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Bai Y, Lv YN, Zeng M, Yan ZY, Huang DY, Wen JZ, Lu HN, Zhang PY, Wang YF, Ban N, Yuan DW, Li S, Luan YX. E93 is indispensable for reproduction in ametabolous and hemimetabolous insects. Development 2024; 151:dev202518. [PMID: 38646855 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202518] [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: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Ecdysone-induced protein 93 (E93), known as the 'adult-specifier' transcription factor in insects, triggers metamorphosis in both hemimetabolous and holometabolous insects. Although E93 is conserved in ametabolous insects, its spatiotemporal expression and physiological function remain poorly understood. In this study, we first discover that, in the ametabolous firebrat Thermobia domestica, the previtellogenic ovary exhibits cyclically high E93 expression, and E93 mRNA is broadly distributed in previtellogenic ovarioles. E93 homozygous mutant females of T. domestica exhibit severe fecundity deficiency due to impaired previtellogenic development of the ovarian follicles, likely because E93 induces the expression of genes involved in ECM (extracellular matrix)-receptor interactions during previtellogenesis. Moreover, we reveal that in the hemimetabolous cockroach Blattella germanica, E93 similarly promotes previtellogenic ovarian development. In addition, E93 is also essential for vitellogenesis that is necessary to guarantee ovarian maturation and promotes the vitellogenesis-previtellogenesis switch in the fat body of adult female cockroaches. Our findings deepen the understanding of the roles of E93 in controlling reproduction in insects, and of E93 expression and functional evolution, which are proposed to have made crucial contributions to the origin of insect metamorphosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Bai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Development Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510000, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou 514000, China
| | - Ya-Nan Lv
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Development Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Mei Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Development Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Zi-Yu Yan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Development Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Dan-Yan Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Development Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Jia-Zhen Wen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Development Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Hu-Na Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Development Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Pei-Yan Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Development Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Yi-Fan Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Development Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Ning Ban
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Development Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Dong-Wei Yuan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Development Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Sheng Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Development Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510000, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou 514000, China
| | - Yun-Xia Luan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Development Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510000, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou 514000, China
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2
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Geng DQ, Wang XL, Lyu XY, Raikhel AS, Zou Z. Ecdysone-controlled nuclear receptor ERR regulates metabolic homeostasis in the disease vector mosquito Aedes aegypti. PLoS Genet 2024; 20:e1011196. [PMID: 38466721 PMCID: PMC10957079 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1011196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Hematophagous mosquitoes require vertebrate blood for their reproductive cycles, making them effective vectors for transmitting dangerous human diseases. Thus, high-intensity metabolism is needed to support reproductive events of female mosquitoes. However, the regulatory mechanism linking metabolism and reproduction in mosquitoes remains largely unclear. In this study, we found that the expression of estrogen-related receptor (ERR), a nuclear receptor, is activated by the direct binding of 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) and ecdysone receptor (EcR) to the ecdysone response element (EcRE) in the ERR promoter region during the gonadotropic cycle of Aedes aegypti (named AaERR). RNA interference (RNAi) of AaERR in female mosquitoes led to delayed development of ovaries. mRNA abundance of genes encoding key enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism (CM)-glucose-6-phosphate isomerase (GPI) and pyruvate kinase (PYK)-was significantly decreased in AaERR knockdown mosquitoes, while the levels of metabolites, such as glycogen, glucose, and trehalose, were elevated. The expression of fatty acid synthase (FAS) was notably downregulated, and lipid accumulation was reduced in response to AaERR depletion. Dual luciferase reporter assays and electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) determined that AaERR directly activated the expression of metabolic genes, such as GPI, PYK, and FAS, by binding to the corresponding AaERR-responsive motif in the promoter region of these genes. Our results have revealed an important role of AaERR in the regulation of metabolism during mosquito reproduction and offer a novel target for mosquito control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan-Qian Geng
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xue-Li Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang-Yang Lyu
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Alexander S. Raikhel
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, California, United States of America
- Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Zhen Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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3
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Sun X, Wang X, Shi K, Lyu X, Sun J, Raikhel AS, Zou Z. Leucine aminopeptidase1 controls egg deposition and hatchability in male Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Nat Commun 2024; 15:106. [PMID: 38168045 PMCID: PMC10762072 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44444-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Aedes aegypti are vectors for several arboviruses infecting hundreds of millions of people annually. Controlling mosquito populations by regulating their reproduction is a potential strategy to minimize viral transmission in the absence of effective antiviral therapies or vaccines. Here, we demonstrate that leucine aminopeptidase1 (LAP1), detected by a SWATH-MS-based proteomic screen of female spermathecae, is a crucial determinant in mosquito population expansion. Mitochondrial defects and aberrant autophagy of sperm in LAP1 mutant males (LAP1-/-), prepared using CRISPR/Cas9 system, result in a reduction of reproduction in wild-type females that mated with them. The fitness of LAP1-/- males is strong enough to efficiently transmit genetic changes to mosquito populations through a low number of hatchable offspring. Thus, LAP1-/- males represent an opportunity to suppress mosquito populations and further studies should be undertaken to characterize LAP1's suitability for gene drive usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xueli Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Kai Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiangyang Lyu
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jian Sun
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Alexander S Raikhel
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Zhen Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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Lin L, Li H, Zheng Q, Hu J, Wu W. Research Progress on the Regulation of Autophagy and Apoptosis in Insects by Sterol Hormone 20-Hydroxyecdysone. INSECTS 2023; 14:871. [PMID: 37999070 PMCID: PMC10672190 DOI: 10.3390/insects14110871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
20E (20-Hydroxyecdysone) is a central steroid hormone that orchestrates developmental changes and metamorphosis in arthropods. While its molecular mechanisms have been recognized for some time, detailed elucidation has primarily emerged in the past decade. PCD (Programmed cell death), including apoptosis, necrosis, efferocytosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and autophagy, plays a crucial role in regulated cell elimination, which is vital for cells' development and tissue homeostasis. This review summarizes recent findings on 20E signaling regulated autophagy and apoptosis in insects, including Drosophila melanogaster, Bombyx mori, Helicoverpa armigera, and other species. Firstly, we comprehensively explore the biosynthesis of the sterol hormone 20E and its subsequent signal transduction in various species. Then, we focus on the involvement of 20E in regulating autophagy and apoptosis, elucidating its roles in both developmental contexts and bacterial infection scenarios. Furthermore, our discussion unfolds as a panoramic exposition, where we delve into the fundamental questions with our findings, anchoring them within the grander scheme of our study in insects. Deepening the understanding of 20E-autophagy/apoptosis axis not only underscores the intricate tapestry of endocrine networks, but also offers fresh perspectives on the adaptive mechanisms that have evolved in the face of environmental challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luobin Lin
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Biotechnology Drug Candidates, School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceuticals, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (L.L.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Huaqin Li
- School of Health Sciences, Guangzhou Xinhua University, 19 Huamei Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510520, China;
| | - Qinzhou Zheng
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Biotechnology Drug Candidates, School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceuticals, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (L.L.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Jiaxuan Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China;
| | - Wenmei Wu
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Biotechnology Drug Candidates, School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceuticals, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (L.L.); (Q.Z.)
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5
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Choi DY, Kim Y. Prostaglandin E 2 mediates chorion formation of the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, at late oogenesis. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 32:484-509. [PMID: 37158315 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12846] [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: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Chorion-i.e., the eggshell-is formed during the late stage of oogenesis by follicular epithelium in the ovary. Although the endocrine signal(s) driving choriogenesis remain unclear in mosquitoes, this process in other insects has been suspected to involve the mediation of prostaglandins (PGs). This study tested the role of PG in the choriogenesis of the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, and its influence on controlling the expressions of genes associated with chorion formation by a transcriptome analysis. An immunofluorescence assay showed that PGE2 is localised in follicular epithelium. With the treatment of aspirin, an inhibitor of PG biosynthesis, at mid oogenesis, the PGE2 signal disappeared in the follicular epithelium led to significantly inhibited chorion formation along with a malformed eggshell. Ovary transcriptomes were assessed by RNASeq at the mid and late ovarian developmental stages. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) exhibiting more than twofold changes in expression levels included 297 genes at mid stage and 500 genes at late stage. These DEGs at these two developmental stages commonly included genes associated with egg and chorion proteins of Ae. albopictus. Most chorion-associated genes were clustered in the 168 Mb region on a chromosome and exhibited significantly induced expressions at both ovarian developmental stages. The inhibition of PG biosynthesis significantly suppressed the expression of the chorion-associated genes while the addition of PGE2 rescued the gene expressions and led to recovery of choriogenesis. These results suggest that PGE2 mediates the choriogenesis of Ae. albopictus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Du-Yeol Choi
- Department of Plant Medicals, College of Life Sciences, Andong National University, Andong, South Korea
| | - Yonggyun Kim
- Department of Plant Medicals, College of Life Sciences, Andong National University, Andong, South Korea
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6
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David OG, Sanchez KM, Arce AV, Costa-da-Silva AL, Bellantuono AJ, DeGennaro M. Fertility decline in female mosquitoes is regulated by the orco olfactory co-receptor. iScience 2023; 26:106883. [PMID: 37275523 PMCID: PMC10239028 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes undergo multiple rounds of reproduction, known as gonotrophic cycles. These cycles span the period from blood meal intake to oviposition. Understanding how reproductive success is maintained across gonotrophic cycles allows for the identification of molecular targets to reduce mosquito population growth. Odorant receptor co-receptor (orco) encodes a conserved insect-specific transmembrane ion channel that complexes with tuning odorant receptors (ORs) to form a functional olfactory receptor. orco expression has been identified in the male and female mosquito germline, but its role is unclear. We report an orco-dependent, maternal effect reduction in fertility after the first gonotrophic cycle. This phenotype was removed by CRISPR-Cas9 reversion of the orco mutant locus. Eggs deposited by orco mutant females are fertilized but the embryos reveal developmental defects, reduced hatching, and changes in ion channel signaling gene transcription. We present an unexpected role for an olfactory receptor pathway in mosquito reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olayinka G. David
- Department of Biological Sciences & Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Kevin M. Sanchez
- Department of Biological Sciences & Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Andrea V. Arce
- Department of Biological Sciences & Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Andre Luis Costa-da-Silva
- Department of Biological Sciences & Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Anthony J. Bellantuono
- Department of Biological Sciences & Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Matthew DeGennaro
- Department of Biological Sciences & Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
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7
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Sun C, Wei D, Pan Y, Xiao X, Wang F. BmCaspase-8-like regulates autophagy by suppressing BmDREDD-mediated cleavage of BmATG6. INSECT SCIENCE 2023; 30:365-374. [PMID: 36044542 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13109] [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: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy plays an important role in tissue remodeling during insect development. The interplay between autophagy-related (ATG) proteins and caspases regulates the autophagic activity of ATGs, thereby modulating the process of autophagy. Our previous study characterized BmCaspase-8-like (BmCasp8L) as a caspase suppressor that inhibits apoptosis and immune signaling by suppressing the activation of death-related ced-3/Nedd2-like caspase (DREDD), a caspase-8 homolog in silkworm. In this study, we explored the regulatory role of BmCasp8L in autophagy. We found that the expression of Bmcasp8l increased from the late spinning stage to the pupa stage in the posterior silk gland (PSG), correlating with the expression patterns of Bmatg8 and Bmatg6. RNA interference-mediated downregulation of BmCasp8L expression significantly decreased starvation-induced autophagic influx as determined by the levels of BmATG8-phosphatidylethanolamine and the percentage of cells displaying punctate enhanced green fluorescent protein-BmATG8. Conversely, the overexpression of BmCasp8L significantly increased autophagic influx. We also found that BmCasp8L underwent autophagic degradation induced by starvation and that it was colocalized with BmATG8. Lastly, we demonstrated that BmDREDD attenuated autophagy and BmCasp8L suppressed BmDREDD-mediated cleavage of BmATG6. Taken together, our results demonstrated that BmCasp8L is a novel proautophagic molecule which suppresses BmDREDD-mediated cleavage of BmATG6 and is a target for autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dongmei Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yumeng Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoyi Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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8
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Fuhrmann N, Prakash C, Kaiser TS. Polygenic adaptation from standing genetic variation allows rapid ecotype formation. eLife 2023; 12:82824. [PMID: 36852484 PMCID: PMC9977305 DOI: 10.7554/elife.82824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Adaptive ecotype formation can be the first step to speciation, but the genetic underpinnings of this process are poorly understood. Marine midges of the genus Clunio (Diptera) have recolonized Northern European shore areas after the last glaciation. In response to local tide conditions they have formed different ecotypes with respect to timing of adult emergence, oviposition behavior and larval habitat. Genomic analysis confirms the recent establishment of these ecotypes, reflected in massive haplotype sharing between ecotypes, irrespective of whether there is ongoing gene flow or geographic isolation. QTL mapping and genome screens reveal patterns of polygenic adaptation from standing genetic variation. Ecotype-associated loci prominently include circadian clock genes, as well as genes affecting sensory perception and nervous system development, hinting to a central role of these processes in ecotype formation. Our data show that adaptive ecotype formation can occur rapidly, with ongoing gene flow and largely based on a re-assortment of existing alleles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nico Fuhrmann
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary BiologyPlönGermany
| | - Celine Prakash
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary BiologyPlönGermany
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9
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Lyu XY, Wang XL, Geng DQ, Jiang H, Zou Z. Juvenile hormone acts on male accessory gland function via regulating l-asparaginase expression and triacylglycerol mobilization in Aedes aegypti. INSECT SCIENCE 2023; 30:81-94. [PMID: 35633120 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Hormones control the reproductive development of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The adult male reproductive process and mating behavior require adequate nutrients and energy. Understanding the molecular mechanism linking hormones, energy metabolism, and reproduction in male mosquitoes is important. In this study, we found that the size of the male accessory gland, an essential part of the male reproductive system, gradually increased after eclosion. However, it was significantly reduced in male mosquitoes deficient in methoprene-tolerant (Met), the receptor of juvenile hormone. Likewise, egg hatchability of females that mated with Met-depleted males showed the same downward trend. The mRNA level of the gene encoding accessory gland protein, l-asparaginase (ASNase), was reduced in Met dsRNA-treated males. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay and quantitative reverse transcription-PCR results revealed that Met was capable of binding directly to the promoter of ASNase and activated its transcription. RNA interference of ASNase in males resulted in the reduction of egg hatchability of the females with which they mated. These results showed that Met influenced the fecundity of male mosquitoes by directly upregulating the expression of the ASNase gene. Moreover, the levels of triacylglycerol and the sizes of lipid droplets were decreased by 72-78 h after eclosion in the fat body cells, whereas both of them increased in Met-depleted male mosquitoes, indicating that Met knockdown reduced lipid catabolism. These data demonstrate that Met might influence the egg hatchability of females by regulating lipid metabolism and the development of the male accessory gland in male mosquitoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Yang Lyu
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xue-Li Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dan-Qian Geng
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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10
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Airs PM, Nazarchyk MJ, Tucker BJ, Bartholomay LC. Characterizing oogenesis and programmed cell death in the eastern tree hole mosquito Aedes (Protomacleaya) triseriatus. FRONTIERS IN INSECT SCIENCE 2023; 2:1073308. [PMID: 38468807 PMCID: PMC10926484 DOI: 10.3389/finsc.2022.1073308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Oogenesis in flies manifests as a carefully orchestrated cascade of developmental gates and growth events, punctuated by programmed cell death (PCD) and follicular resorption events. In anautogenous mosquitoes, a blood meal stimulates growth of primary follicles, but the timing of developmental stages is species-specific, and few species have been characterized. Here, we characterize the first gonotrophic cycle of oogenesis in Aedes triseriatus (Diptera: Culicidae), the principal vector of La Crosse Virus (LACV), a major cause of pediatric encephalitis in North America. We note significant differences in the timing and appearance of developmental stages from previous studies of other mosquito species, particularly Aedes aegypti. We also describe the appearance and timing of PCD events including atresia, nurse cell death, and follicular epithelium death and show that the majority of follicular epithelium cells do not undergo apoptosis during oogenesis but persist in the ovariole at least until the second gonotrophic cycle. This thorough characterization of oogenesis and PCD in Ae. triseriatus, through which LACV must persist in order to achieve filial infection, also serves as a baseline to study host-pathogen interactions during transovarial transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M. Airs
- Department of Entomology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | | | - Bradley J. Tucker
- Department of Entomology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Midwest Center of Excellence for Vector-Borne Disease, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Lyric C. Bartholomay
- Department of Entomology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Midwest Center of Excellence for Vector-Borne Disease, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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11
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Aspirin Inhibition of Prostaglandin Synthesis Impairs Mosquito Egg Development. Cells 2022; 11:cells11244092. [PMID: 36552860 PMCID: PMC9776805 DOI: 10.3390/cells11244092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Several endocrine signals mediate mosquito egg development, including 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E). This study reports on prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) as an additional, but core, mediator of oogenesis in a human disease-vectoring mosquito, Aedes albopictus. Injection of aspirin (an inhibitor of cyclooxygenase (COX)) after blood-feeding (BF) inhibited oogenesis by preventing nurse cell dumping into a growing oocyte. The inhibitory effect was rescued by PGE2 addition. PGE2 was found to be rich in nurse cells and follicular epithelium after BF. RNA interference (RNAi) treatments of PG biosynthetic genes, including PLA2 and two COX-like peroxidases, prevented egg development. Interestingly, 20E treatment significantly increased the expressions of PG biosynthetic genes, while the RNAi of Shade (which is a 20E biosynthetic gene) expression prevented inducible expressions after BF. Furthermore, RNAi treatments of PGE2 receptor genes suppressed egg production, even under PGE2. These results suggest that a signaling pathway of BF-20E-PGE2 is required for early vitellogenesis in the mosquito.
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12
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Wang M, Wang Y, Chang M, Wang X, Shi Z, Raikhel AS, Zou Z. Ecdysone signaling mediates the trade-off between immunity and reproduction via suppression of amyloids in the mosquito Aedes aegypti. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010837. [PMID: 36137163 PMCID: PMC9531809 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The balance between immunity and reproduction is essential for many key physiological functions. We report that to maintain an optimal fertility, 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) and the ecdysone receptor (EcR) downregulate the immune deficiency (IMD) pathway during the post blood meal phase (PBM) of the Aedes aegypti reproductive cycle. RNA interference-mediated depletion of EcR elicited an increased expression of the IMD pathway components, and these mosquitoes were more resistant to infection by Gram-negative bacteria. Moreover, 20E and EcR recruit Pirk-like, the mosquito ortholog of Drosophila melanogaster Pirk. CRISPR-Cas9 knockout of Pirk-like has shown that it represses the IMD pathway by interfering with IMD-mediated formation of amyloid aggregates. 20E and EcR disruption of the amyloid formation is pivotal for maintaining normal yolk protein production and fertility. Additionally, 20E and its receptor EcR directly induce Pirk-like to interfere with cRHIM-mediated formation of amyloid. Our study highlights the vital role of 20E in governing the trade-off between immunity and reproduction. Pirk-like might be a potential target for new methods to control mosquito reproduction and pathogen transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanhong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mengmeng Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xueli Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zuokun Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Alexander S. Raikhel
- Department of Entomology and Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, California, United States of America
- * E-mail: (ASR); (ZZ)
| | - Zhen Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- * E-mail: (ASR); (ZZ)
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Liu F, Wu L, Zhang Y, Li Q, Li L, Huang ZY, Zhao H. Mblk-1 regulates sugar responsiveness in honey bee (Apis mellifera) foragers. INSECT SCIENCE 2022; 29:683-690. [PMID: 34580998 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Brain transcriptional regulatory network for behavior demonstrates that brain gene expression in the honey bee can be accurately predicted from the expression transcription factors (TFs), but roles for specific TFs are less understood. Mushroom bodies (MBs) are important for learning, memory and sensory integration in the honey bee brain. A TFs, Mblk-1, expressed preferentially in the large-type Kenyon cells of the honeybee MBs is predicted to be involved in brain function by regulating transcription of its target genes in honey bee. However, its function and the mechanism of regulation in behavior of honey bee is still obscure. Here we show that Mblk-1 had significantly higher expression in the brains of forager bees relative to nurse bees. Mblk-1 was significantly inhibited in bees fed small interfering RNA. In addition, inhibition of Mblk-1 decreased sucrose responsiveness in foragers. Finally, we determined that Mblk-1 regulated the messenger RNA of AmGR1. These findings suggest that Mblk-1 may target AmGR1 to regulate the sucrose responsiveness of foragers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, China
| | - Lixian Wu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Yunnan Academy of Biodiversity, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming, Yunnan, 650224, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, China
| | - Liangbin Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, China
| | - Zachary Y Huang
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Hongxia Zhao
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, China
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14
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Harrison RE, Chen K, South L, Lorenzi A, Brown MR, Strand MR. Ad libitum consumption of protein- or peptide-sucrose solutions stimulates egg formation by prolonging the vitellogenic phase of oogenesis in anautogenous mosquitoes. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:127. [PMID: 35413939 PMCID: PMC9004051 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05252-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anautogenous mosquitoes commonly consume nectars and other solutions containing sugar but are thought to only produce eggs in discrete gonadotrophic cycles after blood-feeding on a vertebrate host. However, some anautogenous species are known to produce eggs if amino acids in the form of protein are added to a sugar solution. Unclear is how different sources of amino acids in sugar solutions affect the processes that regulate egg formation and whether responses vary among species. In this study, we addressed these questions by focusing on Aedes aegypti and conducting some comparative assays with Aedes albopictus, Anopheles gambiae, Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus. METHODS Adult female mosquitoes were fed sugar solutions containing amino acids, peptides or protein. Markers for activation of a gonadotrophic cycle including yolk deposition into oocytes, oviposition, ovary ecdysteroidogenesis, expression of juvenile hormone and 20-hydroxyecdysone-responsive genes, and adult blood-feeding behavior were then measured. RESULTS The five anautogenous species we studied produced eggs when fed two proteins (bovine serum albumin, hemoglobin) or a mixture of peptides (tryptone) in 10% sucrose but deposited only small amounts of yolk into oocytes when fed amino acids in 10% sucrose. Focusing on Ae. aegypti, cultures were maintained for multiple generations by feeding adult females protein- or tryptone-sugar meals. Ad libitum access to protein- or tryptone-sugar solutions protracted production of ecdysteroids by the ovaries, vitellogenin by the fat body and protease activity by the midgut albeit at levels that were lower than in blood-fed females. Females also exhibited semi-continual oogenesis and repressed host-seeking behavior. CONCLUSIONS Several anautogenous mosquitoes produce eggs when provided ad libitum access to protein- or peptide-sugar meals, but several aspects of oogenesis also differ from females that blood-feed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruby E Harrison
- Department of Entomology, The University of Georgia, 120 Cedar Street, 420 Biological Sciences, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Kangkang Chen
- Department of Entomology, The University of Georgia, 120 Cedar Street, 420 Biological Sciences, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Lilith South
- Department of Entomology, The University of Georgia, 120 Cedar Street, 420 Biological Sciences, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Ange Lorenzi
- Department of Entomology, The University of Georgia, 120 Cedar Street, 420 Biological Sciences, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Mark R Brown
- Department of Entomology, The University of Georgia, 120 Cedar Street, 420 Biological Sciences, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Michael R Strand
- Department of Entomology, The University of Georgia, 120 Cedar Street, 420 Biological Sciences, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
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15
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Martinson EO, Chen K, Valzania L, Brown MR, Strand MR. Insulin-like peptide 3 stimulates hemocytes to proliferate in anautogenous and facultatively autogenous mosquitoes. J Exp Biol 2022; 225:274275. [PMID: 35129195 PMCID: PMC8976944 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.243460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Most mosquito species are anautogenous, which means they must blood feed on a vertebrate host to produce eggs, while a few are autogenous and can produce eggs without blood feeding. Egg formation is best understood in the anautogenous mosquito Aedes aegypti, where insulin-like peptides (ILPs), ovary ecdysteroidogenic hormone (OEH) and 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) interact to regulate gonadotrophic cycles. Circulating hemocytes also approximately double in abundance in conjunction with a gonadotrophic cycle, but the factors responsible for stimulating this increase remain unclear. Focusing on Ae. aegypti, we determined that hemocyte abundance similarly increased in intact blood-fed females and decapitated blood-fed females that were injected with ILP3, whereas OEH, 20E or heat-killed bacteria had no stimulatory activity. ILP3 upregulated insulin-insulin growth factor signaling in hemocytes, but few genes - including almost no transcripts for immune factors - were differentially expressed. ILP3 also stimulated circulating hemocytes to increase in two other anautogenous (Anopheles gambiae and Culex quinquefasciatus) and two facultatively autogenous mosquitoes (Aedes atropalpus and Culex pipiens molestus), but had no stimulatory activity in the obligately autogenous mosquito Toxorhynchites amboinensis. Altogether, our results identify ILPs as the primary regulators of hemocyte proliferation in association with egg formation, but also suggest this response has been lost in the evolution of obligate autogeny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen O Martinson
- Department of Entomology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Kangkang Chen
- Department of Entomology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Luca Valzania
- Department of Entomology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Mark R Brown
- Department of Entomology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Michael R Strand
- Department of Entomology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
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16
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Kumari S, Tevatiya S, Rani J, Das De T, Chauhan C, Sharma P, Sah R, Singh S, Pandey KC, Pande V, Dixit R. A testis-expressing heme peroxidase HPX12 regulates male fertility in the mosquito Anopheles stephensi. Sci Rep 2022; 12:2597. [PMID: 35173215 PMCID: PMC8850455 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06531-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In vertebrates dysregulation of the antioxidant defense system has a detrimental impact on male fertility and reproductive physiology. However, in insects, especially mosquitoes the importance of sperm quality has been poorly studied. Since long-term storage of healthy and viable sperm earmarks male reproductive competency, we tested whether the heme peroxidase, a member of antioxidant enzyme family proteins, and abundantly expressed in the testis, also influence male fertility in the mosquito An. stephensi. Here, we show that a heme peroxidase 12 (HPX12), is an important cellular factor to protect the sperms from oxidative stress, and maintains semen quality in the male mosquito reproductive organ. We demonstrate that knockdown of the HPX12 not only impairs the sperm parameters such as motility, viability but also causes a significant down-regulation of MAG expressing transcripts such as ASTEI02706, ASTEI00744, ASTEI10266, likely encoding putative Accessory gland proteins. Mating with HPX12 knockdown male mosquitoes, resulted in ~ 50% reduction in egg-laying, coupled with diminished larval hatchability of a gravid female mosquito. Our data further outlines that increased ROS in the HPX12 mRNA depleted mosquitoes is the ultimate cause of sperm disabilities both qualitatively as well as quantitatively. Our data provide evidence that testis expressing AsHPX12 is crucial for maintaining optimal homeostasis for storing and protecting healthy sperms in the male mosquito's reproductive organs. Since, high reproductive capacity directly influences the mosquito population, manipulating male mosquito reproductive physiology could be an attractive tool to combat vector-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seena Kumari
- Laboratory of Host-Parasite Interaction Studies, ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, Dwarka, New Delhi, 110077, India
| | - Sanjay Tevatiya
- Laboratory of Host-Parasite Interaction Studies, ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, Dwarka, New Delhi, 110077, India
| | - Jyoti Rani
- Laboratory of Host-Parasite Interaction Studies, ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, Dwarka, New Delhi, 110077, India
| | - Tanwee Das De
- Laboratory of Host-Parasite Interaction Studies, ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, Dwarka, New Delhi, 110077, India
| | - Charu Chauhan
- Laboratory of Host-Parasite Interaction Studies, ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, Dwarka, New Delhi, 110077, India
| | - Punita Sharma
- Laboratory of Host-Parasite Interaction Studies, ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, Dwarka, New Delhi, 110077, India
| | - Rajkumar Sah
- Special Center for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Shailja Singh
- Special Center for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Kailash C Pandey
- Laboratory of Host-Parasite Interaction Studies, ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, Dwarka, New Delhi, 110077, India
| | - Veena Pande
- Department of Biotechnology, Kumaun University, Nainital, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Rajnikant Dixit
- Laboratory of Host-Parasite Interaction Studies, ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, Dwarka, New Delhi, 110077, India.
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Horvath TD, Dagan S, Scaraffia PY. Unraveling mosquito metabolism with mass spectrometry-based metabolomics. Trends Parasitol 2021; 37:747-761. [PMID: 33896683 PMCID: PMC8282712 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2021.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Nearly half a million people die annually due to mosquito-borne diseases. Despite aggressive mosquito population-control efforts, current strategies are limited in their ability to control these vectors. A better understanding of mosquito metabolism through modern approaches can contribute to the discovery of novel metabolic targets and/or regulators and lead to the development of better mosquito-control strategies. Currently, cutting-edge technologies such as gas or liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based metabolomics are considered 'mature technologies' in many life-science disciplines but are still an emerging area of research in medical entomology. This review primarily discusses recent developments and progress in the application of mass spectrometry-based metabolomics to answer multiple biological questions related to mosquito metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas D Horvath
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, and Texas Children's Microbiome Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Shai Dagan
- Israel Institute for Biological Research, Ness Ziona, Israel, 74100, Israel
| | - Patricia Y Scaraffia
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Vector-Borne Infectious Disease Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA.
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18
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He YZ, Ding Y, Wang X, Zou Z, Raikhel AS. E93 confers steroid hormone responsiveness of digestive enzymes to promote blood meal digestion in the midgut of the mosquito Aedes aegypti. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 134:103580. [PMID: 33901693 PMCID: PMC8947147 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2021.103580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Anautogenous female mosquitoes obtain the nutrients needed for egg development from vertebrate blood, and consequently they transmit numerous pathogens of devastating human diseases. Digestion of blood proteins into amino acids that are used for energy production, egg maturation and replenishment of maternal reserves is an essential part of the female mosquito reproductive cycle. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying this process remain largely unknown. Here, we report that the transcription factor E93 is a critical factor promoting blood meal digestion in adult females of the major arboviral vector Aedes aegypti in response to the steroid hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E). E93 was upregulated in the female mosquito midgut after a blood meal, and RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated knockdown of E93 inhibited midgut blood digestion. E93 RNAi depletion repressed late trypsin (LT), serine protease I (SPI), SPVI and SPVII, and activated early trypsin (ET) expression in the female mosquito midgut after a blood meal. Injection of 20E activated E93, LT, SPI, SPVI and SPVII, and repressed ET expression, whereas RNAi knockdown of the ecdysone receptor (EcR) repressed E93, LT, SPI, SPVI and SPVII, and activated ET expression in the midgut. Furthermore, E93 depletion resulted in a complete loss of 20E responsiveness of LT, SPVI and SPVII. Our findings reveal important mechanisms regulating blood meal digestion in disease-transmitting mosquitoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Zhou He
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA; Institute of Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Yike Ding
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA; Institute of Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Xueli Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Alexander S Raikhel
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA; Institute of Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA.
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19
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Fat Body-Multifunctional Insect Tissue. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12060547. [PMID: 34208190 PMCID: PMC8230813 DOI: 10.3390/insects12060547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Efficient and proper functioning of processes within living organisms play key roles in times of climate change and strong human pressure. In insects, the most abundant group of organisms, many important changes occur within their tissues, including the fat body, which plays a key role in the development of insects. Fat body cells undergo numerous metabolic changes in basic energy compounds (i.e., lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins), enabling them to move and nourish themselves. In addition to metabolism, the fat body is involved in the development of insects by determining the time an individual becomes an adult, and creates humoral immunity via the synthesis of bactericidal proteins and polypeptides. As an important tissue that integrates all signals from the body, the processes taking place in the fat body have an impact on the functioning of the entire body. Abstract The biodiversity of useful organisms, e.g., insects, decreases due to many environmental factors and increasing anthropopressure. Multifunctional tissues, such as the fat body, are key elements in the proper functioning of invertebrate organisms and resistance factors. The fat body is the center of metabolism, integrating signals, controlling molting and metamorphosis, and synthesizing hormones that control the functioning of the whole body and the synthesis of immune system proteins. In fat body cells, lipids, carbohydrates and proteins are the substrates and products of many pathways that can be used for energy production, accumulate as reserves, and mobilize at the appropriate stage of life (diapause, metamorphosis, flight), determining the survival of an individual. The fat body is the main tissue responsible for innate and acquired humoral immunity. The tissue produces bactericidal proteins and polypeptides, i.e., lysozyme. The fat body is also important in the early stages of an insect’s life due to the production of vitellogenin, the yolk protein needed for the development of oocytes. Although a lot of information is available on its structure and biochemistry, the fat body is an interesting research topic on which much is still to be discovered.
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Identification of juvenile hormone-induced posttranslational modifications of methoprene tolerant and Krüppel homolog 1 in the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti. J Proteomics 2021; 242:104257. [PMID: 33957312 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2021.104257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies reported that JH-regulated phosphorylation status of the JH-receptor complex contributes to its transcription activity in Aedes aegypti. However, phosphorylation sites of these proteins have not yet been identified. In this study, we found that the fusion of an EGFP tag to Ae. aegypti Kr-h1 (AaKr-h1) and Met (AaMet) improved their stability in mosquito Aag-2 cells, which allowed their purification. The liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry analysis of the purified AaKr-h1 showed that the phosphoserine residue at position 694, located in the evolutionarily conserved SVIQ motif, is dephosphorylated when the cells are exposed to JH. The AaKr-h1 dephosphorylation mutant (S694V) showed significantly higher activity in inducing the luciferase gene regulated by JH response elements. The phosphorylation profile of Met also changed after exposing Aag-2 cells to JH III. The Ser-77 and Ser-710 residues of Met were phosphorylated after JH III treatment. In contrast, the two phosphoserine residues at positions 73 and 747 were dephosphorylated after JH III treatment. JH exposure also induced transient and reversible phosphorylation of Thr-664 and Ser-723 residues. Overall, these data show that JH induces changes in post-translational modifications of AaMet and AaKr-h1. SIGNIFICANCE: Female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are known to vector many disease agents, including Zika virus, dengue virus chikungunya virus, and Mayaro and yellow fever virus. In the present study, we developed an efficient method to prepare Ae. aegypti Met and Kr-h1, which are typically difficult to produce and purify, using a mosquito cell line expression system. A liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based approaches were utilized to map the phosphorylation profiles of the isolated proteins. We then monitored the changes induced by JH activation in the phosphorylation profiles to check if the JH modulates post-translation modification of its key transcription factors. We found that the JH induced alterations in the phosphorylation profiles of the multiple residues of AaMet. In contrast, activation of the JH signaling pathway was accompanied by dephosphorylation of AaKr-h1 at phosphoserine-694, increasing its transcriptional activity. In addition, S694 of AaKr-h1 was located in the RMSSVIQYA motif highly conserved in orthologous proteins from other insect species. These results can help us further understand how JH modulates its key transcription factors and provide a basis for the development of novel insect control strategies.
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21
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Adult specifier E93 takes control of reproductive cyclicity in mosquitoes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2102059118. [PMID: 33674423 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2102059118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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