1
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Perrot-Minnot MJ, Parrot S. Contrasting alterations in brain chemistry in a crustacean intermediate host of two acanthocephalan parasites. Exp Parasitol 2024; 265:108821. [PMID: 39128576 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2024.108821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 07/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
The dynamic properties of neural systems throughout life can be hijacked by so-called manipulative parasites. This study investigated changes in the brain chemistry of the amphipod Gammarus fossarum in response to infection with two trophically-transmitted helminth parasites known to induce distinct behavioral alterations: the bird acanthocephalan Polymorphus minutus and the fish acanthocephalan Pomphorhynchus tereticollis. We quantified brain antioxidant capacity as a common marker of homeostasis and neuroprotection, and brain total protein, on 72 pools of six brains. We analyzed the concentration of serotonin (5HT), dopamine (DA) and tyramine in 52 pools of six brains, by using ultrafast high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection (UHPLC-ECD). Brain total protein concentration scaled hypo-allometrically to dry body weight, and was increased in infected gammarids compared to uninfected ones. The brain of gammarids infected with P. minutus had significantly lower total antioxidant capacity relative to total proteins. Infection with P. tereticollis impacted DA level compared to uninfected ones, and in opposite direction between spring and summer. Brain 5HT level was higher in summer compared to spring independently of infection status, and was decreased by infection after correcting for brain total protein concentration estimated from dry whole-body weight. The potential implication of 5HT/DA balance in parasite manipulation, as a major modulator of the reward-punishment axis, is discussed. Taken together, these findings highlight the need to consider both brain homeostatic and/or structural changes (antioxidant and total protein content) together with neurotransmission balance and flexibility, in studies investigating the impact of parasites on brain and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandrine Parrot
- Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon, Neurodialytics Facility, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM, U1028, CNRS, UMR 5292, Bron, France
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2
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Gasque SN, Fredensborg BL. Expression of trematode-induced zombie-ant behavior is strongly associated with temperature. Behav Ecol 2023; 34:960-968. [PMID: 37969549 PMCID: PMC10636736 DOI: 10.1093/beheco/arad064] [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: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Parasite-induced modification of host behavior increasing transmission to a next host is a common phenomenon. However, field-based studies are rare, and the role of environmental factors in eliciting host behavioral modification is often not considered. We examined the effects of temperature, relative humidity (RH), time of day, date, and an irradiation proxy on behavioral modification of the ant Formica polyctena (Förster, 1850) by the brain-encysting lancet liver fluke Dicrocoelium dendriticum (Rudolphi, 1819). This fluke induces ants to climb and bite to vegetation by the mandibles in a state of temporary tetany. A total of 1264 individual ants expressing the modified behavior were observed over 13 non-consecutive days during one year in the Bidstrup Forests, Denmark. A sub-set of those ants (N = 172) was individually marked to track the attachment and release of infected ants in relation to variation in temperature. Infected ants primarily attached to vegetation early and late in the day, corresponding to low temperature and high RH, presumably coinciding with the grazing activity of potential herbivorous definitive hosts. Temperature was the single most important determinant for the induced phenotypic change. On warm days, infected ants altered between the manipulated and non-manipulated state multiple times, while on cool days, many infected ants remained attached to the vegetation all day. Our results suggest that the temperature sensitivity of the infected ants serves the dual purpose of exposing infected ants to the next host at an opportune time, while protecting them from exposure to high temperatures, which might increase host (and parasite) mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Nordstrand Gasque
- Section for Organismal Biology, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Brian Lund Fredensborg
- Section for Organismal Biology, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
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3
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Gao DM, Qiao JH, Gao Q, Zhang J, Zang Y, Xie L, Zhang Y, Wang Y, Fu J, Zhang H, Han C, Wang XB. A plant cytorhabdovirus modulates locomotor activity of insect vectors to enhance virus transmission. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5754. [PMID: 37717061 PMCID: PMC10505171 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41503-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Transmission of many plant viruses relies on phloem-feeding insect vectors. However, how plant viruses directly modulate insect behavior is largely unknown. Barley yellow striate mosaic virus (BYSMV) is transmitted by the small brown planthopper (SBPH, Laodelphax striatellus). Here, we show that BYSMV infects the central nervous system (CNS) of SBPHs, induces insect hyperactivity, and prolongs phloem feeding duration. The BYSMV accessory protein P6 interacts with the COP9 signalosome subunit 5 (LsCSN5) of SBPHs and suppresses LsCSN5-regulated de-neddylation from the Cullin 1 (CUL1), hereby inhibiting CUL1-based E3 ligases-mediated degradation of the circadian clock protein Timeless (TIM). Thus, virus infection or knockdown of LsCSN5 compromises TIM oscillation and induces high insect locomotor activity for transmission. Additionally, expression of BYSMV P6 in the CNS of transgenic Drosophila melanogaster disturbs circadian rhythm and induces high locomotor activity. Together, our results suggest the molecular mechanisms whereby BYSMV modulates locomotor activity of insect vectors for transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Min Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Environmental Resilience, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Ji-Hui Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Environmental Resilience, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Qiang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Environmental Resilience, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Key Laboratory of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jiawen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Ying Zang
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Environmental Resilience, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Liang Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Environmental Resilience, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Key Laboratory of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jingyan Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Chenggui Han
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Key Laboratory of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xian-Bing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Environmental Resilience, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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4
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Chen Y, Wang P, Shu X, Wang Z, Chen X. Morphology and Ultrastructure of the Female Reproductive Apparatus of an Asexual Strain of the Endoparasitoid Meteorus pulchricornis (Wesmael) (Hymenoptera, Braconidae). BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12050713. [PMID: 37237527 DOI: 10.3390/biology12050713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Meteorus pulchricornis (Wesmael) is a solitary endoparasitoid of lepidopteran pests and a good candidate for the control of Spodoptera frugiperda. To elucidate the structure of the female reproductive apparatus, which may play a role in facilitating successful parasitism, we presented the description of the morphology and ultrastructure of the whole female reproductive system in a thelytokous strain of M. pulchricornis. Its reproductive system includes a pair of ovaries without specialized ovarian tissues, a branched venom gland, a venom reservoir, and a single Dufour gland. Each ovariole contains follicles and oocytes at different stages of maturation. A fibrous layer, possibly an egg surface protector, coats the surface of mature eggs. The venom gland consists of secretory units (including secretory cells and ducts) with abundant mitochondria, vesicles and end apparatuses in the cytoplasm, and a lumen. The venom reservoir is comprised of a muscular sheath, epidermal cells with few end apparatuses and mitochondria, and a large lumen. Furthermore, venosomes are produced by secretory cells and delivered into the lumen via the ducts. As a result, myriad venosomes are observed in the venom gland filaments and the venom reservoir, suggesting that they may function as a parasitic factor and have important roles in effective parasitism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusi Chen
- Hainan Institute, Zhejiang University, Sanya 572025, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
- State Key Lab of Rice Biology, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Institute of Insect Sciences, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Pengzhan Wang
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
- State Key Lab of Rice Biology, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Institute of Insect Sciences, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xiaohan Shu
- Hainan Institute, Zhejiang University, Sanya 572025, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
- State Key Lab of Rice Biology, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Institute of Insect Sciences, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhizhi Wang
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
- State Key Lab of Rice Biology, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Institute of Insect Sciences, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xuexin Chen
- Hainan Institute, Zhejiang University, Sanya 572025, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
- State Key Lab of Rice Biology, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Institute of Insect Sciences, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
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5
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Kloss TG, de Pádua DG, de Almeida SDS, Penteado-Dias AM, Mendes-Pereira T, Sobczak JF, Lacerda FG, Gonzaga MO. A New Darwin Wasp (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) and New Records of Behavioral Manipulation of the Host Spider Leucauge volupis (Araneae: Tetragnathidae). NEOTROPICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2022; 51:821-829. [PMID: 36097253 DOI: 10.1007/s13744-022-00991-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Some ichneumonid wasps of the Polysphincta group of genera (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Pimplinae) induce behavioral modifications in their host spiders during a specific moment of their development, resulting in the construction of webs that differ in several aspects from those constructed by unparasitized individuals. In this study, we describe the parasitoid wasp Hymenoepimecis pinheirensis sp. n. (Ichneumonidae: Pimplinae) and present information on behavioral modifications in the orb-web structure of its host, the spider Leucauge volupis (Keyserling 1893). Previously, reported observation on this host/parasitoid interaction was restricted to one locality, and the wasp species was misidentified as Hymenoepimecis jordanensis Loffredo and Penteado-Dias 2009. Modified webs built by parasitized spiders lack adhesive spirals and have several radii that converge to the web hub. The cocoon built by the wasp larvae is attached to the web hub, suspended by horizontal radial lines, and surrounded by a tridimensional tangle positioned below the hub. This modified web structure is similar to the most frequent architecture of webs constructed by individuals of Leucauge mariana (Taczanowski 1881) parasitized by Hymenoepimecis tedfordi Gauld 1991. However, cocoon webs built by L. volupis parasitized by H. pinheirensis sp. n. differ from the cocoon webs described for the other Leucauge species parasitized by Hymenoepimecis wasps. This evidence suggests that the modified web pattern in Leucauge species is determined by specific responses of each spider species to the behavioral manipulation mechanism displayed by the wasps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago Gechel Kloss
- Depto de Biologia Geral, Univ Federal de Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Viçosa, Brazil.
| | - Diego Galvão de Pádua
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Entomologia, Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
| | | | | | - Thairine Mendes-Pereira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Univ Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Jober Fernando Sobczak
- Instituto de Ciências Exatas e da Natureza, Univ da Integração Internacional da Lusofonia Afro-Brasileira, Redenção, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Fabrícia Gonçalves Lacerda
- Depto de Biologia, Centro de Ciências Exatas, Naturais e da Saúde, Univ Federal do Espírito Santo, Alegre, Espírito Santo, Brazil
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6
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Naundrup A, Bohman B, Kwadha CA, Jensen AB, Becher PG, De Fine Licht HH. Pathogenic fungus uses volatiles to entice male flies into fatal matings with infected female cadavers. THE ISME JOURNAL 2022; 16:2388-2397. [PMID: 35831484 PMCID: PMC9477817 DOI: 10.1038/s41396-022-01284-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
To ensure dispersal, many parasites and pathogens behaviourally manipulate infected hosts. Other pathogens and certain insect-pollinated flowers use sexual mimicry and release deceptive mating signals. However, it is unusual for pathogens to rely on both behavioural host manipulation and sexual mimicry. Here, we show that the host-specific and behaviourally manipulating pathogenic fungus, Entomophthora muscae, generates a chemical blend of volatile sesquiterpenes and alters the profile of natural host cuticular hydrocarbons in infected female housefly (Musca domestica) cadavers. Healthy male houseflies respond to the fungal compounds and are enticed into mating with female cadavers. This is advantageous for the fungus as close proximity between host individuals leads to an increased probability of infection. The fungus exploits the willingness of male flies to mate and benefits from altering the behaviour of uninfected male host flies. The altered cuticular hydrocarbons and emitted volatiles thus underlie the evolution of an extended phenotypic trait.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Naundrup
- Section for Organismal Biology, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, København, Denmark.
| | - Björn Bohman
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden
| | - Charles A Kwadha
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden
| | - Annette B Jensen
- Section for Organismal Biology, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, København, Denmark
| | - Paul G Becher
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden
| | - Henrik H De Fine Licht
- Section for Organismal Biology, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, København, Denmark.
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7
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Adamo SA. Dividing up the bill: Interactions between how parasitoids manipulate host behaviour and who pays the cost. Funct Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.14150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shelley A. Adamo
- Dept Psychology and Neuroscience Dalhousie University Halifax NS Canada
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8
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Doherty JF, Matthews BJ. Host Manipulation, Gene Editing, and Non-Traditional Model Organisms: A New Frontier for Behavioral Research? FRONTIERS IN INSECT SCIENCE 2022; 2:938644. [PMID: 38468779 PMCID: PMC10926399 DOI: 10.3389/finsc.2022.938644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Insects and parasites dominate the biosphere, in terms of known biodiversity and mode of life, respectively. Consequently, insects play a part in many host-parasite systems, either as parasite, host, or both. Moreover, a lot of these systems involve adaptive parasite-induced changes of host phenotype (typically behavior or morphology), which is commonly known as host manipulation. While many host manipulation systems have been described within the last few decades, the proximate mechanisms that underpin host phenotypic change are still largely unknown. Given the intimate co-evolutionary history of host-parasite systems, teasing apart the intricate network of biochemical reactions involved in host manipulation requires the integration of various complementary technologies. In this perspective, we stress the importance of multidisciplinary research on host manipulation, such as high-throughput sequencing methods (genomics and transcriptomics) to search for candidate mechanisms that are activated during a manipulation event. Then, we argue that gene editing technologies, specifically the CRISPR-Cas9 system, are a powerful way to test for the functional roles of candidate mechanisms, in both the parasite and the host. Finally, given the sheer diversity of unique host-parasite systems discovered to date, there is indeed a tremendous potential to create novel non-traditional model systems that could greatly expand our capacity to test the fundamental aspects of behavior and behavioral regulation.
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9
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Nordio S, Kaiser M, Adams ME, Libersat F. Parasitoid wasp venom manipulates host innate behavior via subtype-specific dopamine receptor activation. J Exp Biol 2022; 225:274808. [PMID: 35320357 PMCID: PMC8996814 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.243674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The subjugation strategy employed by the jewel wasp is unique in that it manipulates the behavior of its host, the American cockroach, rather than inducing outright paralysis. Upon envenomation directly into the central complex (CX), a command center in the brain for motor behavior, the stung cockroach initially engages in intense grooming behavior, then falls into a lethargic sleep-like state referred to as hypokinesia. Behavioral changes evoked by the sting are due at least in part to the presence of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the venom. In insects, dopamine receptors are classified as two families, the D1-like and the D2-like receptors. However, specific roles played by dopamine receptor subtypes in venom-induced behavioral manipulation by the jewel wasp remain largely unknown. In the present study, we used a pharmacological approach to investigate roles of D1-like and D2-like receptors in behaviors exhibited by stung cockroaches, focusing on grooming. Specifically, we assessed behavioral outcomes of focal CX injections of dopamine receptor agonists and antagonists. Both specific and non-specific compounds were used. Our results strongly implicate D1-like dopamine receptors in venom-induced grooming. Regarding induction of hypokinesia, our findings demonstrate that dopamine signaling is necessary for induction of long-lasting hypokinesia caused by brain envenomation. Highlighted Article: Subtype-specific dopamine receptors are involved in the manipulation of host behavior by the parasitoid jewel wasp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Nordio
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O. Box 653, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel.,Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O. Box 653, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Maayan Kaiser
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O. Box 653, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel.,Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O. Box 653, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Michael E Adams
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.,Department of Molecular, Cell, and Systems Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Frederic Libersat
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O. Box 653, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel.,Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O. Box 653, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
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10
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Gandia KM, Cappa F, Baracchi D, Hauber ME, Beani L, Uy FMK. Caste, Sex, and Parasitism Influence Brain Plasticity in a Social Wasp. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2022.803437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain plasticity is widespread in nature, as it enables adaptive responses to sensory demands associated with novel stimuli, environmental changes and social conditions. Social Hymenoptera are particularly well-suited to study neuroplasticity, because the division of labor amongst females and the different life histories of males and females are associated with specific sensory needs. Here, we take advantage of the social wasp Polistes dominula to explore if brain plasticity is influenced by caste and sex, and the exploitation by the strepsipteran parasite Xenos vesparum. Within sexes, male wasps had proportionally larger optic lobes, while females had larger antennal lobes, which is consistent with the sensory needs of sex-specific life histories. Within castes, reproductive females had larger mushroom body calyces, as predicted by their sensory needs for extensive within-colony interactions and winter aggregations, than workers who frequently forage for nest material and prey. Parasites had different effects on female and male hosts. Contrary to our predictions, female workers were castrated and behaviorally manipulated by female or male parasites, but only showed moderate differences in brain tissue allocation compared to non-parasitized workers. Parasitized males maintained their reproductive apparatus and sexual behavior. However, they had smaller brains and larger sensory brain regions than non-parasitized males. Our findings confirm that caste and sex mediate brain plasticity in P. dominula, and that parasitic manipulation drives differential allocation of brain regions depending on host sex.
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11
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Llopis-Giménez A, Caballero-Vidal G, Jacquin-Joly E, Crava CM, Herrero S. Baculovirus infection affects caterpillar chemoperception. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 138:103648. [PMID: 34536505 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2021.103648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Baculoviruses are double-stranded DNA entomopathogenic viruses that infect predominantly insects of the order Lepidoptera. Research in the last decade has started to disentangle the mechanisms underlying the insect-virus interaction, particularly focusing on the effects of the baculovirus infection in the host's physiology. Among crucial physiological functions, olfaction has a key role in reproductive tasks, food source detection and enemy avoidance. In this work, we describe that Spodoptera exigua multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (SeMNPV) induces expression changes in some odorant receptors (ORs) - the centrepiece of insect's olfaction - when infecting larvae from its natural host Spodoptera exigua (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Different ORs are up-regulated in larvae after SeMNPV infection, and two of them, SexiOR35 and SexiOR23, were selected for further functional characterization by heterologous expression in empty neurons of Drosophila melanogaster coupled to single-sensillum recordings. SexiOR35 appears to be a broadly tuned receptor able to recognise multiple and different chemical compounds. SexiOR23, although correctly expressed in Drosophila neurons, did not display any significant response to a panel of 58 stimuli. Behavioural experiments revealed that larvae infected by SeMNPV exhibit altered olfactory-driven behaviour to diet when it is supplemented with the plant volatiles linalool or estragole, two of the main SexiOR35 ligands, supporting the hypothesis that viral infection triggers changes in host perception through changes in the expression level of specific ORs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel Llopis-Giménez
- Department of Genetics, University Institute of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (BIOTECMED), Universitat de València, 46100, Burjassot (València), Spain
| | - Gabriela Caballero-Vidal
- INRAE, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, IRD, UPEC, Université de Paris, Institute of Ecology and Environmental Sciences of Paris, F78026, Versailles Cedex, France
| | - Emmanuelle Jacquin-Joly
- INRAE, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, IRD, UPEC, Université de Paris, Institute of Ecology and Environmental Sciences of Paris, F78026, Versailles Cedex, France
| | - Cristina Maria Crava
- Department of Genetics, University Institute of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (BIOTECMED), Universitat de València, 46100, Burjassot (València), Spain.
| | - Salvador Herrero
- Department of Genetics, University Institute of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (BIOTECMED), Universitat de València, 46100, Burjassot (València), Spain.
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12
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Chen J, Fang G, Pang L, Sheng Y, Zhang Q, Zhou Y, Zhou S, Lu Y, Liu Z, Zhang Y, Li G, Shi M, Chen X, Zhan S, Huang J. Neofunctionalization of an ancient domain allows parasites to avoid intraspecific competition by manipulating host behaviour. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5489. [PMID: 34531391 PMCID: PMC8446075 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25727-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Intraspecific competition is a major force in mediating population dynamics, fuelling adaptation, and potentially leading to evolutionary diversification. Among the evolutionary arms races between parasites, one of the most fundamental and intriguing behavioural adaptations and counter-adaptations are superparasitism and superparasitism avoidance. However, the underlying mechanisms and ecological contexts of these phenomena remain underexplored. Here, we apply the Drosophila parasite Leptopilina boulardi as a study system and find that this solitary endoparasitic wasp provokes a host escape response for superparasitism avoidance. We combine multi-omics and in vivo functional studies to characterize a small set of RhoGAP domain-containing genes that mediate the parasite's manipulation of host escape behaviour by inducing reactive oxygen species in the host central nervous system. We further uncover an evolutionary scenario in which neofunctionalization and specialization gave rise to the novel role of RhoGAP domain in avoiding superparasitism, with an ancestral origin prior to the divergence between Leptopilina specialist and generalist species. Our study suggests that superparasitism avoidance is adaptive for a parasite and adds to our understanding of how the molecular manipulation of host behaviour has evolved in this system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiani Chen
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XInstitute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Gangqi Fang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309CAS Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lan Pang
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XInstitute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yifeng Sheng
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XInstitute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qichao Zhang
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XInstitute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuenan Zhou
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XInstitute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Sicong Zhou
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XInstitute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yueqi Lu
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XInstitute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiguo Liu
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XInstitute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China ,grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XKey Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yixiang Zhang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309CAS Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guiyun Li
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309CAS Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Shi
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XInstitute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China ,grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XKey Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xuexin Chen
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XInstitute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China ,grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XKey Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China ,grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XState Key Lab of Rice Biology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuai Zhan
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309CAS Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jianhua Huang
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XInstitute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China ,grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XKey Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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13
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Beani L, Mariotti Lippi M, Mulinacci N, Manfredini F, Cecchi L, Giuliani C, Tani C, Meriggi N, Cavalieri D, Cappa F. Altered feeding behavior and immune competence in paper wasps: A case of parasite manipulation? PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242486. [PMID: 33326432 PMCID: PMC7743958 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Paper wasps (Polistes dominula), parasitized by the strepsipteran Xenos vesparum, are castrated and desert the colony to gather on plants where the parasite mates and releases primary larvae, thus completing its lifecycle. One of these plants is the trumpet creeper Campsis radicans: in a previous study the majority of all wasps collected from this plant were parasitized and focused their foraging activity on C. radicans buds. The unexpected prevalence and unusual feeding strategy prompted us to investigate the influence of this plant on wasp behavior and physiology through a multidisciplinary approach. First, in a series of laboratory bioassays, we observed that parasitized wasps spent more time than non-parasitized ones on fresh C. radicans buds, rich of extra-floral nectaries (EFNs), while the same wasps ignored treated buds that lacked nectar drops. Then, we described the structure and ultra-structure of EFNs secreting cells, compatible with the synthesis of phenolic compounds. Subsequently, we analysed extracts from different bud tissues by HPLC-DAD-MS and found that verbascoside was the most abundant bioactive molecule in those tissues rich in EFNs. Finally, we tested the immune-stimulant properties of verbascoside, as the biochemical nature of this compound indicates it might function as an antibacterial and antioxidant. We measured bacterial clearance in wasps, as a proxy for overall immune competence, and observed that it was enhanced after administration of verbascoside-even more so if the wasp was parasitized. We hypothesize that the parasite manipulates wasp behavior to preferentially feed on C. radicans EFNs, since the bioactive properties of verbascoside likely increase host survival and thus the parasite own fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Beani
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Firenze, Firenze, Italia
- * E-mail: (LB); (DC)
| | | | - Nadia Mulinacci
- Dipartimento di NEUROFARBA, Università di Firenze, Firenze, Italia
| | - Fabio Manfredini
- School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, United Kingdom
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Lorenzo Cecchi
- Dipartimento di NEUROFARBA, Università di Firenze, Firenze, Italia
| | - Claudia Giuliani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italia
| | - Corrado Tani
- Dipartimento di NEUROFARBA, Università di Firenze, Firenze, Italia
| | - Niccolò Meriggi
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Firenze, Firenze, Italia
| | - Duccio Cavalieri
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Firenze, Firenze, Italia
- * E-mail: (LB); (DC)
| | - Federico Cappa
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Firenze, Firenze, Italia
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14
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Loreto RG, Hughes DP. The metabolic alteration and apparent preservation of the zombie ant brain. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 118:103918. [PMID: 31400384 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2019.103918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Some parasites can manipulate the behavior of their animal hosts to increase transmission. An interesting area of research is understanding how host neurobiology is manipulated by microbes to the point of displaying such aberrant behaviors. Here, we characterize the metabolic profile of the brain of an insect at the moment of the behavioral manipulation by a parasitic microbe. Our model system are ants infected with the parasitic fungus Ophiocordyceps kimflemingiae (=unilateralis), which manipulates ants to climb and bite into plant substrates, before killing the host (i.e. zombie ants). At the moment of the behavioral manipulation by the fungus, the host's brain is not invaded by the fungus which is known to extensively invade muscle tissue. We found that, despite not being invaded by the parasite, the brains of manipulated ants are notably different, showing alterations in neuromodulatory substances, signs of neurodegeneration, changes in energy use, and antioxidant compound that signal stress reactions by the host. Ergothionine, a fungal derived compound with known neuronal cytoprotection functions was found to be highly elevated in zombie ant brains suggesting the fungus, which does not invade the central nervous system, is preserving the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel G Loreto
- Department of Entomology and Center for Infectious Disease Dynamics, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, 16802 PA, USA; Unit of Genetics and Genomics of Insect Vectors, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institute Pasteur, Paris 75724, France
| | - David P Hughes
- Department of Entomology and Center for Infectious Disease Dynamics, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, 16802 PA, USA; Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, 16802 PA, USA.
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15
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Groothuis J, Pfeiffer K, El Jundi B, Smid HM. The Jewel Wasp Standard Brain: Average shape atlas and morphology of the female Nasonia vitripennis brain. ARTHROPOD STRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT 2019; 51:41-51. [PMID: 31357033 DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2019.100878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Nasonia, a genus of parasitoid wasps, is a promising model system in the study of developmental and evolutionary genetics, as well as complex traits such as learning. Of these "jewel wasps", the species Nasonia vitripennis is widely spread and widely studied. To accelerate neuroscientific research in this model species, fundamental knowledge of its nervous system is needed. To this end, we present an average standard brain of recently eclosed naïve female N. vitripennis wasps obtained by the iterative shape averaging method. This "Jewel Wasp Standard Brain" includes the optic lobe (excluding the lamina), the anterior optic tubercle, the antennal lobe, the lateral horn, the mushroom body, the central complex, and the remaining unclassified neuropils in the central brain. Furthermore, we briefly describe these well-defined neuropils and their subregions in the N. vitripennis brain. A volumetric analysis of these neuropils is discussed in the context of brains of other insect species. The Jewel Wasp Standard Brain will provide a framework to integrate and consolidate the results of future neurobiological studies in N. vitripennis. In addition, the volumetric analysis provides a baseline for future work on age- and experience-dependent brain plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitte Groothuis
- Laboratory of Entomology, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708 PB, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Keram Pfeiffer
- Behavioral Physiology and Sociobiology (Zoology II), University of Würzburg, Biocenter, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Basil El Jundi
- Behavioral Physiology and Sociobiology (Zoology II), University of Würzburg, Biocenter, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Hans M Smid
- Laboratory of Entomology, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708 PB, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
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16
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Weinersmith KL. What's gotten into you?: a review of recent research on parasitoid manipulation of host behavior. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2019; 33:37-42. [PMID: 31358193 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2018.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Some parasitoids modify the behavior of their hosts, benefiting themselves at the host's expense. This phenomenon is called 'manipulation', and current research on parasitoid manipulation of host behavior tends to fall into one of three categories. First, the frequency of manipulation and the magnitude of its benefits to the parasitoid remains unclear. Basic documentation of manipulations is thus a major research focus, with especially valuable recent data coming from spiders manipulated by Polysphincta wasps. Second, for a handful of systems, we now have sufficient phylogenetic and behavioral data to begin asking questions about how manipulation evolved. Finally, the field continues to probe the mechanisms through which parasitoids manipulate host behavior, and now examines the role of parasitoid symbionts in this interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly L Weinersmith
- Department of BioSciences, Rice University, MS-140, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005, USA.
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17
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de Bekker C. Ophiocordyceps-ant interactions as an integrative model to understand the molecular basis of parasitic behavioral manipulation. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2019; 33:19-24. [PMID: 31358190 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2019.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Ophiocordyceps-infected ants display a substrate biting behavior that aids parasite transmission. World-wide research into this behavioral manipulation has led to new fungal species descriptions, annotated genomes, and detailed field observations. Experimentally tractable modified ant behaviors and the development of infection techniques have enabled the quest for the molecular basis of this phenomenon. Behavioral studies followed by transcriptomics, metabolomics and three-dimensional electron microscopy have led to novel mechanistic hypotheses. This multidisciplinary work represents a big leap forward. However, definitive answers have yet to be obtained. A comprehensive understanding hinges on continued integrative efforts that reveal the precise natural history, behavioral ecology and evolutionary relationships between Ophiocordyceps-ant systems, and the true functions and involvement of genes and metabolites in behavioral manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charissa de Bekker
- University of Central Florida, College of Sciences, Biology Department, 4110 Libra Drive, 32816 Orlando, FL, United States.
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18
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Gasque SN, van Oers MM, Ros VI. Where the baculoviruses lead, the caterpillars follow: baculovirus-induced alterations in caterpillar behaviour. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2019; 33:30-36. [PMID: 31358192 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2019.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Baculoviruses are well-known for altering the behaviour of their caterpillar hosts by inducing hyperactivity (enhanced locomotion) and/or tree-top disease (climbing to elevated positions before death). These features, along with the genomic small size of baculoviruses compared to non-viral parasites and the at hand techniques for producing mutants, imply that baculoviruses are excellent tools for unravelling the molecular mechanisms underlying parasitic alteration of host behaviour. Baculoviruses can be easily mutated, allowing an optimal experimental setup in comparative studies, where for instance host gene expression can be compared between insects infected with wild-type viruses or with mutant viruses lacking genes involved in behavioural manipulation. Recent studies have revealed the first insight into the underlying molecular pathways that lead to the typical behaviour of baculovirus-infected caterpillars and into the role of light therein. Since host behaviour in general is mediated through the host's central nervous system (CNS), a promising future step will be to study how baculoviruses regulate the neuronal activity of the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone N Gasque
- Laboratory of Virology, Wageningen University and Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708 PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Monique M van Oers
- Laboratory of Virology, Wageningen University and Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708 PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Vera Id Ros
- Laboratory of Virology, Wageningen University and Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708 PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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19
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Eberhard WG, Gonzaga MO. Evidence that Polysphincta-group wasps (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) use ecdysteroids to manipulate the
web-construction behaviour of their spider hosts. Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/biolinnean/blz044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- William G Eberhard
- Smithsonian Tropical Institute, Panama, Ancón, República de Panamáa
- Escuela de BiologÍa, Universidad de Costa Rica, Ciudad Universitaria, Costa Rica, USA
- Museum of Natural Science, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Marcelo O Gonzaga
- Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
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20
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Kaiser M, Arvidson R, Zarivach R, Adams ME, Libersat F. Molecular cross-talk in a unique parasitoid manipulation strategy. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 106:64-78. [PMID: 30508629 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2018.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 11/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Envenomation of cockroach cerebral ganglia by the parasitoid Jewel wasp, Ampulex compressa, induces specific, long-lasting behavioural changes. We hypothesized that this prolonged action results from venom-induced changes in brain neurochemistry. Here, we address this issue by first identifying molecular targets of the venom, i.e., proteins to which venom components bind and interact with to mediate altered behaviour. Our results show that venom components bind to synaptic proteins and likely interfere with both pre- and postsynaptic processes. Since behavioural changes induced by the sting are long-lasting and reversible, we hypothesized further that long-term effects of the venom must be mediated by up or down regulation of cerebral ganglia proteins. We therefore characterize changes in cerebral ganglia protein abundance of stung cockroaches at different time points after the sting by quantitative mass spectrometry. Our findings indicate that numerous proteins are differentially expressed in cerebral ganglia of stung cockroaches, many of which are involved in signal transduction, such as the Rho GTPase pathway, which is implicated in synaptic plasticity. Altogether, our data suggest that the Jewel wasp commandeers cockroach behaviour through molecular cross-talk between venom components and molecular targets in the cockroach central nervous system, leading to broad-based alteration of synaptic efficacy and behavioural changes that promote successful development of wasp progeny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maayan Kaiser
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O. Box 653, Beer Sheva, 84105, Israel; Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O. Box 653, Beer Sheva, 84105, Israel
| | - Ryan Arvidson
- Graduate Program in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA; Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Raz Zarivach
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O. Box 653, Beer Sheva, 84105, Israel
| | - Michael E Adams
- Graduate Program in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA; Department of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA; Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Frederic Libersat
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O. Box 653, Beer Sheva, 84105, Israel; Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O. Box 653, Beer Sheva, 84105, Israel.
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21
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22
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23
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Libersat F, Kaiser M, Emanuel S. Mind Control: How Parasites Manipulate Cognitive Functions in Their Insect Hosts. Front Psychol 2018; 9:572. [PMID: 29765342 PMCID: PMC5938628 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.00572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuro-parasitology is an emerging branch of science that deals with parasites that can control the nervous system of the host. It offers the possibility of discovering how one species (the parasite) modifies a particular neural network, and thus particular behaviors, of another species (the host). Such parasite-host interactions, developed over millions of years of evolution, provide unique tools by which one can determine how neuromodulation up-or-down regulates specific behaviors. In some of the most fascinating manipulations, the parasite taps into the host brain neuronal circuities to manipulate hosts cognitive functions. To name just a few examples, some worms induce crickets and other terrestrial insects to commit suicide in water, enabling the exit of the parasite into an aquatic environment favorable to its reproduction. In another example of behavioral manipulation, ants that consumed the secretions of a caterpillar containing dopamine are less likely to move away from the caterpillar and more likely to be aggressive. This benefits the caterpillar for without its ant bodyguards, it is more likely to be predated upon or attacked by parasitic insects that would lay eggs inside its body. Another example is the parasitic wasp, which induces a guarding behavior in its ladybug host in collaboration with a viral mutualist. To exert long-term behavioral manipulation of the host, parasite must secrete compounds that act through secondary messengers and/or directly on genes often modifying gene expression to produce long-lasting effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic Libersat
- Department of Life Sciences and Zlotowski Center for Neurosciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Maayan Kaiser
- Department of Life Sciences and Zlotowski Center for Neurosciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Stav Emanuel
- Department of Life Sciences and Zlotowski Center for Neurosciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
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