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Gouda MNR, D S, Gaikwad K, Prabha R, Kumar A, Subramanian S. Elucidation of ejaculatory bulb proteins in Bemisia tabaci Asia-1 and Asia II-1 and confirmation of their mating transfer via RNAi. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:861. [PMID: 39068620 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09816-8] [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: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bemisia tabaci, a significant agricultural pest in Asia, contains distinct genetic groups, Asia-1 and Asia II-1. Understanding its reproductive biology, particularly the role of ejaculatory bulb proteins (EBPs) in mating, is crucial. However, EBPs in B. tabaci were not well characterised until this study. METHODS AND RESULTS The EBPs have been characterised in the Asia-1 and Asia II-1 genetic groups of the whitefly B. tabaci, prevalent in Asia. The transcriptomic analysis yielded over 40,000,000 and 30,000,000 annotated transcripts, respectively, from Asia II-1 and Asia-1. Differential gene expression revealed the presence of 270 upregulated and 198 downregulated genes, with significant differences between these two genetic groups. Orphan genes (1992 numbers) were identified in both genetic groups. We report, for the first time, full-length sequences of EBP genes from B. tabaci. The 10 EBPs each deduced in B. tabaci Asia-1 and Asia II-1 are structurally akin to chemosensory proteins having four conserved cysteine residues. Additionally, we did domain analysis, protein structure prediction, mapping of these EBPs in the chromosomes of B. tabaci, and phylogenetic analysis to track their evolutionary lineage. We have specifically demonstrated the transfer of EBPs from males to females during mating using qPCR and further validated the transfer of EBPs through RNAi. Specifically, we targeted the highly expressed EBPs (EBP-3, 7, and 8 in BtAsia1; EBP-8, 9, and 10 in BtAsia II-1) through feeding bioassays of dsRNAs. Tracking by qPCR revealed that the females, when mated with dsRNA-treated males, did not show expression of the specific EBP, suggesting that the silencing of these genes in males hinders the transfer of EBP to females during mating. CONCLUSION Our findings provide novel insights into the genomic contours of EBPs in B. tabaci and underscore the potential of RNAi-based strategies for pest management by disrupting the reproductive processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M N Rudra Gouda
- Division of Entomology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, 110012, India
| | - Sagar D
- Division of Genomic Resources, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, Bengaluru, 275103, India
| | - Kishor Gaikwad
- Division of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, ICAR-National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, New Delhi, 110012, India
| | - Ratna Prabha
- Agricultural Knowledge Management Unit (AKMU), ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, 110012, India
| | - Amrender Kumar
- Agricultural Knowledge Management Unit (AKMU), ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, 110012, India
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Rios T, Bomfim L, Pereira J, Miranda K, Majerowicz D, Pane A, Ramos I. Knockdown of Sec16 causes early lethality and defective deposition of the protein Rp30 in the eggshell of the vector Rhodnius prolixus. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1332894. [PMID: 38711619 PMCID: PMC11070790 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1332894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
In nearly every species of insect, embryonic development takes place outside of the mother's body and is entirely dependent on the elements that the mother had previously stored within the eggs. It is well known that the follicle cells (FCs) synthesize the eggshell (chorion) components during the process of choriogenesis, the final step of oogenesis before fertilization. These cells have developed a specialization in the massive production of chorion proteins, which are essential for the protection and survival of the embryo. Here, we investigate the function of Sec16, a protein crucial for the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to Golgi traffic, in the oocyte development in the insect Rhodnius prolixus. We discovered that Sec16 is strongly expressed in vitellogenic females' ovaries, particularly in the choriogenic oocyte and it is mainly associated with the FCs. Silencing of Sec16 by RNAi caused a sharp decline in oviposition rates, F1 viability, and longevity in adult females. In the FCs, genes involved in the unfolded protein response (UPR), the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), and autophagy were massively upregulated, whereas the mRNAs of Rp30 and Rp45-which code for the two major chorion proteins - were downregulated as a result of Sec16 silencing, indicating general proteostasis disturbance. As a result, the outer surface ultrastructure of Sec16-silenced chorions was altered, with decreased thickness, dityrosine crosslinking, sulfur signals, and lower amounts of the chorion protein Rp30. These findings collectively demonstrate the critical role Sec16 plays in the proper functioning of the FCs, which impacts the synthesis and deposition of particular components of the chorion as well as the overall reproduction of this vector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thamara Rios
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Larissa Bomfim
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Pereira
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Kildare Miranda
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - David Majerowicz
- Departamento de Biotecnologia Farmacêutica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Entomologia Molecular, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Attilio Pane
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Entomologia Molecular, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Isabela Ramos
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Entomologia Molecular, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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3
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Han WK, Tang FX, Yan YY, Wang Y, Zhang YX, Yu N, Wang K, Liu ZW. An OBP gene highly expressed in non-chemosensory tissues affects the phototaxis and reproduction of Spodoptera frugiperda. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 33:81-90. [PMID: 37815404 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12880] [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: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Insect odorant binding proteins (OBPs) were initially regarded as carriers of the odorants involved in chemosensation. However, it had been observed that a growing number of OBP genes exhibited broad expression patterns beyond chemosensory tissues. Here, an OBP gene (OBP31) was found to be highly expressed in the larval ventral nerve cord, adult brain and male reproductive organ of Spodoptera frugiperda. An OBP31 knockout strain (OBP31-/- ) was generated by CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis. For OBP31-/- , the larvae needed longer time to pupate, but there was no difference in the pupal weight between OBP31-/- and wild type (WT). OBP31-/- larvae showed stronger phototaxis than the WT larvae, indicating the importance of OBP31 in light perception. For mating rhythm of adults, OBP31-/- moths displayed an earlier second mating peak. In the cross-pairing of OBP31-/- and WT moths, the mating duration was longer, and hatchability was lower in OBP31-/- group and OBP31+/- ♂ group than that in the WT group. These results suggested that OBP31 played a vital role in larval light perception and male reproductive process and could provide valuable insights into understanding the biological functions of OBPs that were not specific in chemosensory tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Kang Han
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng-Xian Tang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang-Yang Yan
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yi-Xi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Na Yu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Kan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ze-Wen Liu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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4
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He Y, Cotten ML, Yin J, Yuan Q, Tjandra N. Expression and purification of Drosophila OBP44a with the aids of LC-MS and NMR. Protein Expr Purif 2023; 212:106354. [PMID: 37597794 PMCID: PMC10557525 DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2023.106354] [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: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
The production of highly purified native soluble proteins in large quantities is crucial for studying protein structure and function. Odorant binding proteins (OBPs) are small, soluble, extracellular proteins with multiple disulfide bonds, whose functions include, but are not limited to, binding hydrophobic molecules and delivering them to their corresponding receptors expressed on insect olfactory receptor neurons. Expression of proteins with multiple disulfide bonds like OBPs usually results in insolubility and low yield, which has been a significant barrier to understanding their biological roles and physiological functions. In the E. coli system, expression of OBPs often results in insoluble inclusion bodies or a limited amount of periplasmic soluble proteins. Although expression of OBPs in eukaryotic systems such as Sf9 insect cells or yeast Pichia pastoris can increase the solubility of the protein, the process remains insufficient. Additionally, monitoring the purity and native apo state of the protein is critical for establishing the correct conformation of the protein. In this study, we employed an E. coli host with an altered intracellular environment to produce cytosolic soluble OBP44a protein, which yielded over 100 mg/L. We monitored the integrity of disulfide bonds throughout the purification process using LC-MS and used NMR to ensure the final product adopted a single conformation. Our study presents an efficient method for obtaining large quantities of soluble proteins in a single conformation, which enables extensive in vitro studies of secreted proteins like OBPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi He
- Fermentation Facility, Biochemistry and Biophysics Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Myriam L Cotten
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, USA
| | - Jun Yin
- Dendrite Morphogenesis and Plasticity Unit, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Quan Yuan
- Dendrite Morphogenesis and Plasticity Unit, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nico Tjandra
- Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biophysics Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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Sumitha MK, Kalimuthu M, Aarthy M, Paramasivan R, Kumar A, Gupta B. In silico identification, characterization, and expression analysis of RNA recognition motif (RRM) containing RNA-binding proteins in Aedes aegypti. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:2847-2857. [PMID: 37735272 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07969-2] [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: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are the proteins that bind RNAs and regulate their functioning. RBPs in mosquitoes are gaining attention due to their ability to bind flaviviruses and regulate their replication and transmission. Despite their relevance, RBPs in mosquitoes are not explored much. In this study, we screened the whole genome of Aedes aegypti, the primary vector of several pathogenic viruses, and identified the proteins containing RNA recognition motif (RRM), the most abundant protein domain in eukaryotes. Using several in silico strategies, a total of 135 RRM-containing RBPs were identified in Ae. aegypti. The proteins were characterized based on their available annotations and the sequence similarity with Drosophila melanogaster. Ae. aegypti RRM-containing RBPs included serine/arginine-rich (SR) proteins, polyadenylate-binding proteins (PABP), heteronuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNP), small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNP), splicing factors, eukaryotic initiation factors, transformers, and nucleolysins. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the proteins and the domain organization are conserved among Ae. aegypti, Bombyx mori, and Drosophila melanogaster. However, the gene length and the intron-exon organization varied across the insect species. Expression analysis of the genes encoding RBPs using publicly available RNA sequencing data for different developmental time points of the mosquito life cycle starting from the ovary and eggs up to the adults revealed stage-specific expression with several genes preferentially expressed in early embryonic stages and blood-fed female ovaries. This is the first database for the Ae. aegypti RBPs that can serve as the reference base for future investigations. Stage-specific genes can be further explored to determine their role in mosquito growth and development with a focus on developing novel mosquito control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melveettil Kishor Sumitha
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre (VCRC), Field Station, 4, Sarojini Street Chinna Chokkikulam, Madurai, 625002, India
| | - Mariapillai Kalimuthu
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre (VCRC), Field Station, 4, Sarojini Street Chinna Chokkikulam, Madurai, 625002, India
| | - Murali Aarthy
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre (VCRC), Field Station, 4, Sarojini Street Chinna Chokkikulam, Madurai, 625002, India
| | - Rajaiah Paramasivan
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre (VCRC), Field Station, 4, Sarojini Street Chinna Chokkikulam, Madurai, 625002, India
| | - Ashwani Kumar
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre (VCRC), Puducherry, India
| | - Bhavna Gupta
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre (VCRC), Field Station, 4, Sarojini Street Chinna Chokkikulam, Madurai, 625002, India.
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Isoe J, Simington CJ, Oscherwitz ME, Peterson AJ, Rascón AA, Massani BB, Miesfeld RL, Riehle MA. Characterization of essential eggshell proteins from Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. BMC Biol 2023; 21:214. [PMID: 37833714 PMCID: PMC10576393 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01721-z] [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: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Up to 40% of the world population live in areas where mosquitoes capable of transmitting the dengue virus, including Aedes aegypti, coexist with humans. Understanding how mosquito egg development and oviposition are regulated at the molecular level may provide new insights into novel mosquito control strategies. Previously, we identified a protein named eggshell organizing factor 1 (EOF1) that when knocked down with RNA interference (RNAi) resulted in non-melanized and fragile eggs that did not contain viable embryos. RESULTS In this current study, we performed a comprehensive RNAi screen of putative A. aegypti eggshell proteins to identify additional proteins that interact with intracellular EOF1. We identified several proteins essential for eggshell formation in A. aegypti and characterized their phenotypes through a combination of molecular and biochemical approaches. We found that Nasrat, Closca, and Polehole structural proteins, together with the Nudel serine protease, are indispensable for eggshell melanization and egg viability. While all four proteins are predominantly expressed in ovaries of adult females, Nudel messenger RNA (mRNA) expression is highly upregulated in response to blood feeding. Furthermore, we identified four additional secreted eggshell enzymes that regulated mosquito eggshell formation and melanization. These enzymes included three dopachrome-converting enzymes (DCEs) and one cysteine protease. All eight of these eggshell proteins were essential for proper eggshell formation. Interestingly, their eggshell surface topologies in response to RNAi did not phenocopy the effect of RNAi-EOF1, suggesting that additional mechanisms may influence how EOF1 regulates eggshell formation and melanization. CONCLUSIONS While our studies did not identify a definitive regulator of EOF1, we did identify eight additional proteins involved in mosquito eggshell formation that may be leveraged for future control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Isoe
- Department of Entomology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA.
| | - Carter J Simington
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
- Present address: Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA94720, USA
| | - Max E Oscherwitz
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
- Present address: Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Alyssa J Peterson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Alberto A Rascón
- Department of Chemistry, San José State University, San José, CA, 95192, USA
- Present address: School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85281, USA
| | - Brooke B Massani
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Roger L Miesfeld
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Michael A Riehle
- Department of Entomology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA.
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Noh MY, Kramer KJ, Muthukrishnan S, Arakane Y. Ovariole-specific Yellow-g and Yellow-g2 proteins are required for fecundity and egg chorion rigidity in the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 159:103984. [PMID: 37391088 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2023.103984] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Most insects reproduce by laying eggs that have an eggshell/chorion secreted by follicle cells, which serves as a protective barrier for developing embryos. Thus, eggshell formation is vital for reproduction. Insect yellow family genes encode for secreted extracellular proteins that perform different, context-dependent functions in different tissues at various stages of development involving, for example, cuticle/eggshell coloration and morphology, molting, courtship behavior and embryo hatching. In this study we investigated the function of two of this family's genes, yellow-g (TcY-g) and yellow-g2 (TcY-g2), on the formation and morphology of the eggshell of the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum. Real-time PCR analysis revealed that both TcY-g and TcY-g2 were specifically expressed in the ovarioles of adult females. Loss of function produced by injection of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) for either TcY-g or TcY-g2 gene resulted in failure of oviposition. There was no effect on maternal survival. Ovaries dissected from those dsRNA-treated females exhibited ovarioles containing not only developing oocytes but also mature eggs in their egg chambers. However, the ovulated eggs were collapsed and ruptured, resulting in swollen lateral oviducts and calyxes. TEM analysis showed that lateral oviducts were filled with electron-dense material, presumably from some cellular content leakage out of the collapsed eggs. In addition, morphological abnormalities in lateral oviduct epithelial cells and the tubular muscle sheath were evident. These results support the hypothesis that both TcY-g and TcY-g2 proteins are required for maintaining the rigidity and integrity of the chorion, which is critical for resistance to mechanical stress and/or rehydration during ovulation and egg activation in the oviducts of T. castaneum. Because Yellow-g and Yellow-g2 are highly conserved among insect species, both genes are potential targets for development of gene-based insect pest population control methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Young Noh
- Department of Forest Resources, AgriBio Institute of Climate Change Management, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea.
| | - Karl J Kramer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Chalmers Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Subbaratnam Muthukrishnan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Chalmers Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Yasuyuki Arakane
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea.
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Moura AS, Costa-da-Silva AL, Peixoto PS, Maciel C, Cardoso AF. Vitellogenin genes are transcribed in Culex quinquefasciatus ovary. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2023; 118:e220143. [PMID: 37466532 PMCID: PMC10368008 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760220143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Culex quinquefasciatus, a cosmopolitan, domestic, and highly anthropophilic mosquito, is a vector of pathogenic arboviruses such as West Nile virus and Rift Valley virus, as well as lymphatic filariasis. The current knowledge on its reproductive physiology regarding vitellogenin expression in different tissues is still limited. OBJECTIVES In this study, we analysed the transcriptional profiles of vitellogenin genes in the fat body and ovaries of C. quinquefasciatus females during the first gonotrophic cycle. METHODS C. quinquefasciatus ovaries and/or fat bodies were dissected in different times during the first gonotrophic cycle and total RNA was extracted and used for reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, quantitative real time-PCR, and in situ hybridisation. FINDINGS We confirmed the classical descriptions of the vitellogenic process in mosquitoes by verifying that vitellogenin genes are transcribed in the fat bodies of C. quinquefasciatus females. Using RNA in situ hybridisation approach, we showed that vitellogenin genes are also transcribed in developing ovaries, specifically by the follicle cells. MAIN CONCLUSIONS This is the first time that vitellogenin transcripts are observed in mosquito ovaries. Studies to determine if Vg transcripts are translated into proteins and their contribution to the reproductive success of the mosquito need to be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre S Moura
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Departamento de Parasitologia, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - André Luis Costa-da-Silva
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Departamento de Parasitologia, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
- Florida International University, Sciences Institute, Department of Biological Sciences & Biomolecular, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Pedro S Peixoto
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Matemática e Estatística, Departamento de Matemática Aplicada, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Ceres Maciel
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Departamento de Parasitologia, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
- Universidade do Estado de Mato Grosso, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Tangará da Serra, MT, Brasil
| | - André F Cardoso
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Departamento de Parasitologia, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
- Universidade do Estado de Mato Grosso, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Tangará da Serra, MT, Brasil
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Huang X, Jing D, Prabu S, Zhang T, Wang Z. RNA Interference of Phenoloxidases of the Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, Enhance Susceptibility to Bacillus thuringiensis Protein Vip3Aa19. INSECTS 2022; 13:1041. [PMID: 36354865 PMCID: PMC9699050 DOI: 10.3390/insects13111041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Phenoloxidase (PO) is an important enzyme in the cellular immune system and is involved in defense against a wide range of pathogens, including Bacillus thuringiensis. Vip3Aa19 is secreted and expressed by Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) at the middle exponential growth phase and is a kind of protein with efficient insecticidal activity against Spodoptera frugiperda. However, immune responses of the target insects have been regarded as a hindrance to Bt pathogenicity. This paper reports two phenoloxidase (PO) genes (SfPAE and SfPO2) identified from the hemocyte transcriptome data of the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda. qRT-PCR validation results showed that the expression levels of two PO genes were significantly upregulated after Vip3Aa19 (LC50 = 4.98 µg/g) toxin treatment compared with those of S. frugiperda fed an insecticide-free artificial diet. Meanwhile, two PO genes were expressed from the egg to adult stages even without an immune challenge. We noticed that at all developmental stages investigated in the S. frugiperda, SfPAE was generally expressed at a higher level than SfPO2. However, after Vip3Aa19 treatment, the SfPO2 gene mRNA expression level was significantly elevated in response to the toxin challenge. An injection of a specific double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) against POs could suppress its expression. The third instar larvae of S. frugiperda treated with dsRNA were much more susceptible to Vip3Aa19 toxin than the control larvae were. Notably, the mortality rate was nearly 90% after a dsPO2 injection. These results proved that SfPO2 was more important for the survival of S. frugiperda. Finally, RNA interference and then PO activity detection revealed that PO genes mainly existed in the hemolymph and played an important role in immune defense against Bt toxin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Huang
- Engineering Research Center of Natural Enemy Insects, Institute of Biological Control, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Dapeng Jing
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Sivaprasath Prabu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Tiantao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhenying Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
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Vitelline Membrane Protein 26 Mutagenesis, Using CRISPR/Cas9, Results in Egg Collapse in Plutella xylostella. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179538. [PMID: 36076934 PMCID: PMC9455775 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitelline membrane proteins (VMPs) are the main proteins that form the inner shell (vitelline membrane layer) of insect eggs and are an integral part of egg formation and embryo development. Here, we characterized the molecular structure and expression patterns of the VMP26 gene and analyzed its reproductive functions in diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.), a worldwide migratory pest of cruciferous plants. The PxVMP26 gene was shown to be a single exon gene that contained an open reading frame of 852 base pairs (bp) encoding 283 amino acids. Both qPCR and western blot analyses showed that PxVMP26 was specifically expressed in female adults and was significantly highly expressed in the ovary. Further anatomical analysis indicated that the expression level of PxVMP26 in the ovarian tube with an incomplete yolk was significantly higher than that in the ovarian tube with a complete yolk. CRISPR/Cas9-induced PxVMP26 knockout successfully created two homozygous strains with 8- and 46-bp frameshift mutations. The expression deficiency of the PxVMP26 protein was detected in the mutant strains using immunofluorescence and western blot. No significant difference was found in the number of eggs laid within three days between wild and mutant individuals, but there was a lower egg hatchability. The loss of the PxVMP26 gene changed the mean egg size, damaged the structure of the vitelline membrane, and increased the proportion of abnormal eggs due to water loss, resulting in egg collapse. This first analysis of the roles of the VMP gene in the oocyte formation and embryonic development of P. xylostella, using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, provides a basis for screening new genetic control targets of P. xylostella.
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11
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Cardoso-Jaime V, Broderick NA, Maya-Maldonado K. Metal ions in insect reproduction: a crosstalk between reproductive physiology and immunity. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2022; 52:100924. [PMID: 35483647 PMCID: PMC9357134 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2022.100924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Most insects exhibit high reproductive capacity, which demands large amounts of energy, including macronutrients and micronutrients. Interestingly, many proteins involved in oogenesis depend on metals ions, in particular iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu). Mechanisms by which metal ions influence reproduction have been described in Drosophila melanogaster, but remain poorly understood in hematophagous insects where blood meals include significant ingestion of metal ions. Moreover, there is evidence that some proteins involved in reproduction and immunity could have dual function in both processes. This review highlights the importance of metal ions in the reproduction of non-hematophagous and hematophagous insects. In addition, we discuss how insects optimize physiological processes using proteins involved in crosstalk between reproductive physiology and immunity, which is a double-edge sword in allocating their functions to protect the insect and ensure reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Cardoso-Jaime
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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12
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Li X, Li JW, Sun WX, Li W, Gao HY, Liu TX, Qu MJ. Candidate Chemosensory Genes Identified in the Adult Antennae of Sympiezomias velatus and Binding Property of Odorant-Binding Protein 15. Front Physiol 2022; 13:907667. [PMID: 35711318 PMCID: PMC9193972 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.907667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemosensory genes play important roles in insect behaviors and have thus become potential molecular targets for pest control based on the manipulation of chemoreception-driven behaviors. The great gray weevil Sympiezomias velatus (Chevrolat) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is an important agricultural pest that causes serious economic losses to many crops in China, but its chemosensory genes have not been reported. Here we assembled the antennal transcriptomes of female and male adult S. velatus and revealed the major chemosensory genes necessary for olfaction. A total of 138 candidate chemosensory genes in six families were identified, including 41 encoding odorant-binding proteins (OBPs), 11 encoding chemosensory proteins (CSPs), 62 encoding odorant receptors (ORs), 15 encoding gustatory receptors (GRs), six encoding ionotropic receptors (IRs), and three encoding sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs). We analyzed their phylogenetic relationship based on the amino acid sequences of these chemosensory-related protein families in S. velatus and other insects, and the expression profiles based on their antennal transcriptomes. Chemosensory genes that show antenna-abundant/specific or sex-biased expression were observed, suggesting that these genes might have functions in olfaction. Furthermore, we chose an antenna-abundant OBP belonging to ABPX subfamily, SvelOBP15, to investigate its binding property. The results showed that among 33 tested compounds, SvelOBP15 displayed high binding affinities (Ki = 7.36-12.94 μmol/L) with farnesol, nerolidol, limonene and diisobutyl phthalate, indicating that SvelOBP15 plays olfactory roles by binding and transporting specific plant volatiles. These findings will help us better understand the olfactory systems of S. velatus, and provide a basis for functional elucidation of these chemosensory genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Li
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Qingdao, China
| | - Jian-Wen Li
- College of Life Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China.,Weinan Product Quality Supervision and Inspection Institute, Weinan, China
| | - Wen-Xiu Sun
- College of Life Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Wei Li
- College of Life Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Hua-Yuan Gao
- Peanut Research Institute, Jilin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Tong-Xian Liu
- College of Plant Health and Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ming-Jing Qu
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Qingdao, China
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13
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Pereira J, Dias R, Ramos I. Knockdown of E1- and E2-ubiquitin enzymes triggers defective chorion biogenesis and modulation of autophagy-related genes in the follicle cells of the vector Rhodnius prolixus. J Cell Physiol 2022; 237:3356-3368. [PMID: 35670557 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
In insects, the last stage of oogenesis is the process where the chorion layers (eggshell) are synthesized and deposited on the surface of the oocytes by the follicle cells. Protein homeostasis is determined by the fine-tuning of translation and degradation pathways, and the ubiquitin-proteasome system is one of the major degradative routes in eukaryotic cells. The conjugation of ubiquitin to targeted substrates is mediated by the ordered action of E1-activating, E2-conjugating, and E3-ligase enzymes, which covalently link ubiquitin to degradation-targeted proteins delivering them to the proteolytic complex proteasome. Here, we found that the mRNAs encoding polyubiquitin (pUbq), E1, and E2 enzymes are highly expressed in the ovaries of the insect vector of Chagas Disease Rhodnius prolixus. RNAi silencing of pUbq was lethal whereas the silencing of E1 and E2 enzymes resulted in drastic decreases in oviposition and embryo viability. Eggs produced by the E1- and E2-silenced insects presented particular phenotypes of altered chorion ultrastructure observed by high-resolution scanning electron microscopy as well as readings for dityrosine cross-linking and X-ray elemental microanalysis, suggesting a disruption in the secretory routes responsible for the chorion biogenesis. In addition, the ovaries from silenced insects presented altered levels of autophagy-related genes as well as a tendency of upregulation in ER chaperones, indicating a disturbance in the general biosynthetic-secretory pathway. Altogether, we found that E1 and E2 enzymes are essential for chorion biogenesis and that their silencing triggers the modulation of autophagy genes suggesting a coordinated function of both pathways for the progression of choriogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jéssica Pereira
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Avenida Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Raphael Dias
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Avenida Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Isabela Ramos
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Avenida Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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14
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Liu WT, Chen CC, Ji DD, Tu WC. The cecropin-prophenoloxidase regulatory mechanism is a cross-species physiological function in mosquitoes. iScience 2022; 25:104478. [PMID: 35712072 PMCID: PMC9194137 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
This study's aim was to investigate whether the cecropin-prophenoloxidase regulatory mechanism is a cross-species physiological function among mosquitoes. BLAST and phylogenetic analysis revealed that three mosquito cecropin Bs, namely Aedes albopictus cecropin B (Aalcec B), Armigeres subalbatus cecropin B2 (Ascec B2), and Culex quinquefasciatus cecropin B1 (Cqcec B1), play crucial roles in cuticle formation during pupal development via the regulation of prophenoloxidase 3 (PPO 3). The effects of cecropin B knockdown were rescued in a cross-species manner by injecting synthetic cecropin B peptide into pupae. Further investigations showed that these three cecropin B peptides bind to TTGG(A/C)A motifs within each of the PPO 3 DNA fragments obtained from these three mosquitoes. These results suggest that Aalcec B, Ascec B2, and Cqcec B1 each play an important role as a transcription factor in cuticle formation and that similar cecropin-prophenoloxidase regulatory mechanisms exist in multiple mosquito species. Cecropin B is able to regulate PPO 3 expression in the pupae Cecropin B binds to TTGG(A/C)A motifs within the PPO 3 DNA The knockdown of cecropin B was rescued by sequence-similar cecropin B peptides The cecropin B-prophenoloxidase 3 regulatory mechanism is conserved in mosquitoes
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Geiser DL, Li W, Pham DQD, Wysocki VH, Winzerling JJ. Shotgun and TMT-Labeled Proteomic Analysis of the Ovarian Proteins of an Insect Vector, Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae). JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2022; 22:7. [PMID: 35303100 PMCID: PMC8932505 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/ieac018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Aedes aegypti [Linnaeus in Hasselquist; yellow fever mosquito] transmits several viruses that infect millions of people each year, including Zika, dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya, and West Nile. Pathogen transmission occurs during blood feeding. Only the females blood feed as they require a bloodmeal for oogenesis; in the bloodmeal, holo-transferrin and hemoglobin provide the females with a high iron load. We are interested in the effects of the bloodmeal on the expression of iron-associated proteins in oogenesis. Previous data showed that following digestion of a bloodmeal, ovarian iron concentrations doubles by 72 hr. We have used shotgun proteomics to identify proteins expressed in Ae. aegypti ovaries at two oogenesis developmental stages following blood feeding, and tandem mass tag-labeling proteomics to quantify proteins expressed at one stage following feeding of a controlled iron diet. Our findings provide the first report of mosquito ovarian protein expression in early and late oogenesis. We identify proteins differentially expressed in the two oogenesis development stages. We establish that metal-associated proteins play an important role in Ae. aegypti oogenesis and we identify new candidate proteins that might be involved in mosquito iron metabolism. Finally, this work identified a unique second ferritin light chain subunit, the first reported in any species. The shotgun proteomic data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD005893, while the tandem mass tag-labeled proteomic data are available with identifier PXD028242.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn L Geiser
- Nutritional Sciences, Division of Agriculture, Life and Veterinary Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Wenzhou Li
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Present Address: Amgen Incorporation, One Amgen Center Drive, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA
| | - Daphne Q-D Pham
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Parkside, Kenosha, WI 53141, USA
| | - Vicki H Wysocki
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Present Address: Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Joy J Winzerling
- Nutritional Sciences, Division of Agriculture, Life and Veterinary Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
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16
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Chen WB, Du LX, Gao XY, Sun LL, Chen LL, Xie GY, An SH, Zhao XC. Identification of Odorant-Binding and Chemosensory Protein Genes in Mythimna separata Adult Brains Using Transcriptome Analyses. Front Physiol 2022; 13:839559. [PMID: 35295575 PMCID: PMC8918689 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.839559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Large numbers of chemosensory genes have been identified in the peripheral sensory organs of the pest Mythimna separata (Walker) to increase our understanding of chemoreception-related molecular mechanisms and to identify molecular targets for pest control. Chemosensory-related genes are expressed in various tissues, including non-sensory organs, and they play diverse roles. To better understand the functions of chemosensory-related genes in non-sensory organs, transcriptomic analyses of M. separata brains were performed. In total, 29 odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) and 16 chemosensory proteins (CSPs) putative genes were identified in the transcriptomic data set. The further examination of sex- and tissue-specific expression using RT-PCR suggested that eight OBPs (OBP5, -7, -11, -13, -16, -18, -21, and -24) and eight CSPs (CSP2–4, -8, CSP10–12, and -15) genes were expressed in the brain. Furthermore, bands representing most OBPs and CSPs could be detected in antennae, except for a few that underwent sex-biased expression in abdomens, legs, or wings. An RT-qPCR analysis of the expression profiles of six OBPs (OBP3–5, -9, -10, and -16) and two CSPs (CSP3 and CSP4) in different tissues and sexes indicated that OBP16 was highly expressed in male brain, and CSP3 and CSP4 were female-biased and highly expressed in brain. The expression levels of OBP5 and OBP10 in brain were not significantly different between the sexes. The findings expand our current understanding of the expression patterns of OBPs and CSPs in M. separata sensory and non-sensory tissues. These results provide valuable reference data for exploring novel functions of OBPs and CSPs in M. separata and may help in developing effective biological control strategies for managing this pest by exploring novel molecular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Bo Chen
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Green Pest Control, College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Li-Xiao Du
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Yan Gao
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Green Pest Control, College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Long-Long Sun
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Green Pest Control, College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lin-Lin Chen
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Green Pest Control, College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Gui-Ying Xie
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Green Pest Control, College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shi-Heng An
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Green Pest Control, College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xin-Cheng Zhao
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Green Pest Control, College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xin-Cheng Zhao,
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17
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Du E, Wang S, Luan YX, Zhou C, Li Z, Li N, Zhou S, Zhang T, Ma W, Cui Y, Yuan D, Ren C, Zhang J, Roth S, Li S. Convergent adaptation of ootheca formation as a reproductive strategy in Polyneoptera. Mol Biol Evol 2022; 39:6531981. [PMID: 35192709 PMCID: PMC8892946 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msac042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Insects have evolved numerous adaptations and colonized diverse terrestrial environments. Several polyneopterans, including dictyopterans (cockroaches and mantids) and locusts, have developed oothecae, but little is known about the molecular mechanism, physiological function, and evolutionary significance of ootheca formation. Here, we demonstrate that the cockroach asymmetric colleterial glands produce vitellogenins, proline-rich protein, and glycine-rich protein as major ootheca structural proteins (OSPs) that undergo sclerotization and melanization for ootheca formation through the cooperative protocatechuic acid pathway and dopachrome and dopaminechrome subpathway. Functionally, OSP sclerotization and melanization prevent eggs from losing water at warm and dry conditions, and thus effectively maintain embryo viability. Dictyopterans and locusts convergently evolved vitellogenins, apolipoprotein D, and laminins as OSPs, whereas within Dictyoptera, cockroaches and mantids independently developed glycine-rich protein and fibroins as OSPs. Highlighting the ecological-evolutionary importance, convergent ootheca formation represents a successful reproductive strategy in Polyneoptera that promoted the radiation and establishment of cockroaches, mantids, and locusts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erxia Du
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, China.,Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun-Xia Luan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Caisheng Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhaoxin Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Na Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, China
| | - Shutang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China.,Institute for Zoology, University of Cologne, Cologne, D-50674, Germany
| | - Wentao Ma
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingying Cui
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongwei Yuan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chonghua Ren
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Siegfried Roth
- Institute for Zoology, University of Cologne, Cologne, D-50674, Germany
| | - Sheng Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, China.,Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, China
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18
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Noh MY, Mun S, Kramer KJ, Muthukrishnan S, Arakane Y. Yellow-y Functions in Egg Melanization and Chorion Morphology of the Asian Tiger Mosquito, Aedes albopictus. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:769788. [PMID: 34977021 PMCID: PMC8716798 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.769788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, is one of the most serious public health pests, which can transmit various vector-borne diseases. Eggs from this mosquito species become dark black shortly after oviposition and exhibit high desiccation resistance. Some of the Yellow proteins that act as dopachrome conversion enzymes (DCEs) are involved in the tyrosine-mediated tanning (pigmentation and sclerotization) metabolic pathway that significantly accelerates melanization reactions in insects. In this research, we analyzed the function of one of the yellow genes, yellow-y (AalY-y), in eggshell/chorion melanization of Ae. albopictus eggs. Developmental and tissue-specific expression measured by real-time PCR showed that AalY-y transcripts were detected at all stages of development analyzed, with significantly higher levels in the ovaries from blood-fed adult females. Injection of double-stranded RNA for AalY-y (dsAalY-y) had no significant effect on fecundity. However, unlike dsEGFP-treated control eggs that become black by 2–3 h after oviposition (HAO), dsAalY-y eggs were yellow-brown at 2 HAO, and reddish-brown even at 48 HAO. dsEGFP eggs exhibited resistance to desiccation at 48 HAO, whereas approximately 50% of the dsAalY-y eggs collapsed when they were moved to a low humidity condition. In addition, TEM analysis revealed an abnormal morphology and ultrastructure of the outer-endochorion in the dsAalY-y eggs. These results support the hypothesis that AalY-y is involved in the tyrosine-induced melanin biosynthetic pathway, plays an important role in black melanization of the chorion and functions in conferring proper morphology of the outer-endochorion, a structure that is presumably required for egg desiccation resistance in Ae. albopictus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Young Noh
- Department of Forest Resources, AgriBio Institute of Climate Change Management, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Mi Young Noh, ; Yasuyuki Arakane,
| | - Seulgi Mun
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Karl J. Kramer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
| | - Subbaratnam Muthukrishnan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
| | - Yasuyuki Arakane
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Mi Young Noh, ; Yasuyuki Arakane,
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Santos-Ortega Y, Killiny N. The Chorion Proteome of Diaphorina citri, the Vector of Huanglongbing Disease in Citrus. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12110959. [PMID: 34821760 PMCID: PMC8618194 DOI: 10.3390/insects12110959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Nowadays, the Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri (Kuwayama) (Hemiptera: Liviidae) is considered the most devastating pest of citrus because it transmits "Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus", the putative causal agent of huanglongbing (HLB) or citrus greening. Controlling the vector is the main strategy used to mitigate HLB. Targeting D. citri at the very early stages of its development may offer an effective control strategy. Identifying chorion proteins will contribute to a better understanding of embryo development and egg hatching and thus could lead to valuable targets to better control psyllid populations. Herein, we analyze the chorion proteins of D. citri. Mass spectrometry-based bottom-up/shotgun proteomics and databases were queried to achieve protein identification. Fifty-one proteins were identified in D. citri chorion. The D. citri chorion proteins were divided into eight categories according to their biological or molecular function: i-enzymes (25%); ii-binding proteins (10%); iii-structural proteins (8%); iv-homeostasis-related proteins, mostly vitellogenins (8%); v-proteins related to gene expression (6%); vi-immune system proteins (6%); vii-other proteins (16%); and viii-uncharacterized proteins (21%). The composition of the chorion proteome suggested that the hatching rate could be reduced by silencing chorion-related genes. The proteomic analysis of D. citri chorion tissue allowed us to identify its proteins, providing promising new targets for D. citri control through RNA interference technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulica Santos-Ortega
- Department of Plant Pathology, Citrus Research and Education Center, IFAS, University of Florida, 700 Experiment Station Road, Lake Alfred, FL 33850, USA;
- Department of Biological Environmental and Earth Sciences, Discipline: Cell and Molecular Biology, The University of Southern Mississippi, 118 College Drive, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
| | - Nabil Killiny
- Department of Plant Pathology, Citrus Research and Education Center, IFAS, University of Florida, 700 Experiment Station Road, Lake Alfred, FL 33850, USA;
- Correspondence: author:
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20
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Johnstun JA, Shankar V, Mokashi SS, Sunkara LT, Ihearahu UE, Lyman RL, Mackay TFC, Anholt RRH. Functional Diversification, Redundancy, and Epistasis among Paralogs of the Drosophila melanogaster Obp50a-d Gene Cluster. Mol Biol Evol 2021; 38:2030-2044. [PMID: 33560417 PMCID: PMC8097280 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msab004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Large multigene families, such as the insect odorant-binding proteins (OBPs), are thought to arise through functional diversification after repeated gene duplications. Whereas many OBPs function in chemoreception, members of this family are also expressed in tissues outside chemosensory organs. Paralogs of the Obp50 gene cluster are expressed in metabolic and male reproductive tissues, but their functions and interrelationships remain unknown. Here, we report the genetic dissection of four members of the Obp50 cluster, which are in close physical proximity without intervening genes. We used CRISPR technology to excise the entire cluster while introducing a PhiC31 reintegration site to reinsert constructs in which different combinations of the constituent Obp genes were either intact or rendered inactive. We performed whole transcriptome sequencing and assessed sexually dimorphic changes in transcript abundances (transcriptional niches) associated with each gene-edited genotype. Using this approach, we were able to estimate redundancy, additivity, diversification, and epistasis among Obp50 paralogs. We analyzed the effects of gene editing of this cluster on organismal phenotypes and found a significant skewing of sex ratios attributable to Obp50a, and sex-specific effects on starvation stress resistance attributable to Obp50d. Thus, there is functional diversification within the Obp50 cluster with Obp50a contributing to development and Obp50d to stress resistance. The deletion-reinsertion approach we applied to the Obp50 cluster provides a general paradigm for the genetic dissection of paralogs of multigene families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel A Johnstun
- Department of Biological Sciences, Program in Genetics and W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Vijay Shankar
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry and Center for Human Genetics, Clemson University, Greenwood, SC, USA
| | - Sneha S Mokashi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Program in Genetics and W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry and Center for Human Genetics, Clemson University, Greenwood, SC, USA
| | - Lakshmi T Sunkara
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry and Center for Human Genetics, Clemson University, Greenwood, SC, USA
| | - Ugonna E Ihearahu
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry and Center for Human Genetics, Clemson University, Greenwood, SC, USA
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - Roberta L Lyman
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry and Center for Human Genetics, Clemson University, Greenwood, SC, USA
| | - Trudy F C Mackay
- Department of Biological Sciences, Program in Genetics and W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry and Center for Human Genetics, Clemson University, Greenwood, SC, USA
| | - Robert R H Anholt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Program in Genetics and W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry and Center for Human Genetics, Clemson University, Greenwood, SC, USA
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21
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The 40-Year Mystery of Insect Odorant-Binding Proteins. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11040509. [PMID: 33808208 PMCID: PMC8067015 DOI: 10.3390/biom11040509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The survival of insects depends on their ability to detect molecules present in their environment. Odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) form a family of proteins involved in chemoreception. While OBPs were initially found in olfactory appendages, recently these proteins were discovered in other chemosensory and non-chemosensory organs. OBPs can bind, solubilize and transport hydrophobic stimuli to chemoreceptors across the aqueous sensilla lymph. In addition to this broadly accepted "transporter role", OBPs can also buffer sudden changes in odorant levels and are involved in hygro-reception. The physiological roles of OBPs expressed in other body tissues, such as mouthparts, pheromone glands, reproductive organs, digestive tract and venom glands, remain to be investigated. This review provides an updated panorama on the varied structural aspects, binding properties, tissue expression and functional roles of insect OBPs.
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Musundi SD, Ochieng PJ, Wamunyokoli F, Nyanjom SG. Expression profile of odorant receptors in brain, gut and reproductive tissues in male and female Glossina morsitans morsitans. SCIENTIFIC AFRICAN 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sciaf.2020.e00591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
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23
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Zhang YC, Gao SS, Xue S, Zhang KP, Wang JS, Li B. Odorant-Binding Proteins Contribute to the Defense of the Red Flour Beetle, Tribolium castaneum, Against Essential Oil of Artemisia vulgaris. Front Physiol 2020; 11:819. [PMID: 32982763 PMCID: PMC7488584 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The function of odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) in insect chemodetection has been extensively studied. However, the role of OBPs in the defense of insects against exogenous toxic substances remains elusive. The red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum, a major pest of stored grains, causes serious economic losses for the agricultural grain and food processing industries. Here, biochemical analysis showed that essential oil (EO) from Artemisia vulgaris, a traditional Chinese medicine, has a strong contact killing effect against larvae of the red flour beetle. Furthermore, one OBP gene, TcOBPC11, was significantly induced after exposure to EO. RNA interference (RNAi) against TcOBPC11 led to higher mortality compared with the controls after EO treatment, suggesting that this OBP gene is associated with defense of the beetle against EO and leads to a decrease in sensitivity to the EO. Tissue expression profiling showed that expression of TcOBPC11 was higher in the fat body, Malpighian tubule, and hemolymph than in other larval tissues, and was mainly expressed in epidermis, fat body, and antennae from the early adult. The developmental expression profile revealed that expression of TcOBPC11 was higher in late larval stages and adult stages than in other developmental stages. These data indicate that TcOBPC11 may be involved in sequestration of exogenous toxicants in the larvae of T. castaneum. Our results provide a theoretical basis for the degradation mechanism of exogenous toxicants and identify potential novel targets for controlling the beetle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-chen Zhang
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| | - Shan-shan Gao
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| | - Shuang Xue
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| | - Kun-peng Zhang
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| | - Jing-shun Wang
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| | - Bin Li
- College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
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24
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Wang S, Minter M, Homem RA, Michaelson LV, Venthur H, Lim KS, Withers A, Xi J, Jones CM, Zhou J. Odorant binding proteins promote flight activity in the migratory insect,
Helicoverpa armigera. Mol Ecol 2020; 29:3795-3808. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.15556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shang Wang
- College of Plant Sciences Jilin University Changchun China
- Biointeractions and Crop Protection Rothamsted Research Harpenden UK
| | - Melissa Minter
- Biointeractions and Crop Protection Rothamsted Research Harpenden UK
- Department of Biology University of York York UK
| | - Rafael A. Homem
- Biointeractions and Crop Protection Rothamsted Research Harpenden UK
| | | | - Herbert Venthur
- Laboratorio de Química Ecológica Departamento de Ciencias Químicas y Recursos Naturales Universidad de La Frontera Temuco Chile
- Centro de Investigación Biotecnológica Aplicada al Medio Ambiente (CIBAMA) Universidad de La Frontera Temuco Chile
| | - Ka S. Lim
- Biointeractions and Crop Protection Rothamsted Research Harpenden UK
| | - Amy Withers
- Lancaster Environment Centre Lancaster University Lancaster UK
| | - Jinghui Xi
- College of Plant Sciences Jilin University Changchun China
| | - Christopher M. Jones
- Biointeractions and Crop Protection Rothamsted Research Harpenden UK
- Vector Biology Department Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine Liverpool UK
| | - Jing‐Jiang Zhou
- College of Plant Sciences Jilin University Changchun China
- Biointeractions and Crop Protection Rothamsted Research Harpenden UK
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25
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Noh MY, Kim SH, Gorman MJ, Kramer KJ, Muthukrishnan S, Arakane Y. Yellow-g and Yellow-g2 proteins are required for egg desiccation resistance and temporal pigmentation in the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 122:103386. [PMID: 32315743 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2020.103386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Eggs from Aedes mosquitoes exhibit desiccation resistance that helps them to survive and spread as human disease vectors throughout the world. Previous studies have suggested that eggshell/chorion melanization and/or serosal cuticle formation are important for desiccation resistance. In this study, using dsRNAs for target genes, we analyzed the functional importance of two ovary-specific yellow genes, AalY-g and AalY-g2, in the resistance to egg desiccation of the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, a species in which neither the timing of the melanization nor temporal development of the serosal cuticle is correlated with desiccation resistance. Injections of dsAalY-g, dsAalY-g2 or dsAalY-g/g2 (co-injection) into adult females have no effect on their fecundity. However, initial melanization is delayed by 1-2 h with the eggshells eventually becoming black similar to that observed in eggs from dsEGFP-injected control females. In addition, the shape of the eggs from dsAalY-g, -g2 and -g/g2-treated females is abnormally crescent-shaped and the outermost exochorion is more fragile and partially peeled off. dsEGFP control eggs, like those from the wild-type strain, acquire resistance to desiccation between 18 and 24 h after oviposition (HAO). In contrast, ~80% of the 24 HAO dsAalY-g and dsAalY-g2 eggs collapse when they are transferred to a low humidity environment. In addition, there is no electron-dense outer endochorion evident in either dsAalY-g or dsAalY-g2 eggs. These results support the hypothesis that AalY-g and AalY-g2 regulate the timing of eggshell darkening and are required for integrity of the exochorion as well as for rigidity, normal morphology and formation of the outer endochorion, a structure that apparently is critical for desiccation resistance of the Ae. albopictus egg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Young Noh
- Department of Forestry, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 500-757, South Korea.
| | - Sung Hyun Kim
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 500-757, South Korea
| | - Maureen J Gorman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Chalmers Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Karl J Kramer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Chalmers Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Subbaratnam Muthukrishnan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Chalmers Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Yasuyuki Arakane
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 500-757, South Korea.
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26
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Wang J, Murphy EJ, Nix JC, Jones DNM. Aedes aegypti Odorant Binding Protein 22 selectively binds fatty acids through a conformational change in its C-terminal tail. Sci Rep 2020; 10:3300. [PMID: 32094450 PMCID: PMC7039890 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-60242-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aedes aegypti is the primary vector for transmission of Dengue, Zika and chikungunya viruses. Previously it was shown that Dengue virus infection of the mosquito led to an in increased expression of the odorant binding protein 22 (AeOBP22) within the mosquito salivary gland and that siRNA mediated knockdown of AeOBP22 led to reduced mosquito feeding behaviors. Insect OBPs are implicated in the perception, storage and transport of chemosensory signaling molecules including air-borne odorants and pheromones. AeOBP22 is unusual as it is additionally expressed in multiple tissues, including the antenna, the male reproductive glands and is transferred to females during reproduction, indicating multiple roles in the mosquito life cycle. However, it is unclear what role it plays in these tissues and what ligands it interacts with. Here we present solution and X-ray crystallographic studies that indicate a potential role of AeOBP22 binding to fatty acids, and that the specificity for longer chain fatty acids is regulated by a conformational change in the C-terminal tail that leads to creation of an enlarged binding cavity that enhances binding affinity. This study sheds light onto the native ligands for AeOBP22 and provides insight into its potential functions in different tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Dept. of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 East 17th Ave, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Emma J Murphy
- Dept. of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 East 17th Ave, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Alzheimer's Research UK Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, NDM Research Building, University of Oxford Old Road Campus, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7FZ, USA
| | - Jay C Nix
- Molecular Biology Consortium, Beamline 4.2.2, Advanced Light Source, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - David N M Jones
- Dept. of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 East 17th Ave, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
- Program in Structural Biology and Biochemistry, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 East 17th Ave, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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27
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Zhang HH, Luo MJ, Zhang QW, Cai PM, Idrees A, Ji QE, Yang JQ, Chen JH. Molecular characterization of prophenoloxidase-1 (PPO1) and the inhibitory effect of kojic acid on phenoloxidase (PO) activity and on the development of Zeugodacus tau (Walker) (Diptera: Tephritidae). BULLETIN OF ENTOMOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2019; 109:236-247. [PMID: 29929571 DOI: 10.1017/s0007485318000470] [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] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Phenoloxidase (PO) plays a key role in melanin biosynthesis during insect development. Here, we isolated the 2310-bp full-length cDNA of PPO1 from Zeugodacus tau, a destructive horticultural pest. qRT-polymerase chain reaction showed that the ZtPPO1 transcripts were highly expressed during larval-prepupal transition and in the haemolymph. When the larvae were fed a 1.66% kojic acid (KA)-containing diet, the levels of the ZtPPO1 transcripts significantly increased by 2.79- and 3.39-fold in the whole larvae and cuticles, respectively, while the corresponding PO activity was significantly reduced; in addition, the larval and pupal durations were significantly prolonged; pupal weights were lowered; and abnormal phenotypes were observed. An in vitro inhibition experiment indicated that KA was an effective competitive inhibitor of PO in Z. tau. Additionally, the functional analysis showed that 20E could significantly up-regulate the expression of ZtPPO1, induce lower pupal weight, and advance pupation. Knockdown of the ZtPPO1 gene by RNAi significantly decreased mRNA levels after 24 h and led to low pupation rates and incomplete pupae with abnormal phenotypes during the larval-pupal interim period. These results proved that PO is important for the normal growth of Z. tau and that KA can disrupt the development of this pest insect.
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Affiliation(s)
- H-H Zhang
- Institute of Beneficial Insects, Plant Protection College, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University,Fuzhou 350002, PR,China
| | - M-J Luo
- Institute of Beneficial Insects, Plant Protection College, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University,Fuzhou 350002, PR,China
| | - Q-W Zhang
- Institute of Beneficial Insects, Plant Protection College, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University,Fuzhou 350002, PR,China
| | - P-M Cai
- Institute of Beneficial Insects, Plant Protection College, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University,Fuzhou 350002, PR,China
| | - A Idrees
- Institute of Beneficial Insects, Plant Protection College, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University,Fuzhou 350002, PR,China
| | - Q-E Ji
- Institute of Beneficial Insects, Plant Protection College, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University,Fuzhou 350002, PR,China
| | - J-Q Yang
- Institute of Beneficial Insects, Plant Protection College, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University,Fuzhou 350002, PR,China
| | - J-H Chen
- Institute of Beneficial Insects, Plant Protection College, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University,Fuzhou 350002, PR,China
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28
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Wei D, Zhang YX, Liu YW, Li WJ, Chen ZX, Smagghe G, Wang JJ. Gene expression profiling of ovary identified eggshell proteins regulated by 20-hydroxyecdysone in Bactrocera dorsalis. COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY D-GENOMICS & PROTEOMICS 2019; 30:206-216. [PMID: 30909163 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2019.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2019] [Revised: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis, is one of the most destructive pests worldwide. The frequent use of chemical insecticides has led B. dorsalis to develop resistance to many insecticides in recent decades. New high-throughput-sequenced transcriptomes, as well as genomes, have revealed a large number of reference genes for functional target identification. Here, we performed digital gene expression profiling of ovary and testis of B. dorsalis adults. Various genes were identified to be highly expressed in B. dorsalis ovary. The genes encoding components of eggshell, vitelline membrane proteins (Vmps) and chorion-related proteins, were identified to be tissue-specifically expressed in ovary. Five cytochrome P450 genes were also identified to be highly expressed in ovary. Three of them were ecdysone synthesis pathway genes indicating the ovary as a potential synthesis site of female. The up-regulated expression of Vmps by exogenous 20-hydroxyecdysone implied the hormonal regulation of eggshell formation during ovarian development. Many other genes with potential functions in ovarian development were also identified, including vitellogenin receptor, insulin receptor, NASP protein, and odorant binding protein. These findings should promote our understanding of the regulation of vitellogenesis and eggshell formation and enable exploration of potentially novel pest control targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Wei
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering of Chongqing, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Ying-Xin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering of Chongqing, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yu-Wei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering of Chongqing, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Wei-Jun Li
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering of Chongqing, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Zhi-Xian Chen
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering of Chongqing, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering of Chongqing, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Jin-Jun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering of Chongqing, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
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29
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Identification and characterization of a mosquito-specific eggshell organizing factor in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. PLoS Biol 2019; 17:e3000068. [PMID: 30620728 PMCID: PMC6324781 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mosquito-borne diseases are responsible for several million human deaths annually around the world. One approach to controlling mosquito populations is to disrupt molecular processes or antagonize novel metabolic targets required for the production of viable eggs. To this end, we focused our efforts on identifying proteins required for completion of embryonic development that are mosquito selective and represent potential targets for vector control. We performed bioinformatic analyses to identify putative protein-coding sequences that are specific to mosquito genomes. Systematic RNA interference (RNAi) screening of 40 mosquito-specific genes was performed by injecting double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) into female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. This experimental approach led to the identification of eggshell organizing factor 1 (EOF1, AAEL012336), which plays an essential role in the formation and melanization of the eggshell. Eggs deposited by EOF1-deficient mosquitoes have nonmelanized fragile eggshells, and all embryos are nonviable. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis identified that exochorionic eggshell structures are strongly affected in EOF1-deficient mosquitoes. EOF1 is a potential novel target, to our knowledge, for exploring the identification and development of mosquito-selective and biosafe small-molecule inhibitors. An RNAi functional screen of 40 Aedes aegypti genes specific to the mosquito lineage helped to identify EOF1, a protein that plays an essential role in mosquito eggshell formation and melanization. Mosquito-borne pathogens infect millions of people worldwide, and the rise in insecticide resistance is exacerbating this problem. A new generation of environmentally safe insecticides will be essential to control insecticide-resistant mosquitoes. One potential route to such novel insecticide targets is the identification of proteins specifically needed for mosquito reproduction. Female mosquitoes feed on blood to produce eggs, which are covered with an eggshell; using RNA interference screening of mosquito-specific genes in Aedes aegypti (the mosquito that transmits yellow fever), we identified the eggshell organizing factor 1 (EOF1) protein that plays an essential role in eggshell melanization and embryonic development. Nearly 100% of eggs laid by EOF1-deficient females had a defective eggshell and were not viable. Bleach assays on eggs further confirmed that mosquito-specific EOF1 is required for embryonic development in A. aegypti. Additional experiments revealed that EOF1 also plays an essential role in eggshell formation in Aedes albopictus (the tiger mosquito, a carrier of Zika virus and dengue fever). We hypothesize that EOF1 has evolved within the Culicidae family to effect eggshell formation and therefore maximize egg survival. The results provide new insights, to our knowledge, into mosquito egg maturation and eggshell synthesis and could lead to key advances in the field of mosquito vector control.
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30
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Abstract
All animal oocytes are surrounded by a glycoproteinaceous egg coat, a specialized extracellular matrix that serves both structural and species-specific roles during fertilization. Egg coat glycoproteins polymerize into the extracellular matrix of the egg coat using a conserved protein-protein interaction module-the zona pellucida (ZP) domain-common to both vertebrates and invertebrates, suggesting that the basic structural features of egg coats have been conserved across hundreds of millions of years of evolution. Egg coat proteins, as with other proteins involved in reproduction, are frequently found to be rapidly evolving. Given that gamete compatibility must be maintained for the fitness of sexually reproducing organisms, this finding is somewhat paradoxical and suggests a role for adaptive diversification in reproductive protein evolution. Here we review the structure and function of metazoan egg coat proteins, with an emphasis on the potential role their evolution has played in the creation and maintenance of species boundaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily E Killingbeck
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.
| | - Willie J Swanson
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.
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31
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Liu WT, Tu WC, Lin CH, Yang UC, Chen CC. Involvement of cecropin B in the formation of the Aedes aegypti mosquito cuticle. Sci Rep 2017; 7:16395. [PMID: 29180688 PMCID: PMC5703890 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-16625-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we found a mosquito antimicrobial peptide (AMP), Aedes aegypti cecropin B (Aacec B), was expressed constitutively in pupae. Knockdown in the pupae of Aacec B using double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) resulted in high mortality, the emergence of deformed adults and an impairment of pharate adult cuticle formation with fewer lamellae being deposited and the helicoidal pattern of the chitin microfibrils being disorganized. Simultaneous injection of Aacec B dsRNA and Aacec B peptide into pupae significantly reduced this mortality and no deformed adults then emerged. The expression levels of Ae. aegypti prophenoloxidase (AaPPO) 3 and AaPPO 4 were significantly reduced in the Aacec B knockdown pupae. Exogenous Aacec B peptide significantly enhanced the transcription of AaPPO 3 in pupae. Knockdown of AaPPO 3 in pupae caused effects similar to Aacec B-knockdown. The Aacec B peptide could be detected in both the cytoplasm and nuclei of pupal cells and was able to bind to the TTGG(A/C)A motif in AaPPO 3 DNA both in vitro and in vivo. These findings suggest that Aacec B plays a crucial role in pharate adult cuticle formation via the regulation of AaPPO 3 gene expression in pupae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Ting Liu
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, 112, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Wu-Chun Tu
- Department of Entomology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 402, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chao-Hsiung Lin
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, 112, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Ueng-Cheng Yang
- Institute of Biomedical Informatics, National Yang-Ming University, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, 112, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Cheng-Chen Chen
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, 112, Taiwan, ROC.
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Cantillo JF, Puerta L, Puchalska P, Lafosse-Marin S, Subiza JL, Fernández-Caldas E. Allergenome characterization of the mosquito Aedes aegypti. Allergy 2017; 72:1499-1509. [PMID: 28235135 DOI: 10.1111/all.13150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Saliva and muscle-derived mosquito allergens have been purified and characterized. However, the complete set of allergens remains to be elucidated. In this study, we identified and characterized IgE-binding proteins from the mosquito species Aedes aegypti. METHODS Serum was obtained from 15 allergic individuals with asthma and/or rhinitis and sensitized to mosquito. IgE binding was determined by ELISA. Total proteins from freeze-dried bodies of A. aegypti were extracted and IgE-reactive proteins were identified by 2D gel electrophoresis, followed by Western blot with pooled or individual sera. IgE-reactive spots were further characterized by mass spectrometry. RESULTS Twenty-five IgE-reactive spots were identified, corresponding to 10 different proteins, some of which appeared as different variants or isoforms. Heat-shock cognate 70 (HSC-70) and tropomyosin showed IgE reactivity with 60% of the sera, lysosomal aspartic protease, and "AAEL006070-PA" (Uniprot: Q177P3) with 40% and the other proteins with <33.3% of the sera. Different variants or isoforms of tropomyosin, arginine or creatine kinase, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GPDH), calcium-binding protein, and phosphoglycerate mutase were also identified. The mixture of three allergens (Aed a 6, Aed a 8, and Aed a 10) seems to identify more than 80% of A. aegypti-sensitized individuals, indicating that these allergens should be considered when designing of improved mosquito allergy diagnostic tools. CONCLUSIONS The newly identified allergens may play a role in the pathophysiology of mosquito allergy in the tropics, and some of them might be important arthropod-related proteins involved in cross-reactivity between A. aegypti and other allergenic arthropods.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. F. Cantillo
- Institute for Immunological Research/University of Cartagena; Cartagena Colombia
| | - L. Puerta
- Institute for Immunological Research/University of Cartagena; Cartagena Colombia
| | - P. Puchalska
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering; Faculty of Biology, Environmental Sciences and Chemistry; University of Alcalá; Madrid Spain
| | | | | | - E. Fernández-Caldas
- Inmunotek S.L.; Alcalá de Henares Spain
- Division of Allergy and Immunology; University of South Florida; Tampa FL USA
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Wu ZZ, Qu MQ, Pu XH, Cui Y, Xiao WY, Zhao HX, Bin SY, Lin JT. Transcriptome sequencing of Tessaratoma papillosa antennae to identify and analyze expression patterns of putative olfaction genes. Sci Rep 2017; 7:3070. [PMID: 28596537 PMCID: PMC5465196 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-03306-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies on insect olfaction have increased our understanding of insect's chemosensory system and chemical ecology, and have improved pest control strategies based on insect behavior. In this study, we assembled the antennal transcriptomes of the lychee giant stink bug, Tessaratoma papillosa, by using next generation sequencing to identify the major olfaction gene families in this species. In total, 59 odorant receptors, 14 ionotropic receptors (8 antennal IRs), and 33 odorant binding proteins (28 classic OBPs and 5 plus-C OBPs) were identified from the male and female antennal transcriptomes. Analyses of tissue expression profiles revealed that all 59 OR transcripts, 2 of the 8 antennal IRs, and 6 of the 33 OBPs were primarily expressed in the antennae, suggesting their putative role in olfaction. The sex-biased expression patterns of these antenna-predominant genes suggested that they may have important functions in the reproductive behavior of these insects. This is the first report that provides a comprehensive resource to future studies on olfaction in the lychee giant stink bug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong-Zhen Wu
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, 314 Yingdong teaching building, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, 510225, P. R. China
| | - Meng-Qiu Qu
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, 314 Yingdong teaching building, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, 510225, P. R. China
| | - Xin-Hua Pu
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, 314 Yingdong teaching building, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, 510225, P. R. China
| | - Yang Cui
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, 314 Yingdong teaching building, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, 510225, P. R. China
| | - Wan-Yu Xiao
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, 314 Yingdong teaching building, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, 510225, P. R. China
| | - Hong-Xia Zhao
- Guangdong Institute of Applied Biological Resources, Guangzhou, 510260, P. R. China
| | - Shu-Ying Bin
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, 314 Yingdong teaching building, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, 510225, P. R. China
| | - Jin-Tian Lin
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, 314 Yingdong teaching building, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, 510225, P. R. China.
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Chang H, Ai D, Zhang J, Dong S, Liu Y, Wang G. Candidate odorant binding proteins and chemosensory proteins in the larval chemosensory tissues of two closely related noctuidae moths, Helicoverpa armigera and H. assulta. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0179243. [PMID: 28594956 PMCID: PMC5464669 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0179243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In order to acquire enough nutrients and energy for further development, larvae need to invest a large portion of their sensory equipments to identify food sources. Yet, the molecular basis of odor-driven behavior in larvae has been poorly investigated. Information on olfactory genes, particularly odorant binding proteins (OBPs) and chemosensory proteins (CSPs) which are involved in the initial steps of olfaction is very scarce. In this study, we have identified 26 OBP and 21 CSP genes from the transcriptomes of Helicoverpa armigera larval antennae and mouthparts. A comparison with the 34 OBP and 18 CSP genes of the adult antenna, revealed four novel OBPs and seven novel CSPs. Similarly, 27 OBPs (six novel OBPs) and 20 CSPs (6 novel CSPs) were identified in the transcriptomes of Helicoverpa assulta larval antennae and mouthparts. Tissue-specific profiles of these soluble proteins in H. armigera showed that 6 OBP and 4 CSP genes are larval tissue-specific, 15 OBPs and 13 CSPs are expressed in both larvae and adult, while the rest are adult- specific. Our data provide useful information for functional studies of genes involved in larval foraging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hetan Chang
- College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University/Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Nanjing Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Nanjing, China
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dong Ai
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University/Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Nanjing Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Nanjing, China
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shuanglin Dong
- College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University/Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Nanjing Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Nanjing, China
- * E-mail: (SD); (YL)
| | - Yang Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (SD); (YL)
| | - Guirong Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
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Pelosi P, Iovinella I, Zhu J, Wang G, Dani FR. Beyond chemoreception: diverse tasks of soluble olfactory proteins in insects. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2017; 93:184-200. [DOI: 10.1111/brv.12339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 285] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Revised: 04/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Pelosi
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests; Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Beijing 100193 China
| | | | - Jiao Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests; Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Beijing 100193 China
| | - Guirong Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests; Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Beijing 100193 China
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Pando-Robles V, Batista CV. Aedes-Borne Virus-Mosquito Interactions: Mass Spectrometry Strategies and Findings. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2017; 17:361-375. [PMID: 28192064 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2016.2040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Aedes-borne viruses are responsible for high-impact neglected tropical diseases and unpredictable outbreaks such as the ongoing Zika epidemics. Aedes mosquitoes spread different arboviruses such as Dengue virus (DENV), Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), and Zika virus, among others, and are responsible for the continuous emergence and reemergence of these pathogens. These viruses have complex transmission cycles that include two hosts, namely the Aedes mosquito as a vector and susceptible vertebrate hosts. Human infection with arboviruses causes diseases that range from subclinical or mild to febrile diseases, encephalitis, and hemorrhagic fever. Infected mosquitoes do not show detectable signs of disease, even though the virus maintains a lifelong persistent infection. The infection of the Aedes mosquito by viruses involves a molecular crosstalk between cell and viral proteins. An understanding of how mosquito vectors and viruses interact is of fundamental interest, and it also offers novel perspectives for disease control. In recent years, mass spectrometry (MS)-based strategies in combination with bioinformatics have been successfully applied to identify and quantify global changes in cellular proteins, lipids, peptides, and metabolites in response to viral infection. Although the information about proteomics in the Aedes mosquito is limited, the information that has been reported can set up the basis for future studies. This review reflects how MS-based approaches have extended our understanding of Aedes mosquito biology and the development of DENV and CHIKV infection in the vector. Finally, this review discusses future challenges in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Pando-Robles
- 1 Laboratorio de Proteómica, Departamento de Infección e Inmunidad, Centro de Investigación sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, México
| | - Cesar V Batista
- 2 Laboratorio Universitario de Proteómica, Instituto de Biotecnología. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México , Cuernavaca, México
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Iovinella I, Ban L, Song L, Pelosi P, Dani FR. Proteomic analysis of castor bean tick Ixodes ricinus: a focus on chemosensory organs. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2016; 78:58-68. [PMID: 27693516 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2016.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2016] [Revised: 09/09/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
In arthropods, the large majority of studies on olfaction have been focused on insects, where most of the proteins involved have been identified. In particular, chemosensing in insects relies on two families of membrane receptors, olfactory/gustatory receptors (ORs/GRs) and ionotropic receptors (IRs), and two classes of soluble proteins, odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) and chemosensory proteins (CSPs). In other arthropods, such as ticks and mites, only IRs have been identified, while genes encoding for OBPs and CSPs are absent. A third class of soluble proteins, called Niemann-Pick C2 (NPC2) has been suggested as potential carrier for semiochemicals both in insects and other arthropods. Here we report the results of a proteomic analysis on olfactory organs (Haller's organ and palps) and control tissues of the tick Ixodes ricinus, and of immunostaining experiments targeting NPC2s. Adopting different extraction and proteomic approaches, we identified a large number of proteins, and highlighted those differentially expressed. None of the 13 NPC2s known for this species was found. On the other hand, using immunocytochemistry, we detected reaction against one NPC2 in the Haller's organ and palp sensilla. We hypothesized that the low concentration of such proteins in the tick's tissues could possibly explain the discrepant results. In ligand-binding assays the corresponding recombinant NPC2 showed good affinity to the fluorescent probe N-phenylnaphthylamine and to few organic compounds, supporting a putative role of NPC2s as odorant carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Immacolata Iovinella
- Biology Department, University of Firenze, via Madonna del Piano 6, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Liping Ban
- Department of Grassland Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Limei Song
- Department of Grassland Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Paolo Pelosi
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Francesca Romana Dani
- Biology Department, University of Firenze, via Madonna del Piano 6, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy; CISM, Mass Spectrometry Centre, University of Firenze, Via U. Schiff 6, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy.
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Zhu J, Iovinella I, Dani FR, Liu YL, Huang LQ, Liu Y, Wang CZ, Pelosi P, Wang G. Conserved chemosensory proteins in the proboscis and eyes of Lepidoptera. Int J Biol Sci 2016; 12:1394-1404. [PMID: 27877091 PMCID: PMC5118785 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.16517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) and chemosensory proteins (CSPs) are endowed with several different functions besides being carriers for pheromones and odorants. Based on a previous report of a CSP acting as surfactant in the proboscis of the moth Helicoverpa armigera, we revealed the presence of orthologue proteins in two other moths Plutella xylostella and Chilo suppressalis, as well as two butterflies Papilio machaon and Pieris rapae, using immunodetection and proteomic analysis. The unusual conservation of these proteins across large phylogenetic distances indicated a common specific function for these CSPs. This fact prompted us to search for other functions of these proteins and discovered that CSPs are abundantly expressed in the eyes of H. armigera and possibly involved as carriers for carotenoids and visual pigments. This hypothesis is supported by ligand-binding experiments and docking simulations with retinol and β-carotene. This last orange pigment, occurring in many fruits and vegetables, is an antioxidant and the precursor of visual pigments. We propose that structurally related CSPs solubilise nutritionally important carotenoids in the proboscis, while they act as carriers of both β-carotene and its derived products 3-hydroxyretinol and 3-hydroxyretinal in the eye. The use of soluble olfactory proteins, such as CSPs, as carriers for visual pigments in insects, here reported for the first time, parallels the function of retinol-binding protein in vertebrates, a lipocalin structurally related to vertebrate odorant-binding proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Immacolata Iovinella
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P.R. China; Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Firenze, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino (Firenze), Italy
| | - Francesca Romana Dani
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Firenze, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino (Firenze), Italy
| | - Yu-Ling Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Ling-Qiao Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Yang Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Chen-Zhu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Paolo Pelosi
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Guirong Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
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Song LM, Jiang X, Wang XM, Li JD, Zhu F, Tu XB, Zhang ZH, Ban LP. Male tarsi specific odorant-binding proteins in the diving beetle Cybister japonicus sharp. Sci Rep 2016; 6:31848. [PMID: 27545810 PMCID: PMC4992826 DOI: 10.1038/srep31848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Odorant binding proteins (OBPs) play critical roles in chemical communication of insects, as they recognize and transport environmental chemical signals to receptors. The diving beetle Cybister japonicus Sharp shows a remarkable sexual dimorphism. The foreleg tarsi of males are equipped with large suction cups, believed to help holding the female during underwater courtship and mating. Here, we identified two OBPs highly and specifically expressed in male tarsi, suggesting important functions of these structures in chemical communication. The first protein, CjapOBP1, exhibits the 6 conserved cysteines motif of classic OBPs, while the second, CjapOBP2, contains only four cysteines and can be assigned to the sub-class of C-minus OBPs. Both proteins were expressed in a bacterial system and the purified recombinant proteins were used to for antibodies preparation. Western Blot analysis showed that CjapOBP1 is predominantly expressed in male tarsi and could be also detected in antennae and palpi of both sexes, while CjapOBP2, besides male tarsi, is also present in testis. Ligand-binding experiments showed a good binding affinity between CjapOBP1, CjapOBP2 and citral and coniferyl aldehyde, respectively. These results support a possible function of these two OBPs in the male foreleg tarsi of diving beetles in chemical communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Mei Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xiang Jiang
- HuangPu Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau, Guangdong, 510730, China
| | - Xue-Min Wang
- Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 10 0193, China
| | - Jin-Dong Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Fang Zhu
- Department of Entomology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Xiong-Bing Tu
- Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Ze-Hua Zhang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Li-Ping Ban
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
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Wu Z, Zhang H, Bin S, Chen L, Han Q, Lin J. Antennal and Abdominal Transcriptomes Reveal Chemosensory Genes in the Asian Citrus Psyllid, Diaphorina citri. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0159372. [PMID: 27441376 PMCID: PMC4956155 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0159372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2016] [Accepted: 07/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri is the principal vector of the highly destructive citrus disease called Huanglongbing (HLB) or citrus greening, which is a major threat to citrus cultivation worldwide. More effective pest control strategies against this pest entail the identification of potential chemosensory proteins that could be used in the development of attractants or repellents. However, the molecular basis of olfaction in the Asian citrus psyllid is not completely understood. Therefore, we performed this study to analyze the antennal and abdominal transcriptome of the Asian citrus psyllid. We identified a large number of transcripts belonging to nine chemoreception-related gene families and compared their expression in male and female adult antennae and terminal abdomen. In total, 9 odorant binding proteins (OBPs), 12 chemosensory proteins (CSPs), 46 odorant receptors (ORs), 20 gustatory receptors (GRs), 35 ionotropic receptors (IRs), 4 sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs) and 4 different gene families encoding odorant-degrading enzymes (ODEs): 80 cytochrome P450s (CYPs), 12 esterase (ESTs), and 5 aldehyde dehydrogenases (ADE) were annotated in the D. citri antennal and abdominal transcriptomes. Our results revealed that a large proportion of chemosensory genes exhibited no distinct differences in their expression patterns in the antennae and terminal abdominal tissues. Notably, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data and quantitative real time-PCR (qPCR) analyses showed that 4 DictOBPs, 4 DictCSPs, 4 DictIRs, 1 DictSNMP, and 2 DictCYPs were upregulated in the antennae relative to that in terminal abdominal tissues. Furthermore, 2 DictOBPs (DictOBP8 and DictOBP9), 2 DictCSPs (DictOBP8 and DictOBP12), 4 DictIRs (DictIR3, DictIR6, DictIR10, and DictIR35), and 1 DictCYP (DictCYP57) were expressed at higher levels in the male antennae than in the female antennae. Our study provides the first insights into the molecular basis of chemoreception in this insect pest. Further studies on the identified differentially expressed genes would facilitate the understanding of insect olfaction and their role in the interactions between olfactory system and biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongzhen Wu
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - He Zhang
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Shuying Bin
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Lei Chen
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Qunxin Han
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Jintian Lin
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, PR China
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Derby CD, Kozma MT, Senatore A, Schmidt M. Molecular Mechanisms of Reception and Perireception in Crustacean Chemoreception: A Comparative Review. Chem Senses 2016; 41:381-98. [PMID: 27107425 DOI: 10.1093/chemse/bjw057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
This review summarizes our present knowledge of chemoreceptor proteins in crustaceans, using a comparative perspective to review these molecules in crustaceans relative to other metazoan models of chemoreception including mammals, insects, nematodes, and molluscs. Evolution has resulted in unique expansions of specific gene families and repurposing of them for chemosensation in various clades, including crustaceans. A major class of chemoreceptor proteins across crustaceans is the Ionotropic Receptors, which diversified from ionotropic glutamate receptors in ancient protostomes but which are not present in deuterostomes. Representatives of another major class of chemoreceptor proteins-the Grl/GR/OR family of ionotropic 7-transmembrane receptors-are diversified in insects but to date have been reported in only one crustacean species, Daphnia pulex So far, canonic 7-transmembrane G-protein coupled receptors, the principal chemoreceptors in vertebrates and reported in a few protostome clades, have not been identified in crustaceans. More types of chemoreceptors are known throughout the metazoans and might well be expected to be discovered in crustaceans. Our review also provides a comparative coverage of perireceptor events in crustacean chemoreception, including molecules involved in stimulus acquisition, stimulus delivery, and stimulus removal, though much less is known about these events in crustaceans, particularly at the molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Adriano Senatore
- Present address: Biology Department, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario L5L 1C6, Canada
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Wu Z, Bin S, He H, Wang Z, Li M, Lin J. Differential Expression Analysis of Chemoreception Genes in the Striped Flea Beetle Phyllotreta striolata Using a Transcriptomic Approach. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0153067. [PMID: 27064483 PMCID: PMC4827873 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Olfactory transduction is a process by which olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs) transform odor information into neuronal electrical signals. This process begins with the binding of odor molecules to receptor proteins on olfactory receptor neuron (ORN) dendrites. The major molecular components involved in olfaction include odorant-binding proteins (OBPs), chemosensory proteins (CSPs), odorant receptors (ORs), gustatory receptors (GRs), ionotropic receptors (IRs), sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs) and odorant-degrading enzymes (ODEs). More importantly, as potential molecular targets, chemosensory proteins are used to identify novel attractants or repellants for environmental-friendly pest management. In this study we analyzed the transcriptome of the flea beetle, Phyllotreta striolata (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae), a serious pest of Brassicaceae crops, to better understand the molecular mechanisms of olfactory recognition in this pest. The analysis of transcriptomes from the antennae and terminal abdomens of specimens of both sexes identified transcripts from several key molecular components of chemoreception including 73 ORs, 36 GRs, 49 IRs, 2 SNMPs, 32 OBPs, 8 CSPs, and four candidate odorant degrading enzymes (ODEs): 143 cytochrome P450s (CYPs), 68 esterases (ESTs), 27 glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) and 8 UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs). Bioinformatic analyses indicated that a large number of chemosensory genes were up-regulated in the antennae. This was consistent with a potential role in olfaction. To validate the differential abundance analyses, the expression of 19 genes encoding various ORs, CSPs, and OBPs was assessed via qRT-PCR between non-chemosensory tissue and antennae. Consistent with the bioinformatic analyses, transcripts for all of the genes in the qRT-PCR subset were elevated in antennae. These findings provide the first insights into the molecular basis of chemoreception in the striped flea beetle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongzhen Wu
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, 314 Yingdong teaching building, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, PR China
| | - Shuying Bin
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, 314 Yingdong teaching building, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, PR China
| | - Hualiang He
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, 314 Yingdong teaching building, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, PR China
| | - Zhengbing Wang
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, 314 Yingdong teaching building, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, PR China
| | - Mei Li
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, 314 Yingdong teaching building, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, PR China
| | - Jintian Lin
- Institute for Management of Invasive Alien Species, 314 Yingdong teaching building, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, PR China
- * E-mail:
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Alfonso-Parra C, Ahmed-Braimah YH, Degner EC, Avila FW, Villarreal SM, Pleiss JA, Wolfner MF, Harrington LC. Mating-Induced Transcriptome Changes in the Reproductive Tract of Female Aedes aegypti. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004451. [PMID: 26901677 PMCID: PMC4764262 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 01/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Aedes aegypti mosquito is a significant public health threat, as it is the main vector of dengue and chikungunya viruses. Disease control efforts could be enhanced through reproductive manipulation of these vectors. Previous work has revealed a relationship between male seminal fluid proteins transferred to females during mating and female post-mating physiology and behavior. To better understand this interplay, we used short-read RNA sequencing to identify gene expression changes in the lower reproductive tract of females in response to mating. We characterized mRNA expression in virgin and mated females at 0, 6 and 24 hours post-mating (hpm) and identified 364 differentially abundant transcripts between mating status groups. Surprisingly, 60 transcripts were more abundant at 0hpm compared to virgin females, suggesting transfer from males. Twenty of these encode known Ae. aegypti seminal fluid proteins. Transfer and detection of male accessory gland-derived mRNA in females at 0hpm was confirmed by measurement of eGFP mRNA in females mated to eGFP-expressing males. In addition, 150 transcripts were up-regulated at 6hpm and 24hpm, while 130 transcripts were down-regulated at 6hpm and 24hpm. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed that proteases, a protein class broadly known to play important roles in reproduction, were among the most enriched protein classes. RNAs associated with immune system and antimicrobial function were also up-regulated at 24hpm. Collectively, our results suggest that copulation initiates broad transcriptome changes across the mosquito female reproductive tract, “priming” her for important subsequent processes of blood feeding, egg development and immune defense. Our transcriptome analysis provides a vital foundation for future studies of the consequences of mating on female biology and will aid studies seeking to identify specific gene families, molecules and pathways that support key reproductive processes in the female mosquito. Female post-mating behavior has important consequences for mosquito populations and their ability to transmit diseases. Male Aedes aegypti seminal fluid substances transferred during mating cause many important changes to female behavior and physiology, including blood feeding behavior, egg development, and oviposition. In an effort to understand how males induce these responses in Ae. aegypti females, we characterized the transcriptome changes that occur in the female reproductive tract at different time points after mating. We found several RNAs that are apparently transferred by the male, and 280 genes whose mRNA abundance in the female is affected by mating. The nature of the predicted products of many of these genes suggests roles in priming the reproductive tract for egg development, protecting the female against bacterial infections or processing the blood meal. This identification of mating-responsive genes provides information potentially useful for developing tools aimed at preventing disease transmission by manipulating female mosquitoes’ post-mating responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catalina Alfonso-Parra
- Department of Entomology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
- Instituto Colombiano de Medicina Tropical - Universidad CES, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Yasir H. Ahmed-Braimah
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Ethan C. Degner
- Department of Entomology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Frank W. Avila
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Susan M. Villarreal
- Department of Entomology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey A. Pleiss
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Mariana F. Wolfner
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MFW); (LCH)
| | - Laura C. Harrington
- Department of Entomology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MFW); (LCH)
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Tsao IY, Chen JW, Li CJ, Lo HL, Christensen BM, Chen CC. The dual roles of Armigeres subalbatus prophenoloxidase V in parasite melanization and egg chorion melanization in the mosquito Ar. subalbatus. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2015; 64:68-77. [PMID: 26226650 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2015.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2015] [Revised: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/25/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Phenoloxidases (POs) play key roles in various physiological functions in insects, e.g., cuticular sclerotization, wound healing, egg tanning, cuticle formation and melanotic encapsulaction of pathogens. Previously, we identified five POs, designated As-pro-PO I-V, from the mosquito Armigeres subalbatus and demonstrated that the functions of As-pro-PO I, II and III, were associated with filarial parasite melanization, blood feeding and cuticle formation, respectively. In the present study, we delineate the dual functions of As-pro-PO V. We found that the level of As-pro-PO V mRNA in mosquitoes was significantly increased after microfilaria challenge or blood feeding, and decreased to normal level after oviposition. Knockdown of As-pro-PO V by dsRNA resulted in significant decreases in the degree of microfilaria melanization, egg chronic melanization rates and egg hatching rates in Ar. subalbatus. Further transfection and electrophoretic mobility-shift assays verified the As-pro-PO V gene might regulated by both AP-1, a putative immune-related regulatory element and CdxA, a developmental regulatory element. The binding of AP-1 and CdxA motif with mosquito nuclear extracts was significantly enhanced after microfilaria challenge and blood-feeding in Ar. subalbatus, respectively. These results indicate that As-pro-PO V is a critical enzyme that is required for both an effective melanization immune response and egg chorion melanization in this mosquito.
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Affiliation(s)
- I-Y Tsao
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Yang-Ming University, Shih-Pai, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - J-W Chen
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Yang-Ming University, Shih-Pai, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - C-J Li
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Yang-Ming University, Shih-Pai, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - H-L Lo
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Yang-Ming University, Shih-Pai, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - B M Christensen
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, 1656 Linden Drive, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - C-C Chen
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Yang-Ming University, Shih-Pai, Taipei 112, Taiwan.
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Shu L, Suter MJF, Räsänen K. Evolution of egg coats: linking molecular biology and ecology. Mol Ecol 2015; 24:4052-73. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.13283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Revised: 06/12/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Longfei Shu
- Department of Aquatic Ecology; Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology; Eawag; 8600 Duebendorf Switzerland
- Institute of Integrative Biology; ETH Zurich; 8092 Zurich Switzerland
| | - Marc J.-F. Suter
- Department of Environmental Toxicology; Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology; Eawag; 8600 Duebendorf Switzerland
- Department of Environmental Systems Science; Swiss Federal Institute of Technology; ETH Zurich; 8092 Zurich Switzerland
| | - Katja Räsänen
- Department of Aquatic Ecology; Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology; Eawag; 8600 Duebendorf Switzerland
- Institute of Integrative Biology; ETH Zurich; 8092 Zurich Switzerland
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Discovery of Chemosensory Genes in the Oriental Fruit Fly, Bactrocera dorsalis. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0129794. [PMID: 26070069 PMCID: PMC4466378 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0129794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2015] [Accepted: 05/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis, is a devastating fruit fly pest in tropical and sub-tropical countries. Like other insects, this fly uses its chemosensory system to efficiently interact with its environment. However, our understanding of the molecular components comprising B. dorsalis chemosensory system is limited. Using next generation sequencing technologies, we sequenced the transcriptome of four B. dorsalis developmental stages: egg, larva, pupa and adult chemosensory tissues. A total of 31 candidate odorant binding proteins (OBPs), 4 candidate chemosensory proteins (CSPs), 23 candidate odorant receptors (ORs), 11 candidate ionotropic receptors (IRs), 6 candidate gustatory receptors (GRs) and 3 candidate sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs) were identified. The tissue distributions of the OBP and CSP transcripts were determined by RT-PCR and a subset of nine genes were further characterized. The predicted proteins from these genes shared high sequence similarity to Drosophila melanogaster pheromone binding protein related proteins (PBPRPs). Interestingly, one OBP (BdorOBP19c) was exclusively expressed in the sex pheromone glands of mature females. RT-PCR was also used to compare the expression of the candidate genes in the antennae of male and female B. dorsalis adults. These antennae-enriched OBPs, CSPs, ORs, IRs and SNMPs could play a role in the detection of pheromones and general odorants and thus could be useful target genes for the integrated pest management of B. dorsalis and other agricultural pests.
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Pelosi P, Iovinella I, Felicioli A, Dani FR. Soluble proteins of chemical communication: an overview across arthropods. Front Physiol 2014; 5:320. [PMID: 25221516 PMCID: PMC4145409 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 293] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Detection of chemical signals both in insects and in vertebrates is mediated by soluble proteins, highly concentrated in olfactory organs, which bind semiochemicals and activate, with still largely unknown mechanisms, specific chemoreceptors. The same proteins are often found in structures where pheromones are synthesized and released, where they likely perform a second role in solubilizing and delivering chemical messengers in the environment. A single class of soluble polypeptides, called Odorant-Binding Proteins (OBPs) is known in vertebrates, while two have been identified in insects, OBPs and CSPs (Chemosensory Proteins). Despite their common name, OBPs of vertebrates bear no structural similarity with those of insects. We observed that in arthropods OBPs are strictly limited to insects, while a few members of the CSP family have been found in crustacean and other arthropods, where however, based on their very limited numbers, a function in chemical communication seems unlikely. The question we address in this review is whether another class of soluble proteins may have been adopted by other arthropods to perform the role of OBPs and CSPs in insects. We propose that lipid-transporter proteins of the Niemann-Pick type C2 family could represent likely candidates and report the results of an analysis of their sequences in representative species of different arthropods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Pelosi
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences Beijing, China
| | | | | | - Francesca R Dani
- Biology Department, University of Firenze Firenze, Italy ; CISM, Mass Spectrometry Centre, University of Firenze Firenze, Italy
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Lu A, Zhang Q, Zhang J, Yang B, Wu K, Xie W, Luan YX, Ling E. Insect prophenoloxidase: the view beyond immunity. Front Physiol 2014; 5:252. [PMID: 25071597 PMCID: PMC4092376 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 06/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Insect prophenoloxidase (PPO) is an important innate immunity protein due to its involvement in cellular and humoral defense. It belongs to a group of type-3 copper-containing proteins that occurs in almost all organisms. Insect PPO has been studied for over a century, and the PPO activation cascade is becoming clearer. The insect PPO activation pathway incorporates several important proteins, including pattern-recognition receptors (PGRP, β GRP, and C-type lectins), serine proteases, and serine protease inhibitors (serpins). Due to their complexity, PPO activation mechanisms vary among insect species. Activated phenoloxidase (PO) oxidizes phenolic molecules to produce melanin around invading pathogens and wounds. The crystal structure of Manduca sexta PPO shows that a conserved amino acid, phenylalanine (F), can block the active site pocket. During activation, this blocker must be dislodged or even cleaved at the N-terminal sequence to expose the active site pockets and allow substrates to enter. Thanks to the crystal structure of M. sexta PPO, some domains and specific amino acids that affect PPO activities have been identified. Further studies of the relationship between PPO structure and enzyme activities will provide an opportunity to examine other type-3 copper proteins, and trace when and why their various physiological functions evolved. Recent researches show that insect PPO has a relationship with neuron activity, longevity, feces melanization (phytophagous insects) and development, which suggests that it is time for us to look back on insect PPO beyond the view of immunity in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anrui Lu
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai, China
| | - Qiaoli Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Yang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Wu
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Xie
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai, China
| | - Yun-Xia Luan
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai, China
| | - Erjun Ling
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai, China
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