Control, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
| | - Zi-Jun Luo
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
| | - Zong-Xiu Luo
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Cai
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
| | - Lei Bian
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
| | - Chun-Li Xiu
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
| | - Nan-Xia Fu
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
| | - Zong-Mao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
| | - Long-Wa Zhang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Control, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
- Correspondence: (L.-W.Z.); (Z.-Q.L.)
| | - Zhao-Qun Li
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
- Correspondence: (L.-W.Z.); (Z.-Q.L.)
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Zhu X, Yu Q, Gan X, Song L, Zhang K, Zuo T, Zhang J, Hu Y, Chen Q, Ren B. Transcriptome Analysis and Identification of Chemosensory Genes in Baryscapus dioryctriae (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae). INSECTS 2022; 13:1098. [PMID: 36555008 PMCID: PMC9780838 DOI: 10.3390/insects13121098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Baryscapus dioryctriae is a pupal endoparasitoid of many Pyralidae pests and has been used as a biocontrol agent against insect pests that heavily damage the cone and seed of the Korean pine. The olfactory system of wasps plays an essential role in sensing the chemical signals during their foraging, mating, host location, etc., and the chemosensory genes are involved in detecting and transducing these signals. Many chemosensory genes have been identified from the antennae of Hymenoptera; however, there are few reports on the chemosensory genes of Eulophidae wasps. In this study, the transcriptome databases based on ten different tissues of B. dioryctriae were first constructed, and 274 putative chemosensory genes, consisting of 27 OBPs, 9 CSPs, 3 NPC2s, 155 ORs, 49 GRs, 23 IRs and 8 SNMPs genes, were identified based on the transcriptomes and manual annotation. Phylogenetic trees of the chemosensory genes were constructed to investigate the orthologs between B. dioryctriae and other insect species. Additionally, twenty-eight chemosensory genes showed female antennae- and ovipositor-biased expression, which was validated by RT-qPCR. These findings not only built a molecular basis for further research on the processes of chemosensory perception in B. dioryctriae, but also enriched the identification of chemosensory genes from various tissues of Eulophidae wasps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Zhu
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Ecology, MOE, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China
- Jilin Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Avian Ecology and Conservation Genetics, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Qiling Yu
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Ecology, MOE, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China
- Jilin Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Avian Ecology and Conservation Genetics, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Xingyu Gan
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Ecology, MOE, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China
- Jilin Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Avian Ecology and Conservation Genetics, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Liwen Song
- Research Institute of Forest Protection, Jilin Provincial Academy of Forestry Sciences, Changchun 130033, China
| | - Kaipeng Zhang
- Research Institute of Forest Protection, Jilin Provincial Academy of Forestry Sciences, Changchun 130033, China
| | - Tongtong Zuo
- Research Institute of Forest Protection, Jilin Provincial Academy of Forestry Sciences, Changchun 130033, China
| | - Junjie Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Natural Enemies, Institute of Biological Control, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Ying Hu
- Engineering Research Center of Natural Enemies, Institute of Biological Control, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Qi Chen
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Ecology, MOE, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China
- Jilin Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Avian Ecology and Conservation Genetics, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Bingzhong Ren
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Ecology, MOE, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China
- Jilin Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Avian Ecology and Conservation Genetics, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130118, China
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Wang W, Dweck HKM, Talross GJS, Zaidi A, Gendron JM, Carlson JR. Sugar sensation and mechanosensation in the egg-laying preference shift of Drosophila suzukii. eLife 2022; 11:e81703. [PMID: 36398882 PMCID: PMC9674340 DOI: 10.7554/elife.81703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The agricultural pest Drosophila suzukii differs from most other Drosophila species in that it lays eggs in ripe, rather than overripe, fruit. Previously, we showed that changes in bitter taste sensation accompanied this adaptation (Dweck et al., 2021). Here, we show that D. suzukii has also undergone a variety of changes in sweet taste sensation. D. suzukii has a weaker preference than Drosophila melanogaster for laying eggs on substrates containing all three primary fruit sugars: sucrose, fructose, and glucose. Major subsets of D. suzukii taste sensilla have lost electrophysiological responses to sugars. Expression of several key sugar receptor genes is reduced in the taste organs of D. suzukii. By contrast, certain mechanosensory channel genes, including no mechanoreceptor potential C, are expressed at higher levels in the taste organs of D. suzukii, which has a higher preference for stiff substrates. Finally, we find that D. suzukii responds differently from D. melanogaster to combinations of sweet and mechanosensory cues. Thus, the two species differ in sweet sensation, mechanosensation, and their integration, which are all likely to contribute to the differences in their egg-laying preferences in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanyue Wang
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
| | - Hany KM Dweck
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
| | - Gaëlle JS Talross
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
| | - Ali Zaidi
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
| | - Joshua M Gendron
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
| | - John R Carlson
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
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Scalzotto M, Ng R, Cruchet S, Saina M, Armida J, Su CY, Benton R. Pheromone sensing in Drosophila requires support cell-expressed Osiris 8. BMC Biol 2022; 20:230. [PMID: 36217142 PMCID: PMC9552441 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01425-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The nose of most animals comprises multiple sensory subsystems, which are defined by the expression of different olfactory receptor families. Drosophila melanogaster antennae contain two morphologically and functionally distinct subsystems that express odorant receptors (Ors) or ionotropic receptors (Irs). Although these receptors have been thoroughly characterized in this species, the subsystem-specific expression and roles of other genes are much less well-understood. Results Here we generate subsystem-specific transcriptomic datasets to identify hundreds of genes, encoding diverse protein classes, that are selectively enriched in either Or or Ir subsystems. Using single-cell antennal transcriptomic data and RNA in situ hybridization, we find that most neuronal genes—other than sensory receptor genes—are broadly expressed within the subsystems. By contrast, we identify many non-neuronal genes that exhibit highly selective expression, revealing substantial molecular heterogeneity in the non-neuronal cellular components of the olfactory subsystems. We characterize one Or subsystem-specific non-neuronal molecule, Osiris 8 (Osi8), a conserved member of a large, insect-specific family of transmembrane proteins. Osi8 is expressed in the membranes of tormogen support cells of pheromone-sensing trichoid sensilla. Loss of Osi8 does not have obvious impact on trichoid sensillar development or basal neuronal activity, but abolishes high sensitivity responses to pheromone ligands. Conclusions This work identifies a new protein required for insect pheromone detection, emphasizes the importance of support cells in neuronal sensory functions, and provides a resource for future characterization of other olfactory subsystem-specific genes. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12915-022-01425-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Scalzotto
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, CH-1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Renny Ng
- Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Steeve Cruchet
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, CH-1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michael Saina
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, CH-1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jan Armida
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, CH-1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Chih-Ying Su
- Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Richard Benton
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, CH-1015, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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Sun YL, Jiang PS, Dong BX, Tian CH, Dong JF. Candidate chemosensory receptors in the antennae and maxillae of Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) larvae. Front Physiol 2022; 13:970915. [PMID: 36187799 PMCID: PMC9520170 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.970915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although most of the damage caused by lepidopteran insects to plants is caused by the larval stage, chemosensory systems have been investigated much more frequently for lepidopteran adults than for larvae. The fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a polyphagous and worldwide pest. To understand the larval chemosensory system in S. frugiperda, we sequenced and assembled the antennae and maxillae transcriptome of larvae in the sixth instar (larval a-m) using the Illumina platform. A total of 30 putative chemosensory receptor genes were identified, and these receptors included 11 odorant receptors (ORs), 4 gustatory receptors (GRs), and 15 ionotropic receptors/ionotropic glutamate receptors (IRs/iGluRs). Phylogeny tests with the candidate receptors and homologs from other insect species revealed some specific genes, including a fructose receptor, a pheromone receptor, IR co-receptors, CO2 receptors, and the OR co-receptor. Comparison of the expression of annotated genes between S. frugiperda adults and larvae (larval a-m) using RT-qPCR showed that most of the annotated OR and GR genes were predominantly expressed in the adult stage, but that 2 ORs and 1 GR were highly expressed in both the adult antennae and the larval a-m. Although most of the tested IR/iGluR genes were mainly expressed in adult antennae, transcripts of 3 iGluRs were significantly more abundant in the larval a-m than in the adult antennae of both sexes. Comparison of the expression levels of larval a-m expressed chemosensory receptors among the first, fourth, and sixth instars revealed that the expression of some of the genes varied significantly among different larval stages. These results increase our understanding of the chemosensory systems of S. frugiperda larvae and provide a basis for future functional studies aimed at the development of novel strategies to manage this pest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Lan Sun
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Peng-Shuo Jiang
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Bing-Xin Dong
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Cai-Hong Tian
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Cai-Hong Tian, ; Jun-Feng Dong,
| | - Jun-Feng Dong
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
- *Correspondence: Cai-Hong Tian, ; Jun-Feng Dong,
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Ma Y, Guo Z, Wang L, Wang B, Huang T, Tang B, Zhang G, Zhou Q. The genome of the rice planthopper egg parasitoid wasps Anagrus nilaparvatae casts light on the chemo- and mechanosensation in parasitism. BMC Genomics 2022; 23:541. [PMID: 35902811 PMCID: PMC9331105 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-08656-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mymaridae is an ancient insect group and is a basal lineage of the superfamily Chalcidoidea. Species of Mymaridae have great potential for biological control. Anagrus nilaparvatae, a representative species of Mymaridae, is ideal for controlling rice planthopper due to its high rate of parasitism and ability to find hosts efficiently in paddy ridges and fields. RESULTS Using both PacBio single-molecule real-time and Illumina sequencing, we sequenced and assembled the whole genome of A. nilaparvatae, a first for the family Mymaridae. The assembly consists of 394 scaffolds, totaling 488.8 Mb. The assembly is of high continuity and completeness, indicated by the N50 value of 25.4 Mb and 98.2% mapping rate of Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs. In total, 16,894 protein-coding genes in the genome were annotated. A phylogenomic tree constructed for A. nilaparvatae and other 12 species of Hymenoptera confirmed that the family Mymaridae is sister to all remaining chalcidoids. The divergence time between A. nilaparvatae and the other seven Chalcidoidea species was dated at ~ 126.9 Mya. Chemoreceptor and mechanoreceptor genes are important in explaining parasitic behavior. We identified 17 odorant binding proteins, 11 chemosensory proteins, four Niemann-Pick type C2 proteins, 88 olfactory receptors, 12 gustatory receptors, 22 ionotropic receptors and 13 sensory neuron membrane proteins in the genome of A. nilaparvatae, which are associated with the chemosensory functions. Strikingly, there is only one pickpocket receptors and nine transient receptor potential genes in the genome that have a mechanosensory function. CONCLUSIONS We obtained a high-quality genome assembly for A. nilaparvatae using PacBio single-molecule real-time sequencing, which provides phylogenomic insights for its evolutionary history. The small numbers of chemo- and mechanosensory genes in A. nilaparvatae indicate the species-specific host detection and oviposition behavior of A. nilaparvatae might be regulated by relatively simple molecular pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Ma
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.,School of Agriculture, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Zixiao Guo
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Liyang Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Bingyang Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Tingfa Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Bingjie Tang
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Guren Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Qiang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.
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Abstract
The Anthropocene Epoch poses a critical challenge for organisms: they must cope with new threats at a rapid rate. These threats include toxic chemical compounds released into the environment by human activities. Here, we examine elevated concentrations of heavy metal ions as an example of anthropogenic stressors. We find that the fruit fly Drosophila avoids nine metal ions when present at elevated concentrations that the flies experienced rarely, if ever, until the Anthropocene. We characterize the avoidance of feeding and egg laying on metal ions, and we identify receptors, neurons, and taste organs that contribute to this avoidance. Different subsets of taste receptors, including members of both Ir (Ionotropic receptor) and Gr (Gustatory receptor) families contribute to the avoidance of different metal ions. We find that metal ions activate certain bitter-sensing neurons and inhibit sugar-sensing neurons. Some behavioral responses are mediated largely through neurons of the pharynx. Feeding avoidance remains stable over 10 generations of exposure to copper and zinc ions. Some responses to metal ions are conserved across diverse dipteran species, including the mosquito Aedes albopictus. Our results suggest mechanisms that may be essential to insects as they face challenges from environmental changes in the Anthropocene.
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Wu G, Su R, Ouyang H, Zheng X, Lu W, Wang X. Antennal Transcriptome Analysis and Identification of Olfactory Genes in Glenea cantor Fabricius (Cerambycidae: Lamiinae). INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13060553. [PMID: 35735890 PMCID: PMC9224838 DOI: 10.3390/insects13060553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary In this study, we conducted antennal transcriptome analysis in Glenea cantor (Cerambycidae: Lamiinae) and identified 76 olfactory-related genes, including 29 odorant binding proteins (OBPs), 14 chemosensory proteins (CSPs), 13 odorant receptors (ORs), 18 ionotropic receptors (IRs) and 2 sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs). We also verified the reliability of transcriptome differential genes by qRT-PCR, which indicated the reliability of the transcriptome. Based on the relative expression of 30 d adults, GcanOBP22 and GcanOBP25 were highly expressed not only in the antennae, but also in the wings and legs. In addition, GcanCSP4 was the highest expression on the female antennae at 12 d. These findings laid the foundation for further research on the mechanism of G. cantor olfactory mechanism at the molecular level. Abstract Glenea cantor Fabricius (Cerambycidae: Lamiinae) is a pest that devastates urban landscapes and causes ecological loss in southern China and Southeast Asian countries where its main host kapok trees are planted. The olfactory system plays a vital role in mating, foraging, and spawning in G. cantor as an ideal target for pest control. However, the olfactory mechanism of G. cantor is poorly understood at the molecular level. In this study, we first established the antennal transcriptome of G. cantor and identified 76 olfactory-related genes, including 29 odorant binding proteins (OBPs), 14 chemosensory proteins (CSPs), 13 odorant receptors (ORs), 18 ionotropic receptors (IRs) and 2 sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs). Furthermore, the phylogenetic trees of olfactory genes were constructed to study the homology with other species of insects. We also verified the reliability of transcriptome differential genes by qRT-PCR, which indicated the reliability of the transcriptome. Based on the relative expression of 30 d adults, GcanOBP22 and GcanOBP25 were highly expressed not only in the antennae, but also in the wings and legs. In addition, GcanCSP4 was the highest expression on the female antennae at 12 d. These findings laid the foundation for further research on the mechanism of G. cantor olfactory mechanism at the molecular level.
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Ye Z, Liu F, Sun H, Ferguson ST, Baker A, Ochieng SA, Zwiebel LJ. Discrete roles of Ir76b ionotropic coreceptor impact olfaction, blood feeding, and mating in the malaria vector mosquito Anopheles coluzzii. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2112385119. [PMID: 35648836 PMCID: PMC9191353 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2112385119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Anopheline mosquitoes rely on their highly sensitive chemosensory apparatus to detect diverse chemical stimuli that drive the host-seeking and blood-feeding behaviors required to vector pathogens for malaria and other diseases. This process incorporates a variety of chemosensory receptors and transduction pathways. We used advanced in vivo gene-editing and -labeling approaches to localize and functionally characterize the ionotropic coreceptor AcIr76b in the malaria mosquito Anopheles coluzzii, where it impacts both olfactory and gustatory systems. AcIr76b has a broad expression pattern in female adult antennal grooved pegs, coeloconic sensilla, and T1 and T2 sensilla on the labellum, stylets, and tarsi, as well as the larval sensory peg. AcIr76b is colocalized with the Orco odorant receptor (OR) coreceptor in a subset of cells across the female antennae and labella. In contrast to Orco and Ir8a, chemosensory coreceptors that appear essential for the activity of their respective sets of chemosensory neurons in mosquitoes, AcIr76b−/− mutants maintain wild-type peripheral responses to volatile amines on the adult palps, labellum, and larval sensory cone. Interestingly, AcIr76b−/− mutants display significantly increased responses to amines in antennal grooved peg sensilla, while coeloconic sensilla reveal significant deficits in responses to several acids and amines. Behaviorally, AcIr76b mutants manifest significantly female-specific insemination deficits, and although AcIr76b−/− mutant females can locate, alight on, and probe artificial blood hosts, they are incapable of blood feeding successfully. Taken together, our findings reveal a multidimensional functionality of Ir76b in anopheline olfactory and gustatory pathways that directly impacts the vectorial capacity of these mosquitoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi Ye
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235
| | - Feng Liu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235
| | - Huahua Sun
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235
| | - Stephen T. Ferguson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235
| | - Adam Baker
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235
| | - Samuel A. Ochieng
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235
| | - Laurence J. Zwiebel
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235
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Task D, Lin CC, Vulpe A, Afify A, Ballou S, Brbic M, Schlegel P, Raji J, Jefferis GSXE, Li H, Menuz K, Potter CJ. Chemoreceptor co-expression in Drosophila melanogaster olfactory neurons. eLife 2022; 11:e72599. [PMID: 35442190 PMCID: PMC9020824 DOI: 10.7554/elife.72599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Drosophila melanogaster olfactory neurons have long been thought to express only one chemosensory receptor gene family. There are two main olfactory receptor gene families in Drosophila, the odorant receptors (ORs) and the ionotropic receptors (IRs). The dozens of odorant-binding receptors in each family require at least one co-receptor gene in order to function: Orco for ORs, and Ir25a, Ir8a, and Ir76b for IRs. Using a new genetic knock-in strategy, we targeted the four co-receptors representing the main chemosensory families in D. melanogaster (Orco, Ir8a, Ir76b, Ir25a). Co-receptor knock-in expression patterns were verified as accurate representations of endogenous expression. We find extensive overlap in expression among the different co-receptors. As defined by innervation into antennal lobe glomeruli, Ir25a is broadly expressed in 88% of all olfactory sensory neuron classes and is co-expressed in 82% of Orco+ neuron classes, including all neuron classes in the maxillary palp. Orco, Ir8a, and Ir76b expression patterns are also more expansive than previously assumed. Single sensillum recordings from Orco-expressing Ir25a mutant antennal and palpal neurons identify changes in olfactory responses. We also find co-expression of Orco and Ir25a in Drosophila sechellia and Anopheles coluzzii olfactory neurons. These results suggest that co-expression of chemosensory receptors is common in insect olfactory neurons. Together, our data present the first comprehensive map of chemosensory co-receptor expression and reveal their unexpected widespread co-expression in the fly olfactory system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darya Task
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Chun-Chieh Lin
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
- Mortimer B. Zuckermann Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Columbia UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Alina Vulpe
- Physiology & Neurobiology Department, University of ConnecticutMansfieldUnited States
| | - Ali Afify
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Sydney Ballou
- Physiology & Neurobiology Department, University of ConnecticutMansfieldUnited States
| | - Maria Brbic
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
| | - Philipp Schlegel
- Drosophila Connectomics Group, Department of Zoology, University of CambridgeCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Joshua Raji
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Gregory SXE Jefferis
- Drosophila Connectomics Group, Department of Zoology, University of CambridgeCambridgeUnited Kingdom
- Neurobiology Division, MRC Laboratory of Molecular BiologyCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Hongjie Li
- Department of Biology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
| | - Karen Menuz
- Physiology & Neurobiology Department, University of ConnecticutMansfieldUnited States
| | - Christopher J Potter
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
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Dweck HK, Talross GJ, Luo Y, Ebrahim SA, Carlson JR. Ir56b is an atypical ionotropic receptor that underlies appetitive salt response in Drosophila. Curr Biol 2022; 32:1776-1787.e4. [PMID: 35294865 PMCID: PMC9050924 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.02.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Salt taste is one of the most ancient of all sensory modalities. However, the molecular basis of salt taste remains unclear in invertebrates. Here, we show that the response to low, appetitive salt concentrations in Drosophila depends on Ir56b, an atypical member of the ionotropic receptor (Ir) family. Ir56b acts in concert with two coreceptors, Ir25a and Ir76b. Mutation of Ir56b virtually eliminates an appetitive behavioral response to salt. Ir56b is expressed in neurons that also sense sugars via members of the Gr (gustatory receptor) family. Misexpression of Ir56b in bitter-sensing neurons confers physiological responses to appetitive doses of salt. Ir56b is unique among tuning Irs in containing virtually no N-terminal region, a feature that is evolutionarily conserved. Moreover, Ir56b is a "pseudo-pseudogene": its coding sequence contains a premature stop codon that can be replaced with a sense codon without loss of function. This stop codon is conserved among many Drosophila species but is absent in a number of species associated with cactus in arid regions. Thus, Ir56b serves the evolutionarily ancient function of salt detection in neurons that underlie both salt and sweet taste modalities.
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Nutrient Sensing via Gut in Drosophila melanogaster. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052694. [PMID: 35269834 PMCID: PMC8910450 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nutrient-sensing mechanisms in animals' sense available nutrients to generate a physiological regulatory response involving absorption, digestion, and regulation of food intake and to maintain glucose and energy homeostasis. During nutrient sensing via the gastrointestinal tract, nutrients interact with receptors on the enteroendocrine cells in the gut, which in return respond by secreting various hormones. Sensing of nutrients by the gut plays a critical role in transmitting food-related signals to the brain and other tissues informing the composition of ingested food to digestive processes. These signals modulate feeding behaviors, food intake, metabolism, insulin secretion, and energy balance. The increasing significance of fly genetics with the availability of a vast toolbox for studying physiological function, expression of chemosensory receptors, and monitoring the gene expression in specific cells of the intestine makes the fly gut the most useful tissue for studying the nutrient-sensing mechanisms. In this review, we emphasize on the role of Drosophila gut in nutrient-sensing to maintain metabolic homeostasis and gut-brain cross talk using endocrine and neuronal signaling pathways stimulated by internal state or the consumption of various dietary nutrients. Overall, this review will be useful in understanding the post-ingestive nutrient-sensing mechanisms having a physiological and pathological impact on health and diseases.
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Hou XQ, Zhang DD, Powell D, Wang HL, Andersson MN, Löfstedt C. Ionotropic receptors in the turnip moth Agrotis segetum respond to repellent medium-chain fatty acids. BMC Biol 2022; 20:34. [PMID: 35130883 PMCID: PMC8822749 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01235-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In insects, airborne chemical signals are mainly detected by two receptor families, odorant receptors (ORs) and ionotropic receptors (IRs). Functions of ORs have been intensively investigated in Diptera and Lepidoptera, while the functions and evolution of the more ancient IR family remain largely unexplored beyond Diptera. Results Here, we identified a repertoire of 26 IRs from transcriptomes of female and male antennae, and ovipositors in the moth Agrotis segetum. We observed that a large clade formed by IR75p and IR75q expansions is closely related to the acid-sensing IRs identified in Diptera. We functionally assayed each of the five AsegIRs from this clade using Xenopus oocytes and found that two receptors responded to the tested ligands. AsegIR75p.1 responded to several compounds but hexanoic acid was revealed to be the primary ligand, and AsegIR75q.1 responded primarily to octanoic acid, and less so to nonanoic acid. It has been reported that the C6-C10 medium-chain fatty acids repel various insects including many drosophilids and mosquitos. We show that the C6-C10 medium-chain fatty acids elicited antennal responses of both sexes of A. segetum, while only octanoic acid had repellent effect to the moths in a behavioral assay. In addition, using fluorescence in situ hybridization, we demonstrated that the five IRs and their co-receptor AsegIR8a are not located in coeloconic sensilla as found in Drosophila, but in basiconic or trichoid sensilla. Conclusions Our results significantly expand the current knowledge of the insect IR family. Based on the functional data in combination with phylogenetic analysis, we propose that subfunctionalization after gene duplication plays an important role in the evolution of ligand specificities of the acid-sensing IRs in Lepidoptera. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12915-022-01235-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Qing Hou
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, 223 62, Lund, Sweden.,Present address: Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Dan-Dan Zhang
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, 223 62, Lund, Sweden
| | - Daniel Powell
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, 223 62, Lund, Sweden.,Present address: Global Change Ecology Research Group, School of Science and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, QLD, Sunshine Coast, Australia
| | - Hong-Lei Wang
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, 223 62, Lund, Sweden
| | - Martin N Andersson
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, 223 62, Lund, Sweden
| | - Christer Löfstedt
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, 223 62, Lund, Sweden.
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Crava CM, Bobkov YV, Sollai G, Anfora G, Crnjar R, Cattaneo AM. Chemosensory Receptors in the Larval Maxilla of Papilio hospiton. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.795994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the butterflies of the genus Papilio (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae), Papilio hospiton (Géné) has a geographical distribution limited to the Mediterranean islands of Sardinia (Italy) and Corsica (France). This is mainly due to the host range that includes only a few plant species of Apiaceae and Rutaceae growing on these islands. In a previous electrophysiological investigation conducted on the maxillary gustatory system of larvae of P. hospiton and its closely phylogenetically related species Papilio machaon, a significantly higher spike activity was shown for the gustatory neurons of lateral and medial styloconic sensilla in P. hospiton when bitter compounds were tested. This effect was possibly correlated to the limited host choice range for P. hospiton. To shed light on the molecular aspects of this phenomenon, we investigated the expression pattern of sensory-related sequences by conducting a transcriptomic analysis from total RNA isolates of P. hospiton larval maxillae. We identified several transcripts that may be involved in taste (one gustatory receptor, one divergent ionotropic receptor, and several transient receptor potential channels, TRPs) as well as transcripts supporting an olfactory function for this appendage, including odorant receptors (ORs), antennal ionotropic receptors (A-IRs), sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs), and odorant-binding proteins (OBPs). We used Human Embryonic Kidney (HEK293A) cells to heterologously express two of the identified receptors, PhospOR1 and PhospPain, together with their orthologs from P. machaon, for functional characterization. While our data suggest no activation of these two receptors by the ligands known so far to activate the electrophysiological response in larval maxillary neurons of Papilio species, nor temperature activation of both Papilio TRPA-channel Painless, they represent the first attempt in connecting neuronal activity with their molecular bases to unravel diet specialization between closely related Papilio species.
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Genome-wide identification and expression pattern analysis of novel chemosensory genes in the German cockroach Blattella germanica. Genomics 2022; 114:110310. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2022.110310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Drosophila melanogaster Chemosensory Pathways as Potential Targets to Curb the Insect Menace. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13020142. [PMID: 35206716 PMCID: PMC8874460 DOI: 10.3390/insects13020142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary The perception and processing of chemosensory stimuli are indispensable to the survival of living organisms. In insects, olfaction and gustation play a critical role in seeking food, finding mates and avoiding signs of danger. This review aims to present updated information about olfactory and gustatory signaling in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. We have described the mechanisms involved in olfactory and gustatory perceptions at the molecular level, the receptors along with the allied molecules involved, and their signaling pathways in the fruit fly. Due to the magnifying problems of disease-causing insect vectors and crop pests, the applications of chemosensory signaling in controlling pests and insect vectors are also discussed. Abstract From a unicellular bacterium to a more complex human, smell and taste form an integral part of the basic sensory system. In fruit flies Drosophila melanogaster, the behavioral responses to odorants and tastants are simple, though quite sensitive, and robust. They explain the organization and elementary functioning of the chemosensory system. Molecular and functional analyses of the receptors and other critical molecules involved in olfaction and gustation are not yet completely understood. Hence, a better understanding of chemosensory cue-dependent fruit flies, playing a major role in deciphering the host-seeking behavior of pathogen transmitting insect vectors (mosquitoes, sandflies, ticks) and crop pests (Drosophila suzukii, Queensland fruit fly), is needed. Using D. melanogaster as a model organism, the knowledge gained may be implemented to design new means of controlling insects as well as in analyzing current batches of insect and pest repellents. In this review, the complete mechanisms of olfactory and gustatory perception, along with their implementation in controlling the global threat of disease-transmitting insect vectors and crop-damaging pests, are explained in fruit flies.
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Montagné N, Jager M, Chertemps T, Persyn E, Jaszczyszyn Y, Meslin C, Jacquin-Joly E, Manuel M. The Chemosensory Transcriptome of a Diving Beetle. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.773915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Insects astoundingly dominate Earth’s land ecosystems and have a huge impact on human life. Almost every aspect of their life relies upon their highly efficient and adaptable chemosensory system. In the air, most chemical signals that are detected at long range are hydrophobic molecules, which insects detect using proteins encoded by multigenic families that emerged following land colonization by insect ancestors, namely the odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) and the odorant receptors (ORs). However, land-to-freshwater transitions occurred in many lineages within the insect tree of life. Whether chemosensory gene repertoires of aquatic insects remained essentially unchanged or underwent more or less drastic modifications to cope with physico-chemical constraints associated with life underwater remains virtually unknown. To address this issue, we sequenced and analyzed the transcriptome of chemosensory organs of the diving beetle Rhantus suturalis (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae). A reference transcriptome was assembled de novo using reads from five RNA-seq libraries (male and female antennae, male and female palps, and wing muscle). It contained 47,570 non-redundant unigenes encoding proteins of more than 50 amino acids. Within this reference transcriptome, we annotated sequences coding 53 OBPs, 48 ORs, 73 gustatory receptors (GRs), and 53 ionotropic receptors (IRs). Phylogenetic analyses notably revealed a large OBP gene expansion (35 paralogs in R. suturalis) as well as a more modest OR gene expansion (9 paralogs in R. suturalis) that may be specific to diving beetles. Interestingly, these duplicated genes tend to be expressed in palps rather than in antennae, suggesting a possible adaptation with respect to the land-to-water transition. This work provides a strong basis for further evolutionary and functional studies that will elucidate how insect chemosensory systems adapted to life underwater.
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