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Tang H, Liu X, Wang S, Wang Y, Bai L, Peng X, Chen M. A relaxin receptor gene RpGPCR41 is involved in the resistance of Rhopalosiphum padi to pyrethroids. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 201:105894. [PMID: 38685221 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.105894] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Rhopalosiphum padi is a global pest that poses a significant threat to wheat crops and has developed resistance to various insecticides. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), known for their crucial role in signaling and biological processes across insect species, have recently gained attention as a potential target for insecticides. GPCR has the potential to contribute to insect resistance through the regulation of P450 gene expression. However, GPCRs in R. padi remained unexplored until this study. We identified a total of 102 GPCRs in R. padi, including 81 receptors from family A, 10 receptors from family B, 8 receptors from family C, and 3 receptors from family D. Among these GPCR genes, 16 were up-regulated in both lambda-cyhalothrin and bifenthrin-resistant strains of R. padi (LC-R and BIF-R). A relaxin receptor gene, RpGPCR41, showed the highest up-regulated expression in both the resistant strains, with a significant increase of 14.3-fold and 22.7-fold compared to the susceptible strain (SS). RNA interference (RNAi) experiments targeting the relaxin receptor significantly increase the mortality of R. padi when exposed to the LC50 concentration of lambda-cyhalothrin and bifenthrin. The expression levels of five P450 genes (RpCYP6CY8, RpCYP6DC1, RpCYP380B1, RpCYP4CH2, and RpCYP4C1) were significantly down-regulated following knockdown of RpGPCR41 in LC-R and BIF-R strains. Our results highlight the involvement of GPCR gene overexpression in the resistance of R. padi to pyrethroids, providing valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying aphid resistance and a potential target for aphid control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongcheng Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Key laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Key laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Suji Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Key laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yixuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Key laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lingling Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Key laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiong Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Key laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Maohua Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Key laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China.
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2
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Finetti L, Orchard I, Lange AB. The octopamine receptor OAα1 influences oogenesis and reproductive performance in Rhodnius prolixus. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0296463. [PMID: 38157386 PMCID: PMC10756544 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The control of reproductive processes in Rhodnius prolixus involves a variety of neuroactive chemicals. Among these, several studies have suggested that the biogenic amine octopamine (OA), might play an active role in these processes. Here, we investigate the molecular profile of the R. prolixus α adrenergic-like OA receptor 1 (RpOAα1-R) and its role in egg production. Comparative molecular analyses confirm that the RpOAα1-R gene codes for a true OAα1 receptor. The RpOAα1-R transcript is highly expressed in tissues associated with egg production, and after a blood meal, which is the stimulus for full egg production in R. prolixus, the RpOAα1-R transcript is upregulated in the ovaries and spermatheca. After RNAi-mediated RpOAα1-R knockdown, an ovarian phenotype characterized by slow egg development is observed. Furthermore, an altered egg phenotype has been characterized with eggs that are deformed. Interestingly, there is no evidence of disruption in vitellogenin (Vg) synthesis by the fat body or uptake by the oocytes. On the other hand, RpOAα1-R downregulation is correlated with defective choriogenesis in the eggs. These results provide critical information concerning the role of OAα1-R in oogenesis in R. prolixus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Finetti
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Ian Orchard
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Angela B. Lange
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
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3
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Keyes-Scott NI, Swade KR, Allen LR, Vogel KJ. RNAi-mediated knockdown of two orphan G protein-coupled receptors reduces fecundity in the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti. FRONTIERS IN INSECT SCIENCE 2023; 3:1197945. [PMID: 38469499 PMCID: PMC10926455 DOI: 10.3389/finsc.2023.1197945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) control numerous physiological processes in insects, including reproduction. While many GPCRs have known ligands, orphan GPCRs do not have identified ligands in which they bind. Advances in genomic sequencing and phylogenetics provide the ability to compare orphan receptor protein sequences to sequences of characterized GPCRs, and thus gain a better understanding of the potential functions of orphan GPCRs. Our study sought to investigate the functions of two orphan GPCRs, AAEL003647 and AAEL019988, in the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti. From our phylogenetic investigation, we found that AAEL003647 is orthologous to the SIFamide-2/SMYamide receptor. We also found that AAEL019988 is orthologous to the Trapped in endoderm (Tre1) receptor of Drosophila melanogaster. Next, we conducted a tissue-specific expression analysis and found that both receptors had highest expression in the ovaries, suggesting they may be important for reproduction. We then used RNA interference (RNAi) to knock down both genes and found a significant reduction in the number of eggs laid per individual female mosquito, suggesting both receptors are important for Ae. aegypti reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kevin J. Vogel
- Department of Entomology, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
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Georgiades M, Alampounti A, Somers J, Su MP, Ellis DA, Bagi J, Terrazas-Duque D, Tytheridge S, Ntabaliba W, Moore S, Albert JT, Andrés M. Hearing of malaria mosquitoes is modulated by a beta-adrenergic-like octopamine receptor which serves as insecticide target. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4338. [PMID: 37468470 PMCID: PMC10356864 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40029-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Malaria mosquitoes acoustically detect their mating partners within large swarms that form transiently at dusk. Indeed, male malaria mosquitoes preferably respond to female flight tones during swarm time. This phenomenon implies a sophisticated context- and time-dependent modulation of mosquito audition, the mechanisms of which are largely unknown. Using transcriptomics, we identify a complex network of candidate neuromodulators regulating mosquito hearing in the species Anopheles gambiae. Among them, octopamine stands out as an auditory modulator during swarm time. In-depth analysis of octopamine auditory function shows that it affects the mosquito ear on multiple levels: it modulates the tuning and stiffness of the flagellar sound receiver and controls the erection of antennal fibrillae. We show that two α- and β-adrenergic-like octopamine receptors drive octopamine's auditory roles and demonstrate that the octopaminergic auditory control system can be targeted by insecticides. Our findings highlight octopamine as key for mosquito hearing and mating partner detection and as a potential novel target for mosquito control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Georgiades
- Ear Institute, University College London, 332 Gray's Inn Road, London, WC1X 8EE, UK
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Alexandros Alampounti
- Ear Institute, University College London, 332 Gray's Inn Road, London, WC1X 8EE, UK
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Jason Somers
- Ear Institute, University College London, 332 Gray's Inn Road, London, WC1X 8EE, UK
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Matthew P Su
- Ear Institute, University College London, 332 Gray's Inn Road, London, WC1X 8EE, UK
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
- Institute for Advanced Research, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8601, Japan
| | - David A Ellis
- Ear Institute, University College London, 332 Gray's Inn Road, London, WC1X 8EE, UK
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Judit Bagi
- Ear Institute, University College London, 332 Gray's Inn Road, London, WC1X 8EE, UK
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | | | - Scott Tytheridge
- Ear Institute, University College London, 332 Gray's Inn Road, London, WC1X 8EE, UK
| | - Watson Ntabaliba
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit (VCPTU), Environmental Health and Ecological Sciences, Ifakara Health Institute, P.O. Box 74, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
| | - Sarah Moore
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit (VCPTU), Environmental Health and Ecological Sciences, Ifakara Health Institute, P.O. Box 74, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Socinstrasse 57, PO Box, CH-4002, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Petersplatz 1, CH-4001, Basel, Switzerland
- The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), P.O. Box 447, Tengeru, Arusha, Tanzania
| | - Joerg T Albert
- Ear Institute, University College London, 332 Gray's Inn Road, London, WC1X 8EE, UK.
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK.
- Cluster of Excellence Hearing4all, Sensory Physiology & Behaviour Group, Department for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl Von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Carl Von Ossietzky Str. 9-11, 26111, Oldenburg, Germany.
| | - Marta Andrés
- Ear Institute, University College London, 332 Gray's Inn Road, London, WC1X 8EE, UK.
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK.
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5
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Corrêa EJA, Carvalho FC, de Castro Oliveira JA, Bertolucci SKV, Scotti MT, Silveira CH, Guedes FC, Melo JOF, de Melo-Minardi RC, de Lima LHF. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms of essential oils' insecticidal action using a novel cheminformatics protocol. Sci Rep 2023; 13:4598. [PMID: 36944648 PMCID: PMC10028760 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29981-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Essential oils (EOs) are a promising source for novel environmentally safe insecticides. However, the structural diversity of their compounds poses challenges to accurately elucidate their biological mechanisms of action. We present a new chemoinformatics methodology aimed at predicting the impact of essential oil (EO) compounds on the molecular targets of commercial insecticides. Our approach merges virtual screening, chemoinformatics, and machine learning to identify custom signatures and reference molecule clusters. By assigning a molecule to a cluster, we can determine its most likely interaction targets. Our findings reveal that the main targets of EOs are juvenile hormone-specific proteins (JHBP and MET) and octopamine receptor agonists (OctpRago). Three of the twenty clusters show strong similarities to the juvenile hormone, steroids, and biogenic amines. For instance, the methodology successfully identified E-Nerolidol, for which literature points indications of disrupting insect metamorphosis and neurochemistry, as a potential insecticide in these pathways. We validated the predictions through experimental bioassays, observing symptoms in blowflies that were consistent with the computational results. This new approach sheds a higher light on the ways of action of EO compounds in nature and biotechnology. It also opens new possibilities for understanding how molecules can interfere with biological systems and has broad implications for areas such as drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo José Azevedo Corrêa
- Multicenter Program in Postgraduate in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of São João del-Rei, Campus Divinópolis, Divinópolis, MG, Brazil
- Minas Gerais Agricultural Research Company (EPAMIG), Pitangui, MG, Brazil
| | - Frederico Chaves Carvalho
- Department of Computer Science, Institute of Exact Sciences-ICEx, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Campus Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Suzan Kelly Vilela Bertolucci
- Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Medicinal Plants, Department of Agriculture, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, MG, Brazil
| | - Marcus Tullius Scotti
- Chemistry Department, Exact and Nature Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraiba, Campus I, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | | | - Fabiana Costa Guedes
- Technological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Itajubá, Itabira, MG, Brazil
| | - Júlio Onésio Ferreira Melo
- Department of Exact and Biological Sciences, Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Sete Lagoas Campus, Sete Lagoas, MG, Brazil
| | - Raquel Cardoso de Melo-Minardi
- Department of Computer Science, Institute of Exact Sciences-ICEx, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Campus Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Henrique França de Lima
- Multicenter Program in Postgraduate in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of São João del-Rei, Campus Divinópolis, Divinópolis, MG, Brazil.
- Department of Exact and Biological Sciences, Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Sete Lagoas Campus, Sete Lagoas, MG, Brazil.
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6
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Finetti L, Paluzzi JP, Orchard I, Lange AB. Octopamine and tyramine signalling in Aedes aegypti: Molecular characterization and insight into potential physiological roles. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281917. [PMID: 36795713 PMCID: PMC9934454 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
In insects, the biogenic amines octopamine (OA) and tyramine (TA) are involved in controlling several physiological and behavioural processes. OA and TA act as neurotransmitters, neuromodulators or neurohormones, performing their functions by binding to specific receptors belonging to the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily. OA and TA along with their receptors are involved in reproduction, smell perception, metabolism, and homeostasis. Moreover, OA and TA receptors are targets for insecticides and antiparasitic agents, such as the formamidine Amitraz. In the dengue and yellow fever vector, Aedes aegypti, limited research has been reported on their OA or TA receptors. Here, we identify and molecularly characterize the OA and TA receptors in A. aegypti. Bioinformatic tools were used to identify four OA and three TA receptors in the genome of A. aegypti. The seven receptors are expressed in all developmental stages of A. aegypti; however, their highest transcript abundance is observed in the adult. Among several adult A. aegypti tissues examined, including the central nervous system, antennae and rostrum, midgut, Malpighian tubules, ovaries, and testes, the type 2 TA receptor (TAR2) transcript is most abundant in the ovaries and the type 3 TA receptor (TAR3) is enriched in the Malpighian tubules, leading us to propose putative roles for these receptors in reproduction and diuresis, respectively. Furthermore, a blood meal influenced OA and TA receptor transcript expression patterns in adult female tissues at several time points post blood meal, suggesting these receptors may play key physiological roles associated with feeding. To better understand OA and TA signalling in A. aegypti, the transcript expression profiles of key enzymes in their biosynthetic pathway, namely tyrosine decarboxylase (Tdc) and tyramine β-hydroxylase (Tβh), were examined in developmental stages, adult tissues, and brains from blood-fed females. These findings provide information for better understanding the physiological roles of OA, TA, and their receptors in A. aegypti, and additionally, may help in the development of novel strategies for the control of these human disease vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Finetti
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Ian Orchard
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Angela B. Lange
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
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7
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Murgia MV, Sharan S, Kaur J, Austin W, Hagen L, Wu L, Chen L, Scott JA, Flaherty DP, Scharf ME, Watts VJ, Hill CA. High-content phenotypic screening identifies novel chemistries that disrupt mosquito activity and development. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 182:105037. [PMID: 35249647 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2022.105037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
New classes of chemistries are needed to control insecticide resistant populations of mosquitoes and prevent transmission of vector-borne diseases (VBDs). Organismal screens of chemical collections have played an important role in the search for new vector insecticides and the identification of active ingredients (AIs) that cause rapid mortality of mosquitoes. Advances in image-based screening offer an opportunity to identify chemistries that operate via novel biochemical modes and investigate the range of phenotypes exhibited by mosquitoes following exposure to lethal and sub-lethal chemical dose. An automated, high throughput phenotypic screen (HTS) employing high-content imaging of first instar (L1) Aedes aegypti larvae was developed to identify chemistries associated with mortality and atypical morphological phenotypes. A pilot screen of the Library of Pharmacologically Active Compounds (LOPAC1280) identified 92 chemistries that disrupted larval activity and development, including conventional insecticides and chemistries known to modulate G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and other molecular targets in mammalian systems. Secondary assay series were used to evaluate a selection of chemistries for impacts on mosquito activity, survival and development. Ritodrine hydrochloride reduced mobility of larvae but had no observable effect on survival and development of mosquitoes. High doses of metergoline suppressed larval activity and sub-lethal dose resulted in pupal mortality. Assay data support the utility of phenotypic screening and diverse entomological end-points for discovery of novel insecticidal chemical scaffolds. The insecticide discovery process must consider how multi-modal efficacy spectra contribute to vector and VBD control.
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Affiliation(s)
- M V Murgia
- Department Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089, USA
| | - S Sharan
- Department Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089, USA
| | - J Kaur
- Department Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089, USA
| | - W Austin
- Department Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089, USA
| | - L Hagen
- Department Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089, USA
| | - L Wu
- Chemical Genomics Facility at Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089, USA
| | - L Chen
- Chemical Genomics Facility at Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089, USA
| | - J A Scott
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089, USA
| | - D P Flaherty
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089, USA
| | - M E Scharf
- Department Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089, USA
| | - V J Watts
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089, USA
| | - C A Hill
- Department Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089, USA.
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White MA, Chen DS, Wolfner MF. She's got nerve: roles of octopamine in insect female reproduction. J Neurogenet 2021; 35:132-153. [PMID: 33909537 DOI: 10.1080/01677063.2020.1868457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The biogenic monoamine octopamine (OA) is a crucial regulator of invertebrate physiology and behavior. Since its discovery in the 1950s in octopus salivary glands, OA has been implicated in many biological processes among diverse invertebrate lineages. It can act as a neurotransmitter, neuromodulator and neurohormone in a variety of biological contexts, and can mediate processes including feeding, sleep, locomotion, flight, learning, memory, and aggression. Here, we focus on the roles of OA in female reproduction in insects. OA is produced in the octopaminergic neurons that innervate the female reproductive tract (RT). It exerts its effects by binding to receptors throughout the RT to generate tissue- and region-specific outcomes. OA signaling regulates oogenesis, ovulation, sperm storage, and reproductive behaviors in response to the female's internal state and external conditions. Mating profoundly changes a female's physiology and behavior. The female's OA signaling system interacts with, and is modified by, male molecules transferred during mating to elicit a subset of the post-mating changes. Since the role of OA in female reproduction is best characterized in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, we focus our discussion on this species but include discussion of OA in other insect species whenever relevant. We conclude by proposing areas for future research to further the understanding of OA's involvement in female reproduction in insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A White
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Dawn S Chen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Mariana F Wolfner
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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Assessment of Insecticidal Activity of Benzylisoquinoline Alkaloids from Chilean Rhamnaceae Plants against Fruit-Fly Drosophila melanogaster and the Lepidopteran Crop Pest Cydia pomonella. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25215094. [PMID: 33153001 PMCID: PMC7663414 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25215094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The Chilean plants Discaria chacaye, Talguenea quinquenervia (Rhamnaceae), Peumus boldus (Monimiaceae), and Cryptocarya alba (Lauraceae) were evaluated against Codling moth: Cydia pomonella L. (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) and fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster (Diptera: Drosophilidae), which is one of the most widespread and destructive primary pests of Prunus (plums, cherries, peaches, nectarines, apricots, almonds), pear, walnuts, and chestnuts, among other. Four benzylisoquinoline alkaloids (coclaurine, laurolitsine, boldine, and pukateine) were isolated from the above mentioned plant species and evaluated regarding their insecticidal activity against the codling moth and fruit fly. The results showed that these alkaloids possess acute and chronic insecticidal effects. The most relevant effect was observed at 10 µg/mL against D. melanogaster and at 50 µg/mL against C. pomonella, being the alteration of the feeding, deformations, failure in the displacement of the larvae in the feeding medium of D. melanogaster, and mortality visible effects. In addition, the docking results show that these type of alkaloids present a good interaction with octopamine and ecdysone receptor showing a possible action mechanism.
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10
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Dimić D, Milanović Ž, Jovanović G, Sretenović D, Milenković D, Marković Z, Dimitrić Marković J. Comparative antiradical activity and molecular Docking/Dynamics analysis of octopamine and norepinephrine: the role of OH groups. Comput Biol Chem 2019; 84:107170. [PMID: 31810852 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2019.107170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Octopamine is a neurotransmitter in invertebrates and a phenol analog of norepinephrine. The crystallographic and spectral (UV-visUV, and NMR) characteristics of octopamine were investigated experimentally and theoretically by applying appropriate level of theory, B3LYP-D3BJ/6-311++G(d,p), which reproduced well the experimental bond lengths and angles. The intramolecular interactions governing the stability of conformers were described by NBO and QTAIM analyses. The antiradical potencies of octopamine and norepinephrine towards DPPH and ABTS+ were examined with special emphasis on the preferred mechanism and effect of catechol moiety. Several techniques were used to distinguish Hydrogen Atom Transfer (HAT) and Proton Coupled Electron Transfer (PCET) mechanisms for reaction with DPPH. The calculated rate constants of the reactions with both radicals showed that Sequential Proton Loss Electron Transfer (SPLET) mechanism was dominant both thermodynamically and kinetically, with values of thermodynamic functions and rate constants clearly proving the importance of the second hydroxyl group in structure. The Molecular Docking and afterward Molecular Dynamics calculations of formed complexes between octopamine/norepinephrine with β1- and β2- adrenergic receptors examined in details the interactions that lead to the formation of stable complexes. The number of strong interactions of amino acids with norepinephrine was higher, but the absence of hydroxyl group in octopamine did not lead to a significant change in the type of interactions and stability. The formed complexes showed higher flexibility of amino acids, similar compactness of structure as proteins and increased interatomic distances of the backbone when compared to pure proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dušan Dimić
- Faculty of Physical Chemistry, University of Belgrade, 12-16 Studentski trg, 11000, Belgrade, Republic of Serbia
| | - Žiko Milanović
- Bioengineering Research and Development Center, Prvoslava Stojanovića 6, 34000, Kragujevac, Republic of Serbia
| | - Goran Jovanović
- Faculty of Physical Chemistry, University of Belgrade, 12-16 Studentski trg, 11000, Belgrade, Republic of Serbia
| | - Dragana Sretenović
- Faculty of Physical Chemistry, University of Belgrade, 12-16 Studentski trg, 11000, Belgrade, Republic of Serbia
| | - Dejan Milenković
- Bioengineering Research and Development Center, Prvoslava Stojanovića 6, 34000, Kragujevac, Republic of Serbia; Institute for Information Technologies, Department of Science, University of Kragujevac, Republic of Serbia
| | - Zoran Marković
- Institute for Information Technologies, Department of Science, University of Kragujevac, Republic of Serbia; Department of Chemical-Technological Sciences, State University of Novi Pazar, Vuka Karadžića bb, 36300, Novi Pazar, Republic of Serbia
| | - Jasmina Dimitrić Marković
- Faculty of Physical Chemistry, University of Belgrade, 12-16 Studentski trg, 11000, Belgrade, Republic of Serbia.
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11
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Ligand-Induced Conformational Dynamics of A Tyramine Receptor from Sitophilus oryzae. Sci Rep 2019; 9:16275. [PMID: 31700013 PMCID: PMC6838067 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-52478-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Tyramine receptor (TyrR) is a biogenic amine G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) associated with many important physiological functions in insect locomotion, reproduction, and pheromone response. Binding of specific ligands to the TyrR triggers conformational changes, relays the signal to G proteins, and initiates an appropriate cellular response. Here, we monitor the binding effect of agonist compounds, tyramine and amitraz, to a Sitophilus oryzae tyramine receptor (SoTyrR) homology model and their elicited conformational changes. All-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of SoTyrR-ligand complexes have shown varying dynamic behavior, especially at the intracellular loop 3 (IL3) region. Moreover, in contrast to SoTyrR-tyramine, SoTyrR-amitraz and non-liganded SoTyrR shows greater flexibility at IL3 residues and were found to be coupled to the most dominant motion in the receptor. Our results suggest that the conformational changes induced by amitraz are different from the natural ligand tyramine, albeit being both agonists of SoTyrR. This is the first attempt to understand the biophysical implication of amitraz and tyramine binding to the intracellular domains of TyrR. Our data may provide insights into the early effects of ligand binding to the activation process of SoTyrR.
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12
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The pharmacological and functional characterization of the serotonergic system in Anopheles gambiae and Aedes aegypti: influences on flight and blood-feeding behavior. Sci Rep 2019; 9:4421. [PMID: 30872615 PMCID: PMC6418270 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-38806-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Aedes aegypti and Anopheles gambiae harbor the causative agents of diseases such as dengue fever and malaria, afflicting human morbidity and mortality worldwide. Given the worldwide emergence of resistance to insecticides, the current mainstay for vector control, identification of alternative modes of action for future insecticides is paramount. The serotonergic (5-HT) system has been documented to impact physiological mechanisms involved in disease transmission, suggesting its potential as a new mode of action target for future insecticide development. Target 5-HT receptors were cloned and expressed in the HEK293 cell line for functional and pharmacological characterization. Manipulation of the 5-HT system through microinjection of compounds suggests its involvement in the modulation of flight performance and blood-feeding behavior. By attenuating these two determinants of vectorial capacity, transmission and burden of disease could effectively be reduced. Considering these positive global health implications, the 5-HT system is a compelling target for the novel insecticide pipeline.
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Abstract
Trace amines are endogenous compounds classically regarded as comprising β-phenylethyalmine, p-tyramine, tryptamine, p-octopamine, and some of their metabolites. They are also abundant in common foodstuffs and can be produced and degraded by the constitutive microbiota. The ability to use trace amines has arisen at least twice during evolution, with distinct receptor families present in invertebrates and vertebrates. The term "trace amine" was coined to reflect the low tissue levels in mammals; however, invertebrates have relatively high levels where they function like mammalian adrenergic systems, involved in "fight-or-flight" responses. Vertebrates express a family of receptors termed trace amine-associated receptors (TAARs). Humans possess six functional isoforms (TAAR1, TAAR2, TAAR5, TAAR6, TAAR8, and TAAR9), whereas some fish species express over 100. With the exception of TAAR1, TAARs are expressed in olfactory epithelium neurons, where they detect diverse ethological signals including predators, spoiled food, migratory cues, and pheromones. Outside the olfactory system, TAAR1 is the most thoroughly studied and has both central and peripheral roles. In the brain, TAAR1 acts as a rheostat of dopaminergic, glutamatergic, and serotonergic neurotransmission and has been identified as a novel therapeutic target for schizophrenia, depression, and addiction. In the periphery, TAAR1 regulates nutrient-induced hormone secretion, suggesting its potential as a novel therapeutic target for diabetes and obesity. TAAR1 may also regulate immune responses by regulating leukocyte differentiation and activation. This article provides a comprehensive review of the current state of knowledge of the evolution, physiologic functions, pharmacology, molecular mechanisms, and therapeutic potential of trace amines and their receptors in vertebrates and invertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raul R Gainetdinov
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia (R.R.G.); Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech), Moscow, Russia (R.R.G.); Neuroscience, Ophthalmology, and Rare Diseases Discovery and Translational Area, pRED, Roche Innovation Centre Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (M.C.H.); and Department of Biochemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada (M.D.B.)
| | - Marius C Hoener
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia (R.R.G.); Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech), Moscow, Russia (R.R.G.); Neuroscience, Ophthalmology, and Rare Diseases Discovery and Translational Area, pRED, Roche Innovation Centre Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (M.C.H.); and Department of Biochemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada (M.D.B.)
| | - Mark D Berry
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia (R.R.G.); Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech), Moscow, Russia (R.R.G.); Neuroscience, Ophthalmology, and Rare Diseases Discovery and Translational Area, pRED, Roche Innovation Centre Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (M.C.H.); and Department of Biochemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada (M.D.B.)
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14
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Hill CA, Sharan S, Watts VJ. Genomics, GPCRs and new targets for the control of insect pests and vectors. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2018; 30:99-106. [PMID: 30553493 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2018.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The pressing need for new pest control products with novel modes of action has spawned interest in small molecules and peptides targeting arthropod GPCRs. Genome sequence data and tools for reverse genetics have enabled the prediction and characterization of GPCRs from many invertebrates. We review recent work to identify, characterize and de-orphanize arthropod GPCRs, with a focus on studies that reveal exciting new functional roles for these receptors, including the regulation of metabolic resistance. We explore the potential for insecticides targeting Class A biogenic amine-binding and peptide-binding receptors, and consider the innovation required to generate pest-selective leads for development, within the context of new PCR-targeting products to control arthropod vectors of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A Hill
- Department of Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089, USA.
| | - Shruti Sharan
- Department of Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089, USA
| | - Val J Watts
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089, USA
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15
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Basith S, Cui M, Macalino SJY, Park J, Clavio NAB, Kang S, Choi S. Exploring G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) Ligand Space via Cheminformatics Approaches: Impact on Rational Drug Design. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:128. [PMID: 29593527 PMCID: PMC5854945 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The primary goal of rational drug discovery is the identification of selective ligands which act on single or multiple drug targets to achieve the desired clinical outcome through the exploration of total chemical space. To identify such desired compounds, computational approaches are necessary in predicting their drug-like properties. G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) represent one of the largest and most important integral membrane protein families. These receptors serve as increasingly attractive drug targets due to their relevance in the treatment of various diseases, such as inflammatory disorders, metabolic imbalances, cardiac disorders, cancer, monogenic disorders, etc. In the last decade, multitudes of three-dimensional (3D) structures were solved for diverse GPCRs, thus referring to this period as the "golden age for GPCR structural biology." Moreover, accumulation of data about the chemical properties of GPCR ligands has garnered much interest toward the exploration of GPCR chemical space. Due to the steady increase in the structural, ligand, and functional data of GPCRs, several cheminformatics approaches have been implemented in its drug discovery pipeline. In this review, we mainly focus on the cheminformatics-based paradigms in GPCR drug discovery. We provide a comprehensive view on the ligand- and structure-based cheminformatics approaches which are best illustrated via GPCR case studies. Furthermore, an appropriate combination of ligand-based knowledge with structure-based ones, i.e., integrated approach, which is emerging as a promising strategy for cheminformatics-based GPCR drug design is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Soosung Kang
- College of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sun Choi
- College of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
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16
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Zhang F, Yuan Y, Li H, Shen L, Guo Y, Wen Z, Pu X. Using accelerated molecular dynamics simulation to shed light on the mechanism of activation/deactivation upon mutations for CCR5. RSC Adv 2018; 8:37855-37865. [PMID: 35558583 PMCID: PMC9089863 DOI: 10.1039/c8ra07686c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work, accelerated molecular dynamics (aMD) simulations were used to study different effects of G286F and R126 mutations on the activity of CCR5. Potential of Mean Force (PMF) results indicate that there are stable inactive-like states and active-like ones existing in the conformation space of the wild type (WT), confirming that CCR5 could possess to some extent constitutive activity. But the R126N mutation could constrain CCR5 in the inactive state through influencing the TXP motif and limiting the movements of TM5 and TM6. In contrast, the G286F mutation promotes the activity of the receptor by increasing the distance of TM2–TM6 and the flexibility of the intracellular part of TM5 and changing the H-bonding in the TXP motif. The observations from the cross correlation analysis further show that the R126N mutation dramatically reduces the motion correlations between TMs, which should partly contribute to the deactivation of CCR5. Compared with the WT system, TM6 and TM7 in the G286F mutant are loosely correlated with other regions, which should be conducive to drive the movement of TM6 and TM7 toward the active conformation. In addition, the result from the protein structure network (PSN) analysis reveals that the shortest pathways connecting the extracellular and the intracellular domains are highly conserved in the three systems despite the different mutations, in which the hydrogen bond plays a pivotal role. However, the G286F mutation shortens the lifetime of the pathway with respect to the R126N mutation, which may be associated with the different activities of the two mutants. The pathway connecting the ligand-binding site and the G-protein region reveals that the allosteric communication between TM6 and TM7 is enhanced by the R126N mutation while the G286F mutation induces the activation of the G-protein pocket by arousing more residues in the NPxxY region to participate in the pathway. In this work, accelerated molecular dynamics (aMD) simulations were used to study different effects of G286F and R126 mutations on the activity of CCR5.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuhui Zhang
- Faculty of Chemistry
- Sichuan University
- Chengdu
- People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- College of Management
- Southwest University for Nationalities
- Chengdu 610041
- P. R. China
| | - Haiyan Li
- Faculty of Chemistry
- Sichuan University
- Chengdu
- People's Republic of China
| | - Liting Shen
- Faculty of Chemistry
- Sichuan University
- Chengdu
- People's Republic of China
| | - Yanzhi Guo
- Faculty of Chemistry
- Sichuan University
- Chengdu
- People's Republic of China
| | - Zhining Wen
- Faculty of Chemistry
- Sichuan University
- Chengdu
- People's Republic of China
| | - Xuemei Pu
- Faculty of Chemistry
- Sichuan University
- Chengdu
- People's Republic of China
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17
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Neurotoxic Effects of Linalool and β-Pinene on Tribolium castaneum Herbst. Molecules 2017; 22:molecules22122052. [PMID: 29186788 PMCID: PMC6149882 DOI: 10.3390/molecules22122052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Effective, ethical pest control requires the use of chemicals that are highly specific, safe, and ecofriendly. Linalool and β-pinene occur naturally as major constituents of the essential oils of many plant species distributed throughout the world, and thus meet these requirements. These monoterpenes were tested as repellents against Tribolium castaneum, using the area preference method, after four hours of exposure and the effect transcriptional of genes associated with neurotransmission. Changes in gene expression of acetylcholinesterase (Ace1), GABA-gated anion channel splice variant 3a6a (Rdl), GABA-gated ion channel (Grd), glutamate-gated chloride channel (Glucl), and histamine-gated chloride channel 2 (Hiscl2) were assessed and the interaction with proteins important for the insect using in silico methods was also studied. For linalool and β-pinene, the repellent concentration 50 (RC50) values were 0.11 µL/cm2 and 0.03 µL/cm2, respectively. Both compounds induced overexpression of Hiscl2 gen in adult insects, and β-pinene also promoted the overexpression of Grd and the Ace1 gene. However, β-pinene and linalool had little potential to dock on computer-generated models for GABA-gated ion channel LCCH3, nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunits alpha1 and alpha2, and putative octopamine/tyramine receptor proteins from T. castaneum as their respective binding affinities were marginal, and therefore the repellent action probably involved mechanisms other than direct interaction with these targets. Results indicated that β-pinene was more potent than linalool in inducing insect repellency, and also had a greater capacity to generate changes in the expression of genes involved in neuronal transmission.
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18
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PeaTAR1B: Characterization of a Second Type 1 Tyramine Receptor of the American Cockroach, Periplaneta americana. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18112279. [PMID: 29084141 PMCID: PMC5713249 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18112279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Revised: 10/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The catecholamines norepinephrine and epinephrine regulate important physiological functions in vertebrates. In insects; these neuroactive substances are functionally replaced by the phenolamines octopamine and tyramine. Phenolamines activate specific guanine nucleotide-binding (G) protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Type 1 tyramine receptors are better activated by tyramine than by octopamine. In contrast; type 2 tyramine receptors are almost exclusively activated by tyramine. Functionally; activation of type 1 tyramine receptors leads to a decrease in the intracellular concentration of cAMP ([cAMP]i) whereas type 2 tyramine receptors can mediate Ca2+ signals or both Ca2+ signals and effects on [cAMP]i. Here; we report that the American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) expresses a second type 1 tyramine receptor (PeaTAR1B) in addition to PeaTAR1A (previously called PeaTYR1). When heterologously expressed in flpTM cells; activation of PeaTAR1B by tyramine leads to a concentration-dependent decrease in [cAMP]i. Its activity can be blocked by a series of established antagonists. The functional characterization of two type 1 tyramine receptors from P. americana; PeaTAR1A and PeaTAR1B; which respond to tyramine by changing cAMP levels; is a major step towards understanding the actions of tyramine in cockroach physiology and behavior; particularly in comparison to the effects of octopamine.
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Lu HM, Lu XL, Zhai JH, Zhou RB, Qin YL, Li JD, Zhang CY, Shi JY. Ligand-binding characterization of simulated β-adrenergic-like octopamine receptor in Schistocerca gregaria via progressive structure simulation. J Mol Graph Model 2017; 77:25-32. [PMID: 28822273 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmgm.2017.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Revised: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
It is important to design insecticides having both low drug resistance and less undesirable toxicity for desert locust control. Specific GPCRs of Schistocerca gregaria, especially β-adrenergic-like octopamine receptor (SgOctβR), can be considered as its potential effective insecticide targets. However, either the unavailability of SgOctβR's structure or the inadequate capability of its sequence lead the development of insecticide for Schistocerca gregaria meets its plateau. To relax this difficulty, this paper develops a promising progressive structure simulation from SgOctβR's sequence, to its predicted structure of SgOctβR in vacuum, to its conformation as well as its complex with endogenous ligand octopamine in a solvent-membrane system. The combined approach of multiple sequence alignment, static structural characterization, and dynamic process of conformational change during binding octopamine reveal three important aspects. The first one is the characterization of SgOctβR's active pocket, including the attending secondary structure elements, its hydrophobic residues and nonpolar surface. The second one is the interaction with octopamine, especially the involved hydrogen bonds and an aromatic stacking of pi-pi interactions. The third one is the potential binding sites, including six highly conserved residues and one highly variable residue for locust insecticide design. This work is definitely helpful for the further structure-based drug design for efficient and eco-friendly insecticides, as well as site-directed mutagenesis biochemical research of SgOctβR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Meng Lu
- Institute for Special Environmental Biophysics, Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, Shaanxi, PR China.
| | - Xiao-Li Lu
- Institute for Special Environmental Biophysics, Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, Shaanxi, PR China.
| | - Jia-Hui Zhai
- Institute for Special Environmental Biophysics, Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, Shaanxi, PR China.
| | - Ren-Bin Zhou
- Institute for Special Environmental Biophysics, Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, Shaanxi, PR China.
| | - Yan-Li Qin
- Institute for Special Environmental Biophysics, Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, Shaanxi, PR China.
| | - Jing-Di Li
- Institute for Special Environmental Biophysics, Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, Shaanxi, PR China.
| | - Chen-Yan Zhang
- Institute for Special Environmental Biophysics, Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, Shaanxi, PR China.
| | - Jian-Yu Shi
- Institute for Special Environmental Biophysics, Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, Shaanxi, PR China.
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20
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Dalwadi DA, Schetz JA. Comparative Exploration of the Structure–Activity Space of Cloned α-Like Octopamine Receptors from a Marine and a Terrestrial Arthropod. Mol Pharmacol 2017; 92:297-309. [DOI: 10.1124/mol.117.108456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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21
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Bauknecht P, Jékely G. Ancient coexistence of norepinephrine, tyramine, and octopamine signaling in bilaterians. BMC Biol 2017; 15:6. [PMID: 28137258 PMCID: PMC5282848 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-016-0341-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Norepinephrine/noradrenaline is a neurotransmitter implicated in arousal and other aspects of vertebrate behavior and physiology. In invertebrates, adrenergic signaling is considered absent and analogous functions are performed by the biogenic amines octopamine and its precursor tyramine. These chemically similar transmitters signal by related families of G-protein-coupled receptors in vertebrates and invertebrates, suggesting that octopamine/tyramine are the invertebrate equivalents of vertebrate norepinephrine. However, the evolutionary relationships and origin of these transmitter systems remain unclear. Results Using phylogenetic analysis and receptor pharmacology, here we have established that norepinephrine, octopamine, and tyramine receptors coexist in some marine invertebrates. In the protostomes Platynereis dumerilii (an annelid) and Priapulus caudatus (a priapulid), we have identified and pharmacologically characterized adrenergic α1 and α2 receptors that coexist with octopamine α, octopamine β, tyramine type 1, and tyramine type 2 receptors. These receptors represent the first examples of adrenergic receptors in protostomes. In the deuterostome Saccoglossus kowalevskii (a hemichordate), we have identified and characterized octopamine α, octopamine β, tyramine type 1, and tyramine type 2 receptors, representing the first examples of these receptors in deuterostomes. S. kowalevskii also has adrenergic α1 and α2 receptors, indicating that all three signaling systems coexist in this animal. In phylogenetic analysis, we have also identified adrenergic and tyramine receptor orthologs in xenacoelomorphs. Conclusions Our results clarify the history of monoamine signaling in bilaterians. Given that all six receptor families (two each for octopamine, tyramine, and norepinephrine) can be found in representatives of the two major clades of Bilateria, the protostomes and the deuterostomes, all six receptors must have coexisted in the last common ancestor of the protostomes and deuterostomes. Adrenergic receptors were lost from most insects and nematodes, and tyramine and octopamine receptors were lost from most deuterostomes. This complex scenario of differential losses cautions that octopamine signaling in protostomes is not a good model for adrenergic signaling in deuterostomes, and that studies of marine animals where all three transmitter systems coexist will be needed for a better understanding of the origin and ancestral functions of these transmitters. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12915-016-0341-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Bauknecht
- Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, Spemannstrasse 35, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Gáspár Jékely
- Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, Spemannstrasse 35, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.
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22
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Ngai M, McDowell MA. The search for novel insecticide targets in the post-genomics era, with a specific focus on G-protein coupled receptors. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2017; 112:1-7. [PMID: 28076467 PMCID: PMC5225528 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760160345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Insects are considered pests globally, implicated in the destruction of agricultural fields and transmission of pathogens that cause deadly human diseases, such as dengue, Zika and malaria. The diversity of the insecticide arsenal has remained stagnant for decades, but the recent rise of insecticide resistance fueled the discovery of novel modes of action, and the power of genomics has reinvigorated this search. This review discusses the importance of comparative and functional insect genomics in the identification of potential gene targets for an insecticidal mode of action with low off-target toxicity. Due to the global participation in the sequencing and annotation of insect genomes, the targeting of specific genes with molecular tools like RNAi and CRISPR/Cas9 for genome engineering and consequent functional identification and validation has become more efficient. While there are multiple avenues to explore for insecticidal candidates, this review identifies G-protein coupled receptors as attractive targets, and hones in on the octopamine and dopamine receptors due to their potential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary Ann McDowell
- University of Notre Dame, Eck Institute for Global Health, Department of
Biological Sciences, Notre Dame, USA
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Orphan GPR110 (ADGRF1) targeted by N-docosahexaenoylethanolamine in development of neurons and cognitive function. Nat Commun 2016; 7:13123. [PMID: 27759003 PMCID: PMC5075789 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms13123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3) is an omega-3 fatty acid essential for proper brain development. N-docosahexaenoylethanolamine (synaptamide), an endogenous metabolite of DHA, potently promotes neurogenesis, neuritogenesis and synaptogenesis; however, the underlying molecular mechanism is not known. Here, we demonstrate orphan G-protein coupled receptor 110 (GPR110, ADGRF1) as the synaptamide receptor, mediating synaptamide-induced bioactivity in a cAMP-dependent manner. Mass spectrometry-based proteomic characterization and cellular fluorescence tracing with chemical analogues of synaptamide reveal specific binding of GPR110 to synaptamide, which triggers cAMP production with low nM potency. Disruption of this binding or GPR110 gene knockout abolishes while GPR110 overexpression enhances synaptamide-induced bioactivity. GPR110 is highly expressed in fetal brains but rapidly decreases after birth. GPR110 knockout mice show significant deficits in object recognition and spatial memory. GPR110 deorphanized as a functional synaptamide receptor provides a novel target for neurodevelopmental control and new insight into mechanisms by which DHA promotes brain development and function.
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Andrés M, Seifert M, Spalthoff C, Warren B, Weiss L, Giraldo D, Winkler M, Pauls S, Göpfert M. Auditory Efferent System Modulates Mosquito Hearing. Curr Biol 2016; 26:2028-2036. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2016.05.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Revised: 05/13/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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25
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Kastner KW, Izaguirre JA. Accelerated molecular dynamics simulations of the octopamine receptor using GPUs: discovery of an alternate agonist-binding position. Proteins 2016; 84:1480-9. [PMID: 27318014 DOI: 10.1002/prot.25091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2016] [Revised: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Octopamine receptors (OARs) perform key biological functions in invertebrates, making this class of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) worth considering for insecticide development. However, no crystal structures and very little research exists for OARs. Furthermore, GPCRs are large proteins, are suspended in a lipid bilayer, and are activated on the millisecond timescale, all of which make conventional molecular dynamics (MD) simulations infeasible, even if run on large supercomputers. However, accelerated Molecular Dynamics (aMD) simulations can reduce this timescale to even hundreds of nanoseconds, while running the simulations on graphics processing units (GPUs) would enable even small clusters of GPUs to have processing power equivalent to hundreds of CPUs. Our results show that aMD simulations run on GPUs can successfully obtain the active and inactive state conformations of a GPCR on this reduced timescale. Furthermore, we discovered a potential alternate active-state agonist-binding position in the octopamine receptor which has yet to be observed and may be a novel GPCR agonist-binding position. These results demonstrate that a complex biological system with an activation process on the millisecond timescale can be successfully simulated on the nanosecond timescale using a simple computing system consisting of a small number of GPUs. Proteins 2016; 84:1480-1489. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin W Kastner
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana
| | - Jesús A Izaguirre
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana.
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Audsley N, Down RE. G protein coupled receptors as targets for next generation pesticides. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2015; 67:27-37. [PMID: 26226649 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2015.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2015] [Revised: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 07/17/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
There is an on-going need for the discovery and development of new pesticides due to the loss of existing products through the continuing development of resistance, the desire for products with more favourable environmental and toxicological profiles and the need to implement the principles of integrated pest management. Insect G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) have important roles in modulating biology, physiology and behaviour, including reproduction, osmoregulation, growth and development. Modifying normal receptor function by blocking or over stimulating its actions may either result in the death of a pest or disrupt its normal fitness or reproductive capacity to reduce pest populations. Hence GPCRs offer potential targets for the development of next generation pesticides providing opportunities to discover new chemistries for invertebrate pest control. Such receptors are important targets for pharmaceutical drugs, but are under-exploited by the agro-chemical industry. The octopamine receptor agonists are the only pesticides with a recognized mode of action, as described in the classification scheme developed by the Insecticide Resistance Action Committee, that act via a GPCR. The availability of sequenced insect genomes has facilitated the characterization of insect GPCRs, but the development and utilization of screening assays to identify lead compounds has been slow. Various studies using knock-down technologies or applying the native ligands and/or neuropeptide analogues to pest insects in vivo, have however demonstrated that modifying normal receptor function can have an insecticidal effect. This review presents examples of potential insect neuropeptide receptors that are potential targets for lead compound development, using case studies from three representative pest species, Tribolium castaneum, Acyrthosiphon pisum, and Drosophila suzukii. Functional analysis studies on T. castaneum suggest that GPCRs involved in growth and development (eclosion hormone, ecdysis triggering hormone and crustacean cardioacceleratory peptide receptors) as well as the dopamine-2 like, latrophilin-like, starry night, frizzled-like, methuselah-like and the smoothened receptors may be suitable pesticide targets. From in vivo studies using native ligands and peptide analogues, receptors which appear to have a role in the regulation of feeding in the pea aphid, such as the PISCF-allatostatin and the various "kinin" receptors, are also potential targets. In Drosophila melanogaster various neuropeptides and their signalling pathways have been studied extensively. This may provide insights into potential pesticide targets that could be exploited in D. suzukii. Examples include the sex peptide receptor, which is involved in reproduction and host seeking behaviours, and those responsible for osmoregulation such as the diuretic hormone receptors. However the neuropeptides and their receptors in insects are often poorly characterized, especially in pest species. Although data from closely related species may be transferable (e.g. D. melanogaster to D. suzukii), peptides and receptors may have different roles in different insects, and hence a target in one insect may not be appropriate in another. Hence fundamental knowledge of the roles and functions of receptors is vital for development to proceed.
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Spyrakis F, Cavasotto CN. Open challenges in structure-based virtual screening: Receptor modeling, target flexibility consideration and active site water molecules description. Arch Biochem Biophys 2015; 583:105-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2015.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Revised: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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