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Martinez M, Diaz I. Plant Cyanogenic-Derived Metabolites and Herbivore Counter-Defences. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:1239. [PMID: 38732453 PMCID: PMC11085660 DOI: 10.3390/plants13091239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
The release of cyanide from cyanogenic precursors is the central core of the plant defences based on the cyanogenesis process. Although cyanide is formed as a coproduct of some metabolic routes, its production is mostly due to the degradation of cyanohydrins originating from cyanogenic glycosides in cyanogenic plants and the 4-OH-ICN route in Brassicaceae. Cyanohydrins are then hydrolysed in a reversible reaction generating cyanide, being both, cyanohydrins and cyanide, toxic compounds with potential defensive properties against pests and pathogens. Based on the production of cyanogenic-derived molecules in response to the damage caused by herbivore infestation, in this review, we compile the actual knowledge of plant cyanogenic events in the plant-pest context. Besides the defensive potential, the mode of action, and the targets of the cyanogenic compounds to combat phytophagous insects and acari, special attention has been paid to arthropod responses and the strategies to overcome the impact of cyanogenesis. Physiological and behavioural adaptations, as well as cyanide detoxification by β-cyanoalanine synthases, rhodaneses, and cyanases are common ways of phytophagous arthropods defences against the cyanide produced by plants. Much experimental work is needed to further understand the complexities and specificities of the defence-counter-defence system to be applied in breeding programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Martinez
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM)—Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA/CSIC), Campus de Montegancedo, Pozuelo de Alarcón, 28223 Madrid, Spain;
- Departamento de Biotecnologia-Biologia Vegetal, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Alimentaria y de Biosistemas, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Diaz
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM)—Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA/CSIC), Campus de Montegancedo, Pozuelo de Alarcón, 28223 Madrid, Spain;
- Departamento de Biotecnologia-Biologia Vegetal, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Alimentaria y de Biosistemas, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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2
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HGT is widespread in insects and contributes to male courtship in lepidopterans. Cell 2022; 185:2975-2987.e10. [PMID: 35853453 PMCID: PMC9357157 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2022.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is an important evolutionary force shaping prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes. HGT-acquired genes have been sporadically reported in insects, a lineage containing >50% of animals. We systematically examined HGT in 218 high-quality genomes of diverse insects and found that they acquired 1,410 genes exhibiting diverse functions, including many not previously reported, via 741 distinct transfers from non-metazoan donors. Lepidopterans had the highest average number of HGT-acquired genes. HGT-acquired genes containing introns exhibited substantially higher expression levels than genes lacking introns, suggesting that intron gains were likely involved in HGT adaptation. Lastly, we used the CRISPR-Cas9 system to edit the prevalent unreported gene LOC105383139, which was transferred into the last common ancestor of moths and butterflies. In diamondback moths, males lacking LOC105383139 courted females significantly less. We conclude that HGT has been a major contributor to insect adaptation.
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3
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Ikegaya M, Miyazaki T, Park EY. Biochemical characterization of Bombyx mori α-N-acetylgalactosaminidase belonging to the glycoside hydrolase family 31. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 30:367-378. [PMID: 33742736 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12701] [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: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Horizontal gene transfer is an important evolutionary mechanism not only for bacteria but also for eukaryotes. In the domestic silkworm Bombyx mori, a model species of lepidopteran insects, some enzymes are known to have been acquired by horizontal transfer; however, the enzymatic features of protein BmNag31, belonging to glycoside hydrolase family 31 (GH31) and whose gene was predicted to be transferred from Enterococcus sp. are unknown. In this study, we reveal that the transcription of BmNag31 increases significantly during the prepupal to pupal stage, and decreases in the adult stage. The full-length BmNag31 and its truncated mutants were heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli and characterized. Its catalytic domain exhibits α-N-acetylgalactosaminidase activity and the carbohydrate-binding module family 32 domain shows binding activity towards N-acetylgalactosamine, similar to the Enterococcus faecalis homolog, EfNag31A. Gel filtration chromatography and blue native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analyses indicate that BmNag31 forms a hexamer whereas EfNag31A is monomeric. These results provide insights into the function of lepidopteran GH31 α-N-acetylgalactosaminidase.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ikegaya
- Department of Agriculture, Graduate School of Integrated Science and Technology, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - T Miyazaki
- Department of Agriculture, Graduate School of Integrated Science and Technology, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, Japan
- Green Chemistry Research Division, Research Institute of Green Science and Technology, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - E Y Park
- Department of Agriculture, Graduate School of Integrated Science and Technology, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, Japan
- Green Chemistry Research Division, Research Institute of Green Science and Technology, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, Japan
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4
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Li Y, Zhou Y, Jing W, Xu S, Jin Y, Xu Y, Wang H. Horizontally acquired cysteine synthase genes undergo functional divergence in lepidopteran herbivores. Heredity (Edinb) 2021; 127:21-34. [PMID: 33833409 PMCID: PMC8249628 DOI: 10.1038/s41437-021-00430-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) plays an important role in evolutionary processes as organisms adapt to their environments, and now cases of gene duplication after HGT in eukaryotes are emerging at an increasing rate. However, the fate and roles of the duplicated genes over time in eukaryotes remain unclear. Here we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the evolution of cysteine synthase (CYS) in lepidopteran insects. Our results indicate that HGT-derived CYS genes are widespread and have undergone duplication following horizontal transfer in many lepidopteran insects. Moreover, lepidopteran CYS proteins not only have β-cyanoalanine synthase activity but also possess cysteine synthase activity that is involved in sulfur amino acid biosynthesis. Duplicated CYS genes show marked divergence in gene expression patterns and enzymatic properties, suggesting that they probably have undergone subfunctionalization and/or neofunctionalization in Lepidoptera. The gene transfer of CYS genes and subsequent duplication appears to have facilitated the adaptation of lepidopteran insects to different diets and promoted their ecological diversification. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the ecological and evolutionary contributions of CYS in lepidopteran insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinghui Li
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanyan Zhou
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenhui Jing
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shiliang Xu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yue Jin
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yusong Xu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huabing Wang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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5
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Dai X, Kiuchi T, Zhou Y, Jia S, Xu Y, Katsuma S, Shimada T, Wang H. Horizontal Gene Transfer and Gene Duplication of β-Fructofuranosidase Confer Lepidopteran Insects Metabolic Benefits. Mol Biol Evol 2021; 38:2897-2914. [PMID: 33739418 PMCID: PMC8233494 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msab080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is a potentially critical source of material for ecological adaptation and the evolution of novel genetic traits. However, reports on posttransfer duplication in organism genomes are lacking, and the evolutionary advantages conferred on the recipient are generally poorly understood. Sucrase plays an important role in insect physiological growth and development. Here, we performed a comprehensive analysis of the evolution of insect β-fructofuranosidase transferred from bacteria via HGT. We found that posttransfer duplications of β-fructofuranosidase were widespread in Lepidoptera and sporadic occurrences of β-fructofuranosidase were found in Coleoptera and Hymenoptera. β-fructofuranosidase genes often undergo modifications, such as gene duplication, differential gene loss, and changes in mutation rates. Lepidopteran β-fructofuranosidase gene (SUC) clusters showed marked divergence in gene expression patterns and enzymatic properties in Bombyx mori (moth) and Papilio xuthus (butterfly). We generated SUC1 mutations in B. mori using CRISPR/Cas9 to thoroughly examine the physiological function of SUC. BmSUC1 mutant larvae were viable but displayed delayed growth and reduced sucrase activities that included susceptibility to the sugar mimic alkaloid found in high concentrations in mulberry. BmSUC1 served as a critical sucrase and supported metabolic homeostasis in the larval midgut and silk gland, suggesting that gene transfer of β-fructofuranosidase enhanced the digestive and metabolic adaptation of lepidopteran insects. These findings highlight not only the universal function of β-fructofuranosidase with a link to the maintenance of carbohydrate metabolism but also an underexplored function in the silk gland. This study expands our knowledge of posttransfer duplication and subsequent functional diversification in the adaptive evolution and lineage-specific adaptation of organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangping Dai
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Takashi Kiuchi
- Laboratory of Insect Genetics and Bioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yanyan Zhou
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shunze Jia
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yusong Xu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Susumu Katsuma
- Laboratory of Insect Genetics and Bioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toru Shimada
- Laboratory of Insect Genetics and Bioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science, Gakushuin University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Huabing Wang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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6
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Barretto DA, Gadwala M, Vootla SK. The silkworm gut microbiota: A potential source for biotechnological applications. J Microbiol Methods 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.mim.2021.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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7
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Rotenberg D, Baumann AA, Ben-Mahmoud S, Christiaens O, Dermauw W, Ioannidis P, Jacobs CGC, Vargas Jentzsch IM, Oliver JE, Poelchau MF, Rajarapu SP, Schneweis DJ, Snoeck S, Taning CNT, Wei D, Widana Gamage SMK, Hughes DST, Murali SC, Bailey ST, Bejerman NE, Holmes CJ, Jennings EC, Rosendale AJ, Rosselot A, Hervey K, Schneweis BA, Cheng S, Childers C, Simão FA, Dietzgen RG, Chao H, Dinh H, Doddapaneni HV, Dugan S, Han Y, Lee SL, Muzny DM, Qu J, Worley KC, Benoit JB, Friedrich M, Jones JW, Panfilio KA, Park Y, Robertson HM, Smagghe G, Ullman DE, van der Zee M, Van Leeuwen T, Veenstra JA, Waterhouse RM, Weirauch MT, Werren JH, Whitfield AE, Zdobnov EM, Gibbs RA, Richards S. Genome-enabled insights into the biology of thrips as crop pests. BMC Biol 2020; 18:142. [PMID: 33070780 PMCID: PMC7570057 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-020-00862-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), is a globally invasive pest and plant virus vector on a wide array of food, fiber, and ornamental crops. The underlying genetic mechanisms of the processes governing thrips pest and vector biology, feeding behaviors, ecology, and insecticide resistance are largely unknown. To address this gap, we present the F. occidentalis draft genome assembly and official gene set. RESULTS We report on the first genome sequence for any member of the insect order Thysanoptera. Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Ortholog (BUSCO) assessments of the genome assembly (size = 415.8 Mb, scaffold N50 = 948.9 kb) revealed a relatively complete and well-annotated assembly in comparison to other insect genomes. The genome is unusually GC-rich (50%) compared to other insect genomes to date. The official gene set (OGS v1.0) contains 16,859 genes, of which ~ 10% were manually verified and corrected by our consortium. We focused on manual annotation, phylogenetic, and expression evidence analyses for gene sets centered on primary themes in the life histories and activities of plant-colonizing insects. Highlights include the following: (1) divergent clades and large expansions in genes associated with environmental sensing (chemosensory receptors) and detoxification (CYP4, CYP6, and CCE enzymes) of substances encountered in agricultural environments; (2) a comprehensive set of salivary gland genes supported by enriched expression; (3) apparent absence of members of the IMD innate immune defense pathway; and (4) developmental- and sex-specific expression analyses of genes associated with progression from larvae to adulthood through neometaboly, a distinct form of maturation differing from either incomplete or complete metamorphosis in the Insecta. CONCLUSIONS Analysis of the F. occidentalis genome offers insights into the polyphagous behavior of this insect pest that finds, colonizes, and survives on a widely diverse array of plants. The genomic resources presented here enable a more complete analysis of insect evolution and biology, providing a missing taxon for contemporary insect genomics-based analyses. Our study also offers a genomic benchmark for molecular and evolutionary investigations of other Thysanoptera species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorith Rotenberg
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA.
| | - Aaron A Baumann
- Virology Section, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, A239 VTH, 2407 River Drive, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - Sulley Ben-Mahmoud
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Olivier Christiaens
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wannes Dermauw
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Panagiotis Ioannidis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Vassilika Vouton, 70013, Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School, and Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Chris G C Jacobs
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, 2333 BE, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Iris M Vargas Jentzsch
- Institute for Zoology: Developmental Biology, University of Cologne, 50674, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jonathan E Oliver
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of Georgia - Tifton Campus, Tifton, GA, 31793-5737, USA
| | | | - Swapna Priya Rajarapu
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Derek J Schneweis
- Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Simon Snoeck
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Clauvis N T Taning
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dong Wei
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China and Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Daniel S T Hughes
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Shwetha C Murali
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Samuel T Bailey
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | | | - Christopher J Holmes
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | - Emily C Jennings
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | - Andrew J Rosendale
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
- Department of Biology, Mount St. Joseph University, Cincinnati, OH, 45233, USA
| | - Andrew Rosselot
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | - Kaylee Hervey
- Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Brandi A Schneweis
- Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Sammy Cheng
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 14627, USA
| | | | - Felipe A Simão
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School, and Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ralf G Dietzgen
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Hsu Chao
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Huyen Dinh
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Harsha Vardhan Doddapaneni
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Shannon Dugan
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Yi Han
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Sandra L Lee
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Donna M Muzny
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Jiaxin Qu
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Kim C Worley
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Joshua B Benoit
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | - Markus Friedrich
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA
| | - Jeffery W Jones
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA
| | - Kristen A Panfilio
- Institute for Zoology: Developmental Biology, University of Cologne, 50674, Cologne, Germany
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Campus, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Yoonseong Park
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Hugh M Robertson
- Department of Entomology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China and Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Diane E Ullman
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | | | - Thomas Van Leeuwen
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jan A Veenstra
- INCIA UMR 5287 CNRS, University of Bordeaux, Pessac, France
| | - Robert M Waterhouse
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Lausanne, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Matthew T Weirauch
- Center for Autoimmune Genomics and Etiology, Divisions of Biomedical Informatics and Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - John H Werren
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 14627, USA
| | - Anna E Whitfield
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Evgeny M Zdobnov
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School, and Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Richard A Gibbs
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Stephen Richards
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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Zhao C, Zhao H, Zhang S, Luo J, Zhu X, Wang L, Zhao P, Hua H, Cui J. The Developmental Stage Symbionts of the Pea Aphid-Feeding Chrysoperla sinica (Tjeder). Front Microbiol 2019; 10:2454. [PMID: 31736900 PMCID: PMC6839393 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.02454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Chrysoperla sinica (Tjeder) is widely recognized as an important holometabolous natural enemy of various insect pests in different cropping systems and as a non-target surrogate in environmental risk assessment of Bt rice (i.e., genetically modified rice to express a toxin gene from Bacillus thuringiensis). Like other complex organisms, abundant microbes live inside C. sinica; however, to date, microbiome composition and diversity of the whole life cycle in C. sinica has not yet been well characterized. In the current study, we analyze the composition and biodiversity of microbiota across the whole life cycle of C. sinica by using high-throughput Illumina sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene. Collectively, Proteobacteria and Firmicutes dominated the microenvironment at all stages, but their relative abundances fluctuated by host developmental stage. Interestingly, eggs, neonates, and adults shared similar microbes, including an abundance of Rickettsia and Wolbachia. After larva feeding, Staphylococcus, Enterobacteriaceae, and Serratia were enriched in larvae and pupa, suggesting that food may serve as a major factor contributing to altered microbial community divergence at different developmental stages. Our findings demonstrated that C. sinica harbor a variety of bacteria, and that dynamic changes in community composition and relative abundances of members of its microbiome occur during different life cycle stages. Evaluating the role of these bacterial symbionts in this natural enemy may assist in developing environmental risk assessments and novel biological control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenchen Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, China.,Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, China
| | - Shuai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, China.,Zhengzhou Research Base, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Junyu Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, China.,Zhengzhou Research Base, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiangzhen Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, China
| | - Li Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, China
| | - Peng Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, China.,Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongxia Hua
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinjie Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, China.,Zhengzhou Research Base, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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9
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Wang CF, Sun W, Zhang Z. Functional characterization of the horizontally transferred 4,5-DOPA extradiol dioxygenase gene in the domestic silkworm, Bombyx mori. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 28:409-419. [PMID: 30537278 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
4,5-DOPA dioxygenase (DODA) is a crucial enzyme in the biosynthetic pathway of betalain. Previous studies have shown that DODA is present in plants, fungi and bacteria. Using updated data, here we show that DODA genes (BmDODA) in the domestic silkworm (Bombyx mori) and other lepidopteran insects are most likely to be horizontally transferred from fungi. A synteny analysis indicated that BmDODA1 is orthologous to other lepidopteran DODAs and that BmDODA2 is a paralogous gene. To explore the function of DODA in Lepidoptera, we first examined the expression patterns of BmDODA1. BmDODA1 showed high transcriptional and translational levels in the midgut and head. Then, we exogenously expressed the BmDODA1 gene, detected 4,5-DOPA ring-cleaving activity and calculated the kinetic parameters of the recombinant BmDODA1. We found that the transcription levels of BmDODA1 were significantly induced by the pathogens Bacillus bombyseptieus and Escherichia coli. Thus, the horizontal transfer of the BmDODA gene in the silkworm may be involved in dopa metabolism and contribute to antimicrobial activity in this species. Our results provide a documented example of functional horizontal gene transfer (HGT) between fungi and animals and expand our knowledge of HGT amongst eukaryotes.
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Affiliation(s)
- C-F Wang
- Laboratory of Evolutionary and Functional Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - W Sun
- Laboratory of Evolutionary and Functional Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Z Zhang
- Laboratory of Evolutionary and Functional Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
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10
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Di Lelio I, Illiano A, Astarita F, Gianfranceschi L, Horner D, Varricchio P, Amoresano A, Pucci P, Pennacchio F, Caccia S. Evolution of an insect immune barrier through horizontal gene transfer mediated by a parasitic wasp. PLoS Genet 2019; 15:e1007998. [PMID: 30835731 PMCID: PMC6420030 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1007998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome sequencing data have recently demonstrated that eukaryote evolution has been remarkably influenced by the acquisition of a large number of genes by horizontal gene transfer (HGT) across different kingdoms. However, in depth-studies on the physiological traits conferred by these accidental DNA acquisitions are largely lacking. Here we elucidate the functional role of Sl gasmin, a gene of a symbiotic virus of a parasitic wasp that has been transferred to an ancestor of the moth species Spodoptera littoralis and domesticated. This gene is highly expressed in circulating immune cells (haemocytes) of larval stages, where its transcription is rapidly boosted by injection of microorganisms into the body cavity. RNAi silencing of Sl gasmin generates a phenotype characterized by a precocious suppression of phagocytic activity by haemocytes, which is rescued when these immune cells are incubated in plasma samples of control larvae, containing high levels of the encoded protein. Proteomic analysis demonstrates that the protein Sl gasmin is released by haemocytes into the haemolymph, where it opsonizes the invading bacteria to promote their phagocytosis, both in vitro and in vivo. Our results show that important physiological traits do not necessarily originate from evolution of pre-existing genes, but can be acquired by HGT events, through unique pathways of symbiotic evolution. These findings indicate that insects can paradoxically acquire selective advantages with the help of their natural enemies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Di Lelio
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Portici (NA), Italy
| | - Anna Illiano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Federica Astarita
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Portici (NA), Italy
| | | | - David Horner
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Varricchio
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Portici (NA), Italy
| | - Angela Amoresano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Pietro Pucci
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Francesco Pennacchio
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Portici (NA), Italy
| | - Silvia Caccia
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Portici (NA), Italy
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11
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Mason CJ, Jones AG, Felton GW. Co-option of microbial associates by insects and their impact on plant-folivore interactions. PLANT, CELL & ENVIRONMENT 2019; 42:1078-1086. [PMID: 30151965 DOI: 10.1111/pce.13430] [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] [Received: 05/05/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Plants possess a suite of traits that make them challenging to consume by insect herbivores. Plant tissues are recalcitrant, have low levels of protein, and may be well defended by chemicals. Insects use diverse strategies for overcoming these barriers, including co-opting metabolic activities from microbial associates. In this review, we discuss the co-option of bacteria and fungi in the herbivore gut. We particularly focus upon chewing, folivorous insects (Coleoptera and Lepidoptera) and discuss the impacts of microbial co-option on herbivore performance and plant responses. We suggest that there are two components to microbial co-option: fixed and plastic relationships. Fixed relationships are involved in integral dietary functions and can be performed by microbial enzymes co-opted into the genome or by stably transferred associates. In contrast, the majority of gut symbionts appear to be looser and perform more facultative, context-dependent functions. This more plastic, variable co-option of bacteria likely produces a greater number of insect phenotypes, which interact differently with plant hosts. By altering plant detection of herbivory or mediating insect interactions with plant defensive compounds, microbes can effectively improve herbivore performance in real time within and between generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles J Mason
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - Asher G Jones
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - Gary W Felton
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
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12
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Hernandez AM, Ryan JF. Horizontally transferred genes in the ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi. PeerJ 2018; 6:e5067. [PMID: 29922518 PMCID: PMC6005172 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.5067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) has had major impacts on the biology of a wide range of organisms from antibiotic resistance in bacteria to adaptations to herbivory in arthropods. A growing body of literature shows that HGT between non-animals and animals is more commonplace than previously thought. In this study, we present a thorough investigation of HGT in the ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi. We applied tests of phylogenetic incongruence to identify nine genes that were likely transferred horizontally early in ctenophore evolution from bacteria and non-metazoan eukaryotes. All but one of these HGTs (an uncharacterized protein) are homologous to characterized enzymes, supporting previous observations that genes encoding enzymes are more likely to be retained after HGT events. We found that the majority of these nine horizontally transferred genes were expressed during development, suggesting that they are active and play a role in the biology of M. leidyi. This is the first report of HGT in ctenophores, and contributes to an ever-growing literature on the prevalence of genetic information flowing between non-animals and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra M Hernandez
- Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, St. Augustine, FL, USA.,Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Joseph F Ryan
- Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, St. Augustine, FL, USA.,Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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13
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Chen B, Du K, Sun C, Vimalanathan A, Liang X, Li Y, Wang B, Lu X, Li L, Shao Y. Gut bacterial and fungal communities of the domesticated silkworm (Bombyx mori) and wild mulberry-feeding relatives. ISME JOURNAL 2018; 12:2252-2262. [PMID: 29895989 PMCID: PMC6092317 DOI: 10.1038/s41396-018-0174-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Revised: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Bombyx mori, the domesticated silkworm, is of great importance as a silk producer and as a powerful experimental model for the basic and applied research. Similar to other animals, abundant microorganisms live inside the silkworm gut; however, surprisingly, the microbiota of this model insect has not been well characterized to date. Here, we comprehensively characterized the gut microbiota of the domesticated silkworm and its wild relatives. Comparative analyses with the mulberry-feeding moths Acronicta major and Diaphania pyloalis revealed a highly diverse but distinctive silkworm gut microbiota despite thousands of years of domestication, and stage-specific signatures in both total (DNA-based) and active (RNA-based) bacterial populations, dominated by the phyla Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes. Most fungal sequences were assigned to the phyla Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. Environmental factors, including diet and human manipulation (egg production), likely influence the silkworm gut composition. Despite a lack of spatial variation along the gut, microbial community shifts were apparent between early instars and late instars, in concert with host developmental changes. Our results demonstrate that the gut microbiota of silkworms assembles into increasingly identical community throughout development, which differs greatly from those of other mulberry-feeding lepidopterans from the same niche, highlighting host-specific effects on microbial associations and the potential roles these communities play in host biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bosheng Chen
- Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kaiqian Du
- Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chao Sun
- Analysis Center of Agrobiology and Environmental Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Arunprasanna Vimalanathan
- Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xili Liang
- Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yong Li
- Institute of Soil and Water Resources and Environmental Science, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Baohong Wang
- National Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xingmeng Lu
- Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lanjuan Li
- National Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yongqi Shao
- Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China. .,Key Laboratory for Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.
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14
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Wybouw N, Van Leeuwen T, Dermauw W. A massive incorporation of microbial genes into the genome of Tetranychus urticae, a polyphagous arthropod herbivore. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 27:333-351. [PMID: 29377385 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
A number of horizontal gene transfers (HGTs) have been identified in the spider mite Tetranychus urticae, a chelicerate herbivore. However, the genome of this mite species has at present not been thoroughly mined for the presence of HGT genes. Here, we performed a systematic screen for HGT genes in the T. urticae genome using the h-index metric. Our results not only validated previously identified HGT genes but also uncovered 25 novel HGT genes. In addition to HGT genes with a predicted biochemical function in carbohydrate, lipid and folate metabolism, we also identified the horizontal transfer of a ketopantoate hydroxymethyltransferase and a pantoate β-alanine ligase gene. In plants and bacteria, both genes are essential for vitamin B5 biosynthesis and their presence in the mite genome strongly suggests that spider mites, similar to Bemisia tabaci and nematodes, can synthesize their own vitamin B5. We further show that HGT genes were physically embedded within the mite genome and were expressed in different life stages. By screening chelicerate genomes and transcriptomes, we were able to estimate the evolutionary histories of these HGTs during chelicerate evolution. Our study suggests that HGT has made a significant and underestimated impact on the metabolic repertoire of plant-feeding spider mites.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Wybouw
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - T Van Leeuwen
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - W Dermauw
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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15
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16
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Drezen JM, Josse T, Bézier A, Gauthier J, Huguet E, Herniou EA. Impact of Lateral Transfers on the Genomes of Lepidoptera. Genes (Basel) 2017; 8:E315. [PMID: 29120392 PMCID: PMC5704228 DOI: 10.3390/genes8110315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Transfer of DNA sequences between species regardless of their evolutionary distance is very common in bacteria, but evidence that horizontal gene transfer (HGT) also occurs in multicellular organisms has been accumulating in the past few years. The actual extent of this phenomenon is underestimated due to frequent sequence filtering of "alien" DNA before genome assembly. However, recent studies based on genome sequencing have revealed, and experimentally verified, the presence of foreign DNA sequences in the genetic material of several species of Lepidoptera. Large DNA viruses, such as baculoviruses and the symbiotic viruses of parasitic wasps (bracoviruses), have the potential to mediate these transfers in Lepidoptera. In particular, using ultra-deep sequencing, newly integrated transposons have been identified within baculovirus genomes. Bacterial genes have also been acquired by genomes of Lepidoptera, as in other insects and nematodes. In addition, insertions of bracovirus sequences were present in the genomes of certain moth and butterfly lineages, that were likely corresponding to rearrangements of ancient integrations. The viral genes present in these sequences, sometimes of hymenopteran origin, have been co-opted by lepidopteran species to confer some protection against pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Michel Drezen
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte, UMR CNRS 7261, UFR des Sciences et Techniques, Université de Tours-François Rabelais, 37200 Tours, France.
| | - Thibaut Josse
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte, UMR CNRS 7261, UFR des Sciences et Techniques, Université de Tours-François Rabelais, 37200 Tours, France.
| | - Annie Bézier
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte, UMR CNRS 7261, UFR des Sciences et Techniques, Université de Tours-François Rabelais, 37200 Tours, France.
| | - Jérémy Gauthier
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte, UMR CNRS 7261, UFR des Sciences et Techniques, Université de Tours-François Rabelais, 37200 Tours, France.
| | - Elisabeth Huguet
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte, UMR CNRS 7261, UFR des Sciences et Techniques, Université de Tours-François Rabelais, 37200 Tours, France.
| | - Elisabeth Anne Herniou
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte, UMR CNRS 7261, UFR des Sciences et Techniques, Université de Tours-François Rabelais, 37200 Tours, France.
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17
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Hammer TJ, Janzen DH, Hallwachs W, Jaffe SP, Fierer N. Caterpillars lack a resident gut microbiome. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:9641-9646. [PMID: 28830993 PMCID: PMC5594680 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1707186114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 253] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Many animals are inhabited by microbial symbionts that influence their hosts' development, physiology, ecological interactions, and evolutionary diversification. However, firm evidence for the existence and functional importance of resident microbiomes in larval Lepidoptera (caterpillars) is lacking, despite the fact that these insects are enormously diverse, major agricultural pests, and dominant herbivores in many ecosystems. Using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and quantitative PCR, we characterized the gut microbiomes of wild leaf-feeding caterpillars in the United States and Costa Rica, representing 124 species from 15 families. Compared with other insects and vertebrates assayed using the same methods, the microbes that we detected in caterpillar guts were unusually low-density and variable among individuals. Furthermore, the abundance and composition of leaf-associated microbes were reflected in the feces of caterpillars consuming the same plants. Thus, microbes ingested with food are present (although possibly dead or dormant) in the caterpillar gut, but host-specific, resident symbionts are largely absent. To test whether transient microbes might still contribute to feeding and development, we conducted an experiment on field-collected caterpillars of the model species Manduca sexta Antibiotic suppression of gut bacterial activity did not significantly affect caterpillar weight gain, development, or survival. The high pH, simple gut structure, and fast transit times that typify caterpillar digestive physiology may prevent microbial colonization. Moreover, host-encoded digestive and detoxification mechanisms likely render microbes unnecessary for caterpillar herbivory. Caterpillars illustrate the potential ecological and evolutionary benefits of independence from symbionts, a lifestyle that may be widespread among animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobin J Hammer
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309;
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309
| | - Daniel H Janzen
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Winnie Hallwachs
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | | | - Noah Fierer
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309
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18
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Drezen JM, Gauthier J, Josse T, Bézier A, Herniou E, Huguet E. Foreign DNA acquisition by invertebrate genomes. J Invertebr Pathol 2017; 147:157-168. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2016.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2016] [Revised: 09/09/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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19
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Wybouw N, Pauchet Y, Heckel DG, Van Leeuwen T. Horizontal Gene Transfer Contributes to the Evolution of Arthropod Herbivory. Genome Biol Evol 2016; 8:1785-801. [PMID: 27307274 PMCID: PMC4943190 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evw119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Within animals, evolutionary transition toward herbivory is severely limited by the hostile characteristics of plants. Arthropods have nonetheless counteracted many nutritional and defensive barriers imposed by plants and are currently considered as the most successful animal herbivores in terrestrial ecosystems. We gather a body of evidence showing that genomes of various plant feeding insects and mites possess genes whose presence can only be explained by horizontal gene transfer (HGT). HGT is the asexual transmission of genetic information between reproductively isolated species. Although HGT is known to have great adaptive significance in prokaryotes, its impact on eukaryotic evolution remains obscure. Here, we show that laterally transferred genes into arthropods underpin many adaptations to phytophagy, including efficient assimilation and detoxification of plant produced metabolites. Horizontally acquired genes and the traits they encode often functionally diversify within arthropod recipients, enabling the colonization of more host plant species and organs. We demonstrate that HGT can drive metazoan evolution by uncovering its prominent role in the adaptations of arthropods to exploit plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicky Wybouw
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yannick Pauchet
- Department of Entomology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
| | - David G Heckel
- Department of Entomology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
| | - Thomas Van Leeuwen
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
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20
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Gasmi L, Jakubowska AK, Herrero S. Gasmin (BV2-5), a polydnaviral-acquired gene in Spodoptera exigua. Trade-off in the defense against bacterial and viral infections. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2016; 56:37-45. [PMID: 26658027 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2015.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Revised: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 11/26/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Thousands of Hymenopteran endoparasitoids have developed a unique symbiotic relationship with viruses named polydnavirus (PDVs). These viruses immunocompromise the lepidopteran host allowing the survival of the wasp eggs. In a previous work, we have shown the horizontal transfer of some polydnaviral genes into the genome of the Lepidoptera, Spodoptera exigua. One of these genes, BV2-5 (named gasmin) interferes with actin polymerization, negatively affecting the multiplication of baculovirus in cell culture. In this work, we have focused in the study of the effect of Gasmin expression on different aspects of the baculovirus production. In addition, and since actin polymerization is crucial for phagocytosis, we have studied the effect of Gasmin expression on the larval interaction with bacterial pathogens. Over-expression of Gasmin on hemocytes significantly reduces their capacity to phagocytize the pathogenic bacteria Bacillus thuringiensis. According to these results, gasmin domestication negatively affects baculovirus replication, but increases larvae susceptibility to bacterial infections as pay off. Although the effect of Gasmin on the insect interaction with other pathogens or parasitoids remain unknown, the opposite effects described here could shape the biological history of this species based on the abundance of certain type of pathogens as suggested by the presence of truncated forms of this protein in several regions of the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Gasmi
- Department of Genetics, Universitat de València and Estructura de Recerca Interdisciplinar en Biotecnologia i Biomedicina (ERI-BIOTECMED), Universitat de València, Dr Moliner 50, 46100 Burjassot, Spain
| | - Agata K Jakubowska
- Department of Genetics, Universitat de València and Estructura de Recerca Interdisciplinar en Biotecnologia i Biomedicina (ERI-BIOTECMED), Universitat de València, Dr Moliner 50, 46100 Burjassot, Spain
| | - Salvador Herrero
- Department of Genetics, Universitat de València and Estructura de Recerca Interdisciplinar en Biotecnologia i Biomedicina (ERI-BIOTECMED), Universitat de València, Dr Moliner 50, 46100 Burjassot, Spain.
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21
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Danchin EGJ, Guzeeva EA, Mantelin S, Berepiki A, Jones JT. Horizontal Gene Transfer from Bacteria Has Enabled the Plant-Parasitic Nematode Globodera pallida to Feed on Host-Derived Sucrose. Mol Biol Evol 2016; 33:1571-9. [PMID: 26915958 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msw041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The evolution of plant-parasitic nematodes (PPN) is unusual in that these organisms have acquired a range of genes from bacteria via horizontal gene transfer (HGT). The proteins encoded by most of these genes are involved in metabolism of various components of the plant cell wall during invasion of the host. Recent genome sequencing projects for PPN have shown that Glycosyl Hydrolase Family 32 (GH32) sequences are present in several PPN species. These sequences are absent from almost all other animals. Here, we show that the GH32 sequences from an economically important cyst nematode species, Globodera pallida are functional invertases, are expressed during feeding and are restricted in expression to the nematode digestive system. These data are consistent with a role in metabolizing host-derived sucrose. In addition, a detailed phylogenetic analysis shows that the GH32 sequences from PPN and those present in some insect species have distinct bacterial origins and do not therefore derive from a gene present in the last common ancestor of ecdysozoan species. HGT has therefore played at least two critical roles in the evolution of PPN, enabling both invasion of the host and feeding on the main translocation carbohydrate of the plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etienne G J Danchin
- Institut Sophia Agrobiotech, INRA, Univ. Nice Sophia Antipolis, CNRS, 06903, Sophia Antipolis, France
| | - Elena A Guzeeva
- Dundee Effector Consortium, The James Hutton Institute, Dundee, United Kingdom Centre of Parasitology of the A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Sophie Mantelin
- Dundee Effector Consortium, The James Hutton Institute, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Adokiye Berepiki
- Dundee Effector Consortium, The James Hutton Institute, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - John T Jones
- Dundee Effector Consortium, The James Hutton Institute, Dundee, United Kingdom Biology Department, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
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22
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Sun BF, Li T, Xiao JH, Jia LY, Liu L, Zhang P, Murphy RW, He SM, Huang DW. Horizontal functional gene transfer from bacteria to fishes. Sci Rep 2015; 5:18676. [PMID: 26691285 PMCID: PMC4687049 DOI: 10.1038/srep18676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Invertebrates can acquire functional genes via horizontal gene transfer (HGT) from bacteria but fishes are not known to do so. We provide the first reliable evidence of one HGT event from marine bacteria to fishes. The HGT appears to have occurred after emergence of the teleosts. The transferred gene is expressed and regulated developmentally. Its successful integration and expression may change the genetic and metabolic repertoire of fishes. In addition, this gene contains conserved domains and similar tertiary structures in fishes and their putative donor bacteria. Thus, it may function similarly in both groups. Evolutionary analyses indicate that it evolved under purifying selection, further indicating its conserved function. We document the first likely case of HGT of functional gene from prokaryote to fishes. This discovery certifies that HGT can influence vertebrate evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao-Fa Sun
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Genomics and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Tong Li
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences
| | - Jin-Hua Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Ling-Yi Jia
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Li Liu
- Network &Information Center, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Robert W Murphy
- Department of Natural History, Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shun-Min He
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Da-Wei Huang
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong 271018, China
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23
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Gasmi L, Boulain H, Gauthier J, Hua-Van A, Musset K, Jakubowska AK, Aury JM, Volkoff AN, Huguet E, Herrero S, Drezen JM. Recurrent Domestication by Lepidoptera of Genes from Their Parasites Mediated by Bracoviruses. PLoS Genet 2015; 11:e1005470. [PMID: 26379286 PMCID: PMC4574769 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1005470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Bracoviruses are symbiotic viruses associated with tens of thousands of species of parasitic wasps that develop within the body of lepidopteran hosts and that collectively parasitize caterpillars of virtually every lepidopteran species. Viral particles are produced in the wasp ovaries and injected into host larvae with the wasp eggs. Once in the host body, the viral DNA circles enclosed in the particles integrate into lepidopteran host cell DNA. Here we show that bracovirus DNA sequences have been inserted repeatedly into lepidopteran genomes, indicating this viral DNA can also enter germline cells. The original mode of Horizontal Gene Transfer (HGT) unveiled here is based on the integrative properties of an endogenous virus that has evolved as a gene transfer agent within parasitic wasp genomes for ≈100 million years. Among the bracovirus genes thus transferred, a phylogenetic analysis indicated that those encoding C-type-lectins most likely originated from the wasp gene set, showing that a bracovirus-mediated gene flux exists between the 2 insect orders Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera. Furthermore, the acquisition of bracovirus sequences that can be expressed by Lepidoptera has resulted in the domestication of several genes that could result in adaptive advantages for the host. Indeed, functional analyses suggest that two of the acquired genes could have a protective role against a common pathogen in the field, baculovirus. From these results, we hypothesize that bracovirus-mediated HGT has played an important role in the evolutionary arms race between Lepidoptera and their pathogens. Eukaryotes are generally thought to evolve mainly through the modification of existing genetic information. However, evidence of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) in eukaryotes-the accidental acquisition of a novel gene from another species, allowing acquisition of novel traits—is now recognized as an important factor in their evolution. We show here that in several lineages, lepidopteran genomes have acquired genes from a bracovirus that is symbiotically used by parasitic wasps to inhibit caterpillar host immune defences. Integration of parts of the viral genome into host caterpillar DNA strongly suggests that integration can sporadically occur in the germline, leading to the production of lepidopteran lineages that harbor bracovirus sequences. Moreover, some of the transferred bracovirus genes reported here originate from the wasp genome, demonstrating that a gene flux exists between the two insect orders Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera that diverged ≈300 MYA. As bracovirus gene organisation has evolved to allow expression in Lepidoptera, these transferred genes can be readily domesticated. Additionally, we present functional analyses suggesting that some of the acquired genes confer to caterpillars a protection toward baculovirus, a very common pathogen in the field. This phenomenon may have implications for understanding how caterpillars acquire resistance against baculoviruses used in biological control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Gasmi
- Department of Genetics, Universitat de València, Burjassot, Spain
- Estructura de Recerca Interdisciplinar en Biotecnologia i Biomedicina (ERI BIOTECMED), Universitat de València, Burjassot, Spain
| | - Helene Boulain
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte, UMR CNRS 7261, UFR des Sciences et Techniques, Université François Rabelais, Tours, France
| | - Jeremy Gauthier
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte, UMR CNRS 7261, UFR des Sciences et Techniques, Université François Rabelais, Tours, France
| | - Aurelie Hua-Van
- Laboratoire Evolution, Génomes, Comportement, Ecologie, CNRS/Université Paris-Sud UMR9191, IRD UMR247, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Karine Musset
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte, UMR CNRS 7261, UFR des Sciences et Techniques, Université François Rabelais, Tours, France
| | - Agata K. Jakubowska
- Department of Genetics, Universitat de València, Burjassot, Spain
- Estructura de Recerca Interdisciplinar en Biotecnologia i Biomedicina (ERI BIOTECMED), Universitat de València, Burjassot, Spain
| | - Jean-Marc Aury
- Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives, Genoscope (Centre National de Séquençage), Evry, France
| | - Anne-Nathalie Volkoff
- Diversity, Genomes and Interactions Between Microorganisms and Insects Laboratory, INRA (UMR 1333), Université de Montpellier, Place Eugène Bataillon, CC 101, Montpellier, France
| | - Elisabeth Huguet
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte, UMR CNRS 7261, UFR des Sciences et Techniques, Université François Rabelais, Tours, France
| | - Salvador Herrero
- Department of Genetics, Universitat de València, Burjassot, Spain
- Estructura de Recerca Interdisciplinar en Biotecnologia i Biomedicina (ERI BIOTECMED), Universitat de València, Burjassot, Spain
- * E-mail: (SH); (JMD)
| | - Jean-Michel Drezen
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte, UMR CNRS 7261, UFR des Sciences et Techniques, Université François Rabelais, Tours, France
- * E-mail: (SH); (JMD)
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24
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Nakabachi A. Horizontal gene transfers in insects. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2015; 7:24-29. [PMID: 32131363 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2015.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2014] [Revised: 02/28/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Horizontal gene transfer is the transfer of genetic material across species boundaries. Although horizontal gene transfers are relatively rare in animals, the recent rapid accumulation of genomic data has identified increasing amounts of exogenous DNA inserts in insect genomes. Most of the horizontally acquired sequences appear to be non-functional; however, there is growing evidence that some genes are truly expressed and confer novel functions on the recipient insects. These include previously unavailable metabolic properties including digesting food, degrading toxins, providing resistance to pathogens, and facilitating an obligate mutualistic relationship with intracellular bacteria. A recent analysis revealed that an aphid gene of bacterial origin encodes a protein that is transported into the obligate symbiont, paralleling the evolution of endosymbiotic organelles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Nakabachi
- Electronics-Inspired Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Toyohashi University of Technology, 1-1 Hibarigaoka, Tempaku, Toyohashi, Aichi 441-8580, Japan.
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25
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Gahan PB. The Biology of CNAPS. ADVANCES IN PREDICTIVE, PREVENTIVE AND PERSONALISED MEDICINE 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/978-94-017-9168-7_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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26
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Wybouw N, Dermauw W, Tirry L, Stevens C, Grbić M, Feyereisen R, Van Leeuwen T. A gene horizontally transferred from bacteria protects arthropods from host plant cyanide poisoning. eLife 2014; 3:e02365. [PMID: 24843024 PMCID: PMC4011162 DOI: 10.7554/elife.02365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyanogenic glucosides are among the most widespread defense chemicals of plants. Upon plant tissue disruption, these glucosides are hydrolyzed to a reactive hydroxynitrile that releases toxic hydrogen cyanide (HCN). Yet many mite and lepidopteran species can thrive on plants defended by cyanogenic glucosides. The nature of the enzyme known to detoxify HCN to β-cyanoalanine in arthropods has remained enigmatic. Here we identify this enzyme by transcriptome analysis and functional expression. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the gene is a member of the cysteine synthase family horizontally transferred from bacteria to phytophagous mites and Lepidoptera. The recombinant mite enzyme had both β-cyanoalanine synthase and cysteine synthase activity but enzyme kinetics showed that cyanide detoxification activity was strongly favored. Our results therefore suggest that an ancient horizontal transfer of a gene originally involved in sulfur amino acid biosynthesis in bacteria was co-opted by herbivorous arthropods to detoxify plant produced cyanide.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.02365.001.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicky Wybouw
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wannes Dermauw
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Tirry
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christian Stevens
- SynBioC Research Group, Department of Sustainable Organic Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Miodrag Grbić
- Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada Instituto de Ciencias de la Vid y el Vino, Logroño, Spain
| | - René Feyereisen
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique and Université de Nice Sophia Antipolis, Nice, France
| | - Thomas Van Leeuwen
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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27
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Abstract
Horizontal gene transfer is accepted as an important evolutionary force modulating the evolution of prokaryote genomes. However, it is thought that horizontal gene transfer plays only a minor role in metazoan evolution. In this paper, I critically review the rising evidence on horizontally transferred genes and on the acquisition of novel traits in metazoans. In particular, I discuss suspected examples in sponges, cnidarians, rotifers, nematodes, molluscs and arthropods which suggest that horizontal gene transfer in metazoans is not simply a curiosity. In addition, I stress the scarcity of studies in vertebrates and other animal groups and the importance of forthcoming studies to understand the importance and extent of horizontal gene transfer in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Boto
- Dpto. Biodiversidad y Biología Evolutiva, Museo Nacional Ciencias Naturales. CSIC, , C/ José Gutierrez Abascal 2, 28006 Madrid, Spain
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28
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Gahan
- Anatomy & Human Sciences; King's College London; London Bridge London SE1 1UL UK
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29
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Hansen AK, Moran NA. The impact of microbial symbionts on host plant utilization by herbivorous insects. Mol Ecol 2013; 23:1473-1496. [PMID: 23952067 DOI: 10.1111/mec.12421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 281] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2013] [Revised: 06/02/2013] [Accepted: 06/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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30
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Pauchet Y, Heckel DG. The genome of the mustard leaf beetle encodes two active xylanases originally acquired from bacteria through horizontal gene transfer. Proc Biol Sci 2013; 280:20131021. [PMID: 23698014 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2013.1021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The primary plant cell wall comprises the most abundant polysaccharides on the Earth and represents a rich source of energy for organisms which have evolved the ability to digest them. Enzymes able to degrade plant cell wall polysaccharides are widely distributed in micro-organisms but are generally absent in animals, although their presence in insects, especially phytophagous beetles from the superfamilies Chrysomeloidea and Curculionoidea, has recently begun to be appreciated. The observed patchy distribution of endogenous genes encoding these enzymes in animals has raised questions about their evolutionary origins. Recent evidence suggests that endogenous plant cell wall degrading enzymes-encoding genes have been acquired by animals through a mechanism known as horizontal gene transfer (HGT). HGT describes how genetic material is moved by means other than vertical inheritance from a parent to an offspring. Here, we provide evidence that the mustard leaf beetle, Phaedon cochleariae, possesses in its genome genes encoding active xylanases from the glycoside hydrolase family 11 (GH11). We also provide evidence that these genes were originally acquired by P. cochleariae from a species of gammaproteobacteria through HGT. This represents the first example of the presence of genes from the GH11 family in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Pauchet
- Department of Entomology, Max Planck institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knoell-Strasse 8, 07745 Jena, Germany.
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