1
|
Qiu X, Huang W, Yue W, Li D, Zhi J. Response of the serine/threonine kinase AKT and phosphoinositide-dependent kinase PDK in Frankliniella occidentalis (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) to three kinds of foods and their regulation of reproductive function. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 33:372-386. [PMID: 38450915 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12905] [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: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) is a typical omnivorous insect that feeds on host plants, pollens and mite eggs, and poses a threat to crops worldwide. The insulin signalling pathway (ISP) is a typical nutrient-sensitive pathway that participates in the regulation of various functions in insects. Serine/threonine kinases (AKTs) and phosphoinositide-dependent kinases (PDKs) are key components of the ISP. In this study, the FoAKT and FoPDK genes in F. occidentalis were cloned, and the effects of three foods on their expression were determined. The expression of FoAKT and FoPDK in the thrips fed on kidney bean leaves supplemented with pine pollen or mite eggs was higher than in those primarily fed on leaves alone. Meanwhile, the fecundity of thrips fed on leaves supplemented with pine pollen was highest. In addition, RNA interference-mediated knockdown of FoAKT and FoPDK decreased vitellogenin (Vg) content and Vg expression in females, shortened ovariole length, delayed egg development and reduced fecundity and offspring hatching rates. Furthermore, the synthesis of juvenile hormone (JH) was reduced, and the contents of glucose, trehalose, glycogen and trehalase were affected. These results suggest that FoAKT and FoPDK regulate the reproduction of F. occidentalis by regulating Vg and JH production as well as carbohydrate metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Qiu
- The Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of the Mountainous Region, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Wanqing Huang
- The Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of the Mountainous Region, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
- Guizhou Provincial Tobacco Company, Tongren Branch, Tongren, China
| | - Wenbo Yue
- The Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of the Mountainous Region, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Dingyin Li
- The Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of the Mountainous Region, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Junrui Zhi
- The Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of the Mountainous Region, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Leyria J, Fruttero LL, Canavoso LE. Lipids in Insect Reproduction: Where, How, and Why. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 38874891 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2024_809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Modern insects have inhabited the earth for hundreds of millions of years, and part of their successful adaptation lies in their many reproductive strategies. Insect reproduction is linked to a high metabolic rate that provides viable eggs in a relatively short time. In this context, an accurate interplay between the endocrine system and the nutrients synthetized and metabolized is essential to produce healthy offspring. Lipids guarantee the metabolic energy needed for egg formation and represent the main energy source consumed during embryogenesis. Lipids availability is tightly regulated by a complex network of endocrine signals primarily controlled by the central nervous system (CNS) and associated endocrine glands, the corpora allata (CA) and corpora cardiaca (CC). This endocrine axis provides hormones and neuropeptides that significatively affect tissues closely involved in successful reproduction: the fat body, which is the metabolic center supplying the lipid resources and energy demanded in egg formation, and the ovaries, where the developing oocytes recruit lipids that will be used for optimal embryogenesis. The post-genomic era and the availability of modern experimental approaches have advanced our understanding of many processes involved in lipid homeostasis; therefore, it is crucial to integrate the findings of recent years into the knowledge already acquired in the last decades. The present chapter is devoted to reviewing major recent contributions made in elucidating the impact of the CNS/CA/CC-fat body-ovary axis on lipid metabolism in the context of insect reproduction, highlighting areas of fruitful research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jimena Leyria
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, CP 5000, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Leonardo L Fruttero
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, CP 5000, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Lilián E Canavoso
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, CP 5000, Argentina.
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Leyria J. Endocrine factors modulating vitellogenesis and oogenesis in insects: An update. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 587:112211. [PMID: 38494046 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2024.112211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
The endocrine system plays a pivotal role in shaping the mechanisms that ensure successful reproduction. With over a million known insect species, understanding the endocrine control of reproduction has become increasingly complex. Some of the key players include the classic insect lipid hormones juvenile hormone (JH) and ecdysteroids, and neuropeptides such as insulin-like peptides (ILPs). Individual endocrine factors not only modulate their own target tissue but also play crucial roles in crosstalk among themselves, ensuring successful vitellogenesis and oogenesis. Recent advances in omics, gene silencing, and genome editing approaches have accelerated research, offering both fundamental insights and practical applications for studying in-depth endocrine signaling pathways. This review provides an updated and integrated view of endocrine factors modulating vitellogenesis and oogenesis in insect females.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jimena Leyria
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hu K, Jin R, Liu J, Zhu J, Dai W, Wang Y, Li Y, Liu F. Functional characterization of the InR/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in female reproduction of the predatory bug Cyrtorhinus lividipennis (Hemiptera: Miridae). JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY 2024:toae113. [PMID: 38783398 DOI: 10.1093/jee/toae113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
The insulin signaling (IIS) pathway plays a key role in the regulation of various physiological functions in animals. However, the involvement of IIS pathway in the reproduction of natural enemy insects remains enigmatic. Here, 3 key genes (named ClInR, ClPI3K, and ClAKT) related to IIS pathway were cloned from Cyrtorhinus lividipennis (Reuter) (Hemiptera: Miridae), an important natural enemy in the rice ecosystem. These 3 proteins had the typical features of corresponding protein families and shared high similarity with their respective homologs from the Hemipteran species. The ClInR, ClPI3K, and ClAKT were highly expressed in the adult stage. Tissue distribution analysis revealed that ClInR, ClPI3K, and ClAKT were highly expressed in the midgut and ovary of adults. Silencing of ClInR, ClPI3K, and ClAKT caused 92.1%, 72.1%, and 57.8% reduction in the expression of ClVg, respectively. Depletion of these 3 genes impaired vitellogenin synthesis and ovary development. Moreover, the fecundity in the dsInR, dsPI3K, and dsAKT injected females were 53.9%, 50.8%, and 48.5% lower than the control treatment, respectively. These results indicated that ClInR, ClPI3K, and ClAKT are of great importance for the reproduction of C. lividipennis. Our results advance the knowledge about the molecular mechanism of reproduction regulation in natural enemy insects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kui Hu
- College of Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Rong Jin
- College of Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Jianqi Liu
- College of Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Jun Zhu
- College of Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Wei Dai
- College of Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Ying Wang
- College of Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yao Li
- College of Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Fang Liu
- College of Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Modern Production Technology of Grain Crops, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety (Yangzhou University), Jiangsu, Yangzhou 225009, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yan Y, Qin DD, Yang H, Xu KK, Li C, Yang WJ. MicroR-9c-5p and novel-mir50 co-target Akt to regulate Lasioderma serricorne reproduction. INSECT SCIENCE 2024; 31:106-118. [PMID: 37350038 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13221] [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: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
High fecundity is a common characteristic of insect pests which increases the difficulty of population control. Serine/threonine kinase Akt is an indispensable component of the insulin signaling pathway. Silencing of LsAkt severely hinders reproduction in Lasioderma serricorne, a stored product insect pest. However, the post-transcriptional pathway of LsAkt in L. serricorne remains unknown. This study identified 2 binding sites of miR-9c-5p and novel-mir50 in the coding sequences of LsAkt. The expression profiles of 2 microRNAs (miRNAs) and LsAkt displayed an opposite pattern during the adult stages. Luciferase reporter assay showed that novel-mir50 and miR-9c-5p could downregulate the expression of LsAkt. Overexpression of miR-9c-5p and novel-mir50 by injection of mimics inhibited the expression of LsAkt and reduced oviposition, decreased egg hatchability, and blocked ovarian development. It also decreased the expression of genes involved in ovarian development (LsVg and LsVgR) and the nutritional signaling pathway (LsTOR, LsS6K, and Ls4EBP), and reduced the phosphorylation of Akt. Conversely, injection of miR-9c-5p and novel-mir50 inhibitors induced the expressions of LsAkt, LsVg, LsVgR, LsTOR, LsS6K, and Ls4EBP, enhanced Akt phosphorylation level, and accelerated ovarian development. Injection of bovine insulin downregulated the expression of miR-9c-5p and novel-mir50 and upregulated the LsAkt expression. It also rescued the reproductive development defects associated with miR-9c-5p/novel-mir50 overexpression, forming a positive regulatory loop of insulin signaling. These results indicate that miR-9c-5p/novel-mir50 regulates the female reproduction of L. serricorne by targeting Akt in response to insulin signaling. The data also demonstrate the effects of the insulin/miRNA/Akt regulatory axis in insect reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yan
- Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Region, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
| | - Dong-Dong Qin
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
| | - Hong Yang
- Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Region, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Kang-Kang Xu
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
| | - Can Li
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
| | - Wen-Jia Yang
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lu T, Lu Y, Wang L, Liu Z, Miao S, Tai Y, Yang B. The serine/threonine kinase Akt gene affects fecundity by reducing Juvenile hormone synthesis in Liposcelis entomophila (Enderlein). PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 196:105583. [PMID: 37945269 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2023.105583] [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: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
The serine/threonine kinase Akt is an important component of the insulin signalling pathway (ISP) in regulating insect metabolism, growth, and reproduction. The psocid Liposcelis entomophila (Enderlein) is a distasteful stored products pest for its fecundity. However, the molecular mechanism of Akt that controls vitellogenesis and oviposition in L. entomophila remains obscure. In this study, the function of the Akt gene in the female reproduction of L. entomophila (designated as LeAkt) was characterized and investigated. LeAkt contains a 1587 bp open reading frame encoding a 529 amino acid protein that possesses a conserved Pleckstrin Homology domain (PH) and a Ser/Thr-type protein kinase (S_TKc) domain. The mRNA expression of LeAkt was the highest in female adult stages and peaked for 7-day female adults. In female adult tissues, LeAkt was highly expressed in the head and the ovary, indicating that LeAkt was closely correlated with female ovarian development. LeAkt transcription level was significantly suppressed by oral feeding on artificial diets mixed with dsRNA-LeAkt. RNAi-mediated silencing of LeAkt led to a severe inhibition of vitellogenein (Vg) expression and ovarian development, together with lower fecundity and hatchability compared to that of the normal feeding group, suggesting a critical role for LeAkt in L. entomophila reproduction. Further studies revealed that LeAkt silencing significantly decreased the mRNA levels of several signalling and biosynthetic genes in the juvenile hormone (JH) signalling pathway, such as methoprene-tolerant (LeMet), krüppel homolog 1 (LeKr-h1) and JH methyltransferase (LeJHAMT), leading to a severe inhibition of JH biosynthesis in L. entomophila female adults. These results suggested that LeAkt was affecting JH synthesis, thereby influencing Vg synthesis and ultimately L. entomophila reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Lu
- School of Food Science and Strategic Reserves, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yujie Lu
- School of Grain Science and Technology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China; School of Food Science and Strategic Reserves, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Lei Wang
- School of Grain Science and Technology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Zhipei Liu
- School of Food Science and Technology, The University of New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shiyuan Miao
- School of Grain Science and Technology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yajie Tai
- School of Food Science and Strategic Reserves, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Binbin Yang
- School of Food Science and Strategic Reserves, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Huangfu N, Zhu X, Wang L, Zhang K, Li D, Chen L, Gao X, Niu L, Gao M, Ji J, Luo J, Cui J. Insulin Receptor Substrate-1 ( IRS1) Regulates Oogenesis and Vitellogenesis in Propylea japonica by Mediating the FOXO Transcription Factor Expression, Independent of JH and 20E Signaling Pathways. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:300-310. [PMID: 36538395 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c07433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The insulin receptor substrate (IRS), as the core cytoplasmic adapter protein in the insulin/insulin-like signaling (IIS) pathway, is an important mediator of cellular signaling. However, it is still unknown how IRS crosstalk with hormone signaling regulates insect growth, development, and reproduction. In this study, we demonstrated that knockdown of IRS1 significantly inhibited oogenesis, vitellogenesis, and the development of nurse cells and follicular epithelial cells. In addition, qRT-PCR results showed that FOXO transcription factors significantly responded to silencing of the IRS1 gene. However, IRS1 silencing had no significant effect on the expression of juvenile hormone/20-hydroxyecdysone (JH/20E)-signaling genes, JH synthesis, and degradation enzyme-related genes and the JH/20E titers. Our results suggested that the IIS pathway regulated ovarian development and Vg production through FOXO, independent of JH and 20E signaling pathways. This study revealed the reproductive regulation mechanism in Propylea japonica, which provides a theoretical basis for large-scale expansion of P. japonica as an environment-friendly biological control strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ningbo Huangfu
- Zhengzhou Research Base, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Xiangzhen Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Li Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Kaixin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Dongyang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Lulu Chen
- College of Agronomy, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830052, China
| | - Xueke Gao
- Zhengzhou Research Base, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Lin Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Mengxue Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Jichao Ji
- Zhengzhou Research Base, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Junyu Luo
- Zhengzhou Research Base, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Jinjie Cui
- Zhengzhou Research Base, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kim CY, Kim YG. Insulin-like Peptides of the Western Flower Thrips Frankliniella occidentalis and Their Mediation of Immature Development. INSECTS 2023; 14:insects14010047. [PMID: 36661977 PMCID: PMC9864108 DOI: 10.3390/insects14010047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Insulin-like peptides (ILPs) mediate various physiological processes in insects. Specifically, ILP expression is required for immature development in different insects. The western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis, is polyphagous, but its occurrence and population density vary among different hosts. This study assesses the developmental variations in the thrips through quantitative analysis of their ILP expressions. Two types of ILPs (Fo-ILP1 and Fo-ILP2) were identified from the genome of F. occidentalis, and both ILPs were predicted to have the characteristics of signal peptides and B-C-A chains linked by cysteines. A phylogenetic analysis indicates that these two ILPs in the thrips are clustered with the ILP1 of Drosophila melanogaster, suggesting their physiological roles in growth. In addition, the two ILP genes were relatively highly expressed at all feeding stages, but their expression was reduced during the nonfeeding prepupal and pupal stages. Furthermore, RNA interference of each ILP expression led to significant developmental retardation. In validating the ILP expression in the thrips' development, five different varieties of host hot peppers were assessed in a choice test, along with the immature development of F. occidentalis. The expression levels of the two ILP genes were highly correlated with variations in the immature developmental rates of different hot pepper varieties. These suggest that Fo-ILP1 and Fo-ILP2 mediate the immature development of F. occidentalis by sensing different nutritional values of hot peppers. This study is the first report on ILPs in thysanopteran insects.
Collapse
|
9
|
Yang B, Miao S, Lu Y, Wang S, Wang Z, Zhao Y. Involvement of Methoprene-tolerant and Krüppel homolog 1 in juvenile hormone-mediated vitellogenesis of female Liposcelis entomophila (End.) (Psocoptera: Liposcelididae). ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 112:e21973. [PMID: 36193599 PMCID: PMC10078567 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Methoprene-tolerant (Met) as an intracellular receptor of juvenile hormone (JH) and the Krüppel-homolog 1 (Kr-h1) as a JH-inducible transcription factor had been proved to contribute to insect reproduction. Their functions vary in different insect orders, however, they are not clear in Psocoptera. In this study, LeMet and LeKr-h1 were identified and their roles in vitellogenesis and ovarian development were investigated in Liposcelis entomophila (Enderlein). Treatment with exogenous JH III significantly induced the expression of LeKr-h1, LeVg, and LeVgR. Furthermore, silencing LeMet and LeKr-h1 remarkably reduced the transcription of LeVg and LeVgR, disrupted the production of Vg in fat body and the uptake of Vg by oocytes, and ultimately led to a decline in fecundity. The results indicated that the JH signaling pathway was essential to the reproductive process of this species. Interestingly, knockdown of LeMet or LeKr-h1 also resulted in fluctuations in the expression of FoxO, indicating the complex regulatory interactions between different hormone factors. Besides, knockdown of both LeMet and LeKr-h1 significantly increased L. entomophila mortality. Our study provides initial insight into the roles of JH signaling in the female reproduction of psocids and provided evidence that RNAi-mediated knockdown of Met or Kr-h1 is a potential pest control strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bin‐Bin Yang
- School of Grain Science and TechnologyJiangsu University of Science and TechnologyZhenjiangChina
- School of Food Science and TechnologyHenan University of TechnologyZhengzhouChina
| | - Shi‐Yuan Miao
- School of Grain Science and TechnologyJiangsu University of Science and TechnologyZhenjiangChina
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and EducationMurdoch UniversityMurdochWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Yu‐Jie Lu
- School of Grain Science and TechnologyJiangsu University of Science and TechnologyZhenjiangChina
- School of Food Science and TechnologyHenan University of TechnologyZhengzhouChina
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and EducationMurdoch UniversityMurdochWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Sui‐Sui Wang
- School of Food Science and TechnologyHenan University of TechnologyZhengzhouChina
| | - Zheng‐Yan Wang
- School of Food Science and TechnologyHenan University of TechnologyZhengzhouChina
| | - Ya‐Ru Zhao
- School of Grain Science and TechnologyJiangsu University of Science and TechnologyZhenjiangChina
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sun R, Liu J, Xu Y, Jiang L, Li Y, Zhong G, Yi X. Genome-Wide Identification and Stage-Specific Expression Profile Analysis Reveal the Function of Ribosomal Proteins for Oogenesis of Spodoptera litura. Front Physiol 2022; 13:943205. [PMID: 35812325 PMCID: PMC9259932 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.943205] [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: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ribosomal proteins (Rps) are indispensable in ribosome biogenesis and protein synthesis, which tightly correlate with cell growth and proliferation in different physiological processes across species. Up to now, genes coding for Rps have been identified and studied in many species, however, their information still remains elusive in many insect species, especially in Spodoptera litura. In this study, 81 Rp genes were identified from S. litura genome and were mapped to their positions on the chromosomes. In addition, their physical and chemical properties, gene structure, phylogenetic relationships, targeted microRNAs were also analyzed. Gene ontology analysis disclosed that Rp genes were closely associated with processes related to ribosome biosynthesis, proteins translation processing, molecular binding activities. The quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) revealed expression profiles of Rp genes varied in different stages of oogenesis, and found that most Rp genes accumulated in previtellogenesis stage. This study described the comprehensive genome-wide analysis of Rp gene family in agricultural pests, which provided foundation for further characterizing the roles of Rps in oogenesis of insects, and some Rp genes may further serve as targets for innovative pest control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ranran Sun
- Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuanhao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liwei Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun Li
- Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guohua Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Guohua Zhong, ; Xin Yi,
| | - Xin Yi
- Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Guohua Zhong, ; Xin Yi,
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sun R, Xu Y, Liu J, Yang L, Cui G, Zhong G, Yi X. Proteomic profiling for ovarian development and azadirachtin exposure in Spodoptera litura during metamorphosis from pupae to adults. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 237:113548. [PMID: 35487172 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.113548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Azadirachtin is one of the most successful botanical pesticides in agricultural pest control. To build a repertoire of proteins and pathways in response to azadirachtin exposure during ovarian development, iTRAQ-based comparative proteomic was conducted. 1423 and 1686 proteins were identified as differentially accumulated proteins (DAPs) by comparing the protein abundance in adult ovary with that in pupal ovary under normal and azadirachtin exposure condition, respectively. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that pupae-to-adult transition requires proteins related to proteasome and branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) degradation for ovary development. Azadirachtin exposure strongly affected glycosylation-related pathway. And proteins related to vitamin B6 synthesis were necessary for ovary development under normal and AZA-exposure condition. RNAi assays confirmed the essential roles of DAPs related to glycosylation and vitamin B6 synthesis in moth growth and ovary development. The results enhance our understanding of the molecular regulatory network for ovary development and provide valuable resources for using AZA-responsive proteins to develop novel bio-rational insecticides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ranran Sun
- Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yuanhao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Jin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Liying Yang
- Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Gaofeng Cui
- Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Guohua Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Xin Yi
- Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chen D, Han HL, Li WJ, Wang JJ, Wei D. Expression and Role of Vitellogenin Genes in Ovarian Development of Zeugodacus cucurbitae. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13050452. [PMID: 35621787 PMCID: PMC9143374 DOI: 10.3390/insects13050452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Vitellogenin (Vg) genes encode the major egg yolk protein precursor in arthropods. In this study, four Vgs were identified in Zeugodacus cucurbitae (Coquillett). Sequence analysis showed that four ZcVgs had the conserved Vg domain. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that four ZcVgs were homologous to the Vgs of Tephritidae insects. The temporal and spatial expression patterns of ZcVgs were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and the four ZcVgs showed high expression levels in female adults, especially in the fat body. The expression of ZcVg1 and ZcVg3 was down-regulated by a low dosage (0.5 μg) of 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E), and ZcVg2, ZcVg3, and ZcVg4 were up-regulated by a high dosage (1.0 and 2.0 μg) of 20E. The expression of ZcVg1 and ZcVg2 was up-regulated by 5 μg of juvenile hormone (JH), while all of the ZcVgs were down-regulated by a low and high dosage of JH. Expression of ZcVgs was down-regulated after 24 h of starvation and recovered to normal after nutritional supplementation. After micro-injection of the gene-specific double-stranded RNA, the ZcVgs’ expression was significantly suppressed, and ovarian development was delayed in Z. cucurbitae females. The results indicate that RNA interference of reproduction-related genes is a potential pest control method that works by manipulating female fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong Chen
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (D.C.); (H.-L.H.); (W.-J.L.); (J.-J.W.)
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Hong-Liang Han
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (D.C.); (H.-L.H.); (W.-J.L.); (J.-J.W.)
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Wei-Jun Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (D.C.); (H.-L.H.); (W.-J.L.); (J.-J.W.)
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Jin-Jun Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (D.C.); (H.-L.H.); (W.-J.L.); (J.-J.W.)
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Dong Wei
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (D.C.); (H.-L.H.); (W.-J.L.); (J.-J.W.)
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-23-6825-0653
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Chen SL, Liu BT, Lee WP, Liao SB, Deng YB, Wu CL, Ho SM, Shen BX, Khoo GH, Shiu WC, Chang CH, Shih HW, Wen JK, Lan TH, Lin CC, Tsai YC, Tzeng HF, Fu TF. WAKE-mediated modulation of cVA perception via a hierarchical neuro-endocrine axis in Drosophila male-male courtship behaviour. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2518. [PMID: 35523813 PMCID: PMC9076693 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30165-2] [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: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The nervous and endocrine systems coordinate with each other to closely influence physiological and behavioural responses in animals. Here we show that WAKE (encoded by wide awake, also known as wake) modulates membrane levels of GABAA receptor Resistance to Dieldrin (Rdl), in insulin-producing cells of adult male Drosophila melanogaster. This results in changes to secretion of insulin-like peptides which is associated with changes in juvenile hormone biosynthesis in the corpus allatum, which in turn leads to a decrease in 20-hydroxyecdysone levels. A reduction in ecdysone signalling changes neural architecture and lowers the perception of the male-specific sex pheromone 11-cis-vaccenyl acetate by odorant receptor 67d olfactory neurons. These finding explain why WAKE-deficient in Drosophila elicits significant male-male courtship behaviour. The authors show that the Drosophila master regulator WAKE modulates the secretion of insulin-like peptides, triggering a decrease in 20-hydroxyecdysone levels. This lowers the perception of a male-specific sex pheromone and explains why WAKE-deficient Drosophila flies show male-male courtship behaviour.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiu-Ling Chen
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chi Nan University, Nantou, Taiwan
| | - Bo-Ting Liu
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chi Nan University, Nantou, Taiwan
| | - Wang-Pao Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Sin-Bo Liao
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chi Nan University, Nantou, Taiwan.,Institute of Biotechnology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Bang Deng
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chi Nan University, Nantou, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Lin Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan.,Brain Research Center, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Shuk-Man Ho
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chi Nan University, Nantou, Taiwan
| | - Bing-Xian Shen
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chi Nan University, Nantou, Taiwan
| | - Guan-Hock Khoo
- Department of Life Science and Life Science Center, Tunghai University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chiang Shiu
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chi Nan University, Nantou, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hsuan Chang
- Department of Life Science and Life Science Center, Tunghai University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Institute of Systems Neuroscience, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan.,National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Wen Shih
- Department of Life Science and Life Science Center, Tunghai University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jung-Kun Wen
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsuo-Hung Lan
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Tsaotun Psychiatric Center, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Nantou, Taiwan.,Department of Psychiatry, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Center for Neuropsychiatric Research, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Chien Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chen Tsai
- Department of Life Science and Life Science Center, Tunghai University, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Huey-Fen Tzeng
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chi Nan University, Nantou, Taiwan.
| | - Tsai-Feng Fu
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chi Nan University, Nantou, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Fu B, Ma R, Liu F, Chen X, Teng X, Yang P, Liu J, Zhao D, Sun L. Ginsenosides improve reproductive capability of aged female Drosophila through mechanism dependent on ecdysteroid receptor (ECR) and steroid signaling pathway. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:964069. [PMID: 36017314 PMCID: PMC9396376 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.964069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging ovaries caused diminished fertility and depleted steroid hormone level. Ginsenosides, the active ingredient in ginseng, had estrogen-like hormonal effects. Although ginsenosides were well known for their ability to alleviate many age-related degenerative diseases, the effect of ginsenosides on the decline in reproductive capability caused by aging, as well as the mechanism, are unknown. We found that ginsenosides improved the quantity and quality of the offspring, prolonged life and restored muscle ability in aged female Drosophila. In addition, ginsenosides inhibited ovarian atrophy and maintained steroid hormone 20-Hydroxyecdysone (20E) and juvenile-preserving hormone (JH)) levels. Ginsenosides activated ecdysteroid receptor (ECR) and increased the expression of the early transcription genes E74 and Broad (Br), which triggered steroid signaling pathway. Meanwhile, ginsenosides promoted JH biosynthesis by increasing the expression of Hydroxyl-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGR) and juvenile hormone acid O-methyltransferase (JHAMT). Subsequently, JH was bound to Methoprene Tolerant (Met) and activated the transcription of the responsive gene Kruppel Homolog 1 (Kr-h1), which coordinated with 20E signaling to promote the reproduction of aged female Drosophila. The reproductive capacity and steroid hormone levels were not improved and the steroid signaling pathway was not activated in ginsenoside-treated ECR knockout Drosophila. This suggested that ginsenosides played a role dependent on targeted ECR. Furthermore, 17 kinds of ginsenoside monomers were identified from the total ginsenosides. Among them, Rg1, Re and Rb1 improved the reproductive capacity and steroid hormone levels of aged female Drosophila, which has similar effects to the total ginsenoside. These results indicated that ginsenosides could enhance the reproductive capacity of aged female Drosophila by activating steroid signals dependent on nuclear receptor ECR. In addition, ginsenoside monomers Rg1, Rb1 and Re are the main active components of total ginsenosides to improve reproductive ability. This will provide strong evidence that ginsenosides had the potential to alleviate age-induced reproductive degradation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baoyu Fu
- Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Rui Ma
- Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Liwei Sun, ; Rui Ma,
| | - Fangbing Liu
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Xuenan Chen
- Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaoyu Teng
- College of Science, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Pengdi Yang
- College of Science, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Jianzeng Liu
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Daqing Zhao
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
- Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Liwei Sun
- Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
- Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Liwei Sun, ; Rui Ma,
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Xu KK, Yan Y, Yan SY, Xia PL, Yang WJ, Li C, Yang H. Disruption of the Serine/Threonine Kinase Akt Gene Affects Ovarian Development and Fecundity in the Cigarette Beetle, Lasioderma serricorne. Front Physiol 2021; 12:765819. [PMID: 34690822 PMCID: PMC8529032 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.765819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Serine/threonine kinase Akt, an important component of the insulin signaling pathway, plays an essential role in many physiological processes. In this study, we identified and characterized an Akt gene (designated LsAkt) from the cigarette beetle, Lasioderma serricorne. LsAkt contains a 1614 bp open reading frame encoding a 537 amino acid protein that possesses a conserved pleckstrin homology domain and a serine/threonine kinase domain. The expression of LsAkt was high in pupal stages and peaked in day-4 female pupae. In adult tissues, LsAkt was highly expressed in the thorax, ovary, and midgut. The expression of LsAkt was induced by methoprene or bovine insulin in vivo, but significantly decreased by 20-hydroxyecdysone. RNA interference-mediated knockdown of LsAkt resulted in severely blocked ovarian development and reduced fecundity and hatchability. The vitellogenin (Vg) content and juvenile hormone (JH) titers of LsAkt-depletion beetles were decreased, and expressions of Vg and four JH signaling and biosynthetic genes were significantly decreased. Silencing of LsAkt reduced the amounts of glucose, glycogen, and trehalose in female adults and affected the expressions of seven key carbohydrate metabolic genes. Taken together, it is inferred that Akt implicates in L. serricorne reproduction by modification of Vg synthesis, juvenile hormone production and carbohydrate metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kang-Kang Xu
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Region, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China.,Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
| | - Yi Yan
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Region, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China.,Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
| | - Shu-Yan Yan
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
| | | | - Wen-Jia Yang
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
| | - Can Li
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Rare Animal and Economic Insect of the Mountainous Region, College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang, China
| | - Hong Yang
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Agricultural Pest Management of Mountainous Region, Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China.,College of Tobacco Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Identification and Characterization of MicroRNAs in Gonads of Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12080749. [PMID: 34442315 PMCID: PMC8396854 DOI: 10.3390/insects12080749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary For most insects, the development of the testis and ovary directly determines their reproductive ability. The cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner), is a polyphagous crop pest of the Lepidoptera Noctuidae. Owing to its broad range of host plants and strong fertility, H. armigera causes huge economic losses to agricultural production. Acting as a type of post-transcriptional regulatory factor, miRNAs participate in the gonadal development and reproductive regulation of H. arimgera. Our study uses H. armigera as a research object to identify and characterize the miRNAs and study their potential functions in the testis and ovary of this destructive crop pest. A total of 7,592,150 and 8,815,237 clean reads were obtained by constructing small RNA libraries of the testis and ovary, respectively. Length distribution analysis showed that the main types of small RNAs in the testis and ovary were different. Among the 74 known miRNAs, 60 miRNAs existed in the ovary, and 72 existed in the testis. Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analyses indicated that the 8 gonad-biased differentially expressed miRNAs (miR-989a, miR-263-5p, miR-34, miR-2763, miR-998, miR-2c, miR-2765, and miR-252a-5p) had many target transcripts involved in the reproduction process. Abstract The high fecundity of the most destructive pest Helicoverpa armigera and its great resistance risk to insecticides and Bt crops make the reproductive-destruction-based control of this pest extremely appealing. To find suitable targets for disruption of its reproduction, we observed the testis and ovary development of H. armigera and conducted deep sequencing of the ovary and testis small RNAs of H. armigera and quantitative RT-PCR (RT-qPCR) validation to identify reproduction-related micro RNAs (miRNAs). A total of 7,592,150 and 8,815,237 clean reads were obtained from the testis and ovary tissue, respectively. After further analysis, we obtained 173 novel and 74 known miRNAs from the two libraries. Among the 74 known miRNAs, 60 miRNAs existed in the ovary and 72 existed in the testis. Further RT-qPCR validation of 5 miRNAs from the ovary and 6 miRNAs from the testis confirmed 8 of them were indeed ovary- (miR-989a, miR-263-5p, miR-34) or testis-biased (miR-2763, miR-998, miR-2c, miR-2765, miR-252a-5p). The 8 ovary- or testis-biased miRNAs had a total of 30,172 putative non-redundant target transcripts, as predicted by miRanda and RNAhybrid. Many of these target transcripts are assigned to reproduction-related GO terms (e.g., oocyte maturation, vitellogenesis, spermatogenesis) and are members of multiple reproduction-related KEGG pathways, such as the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, oocyte meiosis, the insulin signaling pathway, and insect hormone biosynthesis. These results suggest that the 8 gonad-biased miRNAs play important roles in reproduction and may be used as the targets for the development of reproductive-destruction-based control of H. armigera and, possibly, other lepidopteran pests.
Collapse
|
17
|
Al Baki MA, Kyo Jung J, Kim Y. Physiological Alterations in Deletion Mutants of Two Insulin-Like Peptides Encoded in Maruca vitrata Using CRISPR/Cas9. Front Physiol 2021; 12:701616. [PMID: 34276424 PMCID: PMC8284963 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.701616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Most insect species encode multiple insulin-like peptides (ILPs) that exhibit functional overlaps in mediating physiological processes such as development and reproduction. Why do they need multiple ILPs? To address this question, we tested a hypothesis of the requirement of multiple ILPs by generating mutants lacking individual ILP genes using the CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Two ILPs (ILP1 and ILP2) in the legume pod borer, Maruca vitrata, mediate similar physiological processes such as hemolymph sugar level, larval development, and adult reproduction. Individual knock-out mutants (ΔILP1 and ΔILP2) were generated. They showed successful development from larvae to adults. However, they suffered from high hemolymph sugar levels by enhancing trehalose titers in the hemolymph. The hyperglycemic effect was more evident in ΔILP2 mutants than in ΔILP1 mutants. Both mutants showed increased expression of trehalose-6-phosphate synthase but suppressed expression of trehalase. These mutants also showed altered expression patterns of insulin signaling components. Expression levels of insulin receptor and Akt genes were upregulated, while those of FOXO and Target of rapamycin genes were downregulated in these mutants. These alterations of signal components resulted in significant retardation of immature development and reduced body sizes. ΔILP1 or ΔILP2 females exhibited poor oocyte development. Bromo-uridine incorporation was much reduced at the germarium of ovarioles of these mutants compared with wild females. Expression of the vitellogenin gene was also reduced in these mutants. Furthermore, males of these deletion mutants showed impaired reproductive activities when they mated with wild-type females. These results suggest that both ILPs are required for mediating larval development and adult reproduction in M. vitrata.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Abdullah Al Baki
- Department of Plant Medicals, Andong National University, Andong, South Korea
| | - Jin Kyo Jung
- Division of Crop Cultivation and Environment Research, Department of Central Area Crop Science, National Institute of Crop Science, Rural Development Administration, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Yonggyun Kim
- Department of Plant Medicals, Andong National University, Andong, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Chowański S, Walkowiak-Nowicka K, Winkiel M, Marciniak P, Urbański A, Pacholska-Bogalska J. Insulin-Like Peptides and Cross-Talk With Other Factors in the Regulation of Insect Metabolism. Front Physiol 2021; 12:701203. [PMID: 34267679 PMCID: PMC8276055 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.701203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The insulin-like peptide (ILP) and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signalling pathways play a crucial role in the regulation of metabolism, growth and development, fecundity, stress resistance, and lifespan. ILPs are encoded by multigene families that are expressed in nervous and non-nervous organs, including the midgut, salivary glands, and fat body, in a tissue- and stage-specific manner. Thus, more multidirectional and more complex control of insect metabolism can occur. ILPs are not the only factors that regulate metabolism. ILPs interact in many cross-talk interactions of different factors, for example, hormones (peptide and nonpeptide), neurotransmitters and growth factors. These interactions are observed at different levels, and three interactions appear to be the most prominent/significant: (1) coinfluence of ILPs and other factors on the same target cells, (2) influence of ILPs on synthesis/secretion of other factors regulating metabolism, and (3) regulation of activity of cells producing/secreting ILPs by various factors. For example, brain insulin-producing cells co-express sulfakinins (SKs), which are cholecystokinin-like peptides, another key regulator of metabolism, and express receptors for tachykinin-related peptides, the next peptide hormones involved in the control of metabolism. It was also shown that ILPs in Drosophila melanogaster can directly and indirectly regulate AKH. This review presents an overview of the regulatory role of insulin-like peptides in insect metabolism and how these factors interact with other players involved in its regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Szymon Chowański
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
| | - Karolina Walkowiak-Nowicka
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
| | - Magdalena Winkiel
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
| | - Pawel Marciniak
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
| | - Arkadiusz Urbański
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland.,HiProMine S.A., Robakowo, Poland
| | - Joanna Pacholska-Bogalska
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
HuangFu N, Zhu X, Chang G, Wang L, Li D, Zhang K, Gao X, Ji J, Luo J, Cui J. Dynamic transcriptome analysis and Methoprene-tolerant gene knockdown reveal that juvenile hormone regulates oogenesis and vitellogenin synthesis in Propylea Japonica. Genomics 2021; 113:2877-2889. [PMID: 34116170 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2021.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Propylea japonica has been regarded as one of the most remarkable natural enemies against aphid in China. However, the mechanism of juvenile hormone (JH) regulation of reproduction in P. japonica is still unclear. In this study, we investigated the JH titers of P. japonica and the development of the ovaries. We selected the six different developmental stages of ladybeetle females for transcriptome sequencing. We identified 583 genes involved in insect reproduction regulation, including 107 insect hormone synthesis signaling pathway-related genes and 476 nutrition-sensing signaling pathway-related genes. Transcriptome analysis indicated that a large number JH synthesis- and metabolism-related enzyme genes and some potential nutrient signal sensing- and transduction-related genes were significantly differentially expressed during P. japonica development. We investigated the effects of Met gene silencing on the reproduction of female adults and found that the ovarian maturation, vitellogenesis, and follicular epithelium development in the dsMet treatment group were significantly inhibited.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ningbo HuangFu
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, Henan 455000, China; Zhengzhou Research Base, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xiangzhen Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, Henan 455000, China
| | - Guofeng Chang
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Li Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, Henan 455000, China
| | - Dongyang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, Henan 455000, China
| | - Kaixin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, Henan 455000, China
| | - Xueke Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, Henan 455000, China
| | - Jichao Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, Henan 455000, China; Zhengzhou Research Base, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| | - Junyu Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, Henan 455000, China; Zhengzhou Research Base, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| | - Jinjie Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, Henan 455000, China; Zhengzhou Research Base, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Exogenous administration of dsRNA for the demonstration of RNAi in Maruca vitrata (lepidoptera: crambidae). 3 Biotech 2021; 11:197. [PMID: 33927988 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-021-02741-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The polyphagous spotted pod borer, Maruca vitrata is an important agricultural pest that causes extensive damage on various food crops. Though the pest is managed by synthetic chemicals, exploration of biotechnological approaches for its control is important. RNAi-based gene silencing is one such tool that has been extensively used for functional genomics and is highly variable in insects. In view of this, we have attempted to demonstrate RNAi in M. vitrata through exogenous double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) administration targeting seven genes associated with midgut, chemosensory, cell signalling and development. Two modes of exogenous dsRNA delivery by either haemolymph injection and/or ingestion into third and late third instar larval stages respectively exhibited efficient silencing of specific transcripts. Furthermore, dsRNA injection into the haemolymph showed significant reduction of target gene expression compared to negative controls establishing this mode of delivery to be more efficient. Interestingly, haemolymph injection required lesser dsRNA and led to higher reduction of transcript level vis-à-vis ingestion as demonstrated in dsRNA Serine Protease 33 (ds-SP33)-fed larvae. Over-expression of key RNAi component DICER and detection of siRNA authenticated the presence of RNAi in M. vitrata. Additionally, we have identified inhibitor molecules like morpholine, piperidine, carboxamide and piperidine-carboxamide through in silico analysis for blocking the function of SP33 to demonstrate the utility of functional genomics. Thus, the present study establishes the usefulness of injection and ingestion approaches for exogenous dsRNA delivery into M. vitrata larvae for effective RNAi. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-021-02741-8.
Collapse
|
21
|
Chen H, Wu G, Zhou H, Dai X, Steeghs NWF, Dong X, Zheng L, Zhai Y. Hormonal Regulation of Reproductive Diapause That Occurs in the Year-Round Mass Rearing of Bombus terrestris Queens. J Proteome Res 2021; 20:2240-2250. [PMID: 33779174 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.0c00776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Adult reproductive diapause is an adaptive strategy under adverse environments for insects and other arthropod species, including bumblebees, which enables queens to survive through a harsh winter and then build new colonies in the following spring. Little research has been done on the molecular regulatory mechanism of reproductive diapause in Bombus terrestris, which is an important pollinator of wild plants and crops. Our previous research identified the conditions that induced reproductive diapause during the year-round mass rearing of B. terrestris. Here, we performed combined transcriptomics and proteomics analyses of reproductive diapause in B. terrestris during and after diapause at three different ecophysiological phases, diapause, postdiapause, and founder postdiapause. The analyses showed that differentially expressed proteins/genes acted in the citrate cycle, insect hormone biosynthesis, insulin and mTOR signaling pathway. To further understand the mechanisms that regulated the reproductive diapause, genes involved in the regulation of JH synthesis, insulin/TOR signal pathway were determined. The BtRheb, BtTOR, BtVg, and BtJHAMT had lower expression levels in diapause queens. The JH III titer levels and the activities of the metabolic enzymes were significantly up-regulated in postdiapause queens. Also, after the microinjection of insulin-like peptides (ILPs) and JH analogue (JHA), hormones, cold-tolerance metabolites, metabolic enzymes, and reproduction showed significant changes. Together with results from other related research, a model of the regulation of reproductive diapause during the year-round mass rearing of B. terrestris was proposed. This study contributes to a comprehensive insight into the molecular regulatory mechanism of reproductive diapause in eusocial insects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Chen
- Institute of Plant Protection, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Guang'an Wu
- Institute of Plant Protection, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China.,College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, China
| | - Hao Zhou
- Shandong Lubao Technology Co. Ltd., Jinan 250100, China
| | - Xiaoyan Dai
- Institute of Plant Protection, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China
| | | | - Xiaolin Dong
- College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, China
| | - Li Zheng
- Institute of Plant Protection, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Yifan Zhai
- Institute of Plant Protection, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China.,College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, China.,College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250100, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Leyria J, Orchard I, Lange AB. The involvement of insulin/ToR signaling pathway in reproductive performance of Rhodnius prolixus. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 130:103526. [PMID: 33453353 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2021.103526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Insulins are peptide hormones widely studied for their important regulatory roles in metabolism, growth and development. In insects, insulin signaling along with the target of rapamycin (ToR) are involved in detecting and interpreting nutrient levels. Recently, by transcriptome analysis we reported an up-regulation of transcripts involved in insulin/ToR signaling in unfed Rhodnius prolixus; however, this signaling pathway is only activated in fed insects. Here, continuing with the blood-gorging triatomine R. prolixus as a model, we report the direct effect of insulin/ToR signaling on reproductive performance. By immunofluorescence we identified cells in the brain with positive signal to the R. prolixus ILP (Rhopr-ILP1) and show that the insulin receptor and protein effectors downstream of insulin/ToR signaling activation, are differentially expressed in ovarian follicles dependent on their developmental stage. Using qPCR we find that the expression of transcripts involved in insulin signaling in the central nervous system (CNS), fat body and ovaries increase as the state of starvation progresses, promoting a more highly sensitized state to respond rapidly to ILP/IGF levels. In addition, using dsRNA injection and in vivo and ex vivo assays to promote signaling activation we demonstrate a direct participation of insulin/ToR signaling in coordinating the synthesis of the main yolk protein precursor, vitellogenin, thereby influencing the numbers of eggs laid per female. We thereby show a mechanism by which nutritional signaling regulates reproductive performance in a vector of Chagas disease. As reproduction is responsible for propagation of insect populations, this work is important for the development of innovative biocontrol methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jimena Leyria
- 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.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wu Z, Yang L, He Q, Zhou S. Regulatory Mechanisms of Vitellogenesis in Insects. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:593613. [PMID: 33634094 PMCID: PMC7901893 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.593613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitellogenesis is pre-requisite to insect egg production and embryonic development after oviposition. During insect vitellogenesis, the yolk protein precursor vitellogenin (Vg) is mainly synthesized in the fat body, transported by the hemolymph through the intercellular spaces (known as patency) in the follicular epithelium to reach the membrane of maturing oocytes, and sequestered into the maturing oocytes via receptor-mediated endocytosis. Insect vitellogenesis is governed by two critical hormones, the sesquiterpenoid juvenile hormone (JH) and the ecdysteriod 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E). JH acts as the principal gonadotropic hormone to stimulate vitellogenesis in basal hemimetabolous and most holometabolous insects. 20E is critical for vitellogenesis in some hymenopterans, lepidopterans and dipterans. Furthermore, microRNA (miRNA) and nutritional (amino acid/Target of Rapamycin and insulin) pathways interplay with JH and 20E signaling cascades to control insect vitellogenesis. Revealing the regulatory mechanisms underlying insect vitellogenesis is critical for understanding insect reproduction and helpful for developing new strategies of insect pest control. Here, we outline the recent research progress in the molecular action of gonadotropic JH and 20E along with the role of miRNA and nutritional sensor in regulating insect vitellogenesis. We highlight the advancements in the regulatory mechanisms of insect vitellogenesis by the coordination of hormone, miRNA and nutritional signaling pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhongxia Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Libin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Qiongjie He
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Shutang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Silva-Oliveira G, De Paula IF, Medina JM, Alves-Bezerra M, Gondim KC. Insulin receptor deficiency reduces lipid synthesis and reproductive function in the insect Rhodnius prolixus. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2020; 1866:158851. [PMID: 33160077 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2020.158851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Rhodnius prolixus, a vector of Chagas disease, is a hematophagous insect that feeds exclusively on blood. Each blood meal is digested within the first fourteen days after feeding, providing substrates for lipid synthesis for storage and egg production. These events are precisely regulated and emerging evidence points to a key function of insulin-like peptides (ILPs) in this control. Here we investigated the role of insulin receptor in the regulation of nutrient metabolism in fed adult females. The expression of insulin receptor (RhoprIR) gene was determined in adult organs, and it was highest in ovaries and previtellogenic follicles. We generated insects with RNAi-mediated knockdown of RhoprIR to address the physiological role of this receptor. RhoprIR deficiency improved longevity and reduced triacylglycerol storage in the fat body, whereas blood digestion remained unchanged for seven days after blood meal. The lower lipid content was attributable to decreased de novo lipogenesis as well as reduced incorporation of hemolymph-derived fatty acids into newly synthesized lipids within this organ. Consistent with that, fat bodies from RhoprIR-deficient insects exhibited decreased gene expression levels of lipophorin receptor (RhoprLpR), glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase 1 and 4 (RhoprGpat1 and RhoprGpat4), and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (RhoprCpt1). Although hemolymph lipid profile was not affected by RhoprIR disruption, the concentration of circulating vitellogenin was increased. In line with these changes, RhoprIR-deficient females exhibited smaller ovaries and a marked reduction in oviposition. Taken together, these findings support a key role of insulin receptor in nutrient homeostasis, lipid synthesis and egg production following a blood meal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gleidson Silva-Oliveira
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Iron F De Paula
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jorge M Medina
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Michele Alves-Bezerra
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Katia C Gondim
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Wu Z, He Q, Zeng B, Zhou H, Zhou S. Juvenile hormone acts through FoxO to promote Cdc2 and Orc5 transcription for polyploidy-dependent vitellogenesis. Development 2020; 147:dev.188813. [PMID: 32907849 DOI: 10.1242/dev.188813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Vitellogenin (Vg) is a prerequisite for egg production and embryonic development after ovipositioning in oviparous animals. In many insects, juvenile hormone (JH) promotes fat body cell polyploidization for the massive Vg synthesis required for the maturation of multiple oocytes, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Using the migratory locust Locusta migratoria as a model system, we report here that JH induces the dephosphorylation of Forkhead box O transcription factor (FoxO) through a signaling cascade including leucine carboxyl methyltransferase 1 (LCMT1) and protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A). JH promotes PP2A activity via LCMT1-mediated methylation, consequently triggering FoxO dephosphorylation. Dephosphorylated FoxO binds to the upstream region of two endocycle-related genes, cell-division-cycle 2 (Cdc2) and origin-recognition-complex subunit 5 (Orc5), and activates their transcription. Depletion of FoxO, Cdc2 or Orc5 results in blocked polyploidization of fat body cells, accompanied by markedly reduced Vg expression, impaired oocyte maturation and arrested ovarian development. The results suggest that JH acts via LCMT1-PP2A-FoxO to regulate Cdc2 and Orc5 expression, and to enhance ploidy of fat body cells in preparation for the large-scale Vg synthesis required for synchronous maturation of multiple eggs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhongxia Wu
- Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Qiongjie He
- Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Baojuan Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Haodan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Shutang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Miao L, Zhang N, Jiang H, Dong F, Yang X, Xu X, Qian K, Meng X, Wang J. Involvement of Two Paralogous Methoprene-Tolerant Genes in the Regulation of Vitellogenin and Vitellogenin Receptor Expression in the Rice Stem Borer, Chilo suppressalis. Front Genet 2020; 11:609. [PMID: 32587605 PMCID: PMC7298100 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Besides the function of preventing metamorphosis in insects, the juvenile hormone (JH) plays a role in female reproduction; however, the underlying mechanism is largely unknown. The methoprene-tolerant (Met) protein belongs to a family of basic helix-loop-helix–Per-Arnt-Sim (bHLH-PAS) transcription factors and functions as the JH intracellular receptor. In this study, two full length cDNAs encoding Met (CsMet1 and CsMet2) were isolated from the rice stem borer, Chilo suppressalis. Structural analysis revealed that both CsMet1 and CsMet2 exhibited typical bHLH, PAS-A, PAS-B, and PAC (PAS C terminal motif) domains. Comparative analysis of transcript level using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) revealed that CsMet1 was predominant in almost all examined developmental stages and tissues. Treatment with methoprene in vivo induces the transcription of both CsMet1 and CsMet2. Notably, injection of dsCsMet1 and dsCsMet2 suppressed the expression levels of vitellogenin (CsVg) and Vg receptor (CsVgR). These findings revealed the potential JH signaling mechanism regulating C. suppressalis reproduction, and provided evidence that RNAi-mediated knockdown of Met holds great potential as a control strategy of C. suppressalis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Miao
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Heng Jiang
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Fan Dong
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xuemei Yang
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xin Xu
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Kun Qian
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xiangkun Meng
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jianjun Wang
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Md Abdullah AB, Lee DW, Jung J, Kim Y. Deletion mutant of sPLA 2 using CRISPR/Cas9 exhibits immunosuppression, developmental retardation, and failure of oocyte development in legume pod borer, Maruca vitrata. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 103:103500. [PMID: 31589887 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2019.103500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) catalyzes release of free fatty acids linked to phospholipids at sn-2 position. Some of these released free fatty acids are used to synthesize eicosanoids that mediate various physiological processes in insects. Although a large number of PLA2s form a superfamily consisting of at least 16 groups, few PLA2s have been identified and characterized in insects. Furthermore, physiological functions of insect PLA2s remain unclear. Clustered regularly interspaced short parlindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) has been a useful research tool to validate gene function. This study identified and characterized a secretory PLA2 (sPLA2) from legume pod borer, Maruca vitrata (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), and validated its physiological functions using CRISPR/Cas9. An open reading frame of M. vitrata sPLA2 (Mv-sPLA2) encoding 192 amino acids contained signal peptide, calcium-binding domain, and catalytic site. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that Mv-sPLA2 was related to other Group III sPLA2s. Mv-sPLA2 was expressed in both larval and adult stages. It was inducible by immune challenge. RNA interference (RNAi) of Mv-sPLA2 significantly suppressed cellular immunity and impaired larval development. Furthermore, RNAi treatment in female adults prevented oocyte development. These physiological alterations were also observed in a mutant line of M. vitrata with Mv-sPLA2 deleted by using CRISPR/Cas9. Mv-sPLA2 was not detected in the mutant line from western blot analysis. Addition of an eicosanoid, PGE2, significantly rescued oocyte development of females of the mutant line. These results suggest that Mv-sPLA2 plays crucial role in immune, developmental, and reproductive processes of M. vitrata.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Al Baki Md Abdullah
- Department of Plant Medicals, Andong National University, Andong, 36729, South Korea
| | - Dae-Weon Lee
- School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Kyungsung University, Busan, 48434, South Korea
| | - Jinkyo Jung
- Division of Crop Cultivation and Environment Research, Department of Central Area Crop Science, National Institute of Crop Science, Rural Development Administration, Suwon, 16429, South Korea
| | - Yonggyun Kim
- Department of Plant Medicals, Andong National University, Andong, 36729, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|