1
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Wu W, Lei JN, Mao Q, Tian YZ, Shan HW, Chen JP. Insights into Brochosome Distribution, Synthesis, and Novel Rapid-Release Mechanism in Maiestas dorsalis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae). INSECTS 2023; 14:734. [PMID: 37754701 PMCID: PMC10531587 DOI: 10.3390/insects14090734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
The leafhopper family Cicadellidae, comprising over 22,000 species, exhibits a unique behavior of anointing their bodies with excretions containing brochosomes. Brochosomes are synthesized in the distal segment of the Malpighian tubules and serve various functions, including hydrophobic protection and defense against pathogens and predators. In this study, we investigated the distribution, synthesis, and release mechanisms of brochosomes in the rice pest leafhopper Maiestas dorsalis. Using SEM and TEM, we observed brochosomes' consistent coverage on the integument throughout the insect's life cycle. Moreover, we identified four distinct developmental stages of brochosome synthesis within the distal segment of the Malpighian tubules, originating from the Golgi region. Most importantly, our research revealed a novel and highly efficient release mechanism involving the fusion of brochosome-containing vesicles, leading to a rapid and substantial release of brochosomes into the tubule lumen after molting. These findings shed light on the intricate processes of brochosome synthesis and release in leafhoppers, offering valuable insights into their functional significance and ecological role in these fascinating insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Key Laboratory of Biotechnology in Plant Protection of Ministry of Agriculture and Zhejiang Province, Institute of Plant Virology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | | | | | | | | | - Jian-Ping Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Key Laboratory of Biotechnology in Plant Protection of Ministry of Agriculture and Zhejiang Province, Institute of Plant Virology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
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2
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Yuan F, Su M, Li T, Zhang Y, Dietrich CH, Webb MD, Wei C. Functional and evolutionary implications of protein and metal content of leafhopper brochosomes. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 157:103962. [PMID: 37178742 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2023.103962] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Brochosomes derived from the specialized glandular segments of the Malpighian tubules (MTs) form superhydrophobic coatings for insects of Membracoidea, and have multiple hypothetical functions. However, the constituents, biosynthesis and evolutionary origin of brochosomes remain poorly understood. We investigated general chemical and physical characteristics of the integumental brochosomes (IBs) of the leafhopper Psammotettix striatus, determined the constituents of IBs, identified the unigenes involved in brochosomal protein synthesis, and investigated the potential associations among brochosomal protein synthesis, amino acid composition of food source, and the possible roles of endosymbionts in brochosome production. The results show that IBs are mainly composed of glycine- and tyrosine-rich proteins and some metal elements, which contain both essential and non-essential amino acids (EAAs and NEAAs) for insects, including EAAs deficient in the sole food source. All 12 unigenes involved in synthesizing the 12 brochosomal proteins (BPs) with high confidence are exclusively highly expressed in the glandular segment of MTs, confirming that brochosomes are synthesized by this segment. The synthesis of BPs is one of the key synapomorphies of Membracoidea but may be lost secondarily in a few lineages. The synthesis of BPs might be related to the symbiosis of leafhoppers/treehoppers with endosymbionts that provide these insects with EAAs, including those are deficient in the sole diet (i.e., plant sap) and could only be made available by the symbionts. We hypothesize that the functional modification of MTs have combined with the application of BPs enabling Membracoidea to colonize and adapt to novel ecological niches, and evolve to the dramatic diversification of this hemipteran group (in particular the family Cicadellidae). This study highlights the importance of evolutionary plasticity and multiple functions of MTs in driving the adaptations and evolution of sap-sucking insects of Hemiptera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feimin Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of the Ministry of Education, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Minjing Su
- Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of the Ministry of Education, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Tiantian Li
- Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of the Ministry of Education, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Yalin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of the Ministry of Education, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Christopher H Dietrich
- Illinois Natural History Survey, Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois, Champaign, IL, 61820, USA
| | - Michael D Webb
- Department of Science (Insects), The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, South Kensington, SW7 5BD, London, UK
| | - Cong Wei
- Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of the Ministry of Education, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
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3
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Burks GR, Yao L, Kalutantirige FC, Gray KJ, Bello E, Rajagopalan S, Bialik SB, Barrick JE, Alleyne M, Chen Q, Schroeder CM. Electron Tomography and Machine Learning for Understanding the Highly Ordered Structure of Leafhopper Brochosomes. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:190-200. [PMID: 36516996 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c01035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Insects known as leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) produce hierarchically structured nanoparticles known as brochosomes that are exuded and applied to the insect cuticle, thereby providing camouflage and anti-wetting properties to aid insect survival. Although the physical properties of brochosomes are thought to depend on the leafhopper species, the structure-function relationships governing brochosome behavior are not fully understood. Brochosomes have complex hierarchical structures and morphological heterogeneity across species, due to which a multimodal characterization approach is required to effectively elucidate their nanoscale structure and properties. In this work, we study the structural and mechanical properties of brochosomes using a combination of atomic force microscopy (AFM), electron microscopy (EM), electron tomography, and machine learning (ML)-based quantification of large and complex scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image data sets. This suite of techniques allows for the characterization of internal and external brochosome structures, and ML-based image analysis methods of large data sets reveal correlations in the structure across several leafhopper species. Our results show that brochosomes are relatively rigid hollow spheres with characteristic dimensions and morphologies that depend on leafhopper species. Nanomechanical mapping AFM is used to determine a characteristic compression modulus for brochosomes on the order of 1-3 GPa, which is consistent with crystalline proteins. Overall, this work provides an improved understanding of the structural and mechanical properties of leafhopper brochosomes using a new set of ML-based image classification tools that can be broadly applied to nanostructured biological materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel R Burks
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States.,Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Lehan Yao
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Falon C Kalutantirige
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Kyle J Gray
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Elizabeth Bello
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States.,Department of Entomology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Shreyas Rajagopalan
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States.,Department of Entomology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Sarah B Bialik
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Jeffrey E Barrick
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Marianne Alleyne
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States.,Department of Entomology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States.,Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Qian Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States.,Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States.,Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Charles M Schroeder
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States.,Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61801, United States
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4
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Bello E, Chen Y, Alleyne M. Staying Dry and Clean: An Insect's Guide to Hydrophobicity. INSECTS 2022; 14:42. [PMID: 36661970 PMCID: PMC9861782 DOI: 10.3390/insects14010042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Insects demonstrate a wide diversity of microscopic cuticular and extra-cuticular features. These features often produce multifunctional surfaces which are greatly desired in engineering and material science fields. Among these functionalities, hydrophobicity is of particular interest and has gained recent attention as it often results in other properties such as self-cleaning, anti-biofouling, and anti-corrosion. We reviewed the historical and contemporary scientific literature to create an extensive review of known hydrophobic and superhydrophobic structures in insects. We found that numerous insects across at least fourteen taxonomic orders possess a wide variety of cuticular surface chemicals and physical structures that promote hydrophobicity. We discuss a few bioinspired design examples of how insects have already inspired new technologies. Moving forward, the use of a bioinspiration framework will help us gain insight into how and why these systems work in nature. Undoubtedly, our fundamental understanding of the physical and chemical principles that result in functional insect surfaces will continue to facilitate the design and production of novel materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Bello
- Department of Entomology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Yutao Chen
- Program in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Marianne Alleyne
- Department of Entomology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Program in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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5
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Farina P, Bedini S, Conti B. Multiple Functions of Malpighian Tubules in Insects: A Review. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13111001. [PMID: 36354824 PMCID: PMC9697091 DOI: 10.3390/insects13111001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The Malpighian Tubules (MTs) are the main excretory organs in most insects. They play a key role in the production of primary urine and osmoregulation, selectively reabsorbing water, ions, and solutes. Besides these functions conserved in most insects, MTs can serve some specialized tasks at different stages of some species' development. The specialized functions include the synthesis of mucopolysaccharides and proteins for the building of foam nests, mucofibrils for the construction of dwelling tubes, adhesive secretions to help the locomotion, and brochosomes for protection as well as the usage of inorganic salts to harden the puparia, eggs chorion, and pupal cells' closing lids. MTs are also the organs responsible for the astonishing bioluminescence of some Diptera glowworms and can go through some drastic histological changes to produce a silk-like fiber utilized to spin cocoons. The specialized functions are associated with modifications of cells within the entire tubules, in specific segments, or, more rarely, modified secretory cells scattered along the MTs. In this review, we attempted to summarize the observations and experiments made over more than a century concerning the non-excretive functions of insects' MTs, underlying the need for new investigations supported by the current, advanced technologies available to validate outdated theories and clarify some dubious aspects.
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6
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Li Z, Li Y, Xue AZ, Dang V, Renee Holmes V, Spencer Johnston J, Barrick JE, Moran NA. The genomic basis of evolutionary novelties in a leafhopper. Mol Biol Evol 2022; 39:6677381. [PMID: 36026509 PMCID: PMC9450646 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msac184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Evolutionary innovations generate phenotypic and species diversity. Elucidating the genomic processes underlying such innovations is central to understanding biodiversity. In this study, we addressed the genomic basis of evolutionary novelties in the glassy-winged sharpshooter (Homalodisca vitripennis, GWSS), an agricultural pest. Prominent evolutionary innovations in leafhoppers include brochosomes, proteinaceous structures that are excreted and used to coat the body, and obligate symbiotic associations with two bacterial types that reside within cytoplasm of distinctive cell types. Using PacBio long-read sequencing and Dovetail Omni-C technology, we generated a chromosome-level genome assembly for the GWSS and then validated the assembly using flow cytometry and karyotyping. Additional transcriptomic and proteomic data were used to identify novel genes that underlie brochosome production. We found that brochosome-associated genes include novel gene families that have diversified through tandem duplications. We also identified the locations of genes involved in interactions with bacterial symbionts. Ancestors of the GWSS acquired bacterial genes through horizontal gene transfer (HGT), and these genes appear to contribute to symbiont support. Using a phylogenomics approach, we inferred HGT sources and timing. We found that some HGT events date to the common ancestor of the hemipteran suborder Auchenorrhyncha, representing some of the oldest known examples of HGT in animals. Overall, we show that evolutionary novelties in leafhoppers are generated by the combination of acquiring novel genes, produced both de novo and through tandem duplication, acquiring new symbiotic associations that enable use of novel diets and niches, and recruiting foreign genes to support symbionts and enhance herbivory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Li
- Department of Integrative Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Yiyuan Li
- Department of Integrative Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.,State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Key Laboratory of Biotechnology in Plant Protection of Ministry of Agriculture and Zhejiang Province, Institute of Plant Virology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Allen Z Xue
- Department of Integrative Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Vy Dang
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - V Renee Holmes
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX,USA
| | | | - Jeffrey E Barrick
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Nancy A Moran
- Department of Integrative Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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7
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Jiang J, Dietrich CH, Li C, Song Y. Comparative morphology of part of the integumental fine structure of two Erythroneurine species: Singaporashinshana (Matsumura, 1932) and Empoascanarasipra Dworakowska, 1980 (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae). Zookeys 2022; 1103:1-23. [PMID: 36761786 PMCID: PMC9848861 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1103.80787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This study describes the fine structure of the mouthparts, antennae, forewings, and brochosomes of two leafhopper species belonging to the typhlocybine tribe Erythroneurini collected from the Karst area of Guizhou Province, southern China: Singaporashinshana, which prefers woody dicot hosts, and Empoascanarasipra, which feeds on grasses. As in other leafhoppers, the piercing-sucking mouthparts consist of a conical labrum, a cylindrical three-segmented labium, and a slender stylet fascicle. The labrum of both species has no sensilla and the labium has several common types of sensilla, but the two species differ in the numbers, types, and distribution of sensilla and in other aspects of the surface sculpture of the mouthparts. The stylet fascicle has distinctive dentition on both the maxillary and mandibular stylets. The antennae of the two species differ in several respects, including the sensilla and sculpture of the scape, pedicel, and flagellum, as well as the degree of sub-segmentation of the flagellum. Except for the variable scaly structure and rounded protrusions on the surface of S.shinshana, the fine structure of the forewing surfaces of the two species are similar to those of other leafhoppers. Only small spherical brochosomes were found on the body surface of S.shinshana and E.sipra. Similar studies of additional erythroneurine species are needed to determine whether differences in mouthpart and antennal fine structure may reflect adaptation to different host plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Jiang
- School of Karst Science, Guizhou Normal University / State Engineering Technology Institute for Karst Desertification Control, Guizhou, Guiyang, 550001, ChinaGuizhou Normal UniversityGuiyangChina
| | - Christopher H. Dietrich
- Illinois Natural History Survey, Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois, 1816 S. Oak St., Champaign, IL 61820, USAUniversity of IllinoisChampaignUnited States of America
| | - Can Li
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, Guiyang University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550005, ChinaGuiyang UniversityGuiyangChina
| | - Yuehua Song
- School of Karst Science, Guizhou Normal University / State Engineering Technology Institute for Karst Desertification Control, Guizhou, Guiyang, 550001, ChinaGuizhou Normal UniversityGuiyangChina
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8
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Jakšić Z, Obradov M, Jakšić O. Brochosome-Inspired Metal-Containing Particles as Biomimetic Building Blocks for Nanoplasmonics: Conceptual Generalizations. Biomimetics (Basel) 2021; 6:biomimetics6040069. [PMID: 34940012 PMCID: PMC8698403 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics6040069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, biological nanostructures became an important source of inspiration for plasmonics, with many described implementations and proposed applications. Among them are brochosome-inspired plasmonic microstructures-roughly spherical core-shell particles with submicrometer diameters and with indented surfaces. Our intention was to start from the nanoplasmonic point of view and to systematically classify possible alternative forms of brochosome-inspired metal-containing particles producible by the state-of-the-art nanofabrication. A wealth of novel structures arises from this systematization of bioinspired metal-containing nanocomposites. Besides various surface nanoapertures, we consider structures closely related to them in electromagnetic sense like surface nano-protrusions, shell reliefs obtained by nano-sculpting, and various combinations of these. This approach helped us build a new design toolbox for brochosome-inspired structures. Additionally, we used the finite elements method to simulate the optical properties of simple brochosome-inspired structures. We encountered a plethora of advantageous optical traits, including enhanced absorption, antireflective properties, and metamaterial behavior (effective refractive index close to zero or negative). We conclude that the presented approach offers a wealth of traits useful for practical applications. The described research represents our attempt to outline a possible roadmap for further development of bioinspired nanoplasmonic particles and to offer a source of ideas and directions for future research.
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9
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Structure and sensilla of the mouthparts of Alobaldia tobae, Maiestas dorsalis and Stirellus indrus (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae). ZOOMORPHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s00435-020-00478-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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10
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Rakitov R, Moysa AA, Kopylov AT, Moshkovskii SA, Peters RS, Meusemann K, Misof B, Dietrich CH, Johnson KP, Podsiadlowski L, Walden KKO. Brochosomins and other novel proteins from brochosomes of leafhoppers (Insecta, Hemiptera, Cicadellidae). INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 94:10-17. [PMID: 29331591 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Revised: 01/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Brochosomes (BS) are secretory granules resembling buckyballs, produced intracellularly in specialized glandular segments of the Malpighian tubules and forming superhydrophobic coatings on the integuments of leafhoppers (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae). Their composition is poorly known. Using a combination of SDS-PAGE, LC-MS/MS, next-generation sequencing (RNAseq) and bioinformatics we demonstrate that the major structural component of BS of the leafhopper Graphocephala fennahi Young is a novel family of 21-40-kDa secretory proteins, referred to herein as brochosomins (BSM), apparently cross-linked by disulfide bonds. At least 28 paralogous BSM were identified in a transcriptome assembly of this species, most of which were detected in BS. Multiple additional BS-associated proteins (BSAP), possibly loosely attached to the outer and inner surfaces of BS, were also identified; some of these were glycine-, tyrosine- and proline-rich. BSM and BSAP together accounted for half of the 100 most expressed transcripts in the Malpighian tubules of G. fennahi. Except for several minor BSAP possibly related to cyclases, BSM and BSAP had no homologs among known proteins, thus representing taxonomically restricted gene families (orphans). Searching in 50 whole-body transcriptome assemblies of Hemiptera found homologs of BSM in representatives of all five families of the superfamily Membracoidea (Cicadellidae, Myerslopiidae, Aetalionidae, Membracidae, and Melizoderidae), but not in other lineages. Among the identified proteins only BSM were shared in common between all 17 surveyed leafhoppers known to produce BS. Combined CHN elemental and aminoacid analyses estimated the total protein content of BS from the integument of G. fennahi to be 60-70%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Rakitov
- Paleontological Institute RAS, Profsoyuznaya St. 123, Moscow 117647, Russia.
| | - Alexander A Moysa
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya St. 10, Moscow 119121, Russia.
| | - Arthur T Kopylov
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya St. 10, Moscow 119121, Russia.
| | | | - Ralph S Peters
- Center of Taxonomy and Evolutionary Research, Arthropoda Department, Zoological Research Museum Alexander Koenig, Adenauerallee 160, 53113 Bonn, Germany.
| | - Karen Meusemann
- University of Freiburg, Institute for Biology I (Zoology), Evolutionary Biology and Animal Ecology, Hauptstr. 1, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; Center for Molecular Biodiversity Research, Zoological Research Museum Alexander Koenig, Adenauerallee 160, 53113 Bonn, Germany.
| | - Bernhard Misof
- Center for Molecular Biodiversity Research, Zoological Research Museum Alexander Koenig, Adenauerallee 160, 53113 Bonn, Germany.
| | - Christopher H Dietrich
- Illinois Natural History Survey, University of Illinois, 1816 S. Oak St., Champaign, 61820, IL, USA.
| | - Kevin P Johnson
- Illinois Natural History Survey, University of Illinois, 1816 S. Oak St., Champaign, 61820, IL, USA.
| | - Lars Podsiadlowski
- Center for Molecular Biodiversity Research, Zoological Research Museum Alexander Koenig, Adenauerallee 160, 53113 Bonn, Germany.
| | - Kimberly K O Walden
- Department of Entomology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, 61801, IL, USA.
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11
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Yang S, Sun N, Stogin BB, Wang J, Huang Y, Wong TS. Ultra-antireflective synthetic brochosomes. Nat Commun 2017; 8:1285. [PMID: 29101358 PMCID: PMC5670136 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-01404-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the early discovery of the antireflection properties of insect compound eyes, new examples of natural antireflective coatings have been rare. Here, we report the fabrication and optical characterization of a biologically inspired antireflective surface that emulates the intricate surface architectures of leafhopper-produced brochosomes—soccer ball-like microscale granules with nanoscale indentations. Our method utilizes double-layer colloidal crystal templates in conjunction with site-specific electrochemical growth to create these structures, and is compatible with various materials including metals, metal oxides, and conductive polymers. These brochosome coatings (BCs) can be designed to exhibit strong omnidirectional antireflective performance of wavelengths from 250 to 2000 nm, comparable to the state-of-the-art antireflective coatings. Our results provide evidence for the use of brochosomes as a camouflage coating against predators of leafhoppers or their eggs. The discovery of the antireflective function of BCs may find applications in solar energy harvesting, imaging, and sensing devices. New examples of natural antireflective coatings are rare. Here, Yang et al. report the fabrication and optical characterization of a biologically inspired antireflective surface that emulates the surface architecture of the leafhopper-produced brochosomes with antireflective performance from 250 to 2000 nm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shikuan Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA. .,Materials Research Institute, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA. .,Institute for Composites Science Innovation, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China.
| | - Nan Sun
- Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.,Materials Research Institute, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Birgitt Boschitsch Stogin
- Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.,Materials Research Institute, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.,Materials Research Institute, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Yu Huang
- Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.,Materials Research Institute, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Tak-Sing Wong
- Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA. .,Materials Research Institute, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA. .,Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
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Watson GS, Watson JA, Cribb BW. Diversity of Cuticular Micro- and Nanostructures on Insects: Properties, Functions, and Potential Applications. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ENTOMOLOGY 2017; 62:185-205. [PMID: 28141960 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-ento-031616-035020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Insects exhibit a fascinating and diverse range of micro- and nanoarchitectures on their cuticle. Beyond the spectacular beauty of such minute structures lie surfaces evolutionarily modified to act as multifunctional interfaces that must contend with a hostile, challenging environment, driving adaption so that these can then become favorable. Numerous cuticular structures have been discovered this century; and of equal importance are the properties, functions, and potential applications that have been a key focus in many recent studies. The vast range of insect structuring, from the most simplistic topographies to the most elegant and geometrically complex forms, affords us with an exhaustive library of natural templates and free technologies to borrow, replicate, and employ for a range of applications. Of particular importance are structures that imbue cuticle with antiwetting properties, self-cleaning abilities, antireflection, enhanced color, adhesion, and antimicrobial and specific cell-attachment properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory S Watson
- School of Science and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland 4556, Australia; ,
| | - Jolanta A Watson
- School of Science and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland 4556, Australia; ,
| | - Bronwen W Cribb
- Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia;
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
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Shi L, Vasseur L, Huang H, Zeng Z, Hu G, Liu X, You M. Adult Tea Green Leafhoppers, Empoasca onukii (Matsuda), Change Behaviors under Varying Light Conditions. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0168439. [PMID: 28103237 PMCID: PMC5245864 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0168439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Insect behaviors are often influenced by light conditions including photoperiod, light intensity, and wavelength. Understanding pest insect responses to changing light conditions may help with developing alternative strategies for pest control. Little is known about the behavioral responses of leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) to light conditions. The behavior of the tea green leafhopper, Empoasca onukii Matsuda, was examined when exposed to different light photoperiods or wavelengths. Observations included the frequency of locomotion and cleaning activities, and the duration of time spent searching. The results suggested that under normal photoperiod both female and male adults were generally more active in darkness (i.e., at night) than in light. In continuous darkness (DD), the locomotion and cleaning events in Period 1 (7:00-19:00) were significantly increased, when compared to the leafhoppers under normal photoperiod (LD). Leafhoppers, especially females, changed their behavioral patterns to a two day cycle under DD. Under continuous illumination (continuous quartz lamp light, yellow light at night, and green light at night), the activities of locomotion, cleaning, and searching were significantly suppressed during the night (19:00-7:00) and locomotion activities of both females and males were significantly increased during the day (7:00-19:00), suggesting a shift in circadian rhythm. Our work suggests that changes in light conditions, including photoperiod and wavelength, can influence behavioral activities of leafhoppers, potentially affecting other life history traits such as reproduction and development, and may serve as a method for leafhopper behavioral control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longqing Shi
- Institute of Applied Ecology and Research Centre for Biodiversity and Eco-Safety, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Fujian-Taiwan Joint Innovation Centre for Ecological Control of Crop Pests, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management of Fujian and Taiwan, China Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
| | - Liette Vasseur
- Institute of Applied Ecology and Research Centre for Biodiversity and Eco-Safety, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Fujian-Taiwan Joint Innovation Centre for Ecological Control of Crop Pests, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management of Fujian and Taiwan, China Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Huoshui Huang
- Quanzhou Entry-exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau of People's Republic of China, Quanzhou, China
| | - Zhaohua Zeng
- Institute of Applied Ecology and Research Centre for Biodiversity and Eco-Safety, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Institute of Plant Protection, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fuzhou, China
| | - Guiping Hu
- Jiangxi Serculture and Tea Research Institute, Nanchang County, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Liu
- Institute of Applied Ecology and Research Centre for Biodiversity and Eco-Safety, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Fujian-Taiwan Joint Innovation Centre for Ecological Control of Crop Pests, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management of Fujian and Taiwan, China Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
| | - Minsheng You
- Institute of Applied Ecology and Research Centre for Biodiversity and Eco-Safety, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Fujian-Taiwan Joint Innovation Centre for Ecological Control of Crop Pests, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management of Fujian and Taiwan, China Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China
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Scientific Opinion on the risks to plant health posed byXylella fastidiosain the EU territory, with the identification and evaluation of risk reduction options. EFSA J 2015. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2015.3989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
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Carpi A, Mejdalani G. A new Egidemia China from South Peru with a key to the species of the genus (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Cicadellinae: Proconiini). STUDIES ON NEOTROPICAL FAUNA AND ENVIRONMENT 2010. [DOI: 10.1080/01650521.2010.485734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- André Carpi
- a Departamento de Entomologia, Museu Nacional , Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Quinta da Boa Vista, São Cristóvão , 20940-040, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Mejdalani
- a Departamento de Entomologia, Museu Nacional , Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Quinta da Boa Vista, São Cristóvão , 20940-040, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Mizell RF, Tipping C, Andersen PC, Brodbeck BV, Hunter WB, Northfield T. Behavioral model for Homalodisca vitripennis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae): optimization of host plant utilization and management implications. ENVIRONMENTAL ENTOMOLOGY 2008; 37:1049-1062. [PMID: 19036181 DOI: 10.1603/0046-225x(2008)37[1049:bmfhvh]2.0.co;2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The glassy-winged sharpshooter, Homalodisca vitripennis (Germar), (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), is a xylophagous leafhopper native to the southeastern United States and northern Mexico, with recent introductions into California, Arizona, French Polynesia, and Hawaii. It is a primary vector of the xylem-limited bacterium, Xylella fastidiosa Wells et al., the causative agent of Pierce's disease of grape, citrus variegated chlorosis, phony peach, and numerous leaf scorch diseases. H. vitripennis uses several hundred species of host plants for feeding, development, and reproduction. Variation in host utilization allows H. vitripennis to respond to diurnal and seasonal changes in its nutrient-poor food source, xylem fluid, as well as changing nutritional requirements of each leafhopper developmental stage. Here we provide a conceptual model that integrates behavior, life history strategies, and their associated risks with the nutritional requirements of adult and nymphal stages of H. vitripennis. The model is a useful heuristic tool that explains patterns of host plant use, describes insect behavior and ecology, suggests new associations among the ecological components, and most importantly, identifies and supports the development of suppression strategies for X. fastidiosa aimed at reducing vector populations through habitat manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R F Mizell
- NFREC-Quincy, University of Florida, 155 Research Rd., Quincy, FL 32351, USA.
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Wyniger D, Burckhardt D, Mühlethaler R, Mathys D. Documentation of brochosomes within Hemiptera, with emphasis on Heteroptera (Insecta). ZOOL ANZ 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcz.2008.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Chang JC, Gurr GM, Fletcher MJ, Gilbert RG. Structure - Property and Structure - Function Relations of Leafhopper (Kahaono montana) Silk. Aust J Chem 2006. [DOI: 10.1071/ch06179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Kahaono montana Evans (Insecta: Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), an endemic Australian leafhopper, is unique among the insect order Hemiptera in producing a silk. In this study, the secondary structure of the protein comprising leafhopper silk, and the surface stretching mechanical properties of this biopolymer, were investigated using Fourier-transform infrared microscopy and atomic force microscopy, respectively. The curve-fitted amide I and amide III bands revealed a composition of 13.1% α-helix, 23.8% β-sheet, 25.5% random coil, and 37.6% aggregated side chains. The molecular stretching behaviour of raw and cleaned silk fibres differed markedly. Analysis of the AFM force curves showed an adhesive property of the raw silk, while the pure fibre showed only the presence of protein. These findings suggest that the silk fibres act as a structural support for other leafhopper secretions and together form a hydrophobic barrier that may protect the insects from rain and natural enemies. This is the first time such a use of silk has been found in a biological system.
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