1
|
McCulloch JB, Gassmann AJ. Larval density-dependent mortality of western corn rootworm (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in Bt and non-Bt maize and implications on dose calculations †. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024; 80:4034-4043. [PMID: 38563449 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgenic crops producing insecticidal toxins from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) have been used to manage insect pests for nearly 30 years. Dose of a Bt crop is key to assessing the risk of resistance evolution because it affects the heritability of resistance traits. Western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera, LeConte), a major pest of maize, has evolved resistance to all commercially available Bt traits targeting it, and threatens resistance to future transgenic traits. Past research shows the dose of Bt maize targeting western corn rootworm can be confounded by larval density-dependent mortality. We conducted a 2-year field study at two locations to quantify larval density-dependent mortality in Bt and non-Bt maize. We used these results to calculate dose for our method and compared it to three previously published methods. Additionally, adult emergence and root injury were analyzed for predicting initial egg density. RESULTS Increased pest density caused greater proportions of larvae to die in Bt maize than in non-Bt maize. All methods for calculating dose produced values less than high-dose, and stochastic variation had the greatest impact on dose at high and low pest densities. Our method for calculating dose did not produce values positively correlated with pest density while the three other methods did. CONCLUSION To achieve the most accurate calculation of dose for transgenic maize targeting western corn rootworm, density-dependent mortality should be taken into account for both transgenic and non-transgenic maize and assessed at moderate pest densities. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John B McCulloch
- Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Aaron J Gassmann
- Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tavares CS, Mishra R, Kishk A, Wang X, Ghobrial PN, Killiny N, Bonning BC. The beta pore-forming bacterial pesticidal protein Tpp78Aa1 is toxic to the Asian citrus psyllid vector of the citrus greening bacterium. J Invertebr Pathol 2024; 204:108122. [PMID: 38710321 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2024.108122] [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: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
The Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) Diaphorina citri transmits the causative agent of huanglongbing, or citrus greening disease, that has decimated global citrus production. Pesticidal proteins derived from bacteria such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can provide effective and environmentally friendly alternatives for management of D. citri, but few with sufficient toxicity to D. citri have been identified. Here, we report on the toxicity of 14 Bt-derived pesticidal proteins from five different structural groups against D. citri. These proteins were selected based on previously reported toxicity to other hemipteran species and on pesticidal protein availability. Most of the proteins were expressed in Escherichia coli and purified from inclusion bodies or His-tag affinity purification, while App6Aa2 was expressed in Bt and purified from spore/crystal mixtures. Pesticidal proteins were initially screened by feeding psyllids on a single dose, and lethal concentration (LC50) then determined for proteins with significantly greater mortality than the buffer control. The impact of CLas infection of D. citri on toxicity was assessed for selected proteins via topical feeding. The Bt protein Tpp78Aa1 was toxic to D. citri adults with an LC50 of approximately 204 µg/mL. Nymphs were more susceptible to Tpp78Aa1 than adults but no significant difference in susceptibility was observed between healthy and CLas-infected nymphs or adults. Tpp78Aa1 and other reported D. citri-active proteins may provide valuable tools for suppression of D. citri populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clebson S Tavares
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Ruchir Mishra
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Abdelaziz Kishk
- Department of Plant Pathology, Citrus Research and Education Center, IFAS, University of Florida, Lake Alfred, FL 33850, USA; Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Tanta University 31527, Egypt
| | - Xinyue Wang
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Pierre N Ghobrial
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Nabil Killiny
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Tanta University 31527, Egypt
| | - Bryony C Bonning
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Liu L, He W, Xu P, Wei W, Wang J, Liu K. Contribution of the transcription factor SfGATAe to Bt Cry toxin resistance in Spodoptera frugiperda through reduction of ABCC2 expression. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 267:131459. [PMID: 38593893 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131459] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Insect resistance evolution poses a significant threat to the advantages of biopesticides and transgenic crops utilizing insecticidal Cry-toxins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). However, there is limited research on the relationship between transcriptional regulation of specific toxin receptors in lepidopteran insects and their resistance to Bt toxins. Here, we report the positive regulatory role of the SfGATAe transcription factor on the expression of the ABCC2 gene in Spodoptera frugiperda. DNA regions in the SfABCC2 promoter that are vital for regulation by SfGATAe, utilizing DAP-seq technology and promoter deletion mapping. Through yeast one-hybrid assays, DNA pull-down experiments, and site-directed mutagenesis, we confirmed that the transcription factor SfGATAe regulates the core control site PBS2 in the ABCC2 target gene. Tissue-specific expression analysis has revealed that SfGATAe is involved in the regulation and expression of midgut cells in the fall armyworm. Silencing SfGATAe in fall armyworm larvae resulted in reduced expression of SfABCC2 and decreased sensitivity to Cry1Ac toxin. Overall, this study elucidated the regulatory mechanism of the transcription factor SfGATAe on the expression of the toxin receptor gene SfABCC2 and this transcriptional control mechanism impacts the resistance of the fall armyworm to Bt toxins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leilei Liu
- Center of Applied Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Wuhan University of Bioengineering, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Wenfeng He
- Center of Applied Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Wuhan University of Bioengineering, Wuhan, Hubei, China; College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Peiwen Xu
- Center of Applied Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Wuhan University of Bioengineering, Wuhan, Hubei, China; College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Center of Applied Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Wuhan University of Bioengineering, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jintao Wang
- Center of Applied Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Wuhan University of Bioengineering, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Kaiyu Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mo H, Chang H, Zhao G, Hu G, Luo X, Jia X, Xu Z, Ren G, Feng L, Wendel JF, Chen X, Ren M, Li F. iJAZ-based approach to engineer lepidopteran pest resistance in multiple crop species. NATURE PLANTS 2024; 10:771-784. [PMID: 38684916 DOI: 10.1038/s41477-024-01682-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The fall armyworm (FAW) poses a significant threat to global crop production. Here we showed that overexpression of jasmonate ZIM-domain (JAZ) protein GhJAZ24 confers resistance to cotton bollworm and FAW, while also causing sterility in transgenic cotton by recruiting TOPLESS and histone deacetylase 6. We identified the NGR motif of GhJAZ24 that recognizes and binds the aminopeptidase N receptor, enabling GhJAZ24 to enter cells and disrupt histone deacetylase 3, leading to cell death. To overcome plant sterility associated with GhJAZ24 overexpression, we developed iJAZ (i, induced), an approach involving damage-induced expression and a switch from intracellular to extracellular localization of GhJAZ24. iJAZ transgenic cotton maintained fertility and showed insecticidal activity against cotton bollworm and FAW. In addition, iJAZ transgenic rice, maize and tobacco plants showed insecticidal activity against their lepidopteran pests, resulting in an iJAZ-based approach for generating alternative insecticidal proteins with distinctive mechanisms of action, thus holding immense potential for future crop engineering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huijuan Mo
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, China
| | - Huimin Chang
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, China
| | - Ge Zhao
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guanjing Hu
- National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, China
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiumei Luo
- Institute of Urban Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | - Xue Jia
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhenlu Xu
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guangming Ren
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Li Feng
- Institute of Urban Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | - Jonathan F Wendel
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA.
| | - Xiaoya Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics and Resources, Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden, Shanghai, China.
| | - Maozhi Ren
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
- Institute of Urban Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, China.
| | - Fuguang Li
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
- National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, China.
- The Shennong Laboratory, Zhengzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Scharf ME, Lee CY. Insecticide resistance in social insects: assumptions, realities, and possibilities. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2024; 62:101161. [PMID: 38237732 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2024.101161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Insecticide resistance is an evolved ability to survive insecticide exposure. Compared with nonsocial insects, eusocial insects have lower numbers of documented cases of resistance. Eusocial insects include beneficial and pest species that can be incidentally or purposely targeted with insecticides. The central goal of this review is to explore factors that either limit resistance or the ability to detect it in eusocial insects. We surveyed the literature and found that resistance has been documented in bees, but in other pest groups such as ants and termites, the evidence is more sparse. We suggest the path forward for better understanding eusocial resistance should include more tractable experimental models, comprehensive geographic sampling, and targeted testing of the impacts of social, symbiont, genetic, and ecological factors.
Collapse
|
6
|
Pezzini D, Taylor KL, Reisig DD, Fritz ML. Cross-pollination in seed-blended refuge and selection for Vip3A resistance in a lepidopteran pest as detected by genomic monitoring. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2319838121. [PMID: 38513093 PMCID: PMC10990109 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2319838121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The evolution of pest resistance to management tools reduces productivity and results in economic losses in agricultural systems. To slow its emergence and spread, monitoring and prevention practices are implemented in resistance management programs. Recent work suggests that genomic approaches can identify signs of emerging resistance to aid in resistance management. Here, we empirically examined the sensitivity of genomic monitoring for resistance management in transgenic Bt crops, a globally important agricultural innovation. Whole genome resequencing of wild North American Helicoverpa zea collected from non-expressing refuge and plants expressing Cry1Ab confirmed that resistance-associated signatures of selection were detectable after a single generation of exposure. Upon demonstrating its sensitivity, we applied genomic monitoring to wild H. zea that survived Vip3A exposure resulting from cross-pollination of refuge plants in seed-blended plots. Refuge seed interplanted with transgenic seed exposed H. zea to sublethal doses of Vip3A protein in corn ears and was associated with allele frequency divergence across the genome. Some of the greatest allele frequency divergence occurred in genomic regions adjacent to a previously described candidate gene for Vip3A resistance. Our work highlights the power of genomic monitoring to sensitively detect heritable changes associated with field exposure to Bt toxins and suggests that seed-blended refuge will likely hasten the evolution of resistance to Vip3A in lepidopteran pests.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Pezzini
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC27513
| | - Katherine L. Taylor
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC27513
- Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD20742
| | - Dominic D. Reisig
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC27513
| | - Megan L. Fritz
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC27513
- Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD20742
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Miranda LS, Rudd SR, Mena O, Hudspeth PE, Barboza-Corona JE, Park HW, Bideshi DK. The Perpetual Vector Mosquito Threat and Its Eco-Friendly Nemeses. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:182. [PMID: 38534451 DOI: 10.3390/biology13030182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Mosquitoes are the most notorious arthropod vectors of viral and parasitic diseases for which approximately half the world's population, ~4,000,000,000, is at risk. Integrated pest management programs (IPMPs) have achieved some success in mitigating the regional transmission and persistence of these diseases. However, as many vector-borne diseases remain pervasive, it is obvious that IPMP successes have not been absolute in eradicating the threat imposed by mosquitoes. Moreover, the expanding mosquito geographic ranges caused by factors related to climate change and globalization (travel, trade, and migration), and the evolution of resistance to synthetic pesticides, present ongoing challenges to reducing or eliminating the local and global burden of these diseases, especially in economically and medically disadvantaged societies. Abatement strategies include the control of vector populations with synthetic pesticides and eco-friendly technologies. These "green" technologies include SIT, IIT, RIDL, CRISPR/Cas9 gene drive, and biological control that specifically targets the aquatic larval stages of mosquitoes. Regarding the latter, the most effective continues to be the widespread use of Lysinibacillus sphaericus (Ls) and Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis (Bti). Here, we present a review of the health issues elicited by vector mosquitoes, control strategies, and lastly, focus on the biology of Ls and Bti, with an emphasis on the latter, to which no resistance has been observed in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Silva Miranda
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
| | - Sarah Renee Rudd
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
- Integrated Biomedical Graduate Studies, and School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
| | - Oscar Mena
- Undergraduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
| | - Piper Eden Hudspeth
- Undergraduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
| | - José E Barboza-Corona
- Departmento de Alimentos, Posgrado en Biociencias, Universidad de Guanajuato Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, Irapuato 36500, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Hyun-Woo Park
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
- Undergraduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
| | - Dennis Ken Bideshi
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
- Undergraduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhong J, Dos Santos RF, Abdelgaffar H, de Bortoli CP, Raza A, Jurat-Fuentes JL. Individual transmembrane domains of SfABCC2 from Spodoptera frugiperda do not serve as functional Cry1F receptors. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 199:105777. [PMID: 38458684 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.105777] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is a major global pest causing severe damage to various crops, especially corn. Transgenic corn producing the Cry1F pesticidal protein from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Cry1F corn) showed effectiveness in controlling this pest until S. frugiperda populations at locations in North and South America evolved practical resistance. The mechanism for practical resistance involved disruptive mutations in an ATP binding cassette transporter subfamily C2 gene (SfABCC2), which serves as a functional Cry1F receptor in the midgut cells of susceptible S. frugiperda. The SfABCC2 protein contains two transmembrane domains (TMD1 and TMD2), each with a cytosolic nucleotide (ATP) binding domain (NBD1 and NBD2, respectively). Previous reports have demonstrated that disruptive mutations in TMD2 were linked with resistance to Cry1F, yet whether the complete SfABCC2 structure is needed for receptor functionality or if a single TMD-NBD protein can serve as functional Cry1F receptor remains unknown. In the present study, we separately expressed TMD1 and TMD2 with their corresponding NBDs in cultured insect cells and tested their Cry1F receptor functionality. Our results show that the complete SfABCC2 structure is required for Cry1F receptor functionality. Moreover, binding competition assays revealed that Cry1F specifically bound to SfABCC2, whereas neither SfTMD1-NBD1 nor SfTMD2-NBD2 exhibited any significant binding. These results provide insights into the molecular mechanism of Cry1F recognition by SfABCC2 in S. frugiperda, which could facilitate the development of more effective insecticidal proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianfeng Zhong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food Quality and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Ministry of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory for Control Technology and Standard for Agro-product Safety and Quality, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China; Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | | | - Heba Abdelgaffar
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | | | - Ahmad Raza
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Juan Luis Jurat-Fuentes
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
De Bortoli CP, Santos RF, Assirati GJ, Sun X, Hietala L, Jurat-Fuentes JL. Exposure to Cry1 Toxins Increases Long Flight Tendency in Susceptible but Not in Cry1F-Resistant Female Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). INSECTS 2023; 15:7. [PMID: 38249013 PMCID: PMC10815942 DOI: 10.3390/insects15010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The fall armyworm (JE Smith) (Spodoptera frugiperda) is a polyphagous pest targeted by selected Cry and Vip3A insecticidal proteins from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) that are produced in transgenic Bt corn and cotton. Available evidence suggests that sublethal larval exposure to Cry1Ac increases flight activity in adult Spodoptera spp. However, it is not known whether this effect is also observed in survivors from generally lethal exposure to Cry1Ac. Moreover, while multiple cases of field-evolved resistance to Bt proteins have been described in the native range of S. frugiperda, the effect of resistance on flight behavior has not been examined. Long-distance migratory flight capacity of S. frugiperda is of concern given its ongoing global spread and the possibility that migrants may be carrying resistance alleles against pesticides and Bt crops. In this study, we used rotational flight mills to test the effects of generally lethal exposure to Cry1Ac in susceptible and sublethal exposure in Cry1F-resistant S. frugiperda strains. The results detected altered pupal weight after larval feeding on diet containing Cry proteins, which only translated in significantly increased tendency for longer flights in female moths from the susceptible strain. This information has relevant implications when considering current models and assumptions for resistance management of Bt crops.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline P. De Bortoli
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA; (C.P.D.B.); (R.F.S.); (G.J.A.); (L.H.)
| | - Rafael F. Santos
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA; (C.P.D.B.); (R.F.S.); (G.J.A.); (L.H.)
| | - Giordano J. Assirati
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA; (C.P.D.B.); (R.F.S.); (G.J.A.); (L.H.)
| | - Xiaocun Sun
- Research Computing Support, Office of Information Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA;
| | - Lucas Hietala
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA; (C.P.D.B.); (R.F.S.); (G.J.A.); (L.H.)
| | - Juan Luis Jurat-Fuentes
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA; (C.P.D.B.); (R.F.S.); (G.J.A.); (L.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kennedy H, Kerns DL, Head GP, Yang F. Cross-resistance and redundant killing of Vip3Aa resistant populations of Helicoverpa zea on purified Bt proteins and pyramided Bt crops. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2023; 79:5173-5179. [PMID: 37575031 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pyramiding Bt proteins is a key strategy to delay insect resistance development. However, the durability of pyramided Bt crops for controlling insect pests is threatened by cross-resistance among Bt proteins, which can ultimately contribute to resistance development. The corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea, is a major agricultural pest of pyramided Bt crops. Previous studies have examined cross-resistance and redundant killing of Cry resistance in H. zea, but such information is lacking for Vip3Aa resistance in this pest. Here, we evaluated cross-resistance and redundant killing of Vip3Aa-resistant H. zea to purified Bt proteins, as well as Bt corn and Bt cotton. RESULTS Diet bioassays demonstrated high susceptibility of Vip3Aa-resistant H. zea to Cry1Ac, Cry1A.105, and Cry2Ab2 purified proteins. No Vip3Aa-susceptible, -heterozygous, or -resistant H. zea could survive on pyramided Bt corn containing Cry1 and/or Cry2 proteins. Complete redundant killing was observed in pyramided Bt corn containing Cry1 and/or Cry2 proteins against Vip3Aa resistance in H. zea. Vip3Aa-susceptible, -heterozygous, and -resistant H. zea exhibited survival rates ranging from 0.0% to 22.5% on pyramided Bt cotton with Cry1 and/or Cry2 proteins. Incomplete to complete redundant killing was observed for Vip3Aa-resistant H. zea on pyramided Bt cotton containing Cry1 and/or Cry2 proteins. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that Vip3Aa-resistant H. zea does not exhibit positive cross-resistance to Cry1 or Cry2 proteins. In addition, most pyramided Bt crops showed complete or nearly complete redundant killing of Vip3Aa-resistant H. zea. These results indicate that a pyramiding strategy would often be effective for managing Vip3Aa resistance in regions of the United States where H. zea has not evolved resistance to Cry1 and Cry2 toxins. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haley Kennedy
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - David L Kerns
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | | | - Fei Yang
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Rudd SR, Miranda LS, Curtis HR, Bigot Y, Diaz-Mendoza M, Hice R, Nizet V, Park HW, Blaha G, Federici BA, Bideshi DK. The Parasporal Body of Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis: A Unique Phage Capsid-Associated Prokaryotic Insecticidal Organelle. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1421. [PMID: 37998020 PMCID: PMC10669011 DOI: 10.3390/biology12111421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The three most important commercial bacterial insecticides are all derived from subspecies of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). Specifically, Bt subsp. kurstaki (Btk) and Bt subsp. aizawai (Bta) are used to control larval lepidopteran pests. The third, Bt subsp. israelensis (Bti), is primarily used to control mosquito and blackfly larvae. All three subspecies produce a parasporal body (PB) during sporulation. The PB is composed of insecticidal proteins that damage the midgut epithelium, initiating a complex process that results in the death of the insect. Among these three subspecies of Bt, Bti is unique as it produces the most complex PB consisting of three compartments. Each compartment is bound by a multilaminar fibrous matrix (MFM). Two compartments contain one protein each, Cry11Aa1 and Cyt1Aa1, while the third contains two, Cry4Aa1/Cry4Ba1. Each compartment is packaged independently before coalescing into the mature spherical PB held together by additional layers of the MFM. This distinctive packaging process is unparalleled among known bacterial organelles, although the underlying molecular biology is yet to be determined. Here, we present structural and molecular evidence that the MFM has a hexagonal pattern to which Bti proteins Bt152 and Bt075 bind. Bt152 binds to a defined spot on the MFM during the development of each compartment, yet its function remains unknown. Bt075 appears to be derived from a bacteriophage major capsid protein (MCP), and though its sequence has markedly diverged, it shares striking 3-D structural similarity to the Escherichia coli phage HK97 Head 1 capsid protein. Both proteins are encoded on Bti's pBtoxis plasmid. Additionally, we have also identified a six-amino acid motif that appears to be part of a novel molecular process responsible for targeting the Cry and Cyt proteins to their cytoplasmic compartments. This paper describes several previously unknown features of the Bti organelle, representing a first step to understanding the biology of a unique process of sorting and packaging of proteins into PBs. The insights from this research suggest a potential for future applications in nanotechnology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah R. Rudd
- Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA; (S.R.R.); (L.S.M.); (H.R.C.); (H.-W.P.)
- School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Leticia Silva Miranda
- Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA; (S.R.R.); (L.S.M.); (H.R.C.); (H.-W.P.)
| | - Hannah R. Curtis
- Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA; (S.R.R.); (L.S.M.); (H.R.C.); (H.-W.P.)
- School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
| | - Yves Bigot
- UMR CNRS7247, Centre INRA Val de Loire, 37380 Nouzilly, France;
| | - Mercedes Diaz-Mendoza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Chemical and Biological Sciences, University Complutense of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Robert Hice
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA;
| | - Victor Nizet
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Hyun-Woo Park
- Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA; (S.R.R.); (L.S.M.); (H.R.C.); (H.-W.P.)
| | - Gregor Blaha
- Department of Biochemistry, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA;
| | - Brian A. Federici
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA;
| | - Dennis K. Bideshi
- Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA 92504, USA; (S.R.R.); (L.S.M.); (H.R.C.); (H.-W.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhou X, Jia H, Zhang H, Wu K. Cross-Regional Pollination Behavior of Trichoplusia ni between China and the Indo-China Peninsula. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3778. [PMID: 37960134 PMCID: PMC10648395 DOI: 10.3390/plants12213778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Noctuid moths, a group of "non-bee" pollinators, are essential but frequently underappreciated. To elucidate their roles in cross-regional pollination, this study selected the agriculturally significant species, cabbage looper (CL) Trichoplusia ni, as a representative model. From 2017 to 2021, this study was conducted on Yongxing Island, situated at the center of the South China Sea. We investigated the flower-visiting activities of CL, including its occurrence, potential host species, and geographic distribution in the surrounding areas of the South China Sea. First, the potential transoceanic migratory behavior and regional distribution of CL were systematically monitored through a comprehensive integration of the data obtained from a searchlight trap. The transoceanic migratory behavior of CL was characterized by intermittent occurrence, with the major migratory periods and the peak outbreak yearly. Furthermore, trajectory analysis confirmed the ability of CL to engage in periodic, round-trip, migratory flights between Southeast Asian countries and China. More importantly, an observation of pollen on the body surface demonstrated that 95.59% (130/136) of the migrating individuals carried pollen. The proboscis and compound eyes were identified as the primary pollen-carrying parts, with no observable gender-based differences in pollen-carrying rates. Further, identifying the pollen carried by CL using morphological and molecular methods revealed a diverse range of pollen types from at least 17 plant families and 31 species. Notably, CL predominantly visited eudicot and herbaceous plants. In conclusion, this pioneering study has not only revealed the long-distance migration activities of these noctuid moths in the East Asian region but also provided direct evidence supporting their role as potential pollinators. These findings offer a critical theoretical basis to guide the development of scientific management strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xianyong Zhou
- Xianghu Lab, Hangzhou 311258, China;
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Huiru Jia
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (H.J.); (H.Z.)
| | - Haowen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (H.J.); (H.Z.)
| | - Kongming Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (H.J.); (H.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Jin M, Shan Y, Peng Y, Wang W, Zhang H, Liu K, Heckel DG, Wu K, Tabashnik BE, Xiao Y. Downregulation of a transcription factor associated with resistance to Bt toxin Vip3Aa in the invasive fall armyworm. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2306932120. [PMID: 37874855 PMCID: PMC10622909 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2306932120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Transgenic crops producing insecticidal proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) have revolutionized control of some major pests. However, more than 25 cases of field-evolved practical resistance have reduced the efficacy of transgenic crops producing crystalline (Cry) Bt proteins, spurring adoption of alternatives including crops producing the Bt vegetative insecticidal protein Vip3Aa. Although practical resistance to Vip3Aa has not been reported yet, better understanding of the genetic basis of resistance to Vip3Aa is urgently needed to proactively monitor, delay, and counter pest resistance. This is especially important for fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), which has evolved practical resistance to Cry proteins and is one of the world's most damaging pests. Here, we report the identification of an association between downregulation of the transcription factor gene SfMyb and resistance to Vip3Aa in S. frugiperda. Results from a genome-wide association study, fine-scale mapping, and RNA-Seq identified this gene as a compelling candidate for contributing to the 206-fold resistance to Vip3Aa in a laboratory-selected strain. Experimental reduction of SfMyb expression in a susceptible strain using RNA interference (RNAi) or CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing decreased susceptibility to Vip3Aa, confirming that reduced expression of this gene can cause resistance to Vip3Aa. Relative to the wild-type promoter for SfMyb, the promoter in the resistant strain has deletions and lower activity. Data from yeast one-hybrid assays, genomics, RNA-Seq, RNAi, and proteomics identified genes that are strong candidates for mediating the effects of SfMyb on Vip3Aa resistance. The results reported here may facilitate progress in understanding and managing pest resistance to Vip3Aa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Jin
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Gene Editing Technologies (Hainan), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen518116, China
- The State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Disease and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing100193, China
| | - Yinxue Shan
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Gene Editing Technologies (Hainan), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen518116, China
| | - Yan Peng
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Gene Editing Technologies (Hainan), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen518116, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan430070, China
| | - Wenhui Wang
- The State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Disease and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing100193, China
| | - Huihui Zhang
- Institute of Entomology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan430079, China
| | - Kaiyu Liu
- Institute of Entomology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan430079, China
| | - David G. Heckel
- Department of Entomology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, JenaD-07745, Germany
| | - Kongming Wu
- The State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Disease and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing100193, China
| | | | - Yutao Xiao
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Gene Editing Technologies (Hainan), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen518116, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cao SK, Du XX, Chen G, Zeng AP, Yu H. Relative activity of 15 bacterial strains against the larvae of Helicoverpa armigera, Spodoptera exigua, and Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY 2023; 116:1505-1517. [PMID: 37499044 DOI: 10.1093/jee/toad147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Crystal toxins produced by different strains of entomopathogenic Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) have been characterized and widely applied as commercial biological pesticides owing to their excellent insecticidal properties. This study aimed to identify novel bacterial strains effective in controlling Spodoptera exigua Hübner, Helicoverpa armigera Hübner, and Spodoptera litura Fabricius. Fifteen culturable bacterial strains were isolated from 60 dead larvae (H. armigera and S. exigua) collected in the field. The biochemical characteristics and 16S rRNA sequences of these strains indicated that one strain (B7) was Lysinibacillus sp., 12 strains (B1, B3, B4, B5, B6, B8, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6, and DW) were Bt kurstaki, and P2-2 and B2 were Bacillus velezensis subsp. Laboratory bioassays indicated that strains B3, P6, B6, and P4 showed high toxicity to second-instar larvae of S. exigua, with LC50 values of 5.11, 6.74, 205.82, and 595.93 µg/ml, respectively; while the strains P5, B5, B6, and P6, were the most efficient against second-instar larvae of H. armigera with LC50 values of 725.82, 11,022.72, 1,282.90, 2,005.28, respectively, and strains DW, P3, P2, and B4 had high insecticidal activity against second-instar larvae of S. litura with LC50 values of 576.69, 1,660.96, 6,309.42, and 5,486.10 µg/ml, respectively. In conclusion, several Bt kurstaki strains with good toxicity potential were isolated and identified in this study. These strains are expected to be useful for biointensive integrated pest management programs to reduce the use of synthetic insecticides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Kai Cao
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology and Control of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
- College of Plant Protection, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
| | - Xing-Xing Du
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology and Control of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
- College of Plant Protection, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
| | - Gong Chen
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology and Control of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
- College of Plant Protection, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
| | - Ai-Ping Zeng
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology and Control of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
- College of Plant Protection, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
| | - Huan Yu
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology and Control of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
- College of Plant Protection, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Carrière Y, Degain B, Unnithan GC, Tabashnik BE. Inheritance and fitness cost of laboratory-selected resistance to Vip3Aa in Helicoverpa zea (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY 2023; 116:1804-1811. [PMID: 37555261 DOI: 10.1093/jee/toad145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
The polyphagous pest Helicoverpa zea (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) has evolved practical resistance to transgenic corn and cotton producing Cry1 and Cry2 crystal proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) in several regions of the United States. However, the Bt vegetative insecticidal protein Vip3Aa produced by Bt corn and cotton remains effective against this pest. To advance knowledge of resistance to Vip3Aa, we selected a strain of H. zea for resistance to Vip3Aa in the laboratory. After 28 generations of continuous selection, the resistance ratio was 267 for the selected strain (GA-R3) relative to a strain not selected with Vip3Aa (GA). Resistance was autosomal and almost completely recessive at a concentration killing all individuals from GA. Declines in resistance in heterogeneous strains containing a mixture of susceptible and resistant individuals reared in the absence of Vip3Aa indicate a fitness cost was associated with resistance. Previously reported cases of laboratory-selected resistance to Vip3Aa in lepidopteran pests often show partially or completely recessive resistance at high concentrations and fitness costs. Abundant refuges of non-Bt host plants can maximize the benefits of such costs for sustaining the efficacy of Vip3Aa against target pests.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yves Carrière
- Department of Entomology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Ben Degain
- Department of Entomology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Pezzini DT, Reisig DD, Buntin GD, Del Pozo-Valdivia AI, Gould F, Paula-Moraes SV, Reay-Jones FP. Impact of seed blend and structured maize refuge on Helicoverpa zea (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) potential phenological resistance development parameters in pupae and adults. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2023; 79:3493-3503. [PMID: 37139844 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Helicoverpa zea, an economic pest in the south-eastern United States, has evolved practical resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) Cry toxins in maize and cotton. Insect resistance management (IRM) programs have historically required planting of structured non-Bt maize, but because of its low adoption, the use of seed blends has been considered. To generate knowledge on target pest biology and ecology to help improve IRM strategies, nine field trials were conducted in 2019 and 2020 in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina to evaluate the impact of Bt (Cry1Ab + Cry1F or Cry1Ab + Cry1F + Vip3A) and non-Bt maize plants in blended and structured refuge treatments on H. zea pupal survival, weight, soil pupation depth, adult flight parameters, and adult time to eclosion. RESULTS From a very large sample size and geography, we found a significant difference in pupal mortality and weight among treatments in seed blends with Vip3A, implying that cross-pollination occurred between Bt and non-Bt maize ears. There was no treatment effect for pupation depth, adult flight distance, and eclosion time. CONCLUSION Results of this study demonstrate the potential impact of different refuge strategies on phenological development and survival of an important pest species of regulatory concern. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela T Pezzini
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Dominic D Reisig
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Vernon G. James Research and Extension Center, Plymouth, NC, USA
| | - G David Buntin
- Department of Entomology, University of Georgia - Griffin Campus, Griffin, GA, USA
| | - Alejandro I Del Pozo-Valdivia
- Department of Entomology, Hampton Roads Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia Beach, VA, USA
| | - Fred Gould
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Silvana V Paula-Moraes
- Entomology and Nematology Department, West Florida Research and Education Center, University of Florida, Jay, FL, USA
| | - Francis Pf Reay-Jones
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Clemson University, Florence, SC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kishk A, Dos Santos Tavares C, Mishra R, Bonning BC, Killiny N. Influence of 'Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus' infection on the susceptibility of Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri to Bacillus thuringiensis pesticidal proteins, Mpp51Aa1 and Cry1Ba1. J Invertebr Pathol 2023; 200:107972. [PMID: 37460056 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2023.107972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae) transmits the Gram-negative bacterium 'Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus' that causes citrus greening disease. While chemical control has been the main management strategy for limiting D. citri, the widespread usage of chemical sprays has decreased the susceptibility of D. citri to most insecticides. Pesticidal proteins produced by the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) are active against a wide variety of insects and provide a more sustainable approach to insect control. Herein, we investigated the impact of 'Ca. L. asiaticus' infection of D. citri on the toxicity of two Bt proteins (Mpp51Aa1 and Cry1Ba1). Proteins were delivered to healthy and 'Ca. L. asiaticus'-infected D. citri via topical feeding application. The LC50 values of Mpp51Aa1 and Cry1Ba1 were calculated for both nymphs and adults. Additionally, we evaluated the effect of each protein on the survival probability and life span of healthy and 'Ca. L. asiaticus'-infected D. citri. The LC50 values indicated that adults and nymphs were more susceptible to Mpp51Aa1 than to Cry1Ba1 in both healthy and 'Ca. L. asiaticus'-infected D. citri. 'Ca. L. asiaticus'-infected adults and nymphs were more susceptible to Mpp51Aa1 and Cry1Ba1 than healthy insects, and nymphs were more susceptible to Mpp51Aa1 and Cry1Ba1 than adults. Moreover, we found that Mpp51Aa1 had a greater impact than Cry1Ba1 on the survival and lifespan of adults, and 'Ca. L. asiaticus'-infected insects were more affected by these pesticidal proteins than healthy adults. These results have important implications for the use of pesticidal proteins in D. citri management in Florida and elsewhere given the widespread presence of 'Ca. L. asiaticus' in the D. citri population. In this era of eco-friendly control strategies, Bt-derived pesticidal proteins provide a promising avenue to reducing the application of chemical insecticides for D. citri management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdelaziz Kishk
- Department of Plant Pathology, Citrus Research and Education Center, IFAS, University of Florida, Lake Alfred, FL, 33850, USA; Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Tanta University, 31527, Egypt
| | | | - Ruchir Mishra
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, IFAS, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Bryony C Bonning
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, IFAS, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Nabil Killiny
- Department of Plant Pathology, Citrus Research and Education Center, IFAS, University of Florida, Lake Alfred, FL, 33850, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Mishra R, Narayana R, Ibanez F, Achor D, Shilts T, El-Mohtar C, Orbović V, Stelinski LL, Bonning BC. Bacterial Pesticidal Protein Mpp51Aa1 Delivered via Transgenic Citrus Severely Impacts the Fecundity of Asian Citrus Psyllid, Diaphorina citri. Appl Environ Microbiol 2023; 89:e0072323. [PMID: 37458593 PMCID: PMC10467345 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00723-23] [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: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) Diaphorina citri vectors the causative agent of citrus greening disease that has the capacity to decimate citrus production. As an alternative and more sustainable approach to manage D. citri than repeated application of chemical insecticides, we investigated the potential use of the bacteria-derived pesticidal protein, Mpp51Aa1, when delivered by transgenic Citrus sinensis cv. Valencia sweet orange or Citrus paradisi cv. Duncan grapefruit. Following confirmation of transcription and translation of mpp51aa1 by transgenic plants, no impact of Mpp51Aa1 expression was seen on D. citri host plant choice between transgenic and control Duncan grapefruit plants. A slight but significant drop in survival of adult psyllids fed on these transgenic plants was noted relative to those fed on control plants. In line with this result, damage to the gut epithelium consistent with that caused by pore-forming proteins was only observed in a minority of adult D. citri fed on the transgenic Duncan grapefruit. However, greater impacts were observed on nymphs than on adults, with a 40% drop in the survival of nymphs fed on transgenic Duncan grapefruit relative to those fed on control plants. For Valencia sweet orange, a 70% decrease in the number of eggs laid by adult D. citri on transgenic plants was noted relative to those on control plants, with a 90% drop in emergence of progeny. These impacts that contrast with those associated with other bacterial pesticidal proteins and the potential for use of Mpp51Aa1-expressing transgenic plants for suppression of D. citri populations are discussed. IMPORTANCE Pesticidal proteins derived from bacteria such as Bacillus thuringiensis are valuable tools for management of agricultural insect pests and provide a sustainable alternative to the application of chemical insecticides. However, relatively few bacterial pesticidal proteins have been used for suppression of hemipteran or sap-sucking insects such as the Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri. This insect is particularly important as the vector of the causative agent of citrus greening, or huanglongbing disease, which severely impacts global citrus production. In this study, we investigated the potential of transgenic citrus plants that produce the pesticidal protein Mpp51Aa1. While adult psyllid mortality on transgenic plants was modest, the reduced number of eggs laid by exposed adults and the decreased survival of progeny was such that psyllid populations dropped by more than 90%. These results provide valuable insight for potential deployment of Mpp51Aa1 in combination with other control agents for the management of D. citri.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruchir Mishra
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Ravishankar Narayana
- Citrus Research and Education Center, University of Florida, IFAS, Lake Alfred, Florida, USA
| | - Freddy Ibanez
- Citrus Research and Education Center, University of Florida, IFAS, Lake Alfred, Florida, USA
| | - Diann Achor
- Citrus Research and Education Center, University of Florida, IFAS, Lake Alfred, Florida, USA
| | - Turksen Shilts
- Citrus Research and Education Center, University of Florida, IFAS, Lake Alfred, Florida, USA
| | - Choaa El-Mohtar
- Citrus Research and Education Center, University of Florida, IFAS, Lake Alfred, Florida, USA
| | - Vladimir Orbović
- Citrus Research and Education Center, University of Florida, IFAS, Lake Alfred, Florida, USA
| | - Lukasz L. Stelinski
- Citrus Research and Education Center, University of Florida, IFAS, Lake Alfred, Florida, USA
| | - Bryony C. Bonning
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Arsov A, Gerginova M, Paunova-Krasteva T, Petrov K, Petrova P. Multiple cry Genes in Bacillus thuringiensis Strain BTG Suggest a Broad-Spectrum Insecticidal Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11137. [PMID: 37446315 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The properties of Bacillus thuringiensis strains as a biopesticide with potent action against moths, beetles, and mosquitoes have been known for decades, with individual subspecies showing specific activity against a particular pest. The aim of the present work is to characterize strains that can be used for broad-spectrum pest control in agriculture. Twenty strains of B. thuringiensis were isolated from Bulgarian soil habitats. The strains were screened for genes encoding 12 different crystal (Cry) endotoxins by PCR with specific primer pairs. Seven of the isolates contained cry genes in their genomes. B. thuringiensis strains PL1, PL3, and PL20 contained at least three different cry genes, while B. thuringiensis serovar galleriae BTG contained at least four. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigation revealed the production of bipyramidal (PL1, PL3, PL20), polygonal (PL1), cubic (BTG), and spherical crystals (BTG and PL20). Potentially containing the most cry genes, the BTG genome was sequenced and annotated. It comprises 6,275,416 base pairs, does not contain plasmids, has a GC content of 35.05%, and contained 7 genes encoding crystal toxins: cry1Ab35, cry1Db, cry1Fb, cry1Ib, cry2Ab, cry8Ea1, and cry9Ba. This unique combination would possibly enable the simultaneous pesticidal action against pest species from orders Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, Diptera, and Hemiptera, as well as class Gastropoda. Whole-genome sequencing provided accurate information about the presence, localization, and classification of Cry toxins in B. thuringiensis BTG, revealing the great potential of the strain for the development of new broad-spectrum bio-insecticides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Arsov
- Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Maria Gerginova
- Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | | | - Kaloyan Petrov
- Institute of Chemical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Penka Petrova
- Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Dively GP, Kuhar TP, Taylor SV, Doughty H, Holmstrom K, Gilrein DO, Nault BA, Ingerson-Mahar J, Huseth A, Reisig D, Fleischer S, Owens D, Tilmon K, Reay-Jones F, Porter P, Smith J, Saguez J, Wells J, Congdon C, Byker H, Jensen B, DiFonzo C, Hutchison WD, Burkness E, Wright R, Crossley M, Darby H, Bilbo T, Seiter N, Krupke C, Abel C, Coates BS, McManus B, Fuller B, Bradshaw J, Peterson JA, Buntin D, Paula-Moraes S, Kesheimer K, Crow W, Gore J, Huang F, Ludwick DC, Raudenbush A, Jimenez S, Carrière Y, Elkner T, Hamby K. Extended Sentinel Monitoring of Helicoverpa zea Resistance to Cry and Vip3Aa Toxins in Bt Sweet Corn: Assessing Changes in Phenotypic and Allele Frequencies of Resistance. INSECTS 2023; 14:577. [PMID: 37504584 PMCID: PMC10380249 DOI: 10.3390/insects14070577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Transgenic corn and cotton that produce Cry and Vip3Aa toxins derived from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) are widely planted in the United States to control lepidopteran pests. The sustainability of these Bt crops is threatened because the corn earworm/bollworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie), is evolving a resistance to these toxins. Using Bt sweet corn as a sentinel plant to monitor the evolution of resistance, collaborators established 146 trials in twenty-five states and five Canadian provinces during 2020-2022. The study evaluated overall changes in the phenotypic frequency of resistance (the ratio of larval densities in Bt ears relative to densities in non-Bt ears) in H. zea populations and the range of resistance allele frequencies for Cry1Ab and Vip3Aa. The results revealed a widespread resistance to Cry1Ab, Cry2Ab2, and Cry1A.105 Cry toxins, with higher numbers of larvae surviving in Bt ears than in non-Bt ears at many trial locations. Depending on assumptions about the inheritance of resistance, allele frequencies for Cry1Ab ranged from 0.465 (dominant resistance) to 0.995 (recessive resistance). Although Vip3Aa provided high control efficacy against H. zea, the results show a notable increase in ear damage and a number of surviving older larvae, particularly at southern locations. Assuming recessive resistance, the estimated resistance allele frequencies for Vip3Aa ranged from 0.115 in the Gulf states to 0.032 at more northern locations. These findings indicate that better resistance management practices are urgently needed to sustain efficacy the of corn and cotton that produce Vip3Aa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Galen P Dively
- Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Tom P Kuhar
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA
| | - Sally V Taylor
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Tech, Suffolk, VA 23434, USA
| | | | - Kristian Holmstrom
- Pest Management Office, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | | | - Brian A Nault
- Department of Entomology, Cornell AgriTech, Geneva, NY 14456, USA
| | - Joseph Ingerson-Mahar
- Rutgers Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Rutgers University, Bridgeton, NJ 08302, USA
| | - Anders Huseth
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA
| | - Dominic Reisig
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, NC State University, Plymouth, NC 27962, USA
| | - Shelby Fleischer
- Department of Entomology, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - David Owens
- Cooperative Extension, Carvel REC, University of Delaware, Georgetown, DE 19947, USA
| | - Kelley Tilmon
- Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, Wooster, OH 44691, USA
| | - Francis Reay-Jones
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Clemson University, Florence, SC 29501, USA
| | - Pat Porter
- Department of Entomology, AgriLife Research and Extension Center, Texas A&M University, Lubbock, TX 79401, USA
| | - Jocelyn Smith
- Department of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Julien Saguez
- CEROM, 740 Chemin Trudeau, Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil, QC J3G 0E2, Canada
| | - Jason Wells
- New Brunswick Department of Agriculture, Sussex, NB E4E 5L8, Canada
| | - Caitlin Congdon
- Perennia Food and Agriculture, Kentville, NS B4N 1J5, Canada
| | - Holly Byker
- Department of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, Winchester, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Bryan Jensen
- Arlington Agricultural Research Station, University of Wisconsin, WI 53706, USA
| | - Chris DiFonzo
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | | | - Eric Burkness
- Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55455, USA
| | - Robert Wright
- Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, NE 68588, USA
| | - Michael Crossley
- Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19711, USA
| | - Heather Darby
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
| | - Tom Bilbo
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Clemson University, Charleston, SC 29414, USA
| | - Nicholas Seiter
- Illinois Extension, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61820, USA
| | - Christian Krupke
- Department of Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
| | - Craig Abel
- USDA-ARS Corn Insects and Crop Genetics Research, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Brad S Coates
- USDA-ARS Corn Insects and Crop Genetics Research, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | | | | | - Jeffrey Bradshaw
- Panhandle Research and Extension Center, Scottsbluff, NE 69361, USA
| | - Julie A Peterson
- West Central Research and Extension Center, University of Nebraska, North Platte, NE 69101, USA
| | - David Buntin
- Griffin Campus, University of Georgia, Griffin, GA 30223, USA
| | | | - Katelyn Kesheimer
- Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Whitney Crow
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology and Plant Pathology, Delta Research and Extension Center, Mississippi State University, Stoneville, MS 39762, USA
| | - Jeffrey Gore
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology and Plant Pathology, Delta Research and Extension Center, Mississippi State University, Stoneville, MS 39762, USA
| | - Fangneng Huang
- Department of Entomology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Dalton C Ludwick
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Corpus Christi, TX 78404, USA
| | - Amy Raudenbush
- Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, Wooster, OH 44691, USA
| | - Sebastian Jimenez
- PEI Department of Agriculture and Land, Charlotte, PE C1A 7N8, Canada
| | - Yves Carrière
- Department of Entomology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Timothy Elkner
- Southeast Research and Extension Center, Landisville, PA 17538, USA
| | - Kelly Hamby
- Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Negin B, Jander G. Convergent and divergent evolution of plant chemical defenses. CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2023; 73:102368. [PMID: 37087925 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2023.102368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The majority of the several hundred thousand specialized metabolites produced by plants function in defense against insects and other herbivores. Despite this diversity, identical metabolites or structurally distinct metabolites hitting the same targets in herbivorous animals have evolved repeatedly. This convergent evolution may reflect the constraints of plant primary metabolism in providing metabolic precursors, as well as the limited number of readily accessible targets in animals. These restrictions may make it uncommon for plants to develop completely novel toxic and deterrent metabolites, despite the ongoing evolution of resistance mechanisms in insect herbivores. Defensive compounds that are unique to individual genera or species often have long biosynthetic pathways that may complicate the repeated evolution of these metabolites in different plant species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Boaz Negin
- Boyce Thompson Institute, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Georg Jander
- Boyce Thompson Institute, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Smith EM, Shrestha RB, Gassmann AJ. Inheritance and Fitness Costs of Laboratory-Selected Resistance to Gpp34/Tpp35Ab1 Corn in Western Corn Rootworm (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY 2023; 116:565-573. [PMID: 36799000 PMCID: PMC10483582 DOI: 10.1093/jee/toad022] [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: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), is a serious pest of corn and is currently managed with corn hybrids that produce insecticidal proteins derived from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). Bt corn kills rootworm larvae and reduces larval feeding injury to corn roots. The Bt protein Gpp34/Tpp35Ab1, previously named Cry34/35Ab1, has been widely used in transgenic Bt corn for management of western corn rootworm, and field-evolved resistance has been found in some populations. In the United States, the refuge strategy is used to manage Bt resistance, with refuges of non-Bt host plants serving as a source of Bt-susceptible individuals, which in turn reduce the frequency of homozygous resistant individuals within a population. As such, the dominance of resistance strongly influences resistance evolution, with faster evolution of resistance when resistance is not recessive. Additionally, selection for resistance by a Bt crop leads to the accumulation of resistance alleles within refuge populations, thereby reducing the capacity of refuges to delay resistance. However, fitness costs can remove resistance alleles from refuge populations and preserve the dynamic of refuges producing Bt-susceptible genotypes. Bt-susceptible and Gpp34/Tpp35Ab1-resistant western corn rootworm were used to quantify the inheritance and fitness costs of resistance. We found that Gpp34/Tpp35Ab1 resistance was not recessive and had the accompanying fitness costs of slower developmental rate to adulthood and lower egg viability. This research will help improve insect resistance management by providing a better understanding of the risk of western corn rootworm evolving resistance to transgenic corn that produces Gpp34/Tpp35Ab1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eliott M Smith
- Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Ram B Shrestha
- Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Aaron J Gassmann
- Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Orbović V, Ravanfar SA, Achor DS, Shilts T, Ibanez-Carrasco F, Banerjee R, El-Mohtar C, Stelinski LL, Bonning BC. Cry1Ba1-mediated toxicity of transgenic Bergera koenigii and Citrus sinensis to the Asian citrus psyllid Diaphorina citri. FRONTIERS IN INSECT SCIENCE 2023; 3:1125987. [PMID: 38469526 PMCID: PMC10926525 DOI: 10.3389/finsc.2023.1125987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri, vectors the bacterial causative agent of citrus greening disease, which has severely impacted citrus production on a global scale. As the current repeated application of chemical insecticides is unsustainable for management of this insect and subsequent protection of groves, we investigated the potential use of the bacteria-derived pesticidal protein, Cry1Ba1, when delivered via transgenic citrus plants. Having demonstrated transformation of the Indian curry leaf tree, Bergera koenigii, for Cry1Ba1 expression for use as a trap plant, we produced transgenic plants of Duncan grapefruit, Citrus paridisi, Valencia sweet orange, Citrus sinensis, and Carrizo citrange, C. sinensis x Poncirus trifoliata, for expression of Cry1Ba1. The presence of the cry1ba1 gene, and cry1ba1 transcription were confirmed. Western blot detection of Cry1Ba1 was confirmed in most cases. When compared to those from wild-type plants, leaf discs from transgenic Duncan and Valencia expressing Cry1Ba1 exhibited a "delayed senescence" phenotype, similar to observations made for transgenic B. koenigii. In bioassays, significant reductions in the survival of adult psyllids were noted on transgenic B. koenigii and Valencia sweet orange plants expressing Cry1Ba1, but not on transgenic Duncan grapefruit or Carrizo citrange. In contrast to psyllids fed on wild type plants, the gut epithelium of psyllids fed on transgenic plants was damaged, consistent with the mode of action of Cry1Ba1. These results indicate that the transgenic expression of a bacterial pesticidal protein in B. koenigii and Valencia sweet orange offers a viable option for management of D. citri, that may contribute to solutions that counter citrus greening disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Orbović
- Citrus Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), University of Florida, Lake Alfred, FL, United States
| | - Seyed Ali Ravanfar
- Citrus Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), University of Florida, Lake Alfred, FL, United States
| | - Diann S. Achor
- Citrus Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), University of Florida, Lake Alfred, FL, United States
| | - Turksen Shilts
- Citrus Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), University of Florida, Lake Alfred, FL, United States
| | - Freddy Ibanez-Carrasco
- Citrus Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), University of Florida, Lake Alfred, FL, United States
| | - Rahul Banerjee
- Entomology and Nematology Department, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Choaa El-Mohtar
- Citrus Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), University of Florida, Lake Alfred, FL, United States
| | - Lukasz L. Stelinski
- Citrus Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), University of Florida, Lake Alfred, FL, United States
| | - Bryony C. Bonning
- Entomology and Nematology Department, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
dos Santos IB, Paula-Moraes SV, Beuzelin JM, Hahn DA, Perera OP, Fraisse C. Factors Affecting Population Dynamics of Helicoverpa zea (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in a Mixed Landscape with Bt Cotton and Peanut. INSECTS 2023; 14:395. [PMID: 37103210 PMCID: PMC10142863 DOI: 10.3390/insects14040395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
In North America, weather and host-plant abundance drive the population dynamics of the migratory pest Helicoverpa zea. The objectives of this study were to (i) estimate monthly abundance of H. zea moths in Bt cotton and peanut fields, (ii) document the effects of weather on H. zea trap catches, and (iii) determine larval hosts supporting H. zea populations from 2017 to 2019. Year-round trapping of H. zea moths was conducted in 16 commercial fields in two regions of the Florida Panhandle using delta traps. H. zea moth catches were associated with temperature, rainfall, and relative humidity. Larval hosts were determined by isotopic carbon analysis. Our results showed year-round H. zea flights in both regions across two years, with the highest and lowest moth catches occurring from July to September and November to March, respectively. There was no difference in catches between traps set on Bt cotton and peanut. In the Santa Rosa/Escambia counties, weather explained 59% of the variance in H. zea catches, with significant effects of temperature, relative humidity, and rainfall. In Jackson County, weather explained 38% of H. zea catches, with significant effects of temperature and relative humidity. Carbon isotopic data showed that feeding on C3 plants, including Bt cotton, occurred over most of the year, although feeding on C4 hosts, including Bt corn, occurred during the summer months. Hence overwintering and resident populations of H. zea in the Florida Panhandle may be continually exposed to Bt crops, increasing the risk for the evolution of resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Izailda Barbosa dos Santos
- West Florida Research and Education Center, Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of Florida, Jay, FL 32565, USA
| | - Silvana V. Paula-Moraes
- West Florida Research and Education Center, Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of Florida, Jay, FL 32565, USA
| | - Julien M. Beuzelin
- Everglades Research and Education Center, Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of Florida, 3200 East Palm Beach Road, Belle Glade, FL 33430, USA
| | - Daniel A. Hahn
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of Florida, 1881 Natural Area Drive, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | | | - Clyde Fraisse
- Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, University of Florida, 271 Frazier Rogers Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Prabu S, Jing D, Jurat-Fuentes JL, Wang Z, He K. Hemocyte response to treatment of susceptible and resistant Asian corn borer ( Ostrinia furnacalis) larvae with Cry1F toxin from Bacillus thuringiensis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1022445. [PMID: 36466886 PMCID: PMC9714555 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1022445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Midgut receptors have been recognized as the major mechanism of resistance to Cry proteins in lepidopteran larvae, while there is a dearth of data on the role of hemocyte's response to Cry intoxication and resistance development. We aimed at investigating the role of circulating hemocytes in the intoxication of Cry1F toxin in larvae from susceptible (ACB-BtS) and resistant (ACB-FR) strains of the Asian corn borer (ACB), Ostrinia furnacalis. Transcriptome and proteome profiling identified genes and proteins involved in immune-related (tetraspanin and C-type lectins) and detoxification pathways as significantly up-regulated in the hemocytes of Cry1F treated ACB-FR. High-throughput in vitro assays revealed the binding affinity of Cry1F with the tetraspanin and C-type lectin family proteins. We found significant activation of MAPKinase (ERK 1/2, p38α, and JNK 1/2) in the hemocytes of Cry1F treated ACB-FR. In testing plausible crosstalk between a tetraspanin (CD63) and downstream MAPK signaling, we knocked down CD63 expression by RNAi and detected an alteration in JNK 1/2 level but a significant increase in susceptibility of ACB-FR larvae to Cry1F toxin. Information from this study advances a change in knowledge on the cellular immune response to Cry intoxication and its potential role in resistance in a lepidopteran pest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sivaprasath Prabu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dapeng Jing
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Juan Luis Jurat-Fuentes
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Zhenying Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Kanglai He
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|