1
|
Vommaro ML, Donato S, Caputo S, Agostino RG, Montali A, Tettamanti G, Giglio A. Anatomical changes of Tenebrio molitor and Tribolium castaneum during complete metamorphosis. Cell Tissue Res 2024; 396:19-40. [PMID: 38409390 PMCID: PMC10997553 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-024-03877-8] [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: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
In holometabolous insects, extensive reorganisation of tissues and cells occurs at the pupal stage. The remodelling of the external exoskeleton and internal organs that intervenes during metamorphosis has been traditionally studied in many insect species based on histological or ultrastructural methods. This study demonstrates the use of synchrotron X-ray phase-contrast micro-computed tomography as a powerful, non-destructive tool for in situ morphological observation of anatomical structures at the pupal stage in two Tenebrionid beetles, i.e. Tribolium castaneum and Tenebrio molitor, known as important pests, as well as emerging and promising models in experimental biology. Virtual sections and three-dimensional reconstructions were performed on both males and females at early, intermediate, and late pupal stage. The dataset allowed us to observe the remodelling of the gut and nervous system as well as the shaping of the female and male reproductive system at different pupal ages in both mealworm and red flour beetles. Moreover, we observed that the timing and duration pattern of organ development varied between the species analysed, likely related to the species-specific adaptations of the pre-imaginal stages to environmental conditions, which ultimately affect their life cycle. This research provides new knowledge on the morphological modifications that occur during the pupal stage of holometabolous insects and provides a baseline set of information on beetle metamorphosis that may support future research in forensics, physiology, and ecology as well as an image atlas for educational purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Luigia Vommaro
- University of Calabria, Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, Rende, Italy
| | - Sandro Donato
- University of Calabria, Department of Physics and STAR research infrastructure, Rende, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Division of Frascati, Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Caputo
- University of Calabria, Department of Environmental Engineering, Rende, Italy
| | - Raffaele G Agostino
- University of Calabria, Department of Physics and STAR research infrastructure, Rende, Italy
| | - Aurora Montali
- University of Insubria, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Varese, Italy
| | - Gianluca Tettamanti
- University of Insubria, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Varese, Italy
- Interuniversity Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-environmental Technology (BAT Center), University of Napoli Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Anita Giglio
- University of Calabria, Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, Rende, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yang L, Cheng Y, Wang Q, Dong H, Shen T, Gong J, Xia Q, Hou Y. Distinct enzyme activities of serine protease p37k in silkworm midgut and molting fluid. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 261:129778. [PMID: 38296126 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Serine proteases possess various biological functions. The serine protease p37k exhibits gelatinolytic activity in the silkworm midgut and degrades cuticular proteins in the molting fluid. In this study, we analyzed the activity changes of recombinant p37k (re-p37k) and p37k in the midgut and molting fluid of Bombyx mori. Firstly, in vitro-expressed re-p37k was activated when a 22 kDa band was observed by western blot. Re-p37k exhibits strong gelatinolytic activity, with the highest activity observed at pH 7.0-9.0 and 45 °C. Compared to p37k in the midgut, re-p37k loses thermal stability but can be restored by midgut extract or ions. E64, AEBSF, and an inhibitor cocktail inhibited the hydrolytic activity of re-p37k on epidermal proteins but did not inhibit the gelatinolytic activity. Subsequently, zymography showed that the positions of gelatinolytic band produced by p37k in the midgut and molting fluid were different, 35 kDa and 40 kDa, respectively. Finally, when heated midgut extract was added to re-p37k or molting fluid, the gelatinolytic band shifted from 40 kDa to 35 kDa, and the proteolytic activity of p37k in the molting fluid was inhibited. Collectively, our results demonstrate that p37k exhibits different activities in various tissues, suggesting its distinct tissue-specific functions during insect metamorphosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lingzhen Yang
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yuejing Cheng
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Qinglang Wang
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Haonan Dong
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Taixia Shen
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Jing Gong
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Qingyou Xia
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yong Hou
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kim M, Noh MY, Mun S, Muthukrishnan S, Kramer KJ, Arakane Y. Functional importance of groups I and II chitinases, CHT5 and CHT10, in turnover of chitinous cuticle during embryo hatching and post-embryonic molting in the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 166:104087. [PMID: 38295884 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2024.104087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Chitinases (CHT) comprise a large gene family in insects and have been classified into at least eleven subgroups. Many studies involving RNA interference (RNAi) have demonstrated that depletion of group I (CHT5s) and group II (CHT10s) CHT transcripts causes lethal molting arrest in several insect species including the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum, presumably due to failure of degradation of chitin in their old cuticle. In this study we investigated the functions of CHT5 and CHT10 in turnover of chitinous cuticle in T. castaneum during embryonic and post-embryonic molting stages. RNAi and transmission electron microscopic (TEM) analyses indicate that CHT10 is required for cuticular chitin degradation at each molting period analyzed, while CHT5 is essential for pupal-adult molting only. We further analyzed the functions of these genes during embryogenesis in T. castaneum. Real-time qPCR analysis revealed that peak expression of CHT10 occurred prior to that of CHT5 during embryonic development as has been observed at post-embryonic molting periods in several other insect species. With immunogold-labeling TEM analysis using a fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated chitin-binding domain protein (FITC-CBD) probe, chitin was detected in the serosal cuticle but not in any other regions of the eggshell including the chorion and vitelline membrane layers. Injection of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) for CHT5 (dsCHT5), CHT10 (dsCHT10) or their co-injection (dsCHT5/10) into mature adult females had no effect on their fecundity and the resulting embryos developed normally inside the egg. There were no obvious differences in the morphology of the outer chorion, inner chorion and vitelline membrane among eggs from these dsRNA-treated females. However, unlike dsCHT5 eggs, dsCHT10 and dsCHT5/10 eggs exhibited failure of turnover of the serosal cuticle in which the horizontal chitinous laminae remained intact, resulting in lethal embryo hatching defects. These results indicate that group I CHT5 is essential for pupal-adult molting, whereas group II CHT10 plays an essential role in cuticular chitin degradation in T. castaneum during both embryonic hatching and all of the post-embryonic molts. CHT10 can serve in place of CHT5 in chitin degradation, except during the pupal-adult molt when both enzymes are indispensable to complete eclosion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Myeongjin Kim
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea
| | - Mi Young Noh
- Department of Forest Resources, AgriBio Institute of Climate Change Management, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea.
| | - Seulgi Mun
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea
| | - Subbaratnam Muthukrishnan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Karl J Kramer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Yasuyuki Arakane
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lee Y, Muthukrishnan S, Kramer KJ, Sakamoto T, Tabunoki H, Arakane Y, Noh MY. Functional importance of groups I and II chitinases in cuticle chitin turnover during molting in a wood-boring beetle, Monochamus alternatus. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 194:105496. [PMID: 37532355 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2023.105496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Insects must periodically replace their old cuticle/exoskeleton with a new one in a process called molting or ecdysis to allow for continuous growth through sequential developmental stages. Many RNA interference (RNAi) studies have demonstrated that certain chitinases (CHTs) play roles in this vital physiological event because knockdown of these CHT genes resulted in developmental arrest during the ensuing molting period in several insect species. In this research we analyzed the functions of group I (MaCHT5) and group II (MaCHT10) CHT genes in molting of the Japanese pine sawyer, Monochamus alternatus, an important forest pest known as a major vector of the pinewood nematode. Real-time qPCR revealed that these two CHT genes differ in their expression patterns during late stages of development. Depletion of either MaCHT5 or MaCHT10 transcripts by RNAi resulted in lethal larval-pupal and pupal-adult molting defects depending on the double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) injection timing during development. The insects were unable to shed their old cuticle and died. Furthermore, transmission electron microscopic analysis revealed that, unlike dsEGFP-treated controls, dsMaCHT5- and dsMaCHT10-treated pharate adults exhibited a failure of degradation of the endocuticular layer of their old pupal cuticle, retaining nearly intact horizontal chitinous laminae and vertical pore canal fibers. Both enzymes were indispensable for complete turnover of the chitinous old endocuticle, which is critical for insect molting. The possible functions of two spliced variants of MaCHT10, namely, MaCHT10a and MaCHT10b, are also discussed. Our results add to the knowledge base for further functional studies of insect chitin catabolism by revealing the relative importance of both MaCHT5 and MaCHT10 in chitin turnover with subtle differences in their action. These essential genes and their encoded proteins are potential targets to manipulate for controlling populations of M. alternatus and other pest insects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youngseo Lee
- Department of Forest Resources, AgriBio Institute of Climate Change Management, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, South Korea
| | - Subbaratnam Muthukrishnan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Chalmers Hall, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, USA
| | - Karl J Kramer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Chalmers Hall, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, USA
| | - Takuma Sakamoto
- Department of Science of Biological Production, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tabunoki
- Department of Science of Biological Production, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Arakane
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, South Korea.
| | - Mi Young Noh
- Department of Forest Resources, AgriBio Institute of Climate Change Management, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lu Q, Xie H, Qu M, Liu T, Yang Q. Group h Chitinase: A Molecular Target for the Development of Lepidopteran-Specific Insecticides. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023. [PMID: 37038745 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c08845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Sustainable agriculture requires insecticides that are selective between insects and mammals and even between harmful and beneficial insects. Lepidoptera includes the largest number of insect pests that threaten crops, and Hymenoptera contains the natural enemies for these pests. Discovery of lepidopteran-specific molecular targets is one route to develop such selective pesticides. Group h chitinase (Chi-h) is an ideal target for lepidopteran-specific insecticides because it is only distributed in Lepidoptera and is critical to their molting processes. This minireview focuses on the latest progress in developing Chi-h as a lepidopteran-specific insecticide target. We describe the biological function, crystal structure, and small-molecule inhibitors of the enzyme. Notably, two unique pockets were discovered in the crystal structure of Chi-h for the binding of the selective inhibitors, phlegmacin B1 and lynamicin B. Moreover, lynamicin B was found to exhibit significant insecticidal activity toward lepidopteran pests but is harmless toward their natural enemies. These findings are advancing the development of selective insecticides to meet the needs of sustainable agriculture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Lu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaodong 116024, People's Republic of China
| | - Huijie Xie
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaodong 116024, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingbo Qu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaodong 116024, People's Republic of China
| | - Tian Liu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaodong 116024, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Yang
- Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518120, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tian H, Liu SQ, Jing WH, Hao ZH, Li YH, Lu ZH, Ding ZK, Huang SL, Xu YS, Wang HB. Imaginal disc growth factor is involved in melanin synthesis and energy metabolism in Bombyx mori. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 112:e21995. [PMID: 36575612 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21995] [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: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The imaginal disc growth factor (IDGF), belonging to the glycoside hydrolase 18 family, plays an important role in various physiological processes in insects. However, the detail physiological function of IDGF is still unclear. In this study, transcriptome analysis was performed on the fatbody isolated from staged control and BmIDGF mutant silkworm larvae. Transcriptional profiling revealed that the absence of BmIDGF significantly affected differentially expressed genes involved in tyrosine and purine metabolism, as well as multiple energy metabolism pathways, including glycolysis, galactose, starch, and sucrose metabolism. The interruption of BmIDGF caused similar and specific gene expression changes to male and female fatbody. Furthermore, a genome-scale metabolic network integrating metabolomic and transcriptomic datasets revealed 11 pathways significantly altered at the transcriptional and metabolic levels, including amino acid, carbohydrate, uric acid metabolism pathways, insect hormone biosynthesis, and ABC transporters. In conclusion, this multiomics analysis suggests that IDGF is involved in gene-metabolism interactions, revealing its unique role in melanin synthesis and energy metabolism. This study provides new insights into the physiological function of IDGF in insects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huan Tian
- Department of Economic Zoology, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuai-Qi Liu
- Department of Economic Zoology, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Hui Jing
- Department of Economic Zoology, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Hua Hao
- Department of Economic Zoology, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ying-Hui Li
- Department of Economic Zoology, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhe-Hao Lu
- Department of Economic Zoology, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ze-Kai Ding
- Department of Economic Zoology, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shao-Li Huang
- Department of Economic Zoology, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Song Xu
- Department of Economic Zoology, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hua-Bing Wang
- Department of Economic Zoology, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhong F, Yu L, Jiang X, Chen Y, Wang S, Chao L, Jiang Z, He B, Xu C, Wang S, Tang B, Duan H, Wu Y. Potential inhibitory effects of compounds ZK-PI-5 and ZK-PI-9 on trehalose and chitin metabolism in Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith). Front Physiol 2023; 14:1178996. [PMID: 37064912 PMCID: PMC10090375 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1178996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction:Spodoptera frugiperda is an omnivorous agricultural pest which is great dangerous for grain output.Methods: In order to investigate the effects of potential trehalase inhibitors, ZK-PI-5 and ZK-PI-9, on the growth and development of S. frugiperda, and to identify new avenues for S. frugiperda control, we measured the content of the trehalose, glucose, glycogen and chitin, enzyme activity, and gene expression levels in trehalose and chitin metabolism of S. frugiperda. Besides, their growth and development were also observed.Results: The results showed that ZK-PI-9 significantly reduced trehalase activity and ZK-PI-5 significantly reduced membraned-bound trehalase activity. Moreover, ZK-PI-5 inhibited the expression of SfTRE2, SfCHS2, and SfCHT, thus affecting the chitin metabolism. In addition, the mortality of S. frugiperda in pupal stage and eclosion stage increased significantly after treatment with ZK-PI-5 and ZK-PI-9, which affected their development stage and caused death phenotype (abnormal pupation and difficulty in breaking pupa).Discussion: These results have provided a theoretical basis for the application of trehalase inhibitors in the control of agricultural pests to promote future global grain yield.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhong
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liuhe Yu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinyi Jiang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Chen
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Sitong Wang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lei Chao
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyang Jiang
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Biner He
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Caidi Xu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shigui Wang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bin Tang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Tang, ; Hongxia Duan, ; Yan Wu,
| | - Hongxia Duan
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Tang, ; Hongxia Duan, ; Yan Wu,
| | - Yan Wu
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, Department of Biology and Engineering of Environment, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Tang, ; Hongxia Duan, ; Yan Wu,
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Xie YC, Zhang HH, Li HJ, Zhang XY, Luo XM, Jiang MX, Zhang CX. Molting-related proteases in the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 152:103893. [PMID: 36513274 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2022.103893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Digestion and absorption of old cuticles during insect molting are necessary for new cuticle formation, during which complicated enzyme catalysis is essential. To date, a few carboxypeptidases, aminopeptidases and serine proteases (mostly trypsins) connected with cuticle digestion, zymogen activation and histological differentiation during the ecdysis of lepidopteran, dipteran and hymenopteran insects have been identified. However, little is known about these proteins in hemimetabolous insects. In this study, we identified 33 candidate trypsin and trypsin-like homologs, 14 metallocarboxypeptidase and 32 aminopeptidase genes in the brown planthopper Nilaparvata lugens, a hemipteran rice pest. Among the proteins encoded by these genes, 9 trypsin-like proteases, 3 metallocarboxypeptidases and 1 aminopeptidase were selected as potential procuticle hydrolases by bioinformatics analysis and in vivo validation. RNA interference targeting these genes demonstrated that 3 trypsin-like proteases (NlTrypsin-8, NlTrypsin-29 and NlTrypsin-32) genes and 1 metallocarboxypeptidase (NlCpB) gene were found to be essential for ecdysis in N. lugens; specifically, gene silencing led to incomplete cuticle degradation and arrested ecdysis, causing lethal morphological phenotype acquisition. Spatiotemporal expression profiling by quantitative PCR and western blotting revealed their specific expression in the integument and their periodic expression during each stadium, with a peak before ecdysis and eclosion. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated corresponding ultrastructural defects after RNAi targeting, with NlCpB-silenced specimens having the most undigested old procuticles. Immunohistochemical staining revealed that NlTrypsin-8, NlTrypsin-29 and NlCpB were predominantly located in the exuvial space. This research further adds to our understanding of proteases and its potential role in insect ecdysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Cheng Xie
- Institute of Insect Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Hou-Hong Zhang
- Institute of Insect Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Han-Jing Li
- Institute of Insect Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xiao-Ya Zhang
- Institute of Insect Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xu-Mei Luo
- Institute of Insect Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Ming-Xing Jiang
- Institute of Insect Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Chuan-Xi Zhang
- Institute of Insect Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China; State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Plant Virology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhang T, Huo Y, Dong Q, Liu W, Gao L, Zhou J, Li D, Zhang X, Zhang J, Zhang M. LmCht5-1 and LmCht5-2 Promote the Degradation of Serosal and Pro-Nymphal Cuticles during Locust Embryonic Development. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11121778. [PMID: 36552286 PMCID: PMC9775170 DOI: 10.3390/biology11121778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The success of the degradation of the extraembryonic serosal cuticle and the second embryonic cuticle (pro-nymphal cuticle) is essential for the development and molting of nymph from egg in Orthoptera Locusta migratoria. Chitinase 5 is an important gene for chitin degradation in nymphs and in the egg stage. In this study, we investigated the important roles of chitinase 5-1 (LmCht5-1) and chitinase 5-2 (LmCht5-2) in the degradation of the serosal and pro-nymphal cuticles during locust embryonic development. The serosal cuticle degrades from 7-day-old embryos (E7) to E13, along with the degradation of the pro-nymphal cuticle, which begins at E12 to E14. The mRNA and protein of LmCht5-1 and LmCht5-2 are expressed during the degradation process of the serosal cuticle and the pro-nymphal cuticle. RNAi experiments at the embryonic stage show that both dsLmCht5-1 and dsLmCht5-2 contribute to the failure of development in early and late embryogenesis. Further, during the serosal cuticle molting process, ultra-structure analysis indicated that dsLmCht5-1 prevented the loss of the coarse chitin layer in the upper part in both early and late embryogenesis. Meanwhile, dsLmCht5-2 blocked the degradation of the lower fine chitin layer at the early stage and blocked the chitin degradation of loose coarse chitin in the late molting process. During the degradation of the pro-nymphal cuticle, dsLmCht5-1 suppresses chitin degradation between layers in the procuticle, while dsLmCht5-2 suppresses chitin degradation into filaments inside of the layer. In summary, our results suggest that both LmCht5-1 and LmCht5-2 contribute to the degradation of the serosal and pro-nymphal cuticles during the locust embryonic stage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
- Correspondence: (T.Z.); (M.Z.)
| | - Yanjun Huo
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Qing Dong
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Weiwei Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Lu Gao
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Jiannan Zhou
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Daqi Li
- Institute of Plant Protection, Shanxi Academy of Agricultural Science, Taiyuan 030031, China
| | - Xueyao Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
- Correspondence: (T.Z.); (M.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Li D, Zhang J, Yang Y, Liu J, Lu J, Ren M, Abbas M, Zhu KY, Zhang J. Identification and RNAi-based functional analysis of chitinase family genes in Agrotis ipsilon. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2022; 78:4278-4287. [PMID: 35716091 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chitin is a major component in the extracellular matrix of insects, and its metabolism largely affects insect development and molting. As essential degradative enzymes, chitinases are encoded by multiple genes that differ in size, expression pattern and function in insects. However, our limited knowledge on the functions of different chitinases in Agrotis ipsilon has prevented our application of new technologies to target these genes as new pest management strategies. RESULTS We revealed 11 full-length complementary DNA sequences of chitinase genes (AiChts) from A. ipsilon transcriptome. Although the domain architecture of these chitinases varied greatly, they all contained at least one chitinase catalytic domain. Developmental stage- and tissue-dependent expression profiles showed that most AiChts had the highest expression in the pupal stage. Furthermore, AiCht2, AiCht6, AiCht7 and AiCht10 were mainly expressed in the integument, whereas AiCht8 and AiCht-h had the highest expression in the midgut. The RNA interference (RNAi) experiment revealed that knockdown of AiCht10 or the imaginal disc growth factor gene (AiIDGF) induced high larval mortality. Larvae failed to shed the old cuticle during molting after the injection of double-stranded RNA targeting AiCht10 (dsAiCht10), whereas the larval bodies shrunk and blackened after the injection of dsRNA targeting AiIDGF (dsAiIDGF). CONCLUSION Our results revealed for the first time the important functions of AiCht10 and AiIDGF in A. ipsilon. These genes are essential for larval development, and can potentially serve as new targets for RNAi-based pest management. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daqi Li
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jianqin Zhang
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
- Section of Animal Genetics, Interfaculty Institute of Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jiao Liu
- Shanxi Center for Testing of Functional Agro-Products, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Junjiao Lu
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Meifeng Ren
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Mureed Abbas
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Kun Yan Zhu
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Dittmer NT, Hiromasa Y, Kanost MR. Proteomic analysis of pharate pupal molting fluid from the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 149:103844. [PMID: 36115517 PMCID: PMC9875806 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2022.103844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The insect cuticle is a key component of their success, being important for protection, communication, locomotion, and support. Conversely, as an exoskeleton, it also limits the size of the insect and must be periodically molted and a new one synthesized, to permit growth. To achieve this, the insect secretes a solution of chitinases, proteases and other proteins, known collectively as molting fluid, during each molting process to break down and recycle components of the old cuticle. Previous research has focused on the degradative enzymes in molting fluid and offered some characterization of their biochemical properties. However, identification of the specific proteins involved remained to be determined. We have used 2D SDS-PAGE and LC/MS-based proteomic analysis to identify proteins in the molting fluid of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta, undergoing the larval to pupal molt. We categorized these proteins based on their proposed functions including chitin metabolism, proteases, peptidases, and immunity. This analysis complements previous reported work on M. sexta molting fluid and identifies candidate genes for enzymes involved in cuticle remodeling. Proteins classified as having an immune function highlight potential for molting fluid to act as an immune barrier to prevent infections during the cuticle degradation and ecdysis processes. Several proteins known to function in melanin synthesis as an immune response in hemolymph were present in molting fluid. We demonstrated that the bacterium Micrococcus luteus and the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana can stimulate activation of phenoloxidase in molting fluid, indicating that the recognition proteins, protease cascade, and prophenoloxidase needed for melanin synthesis are present as a defense against infection during cuticle degradation. This analysis offers insights for proteins that may be important not only for molting in M. sexta but for insects in general.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neal T Dittmer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA.
| | - Yasuaki Hiromasa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Michael R Kanost
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Qu MB, Guo XX, Kong L, Hou LJ, Yang Q. A midgut-specific lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase of Locusta migratoria is indispensable for the deconstruction of the peritrophic matrix. INSECT SCIENCE 2022; 29:1287-1298. [PMID: 35150068 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) are important enzymes that boost the hydrolysis of recalcitrant polysaccharides, such as chitin. They are found extensively in different insect species and are classified as auxiliary activities family 15 (AA15) LPMOs (LPMO15). Some of them were identified from the insect midgut and proven to act on chitin. However, knowledge about their physiological roles during insect growth and development remains limited. Here, we found that midgut-specific LPMO15s are widely distributed in different insect orders, such as the orthopteran Locusta migratoria and the lepidopteran Bombyx mori. Using L. migratoria as a model insect, the function of midgut-specific LmLPMO15-3 during development was investigated. Double-stranded RNA-mediated downregulation of LmLPMO15-3 expression at the 4th or 5th instar nymph stage severely decreased the survival rate and resulted in lethal phenotypes. Hematoxylin and eosin staining results indicated that the deficient individuals exhibited incompletely digested peritrophic matrix (PM), which suggested that LmLPMO15-3 is essential for the deconstruction of the PM during molting. This study provides direct evidence of the physiological importance of a midgut-specific LPMO15 during insect development. As L. migratoria is one of the most destructive agricultural pests, LmLPMO15-3 is a potential target for pest management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Bo Qu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Xiao-Xi Guo
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Lin Kong
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Ling-Jie Hou
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Qing Yang
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning Province, China
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Weber JJ, Brummett LM, Coca ME, Tabunoki H, Kanost MR, Ragan EJ, Park Y, Gorman MJ. Phenotypic analyses, protein localization, and bacteriostatic activity of Drosophila melanogaster transferrin-1. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 147:103811. [PMID: 35781032 PMCID: PMC9869689 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2022.103811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Transferrin-1 (Tsf1) is an extracellular insect protein with a high affinity for iron. The functions of Tsf1 are still poorly understood; however, Drosophila melanogaster Tsf1 has been shown to influence iron distribution in the fly body and to protect flies against some infections. The goal of this study was to better understand the physiological functions of Tsf1 in D. melanogaster by 1) investigating Tsf1 null phenotypes, 2) determining tissue-specific localization of Tsf1, 3) measuring the concentration of Tsf1 in hemolymph, 4) testing Tsf1 for bacteriostatic activity, and 5) evaluating the effect of metal and paraquat treatments on Tsf1 abundance. Flies lacking Tsf1 had more iron than wild-type flies in specialized midgut cells that take up iron from the diet; however, the absence of Tsf1 had no effect on the iron content of whole midguts, fat body, hemolymph, or heads. Thus, as previous studies have suggested, Tsf1 appears to have a minor role in iron transport. Tsf1 was abundant in hemolymph from larvae (0.4 μM), pupae (1.4 μM), adult females (4.4 μM) and adult males (22 μM). Apo-Tsf1 at 1 μM had bacteriostatic activity whereas holo-Tsf1 did not, suggesting that Tsf1 can inhibit microbial growth by sequestering iron in hemolymph and other extracellular environments. This hypothesis was supported by detection of secreted Tsf1 in tracheae, testes and seminal vesicles. Colocalization of Tsf1 with an endosome marker in oocytes suggested that Tsf1 may provide iron to developing eggs; however, eggs from mothers lacking Tsf1 had the same amount of iron as control eggs, and they hatched at a wild-type rate. Thus, the primary function of Tsf1 uptake by oocytes may be to defend against infection rather than to provide eggs with iron. In beetles, Tsf1 plays a role in protection against oxidative stress. In contrast, we found that flies lacking Tsf1 had a typical life span and greater resistance to paraquat-induced oxidative stress. In addition, Tsf1 abundance remained unchanged in response to ingestion of iron, cadmium or paraquat or to injection of iron. These results suggest that Tsf1 has a limited role in protection against oxidative stress in D. melanogaster.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob J Weber
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA.
| | - Lisa M Brummett
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA.
| | - Michelle E Coca
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA.
| | - Hiroko Tabunoki
- Department of Science of Biological Production, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo, 183-8509, Japan.
| | - Michael R Kanost
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA.
| | - Emily J Ragan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Metropolitan State University of Denver, Denver, CO, 80217, USA.
| | - Yoonseong Park
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA.
| | - Maureen J Gorman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Han Q, Wu N, Liu YY, Zhang JY, Zhang RL, Li HL, Jiang ZY, Huang JX, Duan HX, Yang Q. Piperonyl-Tethered Rhodanine Derivatives Potently Inhibit Chitinolytic Enzymes of Ostrinia furnacalis. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2022; 70:7387-7399. [PMID: 35687728 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c02091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Insect pest chitinases are potential target for developing new insect growth regulators. Piperine was found first to inhibit the insect chitinase (OfChi-h) from Ostrinia furnacalis (Asian corn borer) in this work, except for previously reported OfChtI. Novel piperonyl-tethered rhodanine derivatives 7a-j were rationally designed with piperine as lead and synthesized by introducing a unique rhodanine moiety into the piperine scaffold based on the similar binding cavity of OfChtI and OfChi-h. Compared to piperine, compounds 7a-j showed approximately 100- to 400-fold or 110- to 210-fold higher inhibitory capacity against two chitinases, respectively. Molecular mechanism studies indicated that π interactions are crucial for improving inhibitory activity against two chitinases due to the introduction of the conjugated rhodanine ring. Moreover, compounds 7a-c could dramatically inhibit the growth and development of O. furnacalis larvae by in vivo activity evaluation. This study provides novel piperonyl-tethered rhodanine derivatives inhibiting dual chitinases as insect growth regulator candidates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Han
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Wu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning116024, People's Republic of China
| | - Yao-Yang Liu
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing-Yu Zhang
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Ru-Lei Zhang
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui-Lin Li
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Yang Jiang
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Xing Huang
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong-Xia Duan
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Yang
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning116024, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing100193, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture (Shenzhen Branch), Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen518120, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yu HZ, Zhang Q, Lu ZJ, Deng MJ. Validamycin treatment significantly inhibits the glycometabolism and chitin synthesis in the common cutworm, Spodoptera litura. INSECT SCIENCE 2022; 29:840-854. [PMID: 34414659 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Validamycin, as a broadly applied antibiotic, has been used to control rice sheath blight disease. Furthermore, validamycin was considered as an insecticide to control agricultural pests. Insight into the mechanism of validamycin's action on insects can provide molecular targets for the control of agricultural pests. In this study, a toxicological test analysis revealed that Spodoptera litura larval growth and development was significantly inhibited and the pupation rate was significantly reduced with the increase of the concentration of validamycin. According to the NMR-based metabolomic analysis, a total of 15 metabolites involved in glycolysis and tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) pathways were identified. Additionally, trehalase activities, glucose and chitin contents were significantly downregulated, but the trehalose content was upregulated after exposure to validamycin. Reverse transcription quantitative PCR analysis revealed that the expression level of genes involved in glycolysis, TCA and chitin synthesis were upregulated after treating with validamycin. Further chitin staining also confirmed that chitin content was downregulated at 12 h after validamycin treatment. Our results indicated that validamycin worked via two different molecular mechanisms, one through inhibiting glycometabolism and the other by inhibiting chitin synthesis in S. litura. The information lays a theoretical foundation for further control of S. litura.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Zhong Yu
- College of Life Sciences, Gannan Normal University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province, China
- National Navel Orange Engineering Research Center, Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Qin Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Gannan Normal University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Zhan-Jun Lu
- College of Life Sciences, Gannan Normal University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province, China
- National Navel Orange Engineering Research Center, Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Ming-Jie Deng
- Analytical and Testing Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wang Y, Zou H, Lai J, Zhang Z, Sun W. The miR-282-5p regulates larval moulting process by targeting chitinase 5 in Bombyx mori. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 31:190-201. [PMID: 34862684 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Moulting is critical for growth, development and survival in insects. As the main components of cuticle, dynamic change of chitin is consistent with the moulting process. Chitinase is the main enzyme to mediate chitin metabolism in the old cuticle. To avoid over-degrading chitin from the new cuticle, the expression of chitinase must be precisely regulated. In this study, we performed microRNA-sequencing to investigate expression change of microRNAs in silkworm epidermis during the moulting process. A comparative microRNA transcriptomic analysis from different moulting stages and 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) treatment identified bmo-miR-282-5p as a candidate. By the bioinformatic analysis, chitinase 5 (BmCht5) was predicted to be a target of bmo-miR-282-5p. Meanwhile, a temporal expression analysis revealed that BmCht5 only expressed at moulting D3 stage, whereas bmo-miR-282-5p showed a converse pattern, in which its transcript signal disappeared at this time point. Furthermore, a luciferase assay and agomir treatment demonstrated that bmo-miR-282-5p suppressed transcript of BmCht5 in vivo. As a result, injection of 282-5p agomir triggered 40% death due to moulting failure. In addition, RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated silencing of BmCht5 caused 30% developmental defect. Taken together, our data demonstrate the coordinated regulation of chitinase 5 by conserved miR-282-5p, and the 20E signalling pathway is essential for the normal moulting process in the domesticated silkworm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yun Wang
- Laboratory of Evolutionary and Functional Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongbin Zou
- Laboratory of Evolutionary and Functional Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Juan Lai
- Laboratory of Evolutionary and Functional Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ze Zhang
- Laboratory of Evolutionary and Functional Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Laboratory of Evolutionary and Functional Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Liu H, Heng J, Wang L, Li Y, Tang X, Huang X, Xia Q, Zhao P. Homeodomain proteins POU-M2, antennapedia and abdominal-B are involved in regulation of the segment-specific expression of the clip-domain serine protease gene CLIP13 in the silkworm, Bombyx mori. INSECT SCIENCE 2022; 29:111-127. [PMID: 33860633 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Clip-domain serine proteases (CLIPs) play important roles in insect innate immunity and development. Our previous studies indicated that CLIP13, an epidermis-specific gene, was involved in cuticle remodeling during molting and metamorphosis in the silkworm, Bombyx mori. However, the transcriptional regulatory mechanism and regulatory pathways of CLIP13 remained unclear. In the present study, we investigated CLIP13 expression and the regulation pathway controlled by 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) in the silkworm. At the transcriptional level, expression of CLIP13 exhibited pronounced spatial and temporal specificity in different regions of the epidermis; homeodomain transcription factors POU-M2, antennapedia (Antp), and abdominal-B (Abd-B) showed similar expression change trends as CLIP13 in the head capsule, thorax, and abdomen, respectively. Furthermore, results of cell transfection assays, electrophoretic mobility shift assays, and chromatin immunoprecipitation demonstrated that POU-M2, Antp, and Abd-B were involved in the transcriptional regulation of CLIP13 by directly binding to their cis-response elements in CLIP13 promoter. RNA interference-mediated silencing of POU-M2, Antp, and Abd-B led to a decrease of CLIP13 expression in the head capsule, the epidermis of the 1st to 3rd thoracic segments and the 7th to 10th abdominal segments, respectively. Consistent with CLIP13, 20E treatment significantly upregulated expression of POU-M2, Antp, and Abd-B in the silkworm epidermis. Taken together, these data suggest that 20E positively regulates transcription of CLIP13 via homeodomain proteins POU-M2, Antp, and Abd-B in different regions of the silkworm epidermis during metamorphosis, thus affecting the molting process. Our findings provide new insight into the functions of homeodomain transcription factors in insect molting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huawei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericultural Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
| | - Jingya Heng
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
| | - Luoling Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
| | - Youshan Li
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, Shaanxi Province, 723001, China
| | - Xin Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
| | - Xuan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
| | - Qingyou Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericultural Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
| | - Ping Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericultural Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
The pupal moulting fluid has evolved social functions in ants. Nature 2022; 612:488-494. [PMID: 36450990 PMCID: PMC9750870 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-05480-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Insect societies are tightly integrated, complex biological systems in which group-level properties arise from the interactions between individuals1-4. However, these interactions have not been studied systematically and therefore remain incompletely known. Here, using a reverse engineering approach, we reveal that unlike solitary insects, ant pupae extrude a secretion derived from the moulting fluid that is rich in nutrients, hormones and neuroactive substances. This secretion elicits parental care behaviour and is rapidly removed and consumed by the adults. This behaviour is crucial for pupal survival; if the secretion is not removed, pupae develop fungal infections and die. Analogous to mammalian milk, the secretion is also an important source of early larval nutrition, and young larvae exhibit stunted growth and decreased survival without access to the fluid. We show that this derived social function of the moulting fluid generalizes across the ants. This secretion thus forms the basis of a central and hitherto overlooked interaction network in ant societies, and constitutes a rare example of how a conserved developmental process can be co-opted to provide the mechanistic basis of social interactions. These results implicate moulting fluids in having a major role in the evolution of ant eusociality.
Collapse
|
19
|
Hou Y, Yang L, Xu S, Zhang Y, Cheng Y, Li Y, Gong J, Xia Q. Trypsin-type serine protease p37k hydrolyzes CPAP3-type cuticle proteins in the molting fluid of the silkworm Bombyx mori. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 137:103610. [PMID: 34182106 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2021.103610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Cuticular proteins analogous to peritrophin 3 (CPAP3)-type cuticle proteins constitute a family of proteins with three chitin-binding domains (CBDs) that play an important role in cuticle formation by associating with chitin. In our previous study, we identified CPAP3-type cuticle proteins in the silkworm genome, of which we characterized CPAP3-A2 (BmCBP1), a protein highly expressed in the epidermis. In this study, to elucidate the digestion mechanism of CPAP3-type cuticle proteins, we incubated CPAP3-A2 with molting fluid in vitro and found that its hydrolysis, which was inhibited by serine and cysteine protease inhibitors, produced two major bands with a molecular weight of approximately 22 kD and 11 kD. A trypsin-type serine protease, p37k, was presumed to be responsible for hydrolyzing CPAP3-A2 based on liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis of naturally purified molting fluid. To verify this, p37k was subsequently expressed in Sf9 cells using the Bac-to-Bac baculovirus expression system. In its active form, the recombinant protease could successfully hydrolyze CPAP3-A2. Finally, we analyzed the CPAP3-A2 molting fluid digestion site. When arginine 169 of CPAP3-A2 was mutated to alanine, a weaker hydrolysis of mutant CPAP3-A2 was observed compared to that of normal CPAP3-A2. Collectively, we identified a trypsin-type serine protease that is involved in the degradation of CPAP3-type cuticle proteins, including CPAP3-A2, suggesting that this protease plays an important role during molting in Bombyx mori. These findings provide the basis for further elucidation of the mechanisms underlying insect molting and metamorphosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China; Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
| | - Lingzhen Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China; Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Shuping Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China; Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yuhao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China; Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yuejing Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China; Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China; Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Jing Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Qingyou Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China; Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Li W, Ding Y, Qi H, Liu T, Yang Q. Discovery of Natural Products as Multitarget Inhibitors of Insect Chitinolytic Enzymes through High-Throughput Screening. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:10830-10837. [PMID: 34496207 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c03629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Small-molecule inhibitors of insect chitinolytic enzymes are potential insecticides. However, the reported inhibitors that target one enzyme usually exhibit unsatisfactory bioactivity. On the basis of the multitarget strategy, we performed a high-throughput screening of a natural product library to find insecticide leads against four chitinolytic enzymes from the Asian corn borer Ostrinia furnacalis (OfChtI, OfChtII, OfChi-h, and OfHex1). Several phytochemicals were discovered to be multitarget inhibitors of these enzymes and were predicted to occupy the -1 substrate-binding subsite and engage in polar interactions with catalytically important residues. Shikonin and wogonin, which had good inhibitory activities toward all four enzymes, also exhibited significant insecticidal activities against lepidopteran agricultural pests. This study provides the first example of using a multitarget high-throughput screening strategy to exploit natural products as insecticide leads against chitin biodegradation during insect molting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenqin Li
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Yi Ding
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Huitang Qi
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Tian Liu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Qing Yang
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518120, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
An apocrine mechanism delivers a fully immunocompetent exocrine secretion. Sci Rep 2021; 11:15915. [PMID: 34354130 PMCID: PMC8342421 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95309-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Apocrine secretion is a recently discovered widespread non-canonical and non-vesicular secretory mechanism whose regulation and purpose is only partly defined. Here, we demonstrate that apocrine secretion in the prepupal salivary glands (SGs) of Drosophila provides the sole source of immune-competent and defense-response proteins to the exuvial fluid that lies between the metamorphosing pupae and its pupal case. Genetic ablation of its delivery from the prepupal SGs to the exuvial fluid decreases the survival of pupae to microbial challenges, and the isolated apocrine secretion has strong antimicrobial effects in "agar-plate" tests. Thus, apocrine secretion provides an essential first line of defense against exogenously born infection and represents a highly specialized cellular mechanism for delivering components of innate immunity at the interface between an organism and its external environment.
Collapse
|
22
|
Qu MB, Sun SP, Liu YS, Deng XR, Yang J, Yang Q. Insect group II chitinase OfChtII promotes chitin degradation during larva-pupa molting. INSECT SCIENCE 2021; 28:692-704. [PMID: 32306549 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The insect group II chitinase (ChtII, also known as Cht10) is a unique chitinase with multiple catalytic and chitin-binding domains. It has been proven genetically to be an essential chitinase for molting. However, ChtII's role in chitin degradation during insect development remains poorly understood. Obtaining this knowledge is the key to fully understanding the chitin degradation system in insects. Here, we investigated the role of OfChtII during the molting of Ostrinia furnacalis, a model lepidopteran pest insect. OfChtII was expressed earlier than OfChtI (OfCht5) and OfChi-h, at both the gene and protein levels during larva-pupa molting as evidenced by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses. A truncated OfChtII, OfChtII-B4C1, was recombinantly expressed in Pichia pastoris cells and purified to homogeneity. The recombinant OfChtII-B4C1 loosened compacted chitin particles and produced holes in the cuticle surface as evidenced by scanning electron microscopy. It synergized with OfChtI and OfChi-h when hydrolyzing insoluble α-chitin. These findings suggested an important role for ChtII during insect molting and also provided a strategy for the coordinated degradation of cuticular chitin during insect molting by ChtII, ChtI and Chi-h.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Bo Qu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection and Shenzhen Agricultural Genome Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shao-Peng Sun
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Yuan-Sheng Liu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiao-Rui Deng
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Jun Yang
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Qing Yang
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection and Shenzhen Agricultural Genome Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Najera DG, Dittmer NT, Weber JJ, Kanost MR, Gorman MJ. Phylogenetic and sequence analyses of insect transferrins suggest that only transferrin 1 has a role in iron homeostasis. INSECT SCIENCE 2021; 28:495-508. [PMID: 32237057 PMCID: PMC7668117 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Iron is essential to life, but surprisingly little is known about how iron is managed in nonvertebrate animals. In mammals, the well-characterized transferrins bind iron and are involved in iron transport or immunity, whereas other members of the transferrin family do not have a role in iron homeostasis. In insects, the functions of transferrins are still poorly understood. The goals of this project were to identify the transferrin genes in a diverse set of insect species, resolve the evolutionary relationships among these genes, and predict which of the transferrins are likely to have a role in iron homeostasis. Our phylogenetic analysis of transferrins from 16 orders of insects and two orders of noninsect hexapods demonstrated that there are four orthologous groups of insect transferrins. Our analysis suggests that transferrin 2 arose prior to the origin of insects, and transferrins 1, 3, and 4 arose early in insect evolution. Primary sequence analysis of each of the insect transferrins was used to predict signal peptides, carboxyl-terminal transmembrane regions, GPI-anchors, and iron binding. Based on this analysis, we suggest that transferrins 2, 3, and 4 are unlikely to play a major role in iron homeostasis. In contrast, the transferrin 1 orthologs are predicted to be secreted, soluble, iron-binding proteins. We conclude that transferrin 1 orthologs are the most likely to play an important role in iron homeostasis. Interestingly, it appears that the louse, aphid, and thrips lineages have lost the transferrin 1 gene and, thus, have evolved to manage iron without transferrins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana G Najera
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Neal T Dittmer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Jacob J Weber
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Michael R Kanost
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Maureen J Gorman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Xu CD, Liu YK, Qiu LY, Wang SS, Pan BY, Li Y, Wang SG, Tang B. GFAT and PFK genes show contrasting regulation of chitin metabolism in Nilaparvata lugens. Sci Rep 2021; 11:5246. [PMID: 33664411 PMCID: PMC7933274 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-84760-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Glutamine:fructose-6-phosphate aminotransferase (GFAT) and phosphofructokinase (PFK) are enzymes related to chitin metabolism. RNA interference (RNAi) technology was used to explore the role of these two enzyme genes in chitin metabolism. In this study, we found that GFAT and PFK were highly expressed in the wing bud of Nilaparvata lugens and were increased significantly during molting. RNAi of GFAT and PFK both caused severe malformation rates and mortality rates in N. lugens. GFAT inhibition also downregulated GFAT, GNPNA, PGM1, PGM2, UAP, CHS1, CHS1a, CHS1b, Cht1-10, and ENGase. PFK inhibition significantly downregulated GFAT; upregulated GNPNA, PGM2, UAP, Cht2-4, Cht6-7 at 48 h and then downregulated them at 72 h; upregulated Cht5, Cht8, Cht10, and ENGase; downregulated Cht9 at 48 h and then upregulated it at 72 h; and upregulated CHS1, CHS1a, and CHS1b. In conclusion, GFAT and PFK regulated chitin degradation and remodeling by regulating the expression of genes related to the chitin metabolism and exert opposite effects on these genes. These results may be beneficial to develop new chitin synthesis inhibitors for pest control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cai-Di Xu
- College of Education, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong-Kang Liu
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling-Yu Qiu
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Sha-Sha Wang
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Bi-Ying Pan
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Li
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Shi-Gui Wang
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Tang
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Zhao D, Liu ZR, Wu H, Fu CR, Li YZ, Lu XJ, Guo W. RNA interference-mediated functional characterization of Group I chitin deacetylases in Holotrichia parallela Motschulsky. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 173:104770. [PMID: 33771270 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2021.104770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Chitin deacetylases (CDAs, EC 3.5.1.41) catalyze the N-deacetylation of chitin to produce chitosan, which is essential for insect survival. Hence, CDAs are promising targets for the development of novel insecticidal drugs. In this study, the putative Group I chitin deacetylase genes HpCDA1, HpCDA2-1 and HpCDA2-2 were identified from Holotrichia parallela. Conserved domain database search identified a chitin-binding peritrophin-A domain (ChBD), a low-density lipoprotein receptor class A domain (LDLa), and a putative CDA-like catalytic domain. RT-qPCR analysis showed that the Group I HpCDAs were expressed in various tissues and predominant in the integument. The developmental expression patterns from the first-instar to third-instar larvae showed that HpCDAs were highly expressed on the first day and gradually declined after molting. The functional characteristics of the Group I CDAs in cuticle organization were examined using RNA interference (RNAi) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) methods. Administration of double-stranded HpCDA (dsHpCDA) through larval injection could suppress the expression levels of HpCDA1 and HpCDA2, thus resulting in abnormal or lethal phenotypes. TEM analysis revealed that RNAi of either HpCDA1 or HpCDA2 remarkably affected the cuticle integrity, as evidenced by cuticle disorganization and chitin laminae disruption, suggesting the crucial role of CDAs in chitin modification. These experimental results demonstrate the important contribution of putative key genes involved in chitin metabolism, and provide a foundation for developing new strategies to control H. parallela.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Zhao
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Zhao-Rui Liu
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Han Wu
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Chao-Ran Fu
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Ya-Zi Li
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Xiu-Jun Lu
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Wei Guo
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China; Graduate School of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Glycoside hydrolase family 18 chitinases: The known and the unknown. Biotechnol Adv 2020; 43:107553. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2020.107553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
27
|
Weber JJ, Kanost MR, Gorman MJ. Iron binding and release properties of transferrin-1 from Drosophila melanogaster and Manduca sexta: Implications for insect iron homeostasis. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 125:103438. [PMID: 32735914 PMCID: PMC7501197 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2020.103438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Transferrins belong to an ancient family of extracellular proteins. The best-characterized transferrins are mammalian proteins that function in iron sequestration or iron transport; they accomplish these functions by having a high-affinity iron-binding site in each of their two homologous lobes. Insect hemolymph transferrins (Tsf1s) also function in iron sequestration and transport; however, sequence-based predictions of their iron-binding residues have suggested that most Tsf1s have a single, lower-affinity iron-binding site. To reconcile the apparent contradiction between the known physiological functions and predicted biochemical properties of Tsf1s, we purified and characterized the iron-binding properties of Drosophila melanogaster Tsf1 (DmTsf1), Manduca sexta Tsf1 (MsTsf1), and the amino-lobe of DmTsf1 (DmTsf1N). Using UV-Vis spectroscopy, we found that these proteins bind iron, but they exhibit shifts in their spectra compared to mammalian transferrins. Through equilibrium dialysis experiments, we determined that DmTsf1 and MsTsf1 bind only one ferric ion; their affinity for iron is high (log K' = 18), but less than that of the well-characterized mammalian transferrins (log K' ~ 20); and they release iron under moderately acidic conditions (pH50 = 5.5). Iron release analysis of DmTsf1N suggested that iron binding in the amino-lobe is stabilized by the carboxyl-lobe. These findings will be critical for elucidating the mechanisms of Tsf1 function in iron sequestration and transport in insects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob J Weber
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA.
| | - Michael R Kanost
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA.
| | - Maureen J Gorman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Gao Y, Liu YC, Jia SZ, Liang YT, Tang Y, Xu YS, Kawasaki H, Wang HB. Imaginal disc growth factor maintains cuticle structure and controls melanization in the spot pattern formation of Bombyx mori. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1008980. [PMID: 32986708 PMCID: PMC7544146 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The complex stripes and patterns of insects play key roles in behavior and ecology. However, the fine-scale regulation mechanisms underlying pigment formation and morphological divergence remain largely unelucidated. Here we demonstrated that imaginal disc growth factor (IDGF) maintains cuticle structure and controls melanization in spot pattern formation of Bombyx mori. Moreover, our knockout experiments showed that IDGF is suggested to impact the expression levels of the ecdysone inducible transcription factor E75A and pleiotropic factors apt-like and Toll8/spz3, to further control the melanin metabolism. Furthermore, the untargeted metabolomics analyses revealed that BmIDGF significantly affected critical metabolites involved in phenylalanine, beta-alanine, purine, and tyrosine metabolism pathways. Our findings highlighted not only the universal function of IDGF to the maintenance of normal cuticle structure but also an underexplored space in the gene function affecting melanin formation. Therefore, this study furthers our understanding of insect pigment metabolism and melanin pattern polymorphisms. The diverse stripe patterns of animals are usually used for warning or camouflage. However, the actual mechanisms underlying diverse stripe pattern formation remains largely unknown. This study provides direct evidence that imaginal disc growth factor (IDGF) maintains cuticle structure and controls melanization in the spot pattern formation. Our exhaustive knockout experiments reveal that BmIDGF is involved in the melanin pigmentation of Bombyx mori. We demonstrate that IDGF impacts the expression levels of the 20E-inducible transcription factor E75A and pleiotropic factors apt-like and Toll8/spz3, to further affect the melanin metabolism. Furthermore, the metabolome of BmIDGF gene deletion connects metabolism to gene function. Thus, this study shed light on not only the unique function of IDGF but also the molecular mechanism of spot pattern formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yun Gao
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yun-Cai Liu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shun-Ze Jia
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan-Ting Liang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yu Tang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Song Xu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hideki Kawasaki
- Faculty of Agriculture, Takasaki University of Health and Welfare, Gunma, Japan
| | - Hua-Bing Wang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Rojo-Arreola L, García-Carreño F, Romero R, Díaz Dominguez L. Proteolytic profile of larval developmental stages of Penaeus vannamei: An activity and mRNA expression approach. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0239413. [PMID: 32946520 PMCID: PMC7500676 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In arthropods, the cleavage of specific proteins by peptidases has pivotal roles in multiple physiological processes including oogenesis, immunity, nutrition, and parasitic infection. These enzymes are also key players in the larval development, and well-described triggers of molting and metamorphosis. In this work the peptidase complement throughout the larvae development of Penaeus vannamei was quantified at the transcript and activity level using qPCR and fluorogenic substrates designed to be hydrolyzed by class-specific peptidases respectively, providing a detailed identification of the proteolytic repertoire in P. vannamei larvae. Significant changes in the peptidase activity profile were observed. During the lecithotrophic naupliar instars, the dominant peptidase activity and expression derive from cysteine peptidases, suggesting that enzymes of this class hydrolyze the protein components of yolk as the primary amino acid source. At the first feeding instar, zoea, dominant serine peptidase activity was found where trypsin activity is particularly high, supporting previous observations that during zoea the breakdown of food protein is primarily enzymatic. At decapodid stages the peptidase expression and activity is more diverse indicating that a multienzyme network achieves food digestion. Our results suggest that proteolytic enzymes fulfill specific functions during P. vannamei larval development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rogelio Romero
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, México City, México
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Muthukrishnan S, Mun S, Noh MY, Geisbrecht ER, Arakane Y. Insect Cuticular Chitin Contributes to Form and Function. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 26:3530-3545. [PMID: 32445445 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200523175409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Chitin contributes to the rigidity of the insect cuticle and serves as an attachment matrix for other cuticular proteins. Deficiency of chitin results in abnormal embryos, cuticular structural defects and growth arrest. When chitin is not turned over during molting, the developing insect is trapped inside the old cuticle. Partial deacetylation of cuticular chitin is also required for proper laminar organization of the cuticle and vertical pore canals, molting, and locomotion. Thus, chitin and its modifications strongly influence the structure of the exoskeleton as well as the physiological functions of the insect. Internal tendons and specialized epithelial cells called "tendon cells" that arise from the outer layer of epidermal cells provide attachment sites at both ends of adult limb muscles. Membrane processes emanating from both tendon and muscle cells interdigitate extensively to strengthen the attachment of muscles to the extracellular matrix (ECM). Protein ligands that bind to membrane-bound integrin complexes further enhance the adhesion between muscles and tendons. Tendon cells contain F-actin fiber arrays that contribute to their rigidity. In the cytoplasm of muscle cells, proteins such as talin and other proteins provide attachment sites for cytoskeletal actin, thereby increasing integrin binding and activation to mechanically couple the ECM with actin in muscle cells. Mutations in integrins and their ligands, as well as depletion of chitin deacetylases, result in defective locomotion and muscle detachment from the ECM. Thus, chitin in the cuticle and chitin deacetylases strongly influence the shape and functions of the exoskeleton as well as locomotion of insects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Subbaratnam Muthukrishnan
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, United States
| | - Seulgi Mun
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 500-757, Korea
| | - Mi Y Noh
- Department of Forestry, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 500-757, Korea
| | - Erika R Geisbrecht
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, United States
| | - Yasuyuki Arakane
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 500-757, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Mahmood S, Kumar M, Kumari P, Mahapatro GK, Banerjee N, Sarin NB. Novel insecticidal chitinase from the insect pathogen Xenorhabdus nematophila. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 159:394-401. [PMID: 32422264 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.05.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Xenorhabdus nematophila strain ATCC 19061 is an insect pathogen that produces various protein toxins which intoxicate and kill its larval host. In the present study, we have described the cloning, expression and characterization of a 76-kDa chitinase protein of X. nematophila. A 1.9 kb DNA sequence encoding the chitinase gene was PCR amplified and cloned. Further, the chitinase protein was expressed in Escherichia coli and purified by using affinity chromatography. Two highly conserved domains were identified GH18 and ChiA. The purified chitinase protein showed chitobiosidase activity, β-N-acetylglucosaminidase and endochitinase activity, when enzyme activity was measured using respective substrates. The purified chitinase protein was found to be orally toxic to the larvae of a major crop pest, Helicoverpa armigera when fed to the larvae mixed with artificial diet. It also had adverse effect on the growth and development of the surviving larvae. Surviving larvae showed 9-fold reduction in weight, as a result the transformation of larvae into pupae was adversely affected. Our results demonstrated that the chitinase protein of X. nematophila has insecticidal property and can prove to be a potent candidate for pest control in plants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saquib Mahmood
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Punam Kumari
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Gagan Kumar Mahapatro
- Division of Entomology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 110012, India
| | - Nirupama Banerjee
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Neera Bhalla Sarin
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Chen W, Yang Q. Development of Novel Pesticides Targeting Insect Chitinases: A Minireview and Perspective. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2020; 68:4559-4565. [PMID: 32239934 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.0c00888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Chitinase (EC 3.2.1.14) is an enzyme to breakdown β-1,4-glycosidic bonds in chitin and chitooligosaccharides. The loss of chitinase enzymatic activity in insects results in severe exoskeleton defects and lethality at all developmental stages, indicating that insect chitinases can be promising pesticide targets. However, there are no pesticides known to target chitinases. This perspective will focus on the latest research progress of insect chitinases, paying special attention to crystal structures and chemical biology advances in the field. The physiological importance and unique structural features of insect chitinases may ensure the development of new pesticides through a novel acting mode.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection and Shenzhen Agricultural Genome Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection and Shenzhen Agricultural Genome Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning 116024, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Liu H, Heng J, Wang L, Tang X, Guo P, Li Y, Xia Q, Zhao P. Identification, characterization, and expression analysis of clip-domain serine protease genes in the silkworm, Bombyx mori. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 105:103584. [PMID: 31863792 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2019.103584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Clip-domain serine proteases (CLIPs), characterized by regulatory module clip domains, constitute an important serine protease family identified in insects and other arthropods. They participate in host immune response and embryonic development in a cascade-activated manner. Here, we present a genome-wide identification and expression analysis of CLIP genes in the silkworm, Bombyx mori. A total of 26 CLIP genes were identified in the silkworm genome. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that these CLIPs clustered into four subfamilies (CLIPA-D), and exhibit a close evolutionary relationship with CLIPs of Manduca sexta. Tissue expression profiling revealed that silkworm CLIP genes are mainly expressed in the integument, head, fat body, and hemocytes. Temporal expression profiles showed that 15 CLIP genes were predominantly expressed during the fifth-instar larval stage, early and later period of the pupal stage, and adult stage, whereas 10 CLIP genes were mainly expressed in the wandering stage and middle to later period of the pupal stage in the integument. Pathogens and 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) induction analysis indicated that 14 CLIP genes were positively regulated by 20E, 9 were negatively regulated by 20E but positively regulated by pathogens, and 5 were positively regulated by both factors in the integument. Together, these results suggested that silkworm CLIP genes may play multiple functions in integument development, including melanization of new cuticle, molting and immune defense. Our data provide a comprehensive understanding of CLIP genes in the silkworm integument and lays a foundation for further functional studies of CLIP genes in the silkworm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huawei Liu
- Biological Science Research Center Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericultural Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Jingya Heng
- Biological Science Research Center Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Luoling Wang
- Biological Science Research Center Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Xin Tang
- Biological Science Research Center Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Pengchao Guo
- Biological Science Research Center Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericultural Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Youshan Li
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, 723001, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Qingyou Xia
- Biological Science Research Center Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericultural Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Ping Zhao
- Biological Science Research Center Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericultural Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Konopová B, Buchberger E, Crisp A. Transcriptome of pleuropodia from locust embryos supports that these organs produce enzymes enabling the larva to hatch. Front Zool 2020; 17:4. [PMID: 31969926 PMCID: PMC6966819 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-019-0349-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pleuropodia are limb-derived glandular organs that transiently appear on the first abdominal segment in embryos of insects from majority of “orders”. They are missing in the genetic model Drosophila and little is known about them. Experiments carried out on orthopteran insects 80 years ago indicated that the pleuropodia secrete a “hatching enzyme” that digests the serosal cuticle to enable the larva to hatch, but evidence by state-of-the-art molecular methods is missing. Results We used high-throughput RNA-sequencing to identify the genes expressed in the pleuropodia of the locust Schistocerca gregaria (Orthoptera). First, using transmission electron microscopy we studied the development of the pleuropodia during 11 stages of the locust embryogenesis. We show that the glandular cells differentiate and start secreting just before the definitive dorsal closure of the embryo and the secretion granules outside the cells become more abundant prior to hatching. Next, we generated a comprehensive embryonic reference transcriptome for the locust and used it to study genome wide gene expression across ten morphologicaly defined stages of the pleuropodia. We show that when the pleuropodia have morphological markers of functional organs and produce secretion, they are primarily enriched in transcripts associated with transport functions. They express genes encoding enzymes capable of digesting cuticular protein and chitin. These include the potent cuticulo-lytic Chitinase 5, whose transcript rises just before hatching. Unexpected finding was the enrichment in transcripts for immunity-related enzymes. This indicates that the pleuropodia are equipped with epithelial immunity similarly as barrier epithelia in postembryonic stages. Conclusions These data provide transcriptomic support for the historic hypothesis that pleuropodia produce cuticle-degrading enzymes and function in hatching. They may also have other functions, such as facilitation of embryonic immune defense. By the genes that they express the pleuropodia are specialized embryonic organs and apparently an important though neglected part of insect physiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Konopová
- 1Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,2Department of Evolutionary Developmental Genetics, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,Institute of Entomology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Elisa Buchberger
- 4Department of Developmental Biology, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Liu J, Yi J, Wu H, Zheng L, Zhang G. Prepupae and pupae transcriptomic characterization of Trichogramma chilonis. Genomics 2019; 112:1651-1659. [PMID: 31626898 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2019.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The egg parasitoid, Trichogramma chilonis, has significant control effects on agriculture and forestry pests and is widely employed in southern China for the biological control of lepidopteran pests. In this study, transcriptomic analysis was used to gain a clear understanding of the molecular changes in prepupae and pupae of T. chilonis. A total of 16.88 Gb of clean data were obtained and finally assembled into 43,136 unigenes, 18,880 of which were annotated. After FPKM standardization, 117 and 838 specific expression genes were found in prepupae and pupae, respectively. There were 3129 differentially expressed genes between prepupae and pupae. Compared to pupae, 806 genes were up-regulated and 2323 were down-regulated in prepupae. Background on the T. chilonis transcriptome, the enriched GO function and KEGG pathway analysis of DEGs were considered. As indicated by GO classification, up-regulated genes were mainly involved in chitin metabolism, cell adhesion and endocytic, while most down-regulated genes were involved in synthesis of cell components, ion transport and biological regulation. KEGG enrichment analysis showed that 458 DEGs were enriched in 94 metabolic pathways. DEGs involved in nucleotide replication and transcription, substance metabolism, insect hormone biosynthesis, cell growth and death, reproductive metabolism, circadian rhythms and signal transduction pathways were up-regulated or down-regulated to different degrees, indicating that these genes played important roles during the process of metamorphosis in T. chilonis. This study provides a rich data source for the future study of T. chilonis molecular and biological mechanisms. A large number of genes related to metamorphosis were found based on comparison analysis between prepupae and pupae transcriptomes. This study lays a good foundation for in-depth study of gene transcription and regulation mechanisms during T. chilonis metamorphosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianbai Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Jiequn Yi
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Pesticide and Fertilizer, Guangdong Provincial Bioengineering Institute (Guangzhou Sugarcane Industry Research Institute), Guangzhou 510316, China
| | - Han Wu
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Pesticide and Fertilizer, Guangdong Provincial Bioengineering Institute (Guangzhou Sugarcane Industry Research Institute), Guangzhou 510316, China
| | - Lingyan Zheng
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Guren Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Categories and biomanufacturing methods of glucosamine. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2019; 103:7883-7889. [DOI: 10.1007/s00253-019-10084-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 08/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
37
|
Li Z, Tian S, Yang H, Zhou X, Xu S, Zhang Z, Gong J, Hou Y, Xia Q. Genome-wide identification of chitin-binding proteins and characterization of BmCBP1 in the silkworm, Bombyx mori. INSECT SCIENCE 2019; 26:400-412. [PMID: 29087606 PMCID: PMC7379184 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The insect cuticle plays important roles in numerous physiological functions to protect the body from invasion of pathogens, physical injury and dehydration. In this report, we conducted a comprehensive genome-wide search for genes encoding proteins with peritrophin A-type (ChtBD2) chitin-binding domain (CBD) in the silkworm, Bombyx mori. One of these genes, which encodes the cuticle protein BmCBP1, was additionally cloned, and its expression and location during the process of development and molting in B. mori were investigated. In total, 46 protein-coding genes were identified in the silkworm genome, including those encoding 15 cuticle proteins analogous to peritrophins with one CBD (CPAP1s), nine cuticle proteins analogous to peritrophins with three CBD (CPAP3s), 15 peritrophic membrane proteins (PMPs), four chitinases, and three chitin deacetylases, which contained at least one ChtBD2 domain. Microarray analysis indicated that CPAP-encoding genes were widely expressed in various tissues, whereas PMP genes were highly expressed in the midgut. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting showed that the cuticle protein BmCBP1 was highly expressed in the epidermis and head, particularly during molting and metamorphosis. An immunofluorescence study revealed that chitin co-localized with BmCBP1 at the epidermal surface during molting. Additionally, BmCBP1 was notably up-regulated by 20-hydroxyecdysone treatment. These results provide a genome-level view of the chitin-binding protein in silkworm and suggest that BmCBP1 participates in the formation of the new cuticle during molting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi‐Lang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome BiologyCollege of BiotechnologySouthwest UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Sha Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome BiologyCollege of BiotechnologySouthwest UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Huan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome BiologyCollege of BiotechnologySouthwest UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Xia Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome BiologyCollege of BiotechnologySouthwest UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Shu‐Ping Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome BiologyCollege of BiotechnologySouthwest UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Zi‐Yu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome BiologyCollege of BiotechnologySouthwest UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Jing Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome BiologyCollege of BiotechnologySouthwest UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Yong Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome BiologyCollege of BiotechnologySouthwest UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Qing‐You Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome BiologyCollege of BiotechnologySouthwest UniversityChongqingChina
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Yu RR, Liu WM, Zhao XM, Zhang M, Li DQ, Zuber R, Ma EB, Zhu KY, Moussian B, Zhang JZ. LmCDA1 organizes the cuticle by chitin deacetylation in Locusta migratoria. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 28:301-312. [PMID: 30471154 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Cells produce an extracellular matrix (ECM) with a stereotypic organization that is important for tissue function. The insect cuticle is a layered ECM that mainly consists of the polysaccharide chitin and associated proteins adopting a quasi-crystalline structure. Our understanding of the molecular mechanisms deployed during construction of the highly ordered protein-chitin ECM so far is limited. In this study, we report on the role of the chitin deacetylase 1 (LmCDA1) in the organization of the protein-chitin ECM in the migratory locust Locusta migratoria, and LmCDA1 localizes predominantly to the apical tier of the protein-chitin ECM, but it is also found in lower regions. Reduction of LmCDA1 function correlates with lower amounts of chitin and impedes conversion of chitin to chitosan by deacetylation. Establishment of the quasi-crystalline architecture of the protein-chitin ECM is, however, independent of LmCDA1 activity, but it is dependent on another chitin deacetylase, LmCDA2, which has no detectable effects on chitin deacetylation and, as shown previously, no influence on chitin content. Our data reveal that LmCDA1 and LmCDA2 act in parallel and independently from each other in defining the dimensions of the cuticle. Both enzymes are non-uniformly distributed within the protein-chitin matrix, suggesting a site-autonomous function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R-R Yu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
- Department of Biology, Taiyuan Normal University, Taiyuan, China
| | - W-M Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - X-M Zhao
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - M Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - D-Q Li
- Institute of Plant Protection, Shanxi Academy of Agricultural Science, Taiyuan, China
| | - R Zuber
- Angewandte Zoologie, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - E-B Ma
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - K Y Zhu
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - B Moussian
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, iBV, Parc Valrose, Nice CEDEX 2, France
| | - J-Z Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Muthukrishnan S, Merzendorfer H, Arakane Y, Yang Q. Chitin Organizing and Modifying Enzymes and Proteins Involved In Remodeling of the Insect Cuticle. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1142:83-114. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-7318-3_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
|
40
|
Liu L, Zhou Y, Qu M, Qiu Y, Guo X, Zhang Y, Liu T, Yang J, Yang Q. Structural and biochemical insights into the catalytic mechanisms of two insect chitin deacetylases of the carbohydrate esterase 4 family. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:5774-5783. [PMID: 30755482 PMCID: PMC6463723 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.007597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Insect chitin deacetylases (CDAs) catalyze the removal of acetyl groups from chitin and modify this polymer during its synthesis and reorganization. CDAs are essential for insect survival and therefore represent promising targets for insecticide development. However, the structural and biochemical characteristics of insect CDAs have remained elusive. Here, we report the crystal structures of two insect CDAs from the silk moth Bombyx mori: BmCDA1, which may function in cuticle modification, and BmCDA8, which may act in modifying peritrophic membranes in the midgut. Both enzymes belong to the carbohydrate esterase 4 (CE4) family. Comparing their overall structures at 1.98–2.4 Å resolution with those from well-studied microbial CDAs, we found that two unique loop regions in BmCDA1 and BmCDA8 contribute to the distinct architecture of their substrate-binding clefts. These comparisons revealed that both BmCDA1 and BmCDA8 possess a much longer and wider substrate-binding cleft with a very open active site in the center than the microbial CDAs, including VcCDA from Vibrio cholerae and ArCE4A from Arthrobacter species AW19M34-1. Biochemical analyses indicated that BmCDA8 is an active enzyme that requires its substrates to occupy subsites 0, +1, and +2 for catalysis. In contrast, BmCDA1 also required accessory proteins for catalysis. To the best of our knowledge, our work is the first to unveil the structural and biochemical features of insect proteins belonging to the CE4 family.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Liu
- From the State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Yong Zhou
- From the State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Mingbo Qu
- From the State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Yu Qiu
- Department of Protein Engineering, Biologics Research, Sanofi, Bridgewater, New Jersey 08807
| | - Xingming Guo
- From the State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Yuebin Zhang
- the Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Design, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Reaction Dynamics, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Tian Liu
- From the State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Jun Yang
- From the State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Qing Yang
- From the State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China; the State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Liu X, Zhang J, Zhu KY. Chitin in Arthropods: Biosynthesis, Modification, and Metabolism. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1142:169-207. [PMID: 31102247 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-7318-3_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Chitin is a structural constituent of extracellular matrices including the cuticle of the exoskeleton and the peritrophic matrix (PM) of the midgut in arthropods. Chitin chains are synthesized through multiple biochemical reactions, organized in several hierarchical levels and associated with various proteins that give their unique physicochemical characteristics of the cuticle and PM. Because, arthropod growth and morphogenesis are dependent on the capability of remodeling chitin-containing structures, chitin biosynthesis and degradation are highly regulated, allowing ecdysis and regeneration of the cuticle and PM. Over the past 20 years, much progress has been made in understanding the physiological functions of chitinous matrices. In this chapter, we mainly discussed the biochemical processes of chitin biosynthesis, modification and degradation, and various enzymes involved in these processes. We also discussed cuticular proteins and PM proteins, which largely determine the physicochemical properties of the cuticle and PM. Although rapid advances in genomics, proteomics, RNA interference, and other technologies have considerably facilitated our research in chitin biosynthesis, modification, and metabolism in recent years, many aspects of these processes are still partially understood. Further research is needed in understanding how the structural organization of chitin synthase in plasma membrane accommodate chitin biosynthesis, transport of chitin chain across the plasma membrane, and release of the chitin chain from the enzyme. Other research is also needed in elucidating the roles of chitin deacetylases in chitin organization and the mechanism controlling the formation of different types of chitin in arthropods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojian Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030006, China
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030006, China.
| | - Kun Yan Zhu
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, 123 Waters Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Zhang L, Gao J, Gao X. Role for Transferrin in Triggering Apoptosis in Helicoverpa armigera Cells Treated with 2-Tridecanone. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2018; 66:11426-11431. [PMID: 30265533 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b02505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
2-Tridecanone, a plant allelochemical present in a large range of tomato species ( Lycopersicon hirsutum f. glabratum), can induce the expression of Helicoverpa armigera transferrin ( HaTrf), which is necessary for insect growth and development. To gain further insight into the mechanism of HaTrf in response to 2-tridecanone, we measured the iron and H2O2 levels in the hemolymph during exposure to 2-tridecanone and then explored the effect of transferrin downregulation in a H. armigera fat body cell line exposed to 2-tridecanone. We found that the reduction of HaTrf levels via RNA interference caused rapid apoptotic cell death during exposure to 2-tridecanone. There have been no reports about transferrin genes related to apoptosis induced by plant allelochemicals. Our results indicate that HaTrf mediates the inhibition of apoptotic cell death during exposure to 2-tridecanone and provides insight into the importance of transferrin in the interaction between plants and insects.
Collapse
|
43
|
Zhang X, Chang H, Dong Z, Zhang Y, Zhao D, Ye L, Xia Q, Zhao P. Comparative Proteome Analysis Reveals that Cuticular Proteins Analogous to Peritrophin-Motif Proteins are Involved in the Regeneration of Chitin Layer in the Silk Gland of Bombyx mori at the Molting Stage. Proteomics 2018; 18:e1700389. [PMID: 29687606 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201700389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2017] [Revised: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The silk gland of silkworm produces silk proteins during larval development. Many studies have long focused on the silk gland of the fifth instar larvae, but few have investigated this gland at other larval stages. In the present study, the silk gland proteomes of the fourth instar and fourth molt are analyzed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. In total, 2654 proteins are identified from the silk gland. A high abundance of ribosomal proteins and RR-motif chitin-binding proteins is identified during day 2 of the fourth instar (IV-2) larval developmental stage, and the expression of cuticular proteins analogous to peritrophin (CPAP)-motif chitin-binding proteins is higher during the fourth molt (IV-M). In all, nine enzymes are found to be involved in the chitin regeneration pathway in the silk gland. Among them, two chitinase and two chitin deacetylases are identified as CPAP-motif proteins. Furthermore, the expression of CPAP3-G, the most abundant CPAP-motif cuticular protein in the silk gland during the IV-M stage, is investigated using western blot and immunofluorescence analyses; CPAP3-G shows a reverse changing trend with chitin in the silk gland. The findings of this study suggest that CPAP-motif chitin-binding proteins are involved in the degradation of the chitin layer in the silk gland. The data have been deposited to the ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD008677.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China
| | - Huaipu Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China
| | - Zhaoming Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China.,College of Biotechnology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
| | - Dongchao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China
| | - Lin Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China
| | - Qingyou Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China
| | - Ping Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing, 400716, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Fu P, Sun W, Lai J, Shen YH, Zhang Z. Identification of two isoforms of Pop in the domestic silkworm, Bombyx mori: Cloning, characterization and expression analysis. Gene 2018; 667:101-111. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
45
|
Wang RX, Tong XL, Gai TT, Li CL, Qiao L, Hu H, Han MJ, Xiang ZH, Lu C, Dai FY. A serine protease homologue Bombyx mori scarface induces a short and fat body shape in silkworm. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 27:319-332. [PMID: 29441628 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Body shape is one of the most prominent and basic characteristics of any organism. In insects, abundant variations in body shape can be observed both within and amongst species. However, the molecular mechanism underlying body shape fine-tuning is very complex and has been largely unknown until now. In the silkworm Bombyx mori, the tubby (tub) mutant has an abnormal short fat body shape and the abdomen of tub larvae expands to form a fusiform body shape. Morphological investigation revealed that the body length was shorter and the body width was wider than that of the Dazao strain. Thus, this mutant is a good model for studying the molecular mechanisms of body shape fine-tuning. Using positional cloning, we identified a gene encoding the serine protease homologue, B. mori scarface (Bmscarface), which is associated with the tub phenotype. Sequence analysis revealed a specific 312-bp deletion from an exon of Bmscarface in the tub strain. In addition, recombination was not observed between the tub and Bmscarface loci. Moreover, RNA interference of Bmscarface resulted in the tub-like phenotype. These results indicate that Bmscarface is responsible for the tub mutant phenotype. This is the first study to report that mutation of a serine protease homologue can induce an abnormal body shape in insects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R-X Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - X-L Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - T-T Gai
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - C-L Li
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - L Qiao
- Institute of Entomology and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - H Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - M-J Han
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Z-H Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - C Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - F-Y Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Liu L, Qu M, Yang J, Yang Q. The physiological differentiation along the midgut of Bombyx mori - inspirations from proteomics and gene expression patterns of the secreted proteins in the ectoperitrophic space. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 27:247-259. [PMID: 29251378 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The ectoperitrophic space (EcPS) between the insect midgut epithelial cells and the peritrophic matrix is an unexplored, clean resource for concentrated proteins secreted by the midgut epithelial cells, which offers an ideal opportunity to uncover the midgut functions. In this study, we used Bombyx mori as a model organism and performed comparative proteomic analyses of the secreted proteins in the EcPS at the feeding and wandering stages. A total of 372 proteins were identified from both stages and 70 proteins were predicted to be secreted. Amongst these proteins, 17 secreted digestive proteins were identified and their temporal and spatial transcriptional expression patterns demonstrated that all these proteins were up-regulated at the feeding stage and differentially expressed in different parts of the midgut. Proteins with nutrient reservoir activity and defence activity were found to be up-regulated at the wandering stage. This work is the first to show the presence of digestive enzymes in the EcPS of the insect midgut using a proteomic approach, which provides evidence that suggests a physiological functional differentiation of the insect midgut. It is very clear that the EcPS undergoes dynamic changes in its composition of proteins in response to the changing needs of the insect at different developmental stages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering and School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - M Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering and School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - J Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering and School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Q Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering and School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
- Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Noh MY, Muthukrishnan S, Kramer KJ, Arakane Y. Group I chitin deacetylases are essential for higher order organization of chitin fibers in beetle cuticle. J Biol Chem 2018; 293:6985-6995. [PMID: 29567838 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra117.001454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Revised: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Roles in the organization of the cuticle (exoskeleton) of two chitin deacetylases (CDAs) belonging to group I, TcCDA1 and TcCDA2, as well as two alternatively spliced forms of the latter, TcCDA2a and TcCDA2b, from the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum, were examined in different body parts using transmission EM and RNAi. Even though all TcCDAs are co-expressed in cuticle-forming cells from the hardened forewing (elytron) and ventral abdomen, as well as in the softer hindwing and dorsal abdomen, there are significant differences in the tissue specificity of expression of the alternatively spliced transcripts. Loss of either TcCDA1 or TcCDA2 protein by RNAi causes abnormalities in organization of chitinous horizontal laminae and vertical pore canals in all regions of the procuticle of both the hard and soft cuticles. Simultaneous RNAi for TcCDA1 and TcCDA2 produces the most serious abnormalities. RNAi of either TcCDA2a or TcCDA2b affects cuticle integrity to some extent. Following RNAi, there is accumulation of smaller disorganized fibers in both the horizontal laminae and pore canals, indicating that TcCDAs play a critical role in elongation/organization of smaller nanofibers into longer fibers, which is essential for structural integrity of both hard/thick and soft/thin cuticles. Immunolocalization of TcCDA1 and TcCDA2 proteins and effects of RNAi on their accumulation indicate that these two proteins function in concert exclusively in the assembly zone in a step involving the higher order organization of the procuticle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mi Young Noh
- From the Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 500-757, South Korea and
| | - Subbaratnam Muthukrishnan
- the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506
| | - Karl J Kramer
- the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506
| | - Yasuyuki Arakane
- From the Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 500-757, South Korea and
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Liu HW, Wang LL, Tang X, Dong ZM, Guo PC, Zhao DC, Xia QY, Zhao P. Proteomic analysis of Bombyx mori molting fluid: Insights into the molting process. J Proteomics 2018; 173:115-125. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2017.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
|
49
|
Chen W, Qu M, Zhou Y, Yang Q. Structural analysis of group II chitinase (ChtII) catalysis completes the puzzle of chitin hydrolysis in insects. J Biol Chem 2018; 293:2652-2660. [PMID: 29317504 PMCID: PMC5827449 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra117.000119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Revised: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Chitin is a linear homopolymer of N-acetyl-β-d-glucosamines and a major structural component of insect cuticles. Chitin hydrolysis involves glycoside hydrolase family 18 (GH18) chitinases. In insects, chitin hydrolysis is essential for periodic shedding of the old cuticle ecdysis and proceeds via a pathway different from that in the well studied bacterial chitinolytic system. Group II chitinase (ChtII) is a widespread chitinolytic enzyme in insects and contains the greatest number of catalytic domains and chitin-binding domains among chitinases. In Lepidopterans, ChtII and two other chitinases, ChtI and Chi-h, are essential for chitin hydrolysis. Although ChtI and Chi-h have been well studied, the role of ChtII remains elusive. Here, we investigated the structure and enzymology of OfChtII, a ChtII derived from the insect pest Ostrinia furnacalis We present the crystal structures of two catalytically active domains of OfChtII, OfChtII-C1 and OfChtII-C2, both in unliganded form and complexed with chitooligosaccharide substrates. We found that OfChtII-C1 and OfChtII-C2 both possess long, deep substrate-binding clefts with endochitinase activities. OfChtII exhibited structural characteristics within the substrate-binding cleft similar to those in OfChi-h and OfChtI. However, OfChtII lacked structural elements favoring substrate binding beyond the active sites, including an extra wall structure present in OfChi-h. Nevertheless, the numerous domains in OfChtII may compensate for this difference; a truncation containing one catalytic domain and three chitin-binding modules (OfChtII-B4C1) displayed activity toward insoluble polymeric substrates that was higher than those of OfChi-h and OfChtI. Our observations provide the last piece of the puzzle of chitin hydrolysis in insects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Mingbo Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Yong Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Qing Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China; Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Liu T, Zhu W, Wang J, Zhou Y, Duan Y, Qu M, Yang Q. The deduced role of a chitinase containing two nonsynergistic catalytic domains. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2018; 74:30-40. [PMID: 29372897 PMCID: PMC5786006 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798317018289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The glycoside hydrolase family 18 chitinases degrade or alter chitin. Multiple catalytic domains in a glycoside hydrolase family 18 chitinase function synergistically during chitin degradation. Here, an insect group III chitinase from the agricultural pest Ostrinia furnacalis (OfChtIII) is revealed to be an arthropod-conserved chitinase that contains two nonsynergistic GH18 domains according to its catalytic properties. Both GH18 domains are active towards single-chained chitin substrates, but are inactive towards insoluble chitin substrates. The crystal structures of each unbound GH18 domain, as well as of GH18 domains complexed with hexa-N-acetyl-chitohexaose or penta-N-acetyl-chitopentaose, suggest that the two GH18 domains possess endo-specific activities. Physiological data indicated that the developmental stage-dependent gene-expression pattern of OfChtIII was the same as that of the chitin synthase OfChsA but significantly different from that of the chitinase OfChtI, which is indispensable for cuticular chitin degradation. Additionally, immunological staining indicated that OfChtIII was co-localized with OfChsA. Thus, OfChtIII is most likely to be involved in the chitin-synthesis pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, Liaoning 116024, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weixing Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, Liaoning 116024, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, Liaoning 116024, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yong Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, Liaoning 116024, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanwei Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, Liaoning 116024, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mingbo Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, Liaoning 116024, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qing Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology and School of Software, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, Liaoning 116024, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing 100193, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|