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Prakash A, Dion E, Banerjee TD, Monteiro A. The molecular basis of scale development highlighted by a single-cell atlas of Bicyclus anynana butterfly pupal forewings. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114147. [PMID: 38662541 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Butterfly wings display a diversity of cell types, including large polyploid scale cells, yet the molecular basis of such diversity is poorly understood. To explore scale cell diversity at a transcriptomic level, we employ single-cell RNA sequencing of ∼5,200 large cells (>6 μm) from 22.5- to 25-h male pupal forewings of the butterfly Bicyclus anynana. Using unsupervised clustering, followed by in situ hybridization, immunofluorescence, and CRISPR-Cas9 editing of candidate genes, we annotate various cell types on the wing. We identify genes marking non-innervated scale cells, pheromone-producing glandular cells, and innervated sensory cell types. We show that senseless, a zinc-finger transcription factor, and HR38, a hormone receptor, determine the identity, size, and color of different scale cell types and are important regulators of scale cell differentiation. This dataset and the identification of various wing cell-type markers provide a foundation to compare and explore scale cell-type diversification across arthropod species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anupama Prakash
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Emilie Dion
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Tirtha Das Banerjee
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Antónia Monteiro
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
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2
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Flaven-Pouchon J, Froschauer C, Moussian B. Dynamics of cuticle-associated transcript profiles during moulting of the bed bug Cimexlectularius. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 168:104112. [PMID: 38513961 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2024.104112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
The bed bug Cimex lectularius is a worldwide human pest. The sequenced genome allows molecular analyses of all aspects of bed bug biology. The present work was conducted to contribute to bed bug cuticle biology. As in other insect species, the C. lectularius cuticle consists of the three horizontal layers procuticle, epicuticle and envelope. To analyse the genes needed for the establishment of the stratified cuticle, we studied the expression pattern of 42 key cuticle-related genes at the transition of the penultimate nymphal stage to adult animals when a new cuticle is formed. Based on gene expression dynamics, in simplified model, we distinguish two key events during cuticle renewal in C. lectularius. First, upon blood feeding, modulation of ecdysone signalling culminates in the transcriptional activation of the transcription factor Clec-Ftz-F1 that possibly controls the expression of 32 of the 42 genes tested. Second, timed expression of Clec-Ftz-F1 seems to depend also on the insulin signalling pathway as RNA interference against transcripts of the insulin receptor delays Clec-Ftz-F1 expression and stage transition. An important observation of our transcript survey is that genes needed for the construction of the three cuticle layers are largely expressed simultaneously. Based on these data, we hypothesise a considerable synchronous mechanism of layer formation rather than a strictly sequential one. Together, this work provides a basis for functional analyses of cuticle formation in C. lectularius.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Flaven-Pouchon
- Universität Tübingen, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, Genetik der Tiere, Tübingen, Germany
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3
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Yue X, Liang Y, Wei Z, Lv J, Cai Y, Fan X, Zhang W, Chen J. Genome-wide in vitro and in vivo RNAi screens reveal Fer3 to be an important regulator of kkv transcription in Drosophila. INSECT SCIENCE 2022; 29:614-630. [PMID: 34351065 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12954] [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: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Krotzkopf verkehrt (kkv) is a key enzyme that catalyzes the synthesis of chitin, an important component of the Drosophila epidermis, trachea, and other tissues. Here, we report the use of comprehensive RNA interference (RNAi) analyses to search for kkv transcriptional regulators. A cell-based RNAi screen identified 537 candidate kkv regulators on a genome-wide scale. Subsequent use of transgenic Drosophila lines expressing RNAi constructs enabled in vivo validation, and we identified six genes as potential kkv transcriptional regulators. Weakening of the kkvDsRed signal, an in vivo reporter indicating kkv promoter activity, was observed when the expression of Akirin, NFAT, 48 related 3 (Fer3), or Autophagy-related 101(Atg101) was knocked down in Drosophila at the 3rd-instar larval stage; whereas we observed disoriented taenidial folds on larval tracheae when Lines (lin) or Autophagy-related 3 (Atg3) was knocked down in the tracheae. Fer3, in particular, has been shown to be an important factor in the activation of kkv transcription via specific binding with the kkv promoter. The genes involved in the chitin synthesis pathway were widely affected by the downregulation of Fer3. Furthermore, Atg101, Atg3, Akirin, Lin, NFAT, Pnr, and Abd-A showed that the potential complex mechanism of kkv transcription is regulated by an interaction network with bithorax complex components. Our study revealed the hitherto unappreciated diversity of modulators impinging on kkv transcription and opens new avenues in the study of kkv regulation and chitin biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangzhao Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- College of Life Sciences, Shangrao Normal University, Shangrao, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Yongkang Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhishuang Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongjin Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaobin Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenqing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of High Technology for Plant Protection, Plant Protection Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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4
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Kakanj P, Bhide S, Moussian B, Leptin M. Autophagy-mediated plasma membrane removal promotes the formation of epithelial syncytia. EMBO J 2022; 41:e109992. [PMID: 35262206 PMCID: PMC9194749 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2021109992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial wound healing in Drosophila involves the formation of multinucleate cells surrounding the wound. We show that autophagy, a cellular degradation process often deployed in stress responses, is required for the formation of a multinucleated syncytium during wound healing, and that autophagosomes that appear near the wound edge acquire plasma membrane markers. In addition, uncontrolled autophagy in the unwounded epidermis leads to the degradation of endo‐membranes and the lateral plasma membrane, while apical and basal membranes and epithelial barrier function remain intact. Proper functioning of TORC1 is needed to prevent destruction of the larval epidermis by autophagy, in a process that depends on phagophore initiation and expansion but does not require autophagosomes fusion with lysosomes. Autophagy induction can also affect other sub‐cellular membranes, as shown by its suppression of experimentally induced laminopathy‐like nuclear defects. Our findings reveal a function for TORC1‐mediated regulation of autophagy in maintaining membrane integrity and homeostasis in the epidermis and during wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Kakanj
- Institute for Genetics, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Director's Research Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Sourabh Bhide
- Director's Research Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany.,Faculty of Biosciences, Collaboration for Joint PhD degree between EMBL and Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Maria Leptin
- Institute for Genetics, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Director's Research Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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5
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Wang Y, Burra S, Galko MJ. Drosophila larval epidermal cells only exhibit epidermal aging when they persist to the adult stage. J Exp Biol 2021; 224:jeb.240986. [PMID: 33795421 PMCID: PMC8126450 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.240986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Holometabolous insects undergo a complete transformation of the body plan from the larval to the adult stage. In Drosophila, this transformation includes replacement of larval epidermal cells (LECs) by adult epidermal cells (AECs). AECs in Drosophila undergo a rapid and stereotyped aging program where they lose both cell membranes and nuclei. Whether LECs are capable of undergoing aging in a manner similar to AECs remains unknown. Here, we address this question in two ways. First, we looked for hallmarks of epidermal aging in larvae that have a greatly extended third instar and/or carry mutations that would cause premature epidermal aging at the adult stage. Such larvae, irrespective of genotype, did not show any of the signs of epidermal aging observed in the adult. Second, we developed a procedure to effect a heterochronic persistence of LECs into the adult epidermal sheet. Lineage tracing verified that presumptive LECs in the adult epidermis are not derived from imaginal epidermal histoblasts. LECs embedded within the adult epidermal sheet undergo clear signs of epidermal aging; they form multinucleate cells with each other and with the surrounding AECs. The incidence of adult cells with mixed AEC nuclei (small) and persistent LEC nuclei (large) increased with age. Our data reveals that epidermal aging in holometabolous Drosophila is a stage-specific phenomenon and that the capacity of LECs to respond to aging signals does exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Sirisha Burra
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Michael J Galko
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Genetics & Epigenetics Graduate Program, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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6
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Zhao Z, Li L, Cheng M, Jing AD, Liu SN, Zhu SM, Du EX, Li S, Luan YX, Ren CH. Grainy head signaling regulates epithelium development and ecdysis in Blattella germanica. INSECT SCIENCE 2021; 28:485-494. [PMID: 32174010 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Revised: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor grainy head (Grh) functions in the protection of the epithelium against the external environment by generating strongly adhesive layers, and this function is conserved in vertebrates and invertebrates. In Drosophila, the top model for holometabolous insects, Grh is necessary during embryonic development, epidermal differentiation, central nervous system specification and epithelial repair. However, the function of this gene in hemimetabolous insect epithelia remains unknown. To examine the function of Grh signaling in regulating epithelium development in Hemimetabola, we focused on the Blattella germanica epidermal layer using a gene knockdown strategy. The spatiotemporal expression pattern of BgGrh was detected, and knockdown of BgGrh and BgCad96ca, which provide positive feedback to BgGrh, caused severe defects in new epithelium development and impeded the molting process required to discard the old integument. Knockdown of the expression of BgGrh and BgCad96ca caused increased expression of chitin synthase gene (BgCHS1) and chitinase gene (BgCht5), the upregulations of which should be mediated by the higher level of hormone receptor 3 (BgHr3) gene. In conclusion, epithelium development is regulated by Grh signaling, which might represent a potential target for the control of urban pest cockroaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Liang Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Min Cheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - An-Di Jing
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Su-Ning Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shi-Ming Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Er-Xia Du
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Sheng Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yun-Xia Luan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Chong-Hua Ren
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, Guangdong Province, China
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7
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Zuber R, Wang Y, Gehring N, Bartoszewski S, Moussian B. Tweedle proteins form extracellular two-dimensional structures defining body and cell shape in Drosophila melanogaster. Open Biol 2020; 10:200214. [PMID: 33292106 PMCID: PMC7776580 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue function and shape rely on the organization of the extracellular matrix (ECM) produced by the respective cells. Our understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms is limited. Here, we show that extracellular Tweedle (Twdl) proteins in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster form two adjacent two-dimensional sheets underneath the cuticle surface and above a distinct layer of dityrosinylated and probably elastic proteins enwrapping the whole body. Dominant mutations in twdl genes cause ectopic spherical aggregation of Twdl proteins that recruit dityrosinylated proteins at their periphery within lower cuticle regions. These aggregates perturb parallel ridges at the surface of epidermal cells that have been demonstrated to be crucial for body shaping. In one scenario, hence, this disorientation of epidermal ridges may explain the squatty phenotype of Twdl mutant larvae. In an alternative scenario, this phenotype may be due to the depletion of the dityrosinylated and elastic layer, and the consequent weakening of cuticle resistance against the internal hydrostatic pressure. According to Barlow's formula describing the distribution of internal pressure forces in pipes in dependence of pipe wall material properties, it follows that this reduction in turn causes lateral expansion at the expense of the antero-posterior elongation of the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Zuber
- Applied Zoology, Technical University of Dresden, Zellescher Weg 20b, 01062 Dresden, Germany.,Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology (Ifiz), University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 15, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Yiwen Wang
- Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology (Ifiz), University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 15, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nicole Gehring
- Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology (Ifiz), University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 15, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Slawomir Bartoszewski
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rzeszow University, ul. Zelwerowicza 4, 35-601 Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Bernard Moussian
- Applied Zoology, Technical University of Dresden, Zellescher Weg 20b, 01062 Dresden, Germany.,CNRS, Inserm, Institute of Biology Valrose, Université Côte d'Azur, Parc Valrose, 06108 Nice CEDEX 2, France
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8
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Yang WJ, Xu KK, Yan Y, Li C, Jin DC. Role of Chitin Deacetylase 1 in the Molting and Metamorphosis of the Cigarette Beetle Lasioderma serricorne. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072449. [PMID: 32244803 PMCID: PMC7177437 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Chitin deacetylases (CDAs) are chitin-modifying enzymes known to play vital roles in insect metamorphosis and development. In this study, we identified and characterized a chitin deacetylase1 gene (LsCDA1) from the cigarette beetle Lasioderma serricorne. LsCDA1 contains a 1614 bp open reading frame encoding a protein of 537 amino acids that includes domain structures typical of CDAs. LsCDA1 was mainly expressed in the late larval and late pupal stages. In larval tissues, the highest level of LsCDA1 was detected in the integument. The expression of LsCDA1 was induced by 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) in vivo, and it was significantly suppressed by knocking down the expression of ecdysteroidogenesis genes and 20E signaling genes. RNA interference (RNAi)-aided silencing of LsCDA1 in fifth-instar larvae prevented the larval–pupal molt and caused 75% larval mortality. In the late pupal stage, depletion of LsCDA1 resulted in the inhibition of pupal growth and wing abnormalities, and the expression levels of four wing development-related genes (LsDY, LsWG, LsVG, and LsAP) were dramatically decreased. Meanwhile, the chitin contents of LsCDA1 RNAi beetles were significantly reduced, and expressions of three chitin synthesis pathway genes (LsTRE1, LsUAP1, and LsCHS1) were greatly decreased. The results suggest that LsCDA1 is indispensable for larval–pupal and pupal–adult molts, and that it is a potential target for the RNAi-based control of L. serricorne.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jia Yang
- Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Regions, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China; (W.-J.Y.); (K.-K.X.); (Y.Y.)
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang 550005, China
| | - Kang-Kang Xu
- Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Regions, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China; (W.-J.Y.); (K.-K.X.); (Y.Y.)
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang 550005, China
| | - Yi Yan
- Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Regions, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China; (W.-J.Y.); (K.-K.X.); (Y.Y.)
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang 550005, China
| | - Can Li
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang 550005, China
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (D.-C.J.)
| | - Dao-Chao Jin
- Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Regions, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China; (W.-J.Y.); (K.-K.X.); (Y.Y.)
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (D.-C.J.)
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9
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Chitin deacetylase 1 and 2 are indispensable for larval–pupal and pupal–adult molts in Heortia vitessoides (Lepidoptera: Crambidae). Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2019; 237:110325. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2019.110325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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10
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Zhang M, Ji Y, Zhang X, Ma P, Wang Y, Moussian B, Zhang J. The putative chitin deacetylases Serpentine and Vermiform have non-redundant functions during Drosophila wing development. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 110:128-135. [PMID: 31108167 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2019.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2018] [Revised: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The chitin modifying deacetylases (CDA) CDA1 and CDA2 have been reported to play partially redundant roles during insect cuticle formation and molting and tracheal morphogenesis in various insect species. In order to distinguish possible functional differences between these two enzymes, we analyzed their function during wing development in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. In tissue-specific RNA interference experiments, we demonstrate that DmCDA1 (Serpentine, Serp) and DmCDA2 (Vermiform, Verm) have distinct functions during Drosophila adult wing cuticle differentiation. Chitosan staining revealed that Serp is the major enzyme responsible for chitin deacetylation during wing cuticle formation, while Verm does not seem to be needed for this process. Indeed, it is questionable whether Verm is a chitin deacetylase at all. Atomic force microscopy suggested that Serp and Verm have distinct roles in establishing the shape of nanoscale bumps at the wing surface. Moreover, our data indicate that Verm but not Serp is required for the laminar arrangement of chitin. Both enzymes participate in the establishment of the cuticular inward barrier against penetration of xenobiotics. Taken together, correct differentiation of the wing cuticle involves both Serp and Verm in parallel in largely non-overlapping functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030006, China
| | - Yanan Ji
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030006, China
| | - Xubo Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030006, China
| | - Pengjuan Ma
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030006, China
| | - Yiwen Wang
- Interfaculty Institute of Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bernard Moussian
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, iBV, ParcValrose, 06108, Nice CEDEX 2, France.
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030006, China.
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11
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Yu RR, Liu WM, Zhao XM, Zhang M, Li DQ, Zuber R, Ma EB, Zhu KY, Moussian B, Zhang JZ. LmCDA1 organizes the cuticle by chitin deacetylation in Locusta migratoria. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 28:301-312. [PMID: 30471154 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Cells produce an extracellular matrix (ECM) with a stereotypic organization that is important for tissue function. The insect cuticle is a layered ECM that mainly consists of the polysaccharide chitin and associated proteins adopting a quasi-crystalline structure. Our understanding of the molecular mechanisms deployed during construction of the highly ordered protein-chitin ECM so far is limited. In this study, we report on the role of the chitin deacetylase 1 (LmCDA1) in the organization of the protein-chitin ECM in the migratory locust Locusta migratoria, and LmCDA1 localizes predominantly to the apical tier of the protein-chitin ECM, but it is also found in lower regions. Reduction of LmCDA1 function correlates with lower amounts of chitin and impedes conversion of chitin to chitosan by deacetylation. Establishment of the quasi-crystalline architecture of the protein-chitin ECM is, however, independent of LmCDA1 activity, but it is dependent on another chitin deacetylase, LmCDA2, which has no detectable effects on chitin deacetylation and, as shown previously, no influence on chitin content. Our data reveal that LmCDA1 and LmCDA2 act in parallel and independently from each other in defining the dimensions of the cuticle. Both enzymes are non-uniformly distributed within the protein-chitin matrix, suggesting a site-autonomous function.
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Affiliation(s)
- R-R Yu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
- Department of Biology, Taiyuan Normal University, Taiyuan, China
| | - W-M Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - X-M Zhao
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - M Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - D-Q Li
- Institute of Plant Protection, Shanxi Academy of Agricultural Science, Taiyuan, China
| | - R Zuber
- Angewandte Zoologie, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - E-B Ma
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - K Y Zhu
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - B Moussian
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, iBV, Parc Valrose, Nice CEDEX 2, France
| | - J-Z Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
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12
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Tsai CR, Wang Y, Galko MJ. Crawling wounded: molecular genetic insights into wound healing from Drosophila larvae. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2019; 62:479-489. [PMID: 29938760 PMCID: PMC6352908 DOI: 10.1387/ijdb.180085mg] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
For animals, injury is inevitable. Because of this, organisms possess efficient wound healing mechanisms that can repair damaged tissues. However, the molecular and genetic mechanisms by which epidermal repair is accomplished remain poorly defined. Drosophila has become a valuable model to study epidermal wound healing because of the comprehensive genetic toolkit available in this organism and the similarities of wound healing processes between Drosophila and vertebrates. Other reviews in this Special Issue cover wound healing assays and pathways in Drosophila embryos, pupae and adults, as well as regenerative processes that occur in tissues such as imaginal discs and the gut. In this review, we will focus on the molecular/genetic control of wound-induced cellular processes such as inflammation, cell migration and epithelial cell-cell fusion in Drosophila larvae. We will give a brief overview of the three wounding assays, pinch, puncture, and laser ablation, and the cellular responses that ensue following wounding. We will highlight the actin regulators, signaling pathways and transcriptional mediators found so far to be involved in larval epidermal wound closure and what is known about how they act. We will also discuss wound-induced epidermal cell-cell fusion and possible directions for future research in this exciting system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Ru Tsai
- Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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13
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Wang Y, Maier A, Gehring N, Moussian B. Inhibition of fatty acid desaturation impairs cuticle differentiation in Drosophila melanogaster. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 100:e21535. [PMID: 30672604 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/25/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Previously, we showed that inhibition of the activity of fatty acid desaturases (Desat) perturbs signalling of the developmental timing hormone ecdysone in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. To understand the impact of this effect on cuticle differentiation, a process regulated by ecdysone, we analysed the cuticle of D. melanogaster larvae fed with the Desat inhibitor CA10556. In these larvae, the expression of most of the key cuticle genes is normal or slightly elevated at day one of CA10556 feeding. As an exception, expression of twdlM coding for a yet uncharacterised cuticle protein is completely suppressed. The cuticle of these larvae appears to be normal at the morphological level. However, these animals are sensitive to desiccation, a trait that according to our data, among others, may be associated with reduced TwdlM amounts. At day two of CA10556 feeding, expression of most of the cuticle genes tested including twdlM is suppressed. Expression of cpr47Eb coding for a chitin-binding protein is, by contrast, highly elevated suggesting that Cpr47Eb participates at a specific compensation program. Overall, the cuticle of these larvae is thinner than the cuticle of control larvae. Taken together, lipid desaturation is necessary for a coordinated deployment of a normal cuticle differentiation program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwen Wang
- University of Tübingen, Interfaculty Institute of Cell Biology, Section Animal Genetics, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Annette Maier
- University of Tübingen, Interfaculty Institute of Cell Biology, Section Animal Genetics, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nicole Gehring
- University of Tübingen, Interfaculty Institute of Cell Biology, Section Animal Genetics, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bernard Moussian
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, Institute of Biology Valrose, Nice, France
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14
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Zuber R, Shaik KS, Meyer F, Ho HN, Speidel A, Gehring N, Bartoszewski S, Schwarz H, Moussian B. The putative C-type lectin Schlaff ensures epidermal barrier compactness in Drosophila. Sci Rep 2019; 9:5374. [PMID: 30926832 PMCID: PMC6440989 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-41734-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The stability of extracellular matrices is in general ensured by cross-linking of its components. Previously, we had shown that the integrity of the layered Drosophila cuticle relies on the presence of a covalent cuticular dityrosine network. Production and composition of this structure remained unstudied. In this work, we present our analyses of the schlaff (slf) gene coding for a putative C-type lectin that is needed for the adhesion between the horizontal cuticle layers. The Slf protein mainly localizes between the two layers called epicuticle and procuticle that separate from each other when the function of Slf is reduced or eliminated paralleling the phenotype of a cuticle with reduced extracellular dityrosine. Localisation of the dityrosinylated protein Resilin to the epicuticle-procuticle interface suggests that the dityrosine network mediates the adhesion of the epicuticle to the procuticle. Ultimately, compromised Slf function is associated with massive water loss. In summary, we propose that Slf is implied in the stabilisation of a dityrosine layer especially between the epicuticle and the procuticle that in turn constitutes an outward barrier against uncontrolled water flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Zuber
- Applied Zoology, Technical University of Dresden, Zellescher Weg 20b, 01217, Dresden, Germany.,University of Tübingen, Interfaculty Institute of Cell Biology, Section Animal Genetics, Auf der Morgenstelle 15, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Khaleelulla Saheb Shaik
- University of Tübingen, Interfaculty Institute of Cell Biology, Section Animal Genetics, Auf der Morgenstelle 15, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Frauke Meyer
- University of Tübingen, Interfaculty Institute of Cell Biology, Section Animal Genetics, Auf der Morgenstelle 15, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Hsin-Nin Ho
- University of Tübingen, Interfaculty Institute of Cell Biology, Section Animal Genetics, Auf der Morgenstelle 15, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Anna Speidel
- University of Tübingen, Interfaculty Institute of Cell Biology, Section Animal Genetics, Auf der Morgenstelle 15, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nicole Gehring
- University of Tübingen, Interfaculty Institute of Cell Biology, Section Animal Genetics, Auf der Morgenstelle 15, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Slawomir Bartoszewski
- Rzeszow University, Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, ul. Zelwerowicza 4, 35-601, Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Heinz Schwarz
- Max-Planck-Institut für Entwicklungsbiologie, Microscopy Unit, Spemannstr. 35, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bernard Moussian
- University of Tübingen, Interfaculty Institute of Cell Biology, Section Animal Genetics, Auf der Morgenstelle 15, 72076, Tübingen, Germany. .,Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, Institute of Biology Valrose, Parc Valrose, 06108, Nice CEDEX 2, France.
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15
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Wu JJ, Chen ZC, Wang YW, Fu KY, Guo WC, Li GQ. Silencing chitin deacetylase 2 impairs larval-pupal and pupal-adult molts in Leptinotarsa decemlineata. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 28:52-64. [PMID: 30058750 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Insect chitin deacetylases (CDAs) are carbohydrate esterases that catalyze N-deacetylation of chitin to generate chitosan, a process essential for chitin organization and compactness during the formation of extracellular chitinous structure. Here we identified two CDA2 splice variants (LdCDA2a and LdCDA2b) in Leptinotarsa decemlineata. Both splices were abundantly expressed in larval foregut, rectum, and epidermis; their levels peaked immediately before ecdysis within each instar. In vivo results revealed that the two isoforms transcriptionally responded, positively and negatively respectively, to 20-hydroxyecdysone and juvenile hormone signaling pathways. RNA interference (RNAi)-aided knockdown of the two LdCDA2 variants (hereafter LdCDA2) or LdCDA2b, rather than LdCDA2a, resulted in three negative effects. First, foliage consumption was significantly reduced, larval developing period was lengthened, and larval growth was retarded. Second, chitin contents were reduced, whereas glucose, trehalose, and glycogen contents were increased in the LdCDA2 and LdCDA2b RNAi larvae. Third, approximately 20% of LdCDA2 and LdCDA2b RNAi larvae were trapped within the exuviae and finally died. About 60% of the abnormal pupae died as pharate adults. Around 20% of the RNAi pupae emerged as deformed adults, with small size and wrinkled wings. These adults eventually died within 1 week after molting. Our results reveal that knockdown of CDA2 affects chitin accumulation. Consequently, LdCDA2 may be a potential target for control of L. decemlineata larvae.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-J Wu
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Z-C Chen
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Y-W Wang
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - K-Y Fu
- Department of Plant Protection, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Urumqi, 830091, China
| | - W-C Guo
- Department of Plant Protection, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Urumqi, 830091, China
- Xinjiang Laboratory of Special Environmental Microbiology, Institute of Microbiology, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Urumqi, 830091, China
| | - G-Q Li
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
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16
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Zhao X, Qin Z, Liu W, Liu X, Moussian B, Ma E, Li S, Zhang J. Nuclear receptor HR3 controls locust molt by regulating chitin synthesis and degradation genes of Locusta migratoria. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 92:1-11. [PMID: 29113754 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
During growth and development of insects, the steroid hormone 20-Hydroxyecdysone (20E) regulates the molting process through activation of a series of genes including E74, E75 and HR3 by the 20E receptor EcR. Here, we analyzed the function of LmHR3 in the migratory locust Locusta migratoria. By sequence comparison, we first identified and characterized the putative nuclear receptor protein (LmHR3) based on L. migratoria transcriptome data. The full length cDNA is 2272 bp long encoding a protein of 455 amino acids that contains a DNA binding domain (zinc finger) and a ligand binding domain. Phylogenetic analyses showed that LmHR3 has a high homology with the ortholog from Blattaria. RT-qPCR results revealed that LmHR3 has a low level expression in the early days of 5th instar nymphs, and then increases and peaks at day 6, followed by a decrease to low levels before ecdysis. The LmHR3, hence, coincides with the profile of circulating 20E levels. Indeed, we show that transcription of LmHR3 is induced by 20E in vivo, and significantly suppressed by successfully knocking down expression of LmEcR. After injection of dsRNA for LmHR3 (dsLmHR3) at day 2 of earlier instar nymphs (3rd and 4th instar) and final instar nymphs (5th instar), none of the nymphs were able to molt normally, and eventually died. Chitin staining and ultra-structural analysis showed that both the synthesis of the new cuticle and the degradation of the old cuticle were blocked in the dsLmHR3 treated nymphs. Especially, chitin synthesis genes (LmUAP1 and LmCHS1) and chitinase genes (LmCHT5 and LmCHT10) were significantly down-regulated in the dsLmHR3 treatment group. Together, our results suggest that LmHR3 is involved in the control of chitin synthesis and degradation during L. migratoria molting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Zhao
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Zhongyu Qin
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China; College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Weimin Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Xiaojian Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Bernard Moussian
- Angewandte Zoologie, TU Dresden, Zellescher Weg 20b, Dresden 01217, Germany; iBV, Universit e Nice, Parc Valrose, Nice 06000, France
| | - Enbo Ma
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Sheng Li
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Sciences and School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China.
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17
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Li K, Zhang X, Zuo Y, Liu W, Zhang J, Moussian B. Timed Knickkopf function is essential for wing cuticle formation in Drosophila melanogaster. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 89:1-10. [PMID: 28821399 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The insect cuticle is an extracellular matrix that consists of the polysaccharide chitin, proteins, lipids and organic molecules that are arranged in distinct horizontal layers. In Drosophila melanogaster, these layers are not formed sequentially, but, at least partially, at the same time. Timing of the underlying molecular mechanisms is conceivably crucial for cuticle formation. To study this issue, we determined the time period during which the function of Knickkopf (Knk), a key factor of chitin organization, is required for wing cuticle differentiation in D. melanogaster. Although knk is expressed throughout metamorphosis, we demonstrate that its expression 30 h prior and 48 h after pupariation is essential for correct wing cuticle formation. In other words, expression beyond this period is futile. Importantly, manipulation of Knk expression during this time causes wing bending suggesting an effect of Knk amounts on the physical properties of the wing cuticle. Manipulation of Knk expression also interferes with the structure and function of the cuticle surface. First, we show that the shape of surface nano-structures depends on the expression levels of knk. Second, we find that cuticle impermeability is compromised in wings with reduced knk expression. In summary, despite the extended supply of Knk during metamorphosis, controlled amounts of Knk are important for correct wing cuticle differentiation and function in a concise period of time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaixia Li
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China; College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
| | - Xubo Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
| | - Ying Zuo
- Scientific Instrument Center, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
| | - Weimin Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China.
| | - Bernard Moussian
- Institute of Biology Valrose, University of Nice, France & Applied Zoology, TU Dresden, Germany.
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18
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Boivin FJ, Schmidt-Ott KM. Transcriptional mechanisms coordinating tight junction assembly during epithelial differentiation. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2017. [PMID: 28636799 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial tissues form a selective barrier via direct cell-cell interactions to separate and establish concentration gradients between the different compartments of the body. Proper function and formation of this barrier rely on the establishment of distinct intercellular junction complexes. These complexes include tight junctions, adherens junctions, desmosomes, and gap junctions. The tight junction is by far the most diverse junctional complex in the epithelial barrier. Its composition varies greatly across different epithelial tissues to confer various barrier properties. Thus, epithelial cells rely on tightly regulated transcriptional mechanisms to ensure proper formation of the epithelial barrier and to achieve tight junction diversity. Here, we review different transcriptional mechanisms utilized during embryogenesis and disease development to promote tight junction assembly and maintenance of intercellular barrier integrity. We focus particularly on the Grainyhead-like transcription factors and ligand-activated nuclear hormone receptors, two central families of proteins in epithelialization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix J Boivin
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Kai M Schmidt-Ott
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Nephrology, Charité Medical University, Berlin, Germany
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19
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Yao L, Wang S, Westholm JO, Dai Q, Matsuda R, Hosono C, Bray S, Lai EC, Samakovlis C. Genome-wide identification of Grainy head targets in Drosophila reveals regulatory interactions with the POU domain transcription factor Vvl. Development 2017; 144:3145-3155. [PMID: 28760809 DOI: 10.1242/dev.143297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Grainy head (Grh) is a conserved transcription factor (TF) controlling epithelial differentiation and regeneration. To elucidate Grh functions we identified embryonic Grh targets by ChIP-seq and gene expression analysis. We show that Grh controls hundreds of target genes. Repression or activation correlates with the distance of Grh-binding sites to the transcription start sites of its targets. Analysis of 54 Grh-responsive enhancers during development and upon wounding suggests cooperation with distinct TFs in different contexts. In the airways, Grh-repressed genes encode key TFs involved in branching and cell differentiation. Reduction of the POU domain TF Ventral veins lacking (Vvl) largely ameliorates the airway morphogenesis defects of grh mutants. Vvl and Grh proteins additionally interact with each other and regulate a set of common enhancers during epithelial morphogenesis. We conclude that Grh and Vvl participate in a regulatory network controlling epithelial maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqun Yao
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, S10691, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Shenqiu Wang
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, S10691, Stockholm, Sweden.,Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Sloan-Kettering Institute, 1275 York Ave, Box 252, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Jakub O Westholm
- Department of Developmental Biology, Sloan-Kettering Institute, 1275 York Ave, Box 252, New York, NY 10065, USA.,Science for Life Laboratory, Tomtebodavägen 232, 171 21 Solna, Sweden
| | - Qi Dai
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, S10691, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Developmental Biology, Sloan-Kettering Institute, 1275 York Ave, Box 252, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Ryo Matsuda
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, S10691, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Chie Hosono
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, S10691, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sarah Bray
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK
| | - Eric C Lai
- Department of Developmental Biology, Sloan-Kettering Institute, 1275 York Ave, Box 252, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Christos Samakovlis
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, S10691, Stockholm, Sweden .,Science for Life Laboratory, Tomtebodavägen 232, 171 21 Solna, Sweden.,Molecular Pneumology, UGMLC, Aulweg 130, 35392 Giessen, Germany
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20
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Spanier KI, Jansen M, Decaestecker E, Hulselmans G, Becker D, Colbourne JK, Orsini L, De Meester L, Aerts S. Conserved Transcription Factors Steer Growth-Related Genomic Programs in Daphnia. Genome Biol Evol 2017; 9:1821-1842. [PMID: 28854641 PMCID: PMC5569996 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evx127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ecological genomics aims to understand the functional association between environmental gradients and the genes underlying adaptive traits. Many genes that are identified by genome-wide screening in ecologically relevant species lack functional annotations. Although gene functions can be inferred from sequence homology, such approaches have limited power. Here, we introduce ecological regulatory genomics by presenting an ontology-free gene prioritization method. Specifically, our method combines transcriptome profiling with high-throughput cis-regulatory sequence analysis in the water fleas Daphnia pulex and Daphnia magna. It screens coexpressed genes for overrepresented DNA motifs that serve as transcription factor binding sites, thereby providing insight into conserved transcription factors and gene regulatory networks shaping the expression profile. We first validated our method, called Daphnia-cisTarget, on a D. pulex heat shock data set, which revealed a network driven by the heat shock factor. Next, we performed RNA-Seq in D. magna exposed to the cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa. Daphnia-cisTarget identified coregulated gene networks that associate with the moulting cycle and potentially regulate life history changes in growth rate and age at maturity. These networks are predicted to be regulated by evolutionary conserved transcription factors such as the homologues of Drosophila Shavenbaby and Grainyhead, nuclear receptors, and a GATA family member. In conclusion, our approach allows prioritising candidate genes in Daphnia without bias towards prior knowledge about functional gene annotation and represents an important step towards exploring the molecular mechanisms of ecological responses in organisms with poorly annotated genomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katina I. Spanier
- Department of Biology, Laboratory of Aquatic Ecology, Evolution and Conservation, KU Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Human Genetics, Laboratory of Computational Biology, KU Leuven, Belgium
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mieke Jansen
- Department of Biology, Laboratory of Aquatic Ecology, Evolution and Conservation, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ellen Decaestecker
- Department of Biology, Laboratory of Aquatic Biology, Science and Technology, KU Leuven Campus Kulak, Kortrjik, Belgium
| | - Gert Hulselmans
- Department of Human Genetics, Laboratory of Computational Biology, KU Leuven, Belgium
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dörthe Becker
- Environmental Genomics Group, School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, University of Sheffield, Western Bank, United Kingdom
| | - John K. Colbourne
- Environmental Genomics Group, School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Luisa Orsini
- Environmental Genomics Group, School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Luc De Meester
- Department of Biology, Laboratory of Aquatic Ecology, Evolution and Conservation, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stein Aerts
- Department of Human Genetics, Laboratory of Computational Biology, KU Leuven, Belgium
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, KU Leuven, Belgium
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21
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Yu R, Liu W, Li D, Zhao X, Ding G, Zhang M, Ma E, Zhu K, Li S, Moussian B, Zhang J. Helicoidal Organization of Chitin in the Cuticle of the Migratory Locust Requires the Function of the Chitin Deacetylase2 Enzyme (LmCDA2). J Biol Chem 2016; 291:24352-24363. [PMID: 27637332 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.720581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
In the three-dimensional extracellular matrix of the insect cuticle, horizontally aligned microfibrils composed of the polysaccharide chitin and associated proteins are stacked either parallel to each other or helicoidally. The underlying molecular mechanisms that implement differential chitin organization are largely unknown. To learn more about cuticle organization, we sought to study the role of chitin deacetylases (CDA) in this process. In the body cuticle of nymphs of the migratory locust Locusta migratoria, helicoidal chitin organization is changed to an organization with unidirectional microfibril orientation when LmCDA2 expression is knocked down by RNA interference. In addition, the LmCDA2-deficient cuticle is less compact suggesting that LmCDA2 is needed for chitin packaging. Animals with reduced LmCDA2 activity die at molting, underlining that correct chitin organization is essential for survival. Interestingly, we find that LmCDA2 localizes only to the initially produced chitin microfibrils that constitute the apical site of the chitin stack. Based on our data, we hypothesize that LmCDA2-mediated chitin deacetylation at the beginning of chitin production is a decisive reaction that triggers helicoidal arrangement of subsequently assembled chitin-protein microfibrils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongrong Yu
- From the Research Institute of Applied Biology and College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Weimin Liu
- From the Research Institute of Applied Biology and College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Daqi Li
- From the Research Institute of Applied Biology and College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Xiaoming Zhao
- From the Research Institute of Applied Biology and College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Guowei Ding
- From the Research Institute of Applied Biology and College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Min Zhang
- From the Research Institute of Applied Biology and College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Enbo Ma
- From the Research Institute of Applied Biology and College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - KunYan Zhu
- the Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506
| | - Sheng Li
- the Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China, and
| | - Bernard Moussian
- the Chair of Applied Zoology, Institute of Zoology, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden 01217, Germany.
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- From the Research Institute of Applied Biology and College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China,.
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22
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Öztürk-Çolak A, Moussian B, Araújo SJ. Drosophila chitinous aECM and its cellular interactions during tracheal development. Dev Dyn 2015; 245:259-67. [PMID: 26442625 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Revised: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The morphology of organs, and hence their proper physiology, relies to a considerable extent on the extracellular matrix (ECM) secreted by their cells. The ECM is a structure contributed to and commonly shared by many cells in an organism that plays an active role in morphogenesis. Increasing evidence indicates that the ECM not only provides a passive contribution to organ shape but also impinges on cell behaviour and genetic programmes. The ECM is emerging as a direct modulator of many aspects of cell biology, rather than as a mere physical network that supports cells. Here, we review how the apical chitinous ECM is generated in Drosophila trachea and how cells participate in the formation of this supracellular structure. We discuss recent findings on the molecular and cellular events that lead to the formation of this apical ECM (aECM) and how it is influenced and affects tracheal cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arzu Öztürk-Çolak
- Institut de Biologia Molecular de Barcelona (IBMB-CSIC), Parc Cientific de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut de Recerca Biomedica de Barcelona (IRB Barcelona), Parc Cientific de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bernard Moussian
- Animal Genetics, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,Institute of Biology Valrose (IBV), University of Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Université de Nice - Faculté des Sciences-Parc Valrose, Nice, France
| | - Sofia J Araújo
- Institut de Biologia Molecular de Barcelona (IBMB-CSIC), Parc Cientific de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut de Recerca Biomedica de Barcelona (IRB Barcelona), Parc Cientific de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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23
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Wang Y, Antunes M, Anderson AE, Kadrmas JL, Jacinto A, Galko MJ. Integrin Adhesions Suppress Syncytium Formation in the Drosophila Larval Epidermis. Curr Biol 2015; 25:2215-27. [PMID: 26255846 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2015.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2014] [Revised: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Integrins are critical for barrier epithelial architecture. Integrin loss in vertebrate skin leads to blistering and wound healing defects. However, how integrins and associated proteins maintain the regular morphology of epithelia is not well understood. We found that targeted knockdown of the integrin focal adhesion (FA) complex components β-integrin, PINCH, and integrin-linked kinase (ILK) caused formation of multinucleate epidermal cells within the Drosophila larval epidermis. This phenotype was specific to the integrin FA complex and not due to secondary effects on polarity or junctional structures. The multinucleate cells resembled the syncytia caused by physical wounding. Live imaging of wound-induced syncytium formation in the pupal epidermis suggested direct membrane breakdown leading to cell-cell fusion and consequent mixing of cytoplasmic contents. Activation of Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling, which occurs upon wounding, also correlated with syncytium formation induced by PINCH knockdown. Further, ectopic JNK activation directly caused epidermal syncytium formation. No mode of syncytium formation, including that induced by wounding, genetic loss of FA proteins, or local JNK hyperactivation, involved misregulation of mitosis or apoptosis. Finally, the mechanism of epidermal syncytium formation following JNK hyperactivation and wounding appeared to be direct disassembly of FA complexes. In conclusion, the loss-of-function phenotype of integrin FA components in the larval epidermis resembles a wound. Integrin FA loss in mouse and human skin also causes a wound-like appearance. Our results reveal a novel and unexpected role for proper integrin-based adhesion in suppressing larval epidermal cell-cell fusion--a role that may be conserved in other epithelia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Marco Antunes
- CEDOC-Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa Campo Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa Edificio Egas Moniz, Av Prof Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Aimee E Anderson
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Julie L Kadrmas
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Antonio Jacinto
- CEDOC-Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa Campo Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa Edificio Egas Moniz, Av Prof Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua da Quinta Grande 6, 2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Michael J Galko
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Genes and Development Graduate Program, The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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24
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Santos CG, Hartfelder K. Insights into the dynamics of hind leg development in honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) queen and worker larvae - A morphology/differential gene expression analysis. Genet Mol Biol 2015; 38:263-77. [PMID: 26500430 PMCID: PMC4612609 DOI: 10.1590/s1415-475738320140393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenotypic plasticity is a hallmark of the caste systems of social insects, expressed in their life history and morphological traits. These are best studied in bees. In their co-evolution with angiosperm plants, the females of corbiculate bees have acquired a specialized structure on their hind legs for collecting pollen. In the highly eusocial bees (Apini and Meliponini), this structure is however only present in workers and absent in queens. By means of histological sections and cell proliferation analysis we followed the developmental dynamics of the hind legs of queens and workers in the fourth and fifth larval instars. In parallel, we generated subtractive cDNA libraries for hind leg discs of queen and worker larvae by means of a Representational Difference Analysis (RDA). From the total of 135 unique sequences we selected 19 for RT-qPCR analysis, where six of these were confirmed as differing significantly in their expression between the two castes in the larval spinning stage. The development of complex structures such as the bees' hind legs, requires diverse patterning mechanisms and signaling modules, as indicated by the set of differentially expressed genes related with cell adhesion and signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Gonçalves Santos
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Klaus Hartfelder
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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25
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Shaik KS, Wang Y, Aravind L, Moussian B. The Knickkopf DOMON domain is essential for cuticle differentiation in Drosophila melanogaster. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2014; 86:100-106. [PMID: 24723222 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The dopamine monoxygenase N-terminal (DOMON) domain is found in extracellular proteins across several eukaryotic and prokaryotic taxa. It has been proposed that this domain binds to heme or sugar moieties. Here, we have analyzed the role of four highly conserved amino acids in the DOMON domain of the Drosophila melanogaster Knickkopf protein that is inserted into the apical plasma membrane and assists extracellular chitin organization. In principal, we generated Knickkopf versions with exchanged residues tryptophan(299), methionine(333), arginine(401), or histidine(437), and scored for the ability of the respective engineered protein to normalize the knickkopf mutant phenotype. Our results confirm the absolute necessity of tryptophan(299), methionine(333), and histidine(437) for Knickkopf function and stability, the latter two being predicted to be critical for heme binding. In contrast, arginine(401) is required for full efficiency of Knickkopf activity. Taken together, our genetic data support the prediction of these residues to mediate the function of Knickkopf during cuticle differentiation in insects. Hence, the DOMON domain is apparently an essential factor contributing to the construction of polysaccharide-based extracellular matrices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaleelulla Saheb Shaik
- Genetik der Tiere, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, Eberhard-Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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26
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Qu M, Ma L, Chen P, Yang Q. Proteomic Analysis of Insect Molting Fluid with a Focus on Enzymes Involved in Chitin Degradation. J Proteome Res 2014; 13:2931-40. [DOI: 10.1021/pr5000957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mingbo Qu
- School
of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Li Ma
- Key
Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute
of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological
Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Peng Chen
- School
of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Qing Yang
- School
of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
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27
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Sultan ARS, Oish Y, Ueda H. Function of the nuclear receptor FTZ-F1 during the pupal stage in Drosophila melanogaster. Dev Growth Differ 2014; 56:245-53. [PMID: 24611773 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2013] [Revised: 01/04/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The nuclear receptor βFTZ-F1 is expressed in most cells in a temporally specific manner, and its expression is induced immediately after decline in ecdysteroid levels. This factor plays important roles during embryogenesis, larval ecdysis, and early metamorphic stages. However, little is known about the expression pattern, regulation and function of this receptor during the pupal stage. We analyzed the expression pattern and regulation of ftz-f1 during the pupal period, as well as the phenotypes of RNAi knockdown or mutant animals, to elucidate its function during this stage. Western blotting revealed that βFTZ-F1 is expressed at a high level during the late pupal stage, and this expression is dependent on decreasing ecdysteroid levels. By immunohistological analysis of the late pupal stage, FTZ-F1 was detected in the nuclei of most cells, but cytoplasmic localization was observed only in the oogonia and follicle cells of the ovary. Both the ftz-f1 genetic mutant and temporally specific ftz-f1 knockdown using RNAi during the pupal stage showed defects in eclosion and in the eye, the antennal segment, the wing and the leg, including bristle color and sclerosis. These results suggest that βFTZ-F1 is expressed in most cells at the late pupal stage, under the control of ecdysteroids and plays important roles during pupal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel-Rahman S Sultan
- The Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan
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28
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Chu X, Lu W, Zhang Y, Guo X, Sun R, Xu B. Cloning, expression patterns, and preliminary characterization of AccCPR24, a novel RR-1 type cuticle protein gene from Apis cerana cerana. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2013; 84:130-144. [PMID: 24115354 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Cuticular proteins (CPs) are key components of insect cuticle, a structure that plays a pivotal role in insect development and defense. In this study, we cloned the full-length cDNA of a CP gene from Apis cerana cerana (AccCPR24). An amino acid sequence alignment indicated that AccCPR24 contains the conserved Rebers and Riddiford consensus sequence and shares high similarity with the genes from other hymenopteran insects. We then isolated the genomic DNA and found that the first intron, which is present in other CP genes, is absent in AccCPR24. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis revealed that AccCPR24 is highly expressed in the late pupal stage and midgut. Expression was inhibited by an exogenous ecdysteroid in vitro but was enhanced by this hormone in vivo; environmental stressors, such as heavy metals and pesticides, also influenced gene expression. In addition, a disc diffusion assay showed that AccCPR24 enhanced the ability of bacterial cells to resist multiple stresses. We infer from our results that AccCPR24 acts in honeybee development and in protecting these insects from abiotic stresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong, People's Republic of China
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