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Haraji S, Talaei-Hassanloui R, Ahmed S, Jin G, Lee D, Kim Y. Apolipoprotein D3 and LOX product play a role in immune-priming of a lepidopteran insect, Spodoptera exigua. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 158:105198. [PMID: 38795942 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2024.105198] [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: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Immune-priming occurs in insects after a prior pathogen exposure. However, its underlying mechanism in insects remains elusive. In the present work, immune-priming was detected in a lepidopteran insect, Spodoptera exigua. Specifically, a prior infection with a heat-killed pathogenic bacterium, Escherichia coli, led to increased survival upon the second infection of different pathogens. Plasma collected from larvae with the prior infection possessed the immune-priming factor(s) that significantly up-regulated cellular and humoral immune responses of naïve larvae. Our study also finds that variations in the timing of plasma collection for priming larvae resulted in distinct impacts on both cellular and humoral responses. However, when the active plasma exhibiting the immune-priming was heat-treated, it lost this priming activity, therefore suggesting that protein factor(s) play a role in this immune-priming. An immunofluorescence assay showed that the hemocytes collected from the immune-primed larvae highly reacted to a polyclonal antibody specific to a vertebrate lipocalin, apolipoprotein D (ApoD). Among 27 ApoD genes (Se-ApoD1 ∼ Se-ApoD27) of S. exigua, Se-ApoD3 was found to be highly induced during the immune-priming, in which it was shown to be expressed in hemocytes and fat body from a fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis. RNA interference of Se-ApoD3 expression significantly impaired the immune-priming of S. exigua larvae. Moreover, the inhibition of eicosanoid biosynthesis suppressed the immune-priming, in which treatment with a lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibitor-and not treatment with a cyclooxygenase inhibitor-suppressed immune-priming. Further, an addition of LOX product such as lipoxin A4 or lipoxin B4 significantly rescued the lost immune-priming activity. Taken together, these results suggest that a complex of ApoD3 and LOX product mediates the immune-priming activity of S. exigua.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiva Haraji
- Department of Plant Medicals, College of Life Sciences, Andong National University, Andong, 36729, South Korea; Department of Plant Protection, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
| | - Reza Talaei-Hassanloui
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran.
| | - Shabbir Ahmed
- Department of Plant Medicals, College of Life Sciences, Andong National University, Andong, 36729, South Korea
| | - Gahyeon Jin
- Department of Plant Medicals, College of Life Sciences, Andong National University, Andong, 36729, South Korea
| | - Donghee Lee
- Department of Plant Medicals, College of Life Sciences, Andong National University, Andong, 36729, South Korea
| | - Yonggyun Kim
- Department of Plant Medicals, College of Life Sciences, Andong National University, Andong, 36729, South Korea.
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Chandrakasan G, García-Trejo JF, Feregrino-Pérez AA, Aguirre-Becerra H, García ER, Nieto-Ramírez MI. Preliminary Screening on Antibacterial Crude Secondary Metabolites Extracted from Bacterial Symbionts and Identification of Functional Bioactive Compounds by FTIR, HPLC and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. Molecules 2024; 29:2914. [PMID: 38930979 PMCID: PMC11206551 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29122914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Secondary metabolites, bioactive compounds produced by living organisms, can unveil symbiotic relationships in nature. In this study, soilborne entomopathogenic nematodes associated with symbiotic bacteria (Xenorhabdus stockiae and Photorhabdus luminescens) were extracted from solvent supernatant containing secondary metabolites, demonstrating significant inhibitory effects against E. coli, S. aureus, B. subtilus, P. mirabilis, E. faecalis, and P. stutzeri. The characterization of these secondary metabolites by Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy revealed amine groups of proteins, hydroxyl and carboxyl groups of polyphenols, hydroxyl groups of polysaccharides, and carboxyl groups of organic acids. Furthermore, the obtained crude extracts were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography for the basic identification of potential bioactive peptides. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of ethyl acetate extracts from Xenorhabdus stockiae identified major compounds including nonanoic acid derivatives, proline, paromycin, octodecanal derivatives, trioxa-5-aza-1-silabicyclo, 4-octadecenal, methyl ester, oleic acid, and 1,2-benzenedicarboxylicacid. Additional extraction from Photorhabdus luminescens yielded functional compounds such as indole-3-acetic acid, phthalic acid, 1-tetradecanol, nemorosonol, 1-eicosanol, and unsaturated fatty acids. These findings support the potential development of novel natural antimicrobial agents for future pathogen suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gobinath Chandrakasan
- División de Estudios de Posgrado, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Santiago de Querétaro 76010, Querétaro, Mexico; (A.A.F.-P.); (H.A.-B.); (E.R.G.); (M.I.N.-R.)
| | - Juan Fernando García-Trejo
- División de Estudios de Posgrado, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Santiago de Querétaro 76010, Querétaro, Mexico; (A.A.F.-P.); (H.A.-B.); (E.R.G.); (M.I.N.-R.)
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Svetlova AO, Karaseva MA, Berdyshev IM, Chukhontseva KN, Pobeguts OV, Galyamina MA, Smirnov IP, Polyakov NB, Zavialova MG, Kostrov SV, Demidyuk IV. Protease S of entomopathogenic bacterium Photorhabdus laumondii: expression, purification and effect on greater wax moth Galleria mellonella. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:713. [PMID: 38824247 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09654-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Protease S (PrtS) from Photorhabdus laumondii belongs to the group of protealysin-like proteases (PLPs), which are understudied factors thought to play a role in the interaction of bacteria with other organisms. Since P. laumondii is an insect pathogen and a nematode symbiont, the analysis of the biological functions of PLPs using the PrtS model provides novel data on diverse types of interactions between bacteria and hosts. METHODS AND RESULTS Recombinant PrtS was produced in Escherichia coli. Efficient inhibition of PrtS activity by photorin, a recently discovered emfourin-like protein inhibitor from P. laumondii, was demonstrated. The Galleria mellonella was utilized to examine the insect toxicity of PrtS and the impact of PrtS on hemolymph proteins in vitro. The insect toxicity of PrtS is reduced compared to protease homologues from non-pathogenic bacteria and is likely not essential for the infection process. However, using proteomic analysis, potential PrtS targets have been identified in the hemolymph. CONCLUSIONS The spectrum of identified proteins indicates that the function of PrtS is to modulate the insect immune response. Further studies of PLPs' biological role in the PrtS and P. laumondii model must clarify the details of PrtS interaction with the insect immune system during bacterial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Olga V Pobeguts
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria A Galyamina
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - Igor P Smirnov
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - Nikita B Polyakov
- Gamaleya National Research Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria G Zavialova
- Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Ilya V Demidyuk
- National Research Centre "Kurchatov Institute", Moscow, Russia.
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Mollah MMI. Ligands of HMG-like dorsal switch protein 1 of Spodoptera exigua leads to mortality in diamondback moth, Plutellaxylostella. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27090. [PMID: 38509914 PMCID: PMC10950498 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
HMG-like dorsal switch protein 1 (DSP1) is the insect homolog of the high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein of the vertebrates. Previous studies confirmed DSP1 in Spodoptera exigua, Tenebrio molitor, and Aedes albopictus, and were analyzed for their immune roles, survivability, and binding affinity with entomopathogenic bacterial metabolites. The present study aimed to predict, and confirm DSP1 in diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella along with the effect of Spodoptera exigua DSP1 ligands in the survivability of this insect. DSP1 of Plutella xylostella (Px-DSP1) consists of 465 amino acids (AA). Phylogeny analysis showed that Px-DSP1 clustered with other Lepidopteran insects where each insect order clustered separately. Domain analysis showed that like other insects, Px-DSP1 contains two HMG boxes (Box A and Box B), one coiled-coil (CC), five Q-rich low complexity (LC), and an acidic tail (AT). Px-DSP1 was expressed in each developmental stage and tissue. The highest expression was in L4 larvae and fat body tissues. Thermal shift assay (TSA) showed the binding affinity of 3-Ethoxy-4-Methoxyphenol (EMP), Phthalimide (PM), and o-Cyanobenzoic acid (CBA) to rDSP1 of Spodoptera exigua. Mortality bioassay showed that all these metabolites were toxic against P. xylostella larvae. Among these, EMP was more toxic providing more than 65% mortality at 500 ppm concentration. However, PM and CBA also showed more than 60 and 50% mortality, respectively at 500 ppm concentration. We assume that like Se-DSP1, these compounds also bind with Px-DSP1 which leads to the inhibition of DSP1-mediated immunity and impose the mortality of Plutella xylostella larvae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Mahi Imam Mollah
- Department of Entomology, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Dumki, 8602, Patuakhali, Bangladesh
- Department of Plant Medicals, College of Life Science, Andong National University, Andong, Republic of Korea
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Huang X, Tang Q, Liu S, Li C, Li Y, Sun Y, Ding X, Xia L, Hu S. Discovery of an antitumor compound from xenorhabdus stockiae HN_xs01. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:101. [PMID: 38366186 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-03915-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Xenorhabdus, known for its symbiotic relationship with Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), belongs to the Enterobacteriaceae family. This dual-host symbiotic nematode exhibits pathogenic traits, rendering it a promising biocontrol agent against insects. Our prior investigations revealed that Xenorhabdus stockiae HN_xs01, isolated in our laboratory, demonstrates exceptional potential in halting bacterial growth and displaying anti-tumor activity. Subsequently, we separated and purified the supernatant of the HN_xs01 strain and obtained a new compound with significant inhibitory activity on tumor cells, which we named XNAE. Through LC-MS analysis, the mass-to-nucleus ratio of XNAE was determined to be 254.24. Our findings indicated that XNAE exerts a time- and dose-dependent inhibition on B16 and HeLa cells. After 24 h, its IC50 for B16 and HeLa cells was 30.178 µg/mL and 33.015 µg/mL, respectively. Electron microscopy revealed conspicuous damage to subcellular structures, notably mitochondria and the cytoskeleton, resulting in a notable reduction in cell numbers among treated tumor cells. Interestingly, while XNAE exerted a more pronounced inhibitory effect on B16 cells compared to HeLa cells, it showed no discernible impact on HUVEC cells. Treatment of B16 cells with XNAE induced early apoptosis and led to cell cycle arrest in the G2 phase, as evidenced by flow cytometry analysis. The impressive capability of X. stockiae HN_xs01 in synthesizing bioactive secondary metabolites promises to significantly expand the reservoir of natural products. Further exploration to identify the bioactivity of these compounds holds the potential to shed light on their roles in bacteria-host interaction. Overall, these outcomes underscore the promising potential of XNAE as a bioactive compound for tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiyin Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, No.36 Lushan Street, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Qiong Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, No.36 Lushan Street, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Siqin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, No.36 Lushan Street, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Chen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, No.36 Lushan Street, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Yaoguang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, No.36 Lushan Street, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Yunjun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, No.36 Lushan Street, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Xuezhi Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, No.36 Lushan Street, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Liqiu Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, No.36 Lushan Street, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Shengbiao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, No.36 Lushan Street, Changsha, 410081, China.
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Kgosiemang JL, Ramakuwela T, Figlan S, Cochrane N. Antifungal Effect of Metabolites from Bacterial Symbionts of Entomopathogenic Nematodes on Fusarium Head Blight of Wheat. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:148. [PMID: 38392820 PMCID: PMC10890388 DOI: 10.3390/jof10020148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Fungal diseases such as Fusarium head blight (FHB) are significant biotic stressors, negatively affecting wheat production and quality. This study explored the antifungal activity of the metabolites produced by the bacterial symbionts of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) against FHB-causing Fusarium sp. Fusarium graminearum. To achieve this, the symbiotic bacteria of nine EPN isolates from the EPN collection at the Agricultural Research Council-Small Grains (ARC-SG) were isolated from the cadavers of Galleria mellonella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) larvae after infection with EPNs. Broth cultures (crude) and their supernatants (filtered and autoclaved) of each bacterial isolate were used as bacterial metabolite treatments to test their inhibitory effect on the mycelial growth and spore germination of F. graminearum. Mycelial growth inhibition rates varied among both bacterial isolates and treatments. Crude metabolite treatments proved to be more effective than filtered and autoclaved metabolite treatments, with an overall inhibition rate of 75.25% compared to 23.93% and 13.32%, respectively. From the crude metabolite treatments, the Xenorhabdus khoisanae SGI 197 bacterial isolate from Steinernema beitlechemi SGI 197 had the highest mean inhibition rate of 96.25%, followed by Photorhabdus luminescens SGI 170 bacteria isolated from Heterorhabditis bacteriophora SGI 170 with a 95.79% mean inhibition rate. The filtered metabolite treatments of all bacterial isolates were tested for their inhibitory activity against Fusarium graminearum spore germination. Mean spore germination inhibition rates from Xenorhabdus spp. bacterial isolates were higher (83.91 to 96.29%) than those from Photorhabdus spp. (6.05 to 14.74%). The results obtained from this study suggest that EPN symbiotic bacterial metabolites have potential use as biological control agents of FHB. Although field efficacy against FHB was not studied, the significant inhibition of mycelial growth and spore germination suggest that the application of these metabolites at the flowering stage may provide protection to plants against infection with or spread of F. graminearum. These metabolites have the potential to be employed as part of integrated pest management (IPM) to inhibit/delay conidia germination until the anthesis (flowering stage) of wheat seedlings has passed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julius Leumo Kgosiemang
- Agricultural Research Council-Small Grains, Bethlehem 9701, South Africa
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, University of South Africa, Florida 1710, South Africa
| | - Tshimangadzo Ramakuwela
- Agricultural Research Council-Small Grains, Bethlehem 9701, South Africa
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Sandiswa Figlan
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, University of South Africa, Florida 1710, South Africa
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Hwang SH, Jang HA, Kojour MAM, Yun K, Lee YS, Han YS, Jo YH. Effects of TmTak1 silencing on AMP production as an Imd pathway component in Tenebrio molitor. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18914. [PMID: 37919359 PMCID: PMC10622451 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45978-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Mealworms beetles, Tenebrio molitor, are the limelight next-generation food for humans due to their high nutrient contents. Since Tenebrio molitor is used as feed for pets and livestock in addition to their ability to decompose polystyrene and plastic waste, it is recognized as an insect with an industrial core value. Therefore, it is important to study the immune mechanism related to the development and infection of mealworms for mass breeding purposes. The immune deficiency (Imd) signaling is one of the main pathways with pivotal roles in the production of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). Transforming growth factor-β activated kinase (TAK1) is one of the Imd pathway components, forms a complex with TAK1 binding protein 2 (TAB2) to ultimately help activate the transcription factor Relish and eventually induce host to produce AMPs. Relatively, little has been revealed about TAK1 in insect models, especially in the T. molitor. Therefore, this study was conducted to elucidate the function of TmTak1 in T. molitor. Our results showed that the highest and lowest mRNA expression of TmTak1 were found in egg and young larvae respectively. The tissue-specific expression patterns were reported in the gut of T. molitor larvae and the fat bodies of adults. Systemic microbial challenge illustrated TmTak1 high expression following the fungal infection in all dissected tissues except for the whole body. However, silencing TmTak1 experiments showed that the survivability of T. molitor larvae affected significantly following Escherichia coli infection. Accordingly, AMP induction after TmTak1 knock down was mainly reported in the integument and the fat bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Hyeon Hwang
- Division of Plant Biotechnology, Institute of Environmentally-Friendly Agriculture (IEFA), College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Am Jang
- Department of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan, Chungnam, Republic of Korea
- Korea Native Animal Resources Utilization Convergence Research Institute (KNAR), Soonchunhyang University, Asan, Chungnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Maryam Ali Mohammadie Kojour
- Division of Plant Biotechnology, Institute of Environmentally-Friendly Agriculture (IEFA), College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Keunho Yun
- Division of Plant Biotechnology, Institute of Environmentally-Friendly Agriculture (IEFA), College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Seok Lee
- Department of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan, Chungnam, Republic of Korea
- Korea Native Animal Resources Utilization Convergence Research Institute (KNAR), Soonchunhyang University, Asan, Chungnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon Soo Han
- Division of Plant Biotechnology, Institute of Environmentally-Friendly Agriculture (IEFA), College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Hun Jo
- Department of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan, Chungnam, Republic of Korea.
- Korea Native Animal Resources Utilization Convergence Research Institute (KNAR), Soonchunhyang University, Asan, Chungnam, Republic of Korea.
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Mollah MMI. Spätzle processing enzyme is required to activate dorsal switch protein 1 induced Toll immune signalling pathway in Tenebrio molitor. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291976. [PMID: 37733725 PMCID: PMC10513244 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Dorsal switch protein 1 (DSP1) acts as a damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) molecule to activate immune responses in Tenebrio molitor. From a previous study in Spodoptera exigua, we found that DSP1 activates Toll immune signalling pathway to induce immune responses by melanisation, PLA2 activity and AMP synthesis. However, the target site of DSP1 in this pathway remains unknown. The objective of this study was to determine the role of spätzle processing enzyme in the DSP1 induced toll immune signalling pathway. To address this, we analyzed spätzle processing enzyme (Tm-SPE) of the three-step serine protease cascade of T. molitor Toll pathway. Tm-SPE expressed in all developmental stages and larval tissues. Upon immune challenge, its expression levels were upregulated but significantly reduced after RNA interference (RNAi). In addition, the induction of immune responses upon immune challenge or recombinant DSP1 injection was significantly increased. Loss of function using RNA interference revealed that the Tm-SPE is involved in connecting DSP1 induced immune responses like hemocyte nodule formation, phenoloxidase (PO) activity, phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity and antimicrobial peptide (AMP) synthesis. These suggest that Tm-SPE controls the DSP1 induced activation of Toll immune signalling pathway required for both cellular and humoral immune responses. However, to confirm the target molecule of DSP1 in three-step proteolytic cascade, we have to check other upstream serine proteases like Spatzle activating enzyme (SAE) or modular serine protease (MSP).
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Mahi Imam Mollah
- Department of Plant Medicals, College of Life Sciences, Andong National University, Andong, Republic of Korea
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Patuakhali, Bangladesh
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Abdelsalam NA, Elhadidy M, Saif NA, Elsayed SW, Mouftah SF, Sayed AA, Ziko L. Biosynthetic gene cluster signature profiles of pathogenic Gram-negative bacteria isolated from Egyptian clinical settings. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0134423. [PMID: 37707241 PMCID: PMC10580877 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01344-23] [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: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) are a subset of consecutive genes present within a variety of organisms to produce specialized metabolites (SMs). These SMs are becoming a cornerstone to produce multiple medications including antibacterial and anticancer agents. Natural products (NPs) also play a pivotal role in enhancing the virulence of ESKAPE pathogens (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp.), which represent a global health threat. We aimed to sequence and computationally analyze the BGCs present in 66 strains pertaining to three different ESKAPE pathogenic species: 21 A. baumannii, 28 K. pneumoniae, and 17 P. aeruginosa strains recovered from clinical settings in Egypt. DNA was extracted using QIAamp DNA Mini kit and Illumina NextSeq 550 was used for whole-genome sequencing. The sequences were quality-filtered by fastp and assembled by Unicycler. BGCs were detected by antiSMASH, BAGEL, GECCO, and PRISM, and aligned using Clinker. The highest abundance of BGCs was detected in P. aeruginosa (590), then K. pneumoniae (146) and the least in A. baumannii strains (133). P. aeruginosa isolates shared mostly the non-ribosomal peptide synthase (NRPS) type, K. pneumoniae isolates shared the ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptide-like (RiPP-like) type, while A. baumannii isolates shared the siderophore type. Most of the isolates harbored non-ribosomal peptide (NRP) BGCs with few K. pneumoniae isolates encoding polyketide BGCs. Sactipeptides and bottromycin BGCs were the most frequently detected RiPP clusters. We hypothesize that each species' BGC signature confers its virulence. Future experiments will link the detected clusters with their species and determine whether the encoded SMs are produced and cause their virulence. IMPORTANCE Our study analyzes the biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) present in 66 assemblies from clinical ESKAPE pathogen isolates pertaining to Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. We report their sequencing and assembly followed by the analysis of their BGCs using several bioinformatics tools. We then focused on the most abundant BGC type in each species and we discussed their potential roles in the virulence of each species. This study is pivotal to further build on its experimental work that deciphers the role in virulence, possible antibacterial effects, and characterization of the encoded specialized metabolites (SMs). The study highlights the importance of studying the "harmful" BGCs and understanding the pathogenicity and virulence of those species, as well as possible benefits if the SMs were used as antibacterial agents. This could be the first study of its kind from Egypt and would shed light on BGCs from ESKAPE pathogens from Egypt.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nehal Adel Abdelsalam
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Elhadidy
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Department of Bacteriology, Mycology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Nehal A. Saif
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Salma W. Elsayed
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Shaimaa F. Mouftah
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ahmed A. Sayed
- Genomic research program, Basic research department, Children’s Cancer Hospital Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Laila Ziko
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, Cairo, Egypt
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Ali M, Allouf N, Ahmad M. Isolation, identification of entomopathogenic nematodes with insights into their distribution in the Syrian coast regions and virulence against Tuta absoluta. J Nematol 2023; 55:20230056. [PMID: 38046056 PMCID: PMC10689052 DOI: 10.2478/jofnem-2023-0056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The occurrence and distribution of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) in the Syrian coast regions remain relatively uncharted. To address this gap in our knowledge, an extensive survey of these ecosystems was essential. This study aims to isolate and identify EPNs from diverse ecosystems within the coastal regions. The distribution of EPNs in cultivated and natural environments was analyzed according to habitat, altitude, and sampling season factors. Between 2017 and 2020, EPNs were recovered from 27 out of 821 soil samples (3.28%) and collected from 24 out of 375 sampling sites (6.4%). Based on morphological, morphometric, and molecular (ITS) characteristics, four EPN species were identified: Heterorhabditis indica (51.85%), representing the first report of its occurrence in the coastal regions, H. bacteriophora (33.33%), H. pakistanense (7.4%), which is also reported for the first time in Syria, and Steinernema affine (7.4%). There were statistical differences in the abundance and recovery frequency of EPNs in each type of habitat. Additionally, there were statistical differences in the altitude and sampling season recovery frequency. Co-inertia analysis revealed correlation between the distribution and occurrence of EPNs in vegetation habitats, altitude, and sampling seasons, as well as some soil characteristics. H. indica and H. bacteriophora were associated with citrus orchards, low-altitude ranges, moderate organic matter, and acidic soil. More specifically, H. indica isolates were correlated with olive orchards, vegetable fields, autumn season, and clay, sandy, and sandy loam soils. Meanwhile, H. bacteriophora isolates were correlated with tobacco fields, grasslands, alkaline pH, spring season, silty loam, and clay loam soils. H. pakistanense was linked to pear orchards, vineyards, moderate pH, and low organic matter. S. affine occurred in walnut orchards, silty soil, higher altitudes, and winter season. The virulence levels of three native EPN isolates (S. affine, H. indica and H. bacteriophora) were evaluated against 3rd and 4th instar larvae (outside and inside mines) and pupae of T. absoluta, a destructive pest in Syria. All three native EPN species exhibited ability to infect and kill the insect, with observed significant differences in their virulence. This study provides an understanding of EPN occurrence, distribution, and their potential for application in sustainable pest control strategies in Syria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai Ali
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Tishreen University, Latakia, Syria
| | - Nada Allouf
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Tishreen University, Latakia, Syria
| | - Mohammad Ahmad
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Tishreen University, Latakia, Syria
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Hrithik MTH, Park Y, Park H, Kim Y. Integrated Biological Control Using a Mixture of Two Entomopathogenic Bacteria, Bacillus thuringiensis and Xenorhabdus hominickii, against Spodoptera exigua and Other Congeners. INSECTS 2022; 13:860. [PMID: 36292808 PMCID: PMC9604179 DOI: 10.3390/insects13100860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Insect immunity defends against the virulence of various entomopathogens, including Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). This study tested a hypothesis that any suppression of immune responses enhances Bt virulence. In a previous study, the entomopathogenic bacterium, Xenorhabdus hominickii (Xh), was shown to produce secondary metabolites to suppress insect immune responses. Indeed, the addition of Xh culture broth (XhE) significantly enhanced the insecticidal activity of Bt against S. exigua. To analyze the virulence enhanced by the addition of Xh metabolites, four bacterial secondary metabolites were individually added to the Bt treatment. Each metabolite significantly enhanced the Bt insecticidal activity, along with significant suppression of the induced immune responses. A bacterial mixture was prepared by adding freeze-dried XhE to Bt spores, and the optimal mixture ratio to kill the insects was determined. The formulated bacterial mixture was applied to S. exigua larvae infesting Welsh onions in a greenhouse and showed enhanced control efficacy compared to Bt alone. The bacterial mixture was also effective in controlling other Spodopteran species such as S. litura and S. frugiperda but not other insect genera or orders. This suggests that Bt+XhE can effectively control Spodoptera-associated pests by suppressing the immune defenses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Tafim Hossain Hrithik
- Department of Plant Medicals, College of Life Sciences, Andong National University, Andong 36729, Korea
| | - Youngjin Park
- Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency, 167, Yongjeon-ro, Gimcheon 39660, Korea
| | - Hyemi Park
- Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency, 167, Yongjeon-ro, Gimcheon 39660, Korea
| | - Yonggyun Kim
- Department of Plant Medicals, College of Life Sciences, Andong National University, Andong 36729, Korea
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Xenorhabdus spp.: An Overview of the Useful Facets of Mutualistic Bacteria of Entomopathogenic Nematodes. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12091360. [PMID: 36143397 PMCID: PMC9503066 DOI: 10.3390/life12091360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mounting concern over the misuse of chemical pesticides has sparked broad interest for safe and effective alternatives to control plant pests and pathogens. Xenorhabdus bacteria, as pesticidal symbionts of the entomopathogenic nematodes Steinernema species, can contribute to this solution with a treasure trove of insecticidal compounds and an ability to suppress a variety of plant pathogens. As many challenges face sound exploitation of plant–phytonematode interactions, a full useful spectrum of such interactions should address nematicidal activity of Xenorhabdus. Steinernema–Xenorhabdus complex or Xenorhabdus individually should be involved in mechanisms underlying the favorable side of plant–nematode interactions in emerging cropping systems. Using Xenorhabdus bacteria should earnestly be harnessed to control not only phytonematodes, but also other plant pests and pathogens within integrated pest management plans. This review highlights the significance of fitting Xenorhabdus-obtained insecticidal, nematicidal, fungicidal, acaricidal, pharmaceutical, antimicrobial, and toxic compounds into existing, or arising, holistic strategies, for controlling many pests/pathogens. The widespread utilization of Xenorhabdus bacteria, however, has been slow-going, due to costs and some issues with their commercial processing. Yet, advances have been ongoing via further mastering of genome sequencing, discovering more of the beneficial Xenorhabdus species/strains, and their successful experimentations for pest control. Their documented pathogenicity to a broad range of arthropods and pathogens and versatility bode well for useful industrial products. The numerous beneficial traits of Xenorhabdus bacteria can facilitate their integration with other tactics for better pest/disease management programs.
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13
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Natural products from Photorhabdus and Xenorhabdus: mechanisms and impacts. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 106:4387-4399. [PMID: 35723692 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-022-12023-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Insects and fungal pathogens pose constant problems to public health and agriculture, especially in resource-limited parts of the world; and the use of chemical pesticides continues to be the main methods for the control of these organisms. Photorhabdus spp. and Xenorhabdus spp., (Fam; Morganellaceae), enteric symbionts of Steinernema, and Heterorhabditis nematodes are naturally found in soil on all continents, except Antarctic, and on many islands throughout the world. These bacteria produce diverse secondary metabolites that have important biological and ecological functions. Secondary metabolites include non-ribosomal peptides, polyketides, and/or hybrid natural products that are synthesized using polyketide synthetase (PRS), non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS), or similar enzymes and are sources of new pesticide/drug compounds and/or can serve as lead molecules for the design and synthesize of new alternatives that could replace current ones. This review addresses the effects of these bacterial symbionts on insect pests, fungal phytopathogens, and animal pathogens and discusses the substances, mechanisms, and impacts on agriculture and public health. KEY POINTS: • Insects and fungi are a constant menace to agricultural and public health. • Chemical-based control results in resistance development. • Photorhabdus and Xenorhabdus are compelling sources of biopesticides.
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Ahmed S, Roy MC, Choi D, Kim Y. HMG-Like DSP1 Mediates Immune Responses of the Western Flower Thrips ( Frankliniella occidentalis) Against Beauveria bassiana, a Fungal Pathogen. Front Immunol 2022; 13:875239. [PMID: 35450074 PMCID: PMC9016178 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.875239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Western flower thrips, Frankliella occidentalis, is a serious pest by directly infesting host crops. It can also give indirect damage to host crops by transmitting a plant virus called tomato spotted wilt virus. A fungal pathogen, Beauveria bassiana, can infect thrips. It has been used as a biopesticide. However, little is known on the defense of thrips against this fungal pathogen. This study assessed the defense of thrips against the fungal infection with respect to immunity by analyzing immune-associated genes of F. occidentalis in both larvae and adults. Immunity-associated genes of western flower thrips were selected from three immunity steps: nonself recognition, mediation, and immune responses. For the pathogen recognition step, dorsal switch protein 1 (DSP1) was chosen. For the immune mediation step, phospholipase A2 (PLA2) and prostaglandin E2 synthase were also selected. For the step of immune responses, two phenoloxidases (PO) genes and four proPO-activating peptidase genes involved in melanization against pathogens were chosen. Dual oxidase gene involved in the production of reactive oxygen species and four antimicrobial peptide genes for executing humoral immune responses were selected. All immunity-associated genes were inducible to the fungal infection. Their expression levels were induced higher in adults than in larvae by the fungal infections. However, inhibitor treatments specific to DSP1 or PLA2 significantly suppressed the inducible expression of these immune-associated genes, leading to significant enhancement of fungal pathogenicity. These results suggest that immunity is essential for thrips to defend against B. bassiana, in which DSP1 and eicosanoids play a crucial role in eliciting immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabbir Ahmed
- Department of Plant Medicals, College of Life Sciences, Andong National University, Andong, South Korea
| | - Miltan Chandra Roy
- Department of Plant Medicals, College of Life Sciences, Andong National University, Andong, South Korea
| | - Duyeol Choi
- Department of Plant Medicals, College of Life Sciences, Andong National University, Andong, South Korea
| | - Yonggyun Kim
- Department of Plant Medicals, College of Life Sciences, Andong National University, Andong, South Korea
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Can Symbiotic Bacteria ( Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus) Be More Efficient than Their Entomopathogenic Nematodes against Pieris rapae and Pentodon algerinus Larvae? BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10100999. [PMID: 34681098 PMCID: PMC8533234 DOI: 10.3390/biology10100999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Food security is the people’s main concern, and agricultural crops play a significant role in ensuring it. Agricultural pests, on the other hand, are regarded one of the most serious threats to cause a significant problem for food security. Entomopathogenic nematodes of the genera Herterorhabditids and Sterinernematids fulfil the fundamental requirements of perfect bio-control agents; however, their efficacy mostly dependent on their symbiotic bacteria. As a result, this study aimed to investigate the ability of the isolated symbiotic bacteria (Photorhabdus and Xenorhabdus) to control Pieris rapae and Pentodon algerinus larvae in comparison with their own nematodes, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora and Steinernema riobravis, respectively. The results showed that both nematode species and their symbiotic bacteria were able to suppress both insect species. However, both bacterial genera were more efficient than the investigated nematode species against P. rapae, although nematodes were superior against P. algerinus. Gas chromatography–mass spectrophotometry of Xenorhabdus sp. and Photorhabdus sp. identified the key components with the insecticidal properties. The two bacteria genera were proven to be safe and had no significant effect on normal WI-38 human cells. In conclusion, the symbiotic bacteria can be employed safely and effectively against the tested insects independently on their own entomopathogenic nematodes. Abstract Pieris rapae and Pentodon algerinus are considered a global threat to agricultural crops and food security; hence, their control is a critical issue. Heterorhabditid and Steinernematid nematodes, along with their symbiotic bacteria, can achieve the optimal biocontrol agent criterion. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, Steinernema riobravis, and their symbiotic bacteria (Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus) against P. rapae and P. algerinus larvae. The virulence of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) was determined at different infective juvenile concentrations and exposure times, while the symbiotic bacteria were applied at the concentration of 3 × 107 colony-forming units (CFU)/mL at different exposure times. Gas chromatography–mass spectrophotometry (GC-MS) analysis and the cytotoxic effect of Photorhabdus sp. and Xenorhabdus sp. were determined. The results indicated that H. bacteriophora, S. riobravis, and their symbiotic bacteria significantly (p ≤ 0.001) induced mortality in both insect species. However, H. bacteriophora and its symbiont, Photorhabdus sp., were more virulent. Moreover, the data clarified that both symbiotic bacteria outperformed EPNs against P. rapae but the opposite was true for P. algerinus. GC-MS analysis revealed the main active compounds that have insecticidal activity. However, the results revealed that there was no significant cytotoxic effect. In conclusion, H. bacteriophora, S. riobravis, and their symbiotic bacteria can be an optimal option for bio-controlling both insect species. Furthermore, both symbiotic bacteria can be utilized independently on EPNs for the management of both pests, and, hence, they can be safely incorporated into biocontrol programs and tested against other insect pests.
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Mastore M, Caramella S, Quadroni S, Brivio MF. Drosophila suzukii Susceptibility to the Oral Administration of Bacillus thuringiensis, Xenorhabdus nematophila and Its Secondary Metabolites. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12070635. [PMID: 34357295 PMCID: PMC8305655 DOI: 10.3390/insects12070635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary In recent decades, climate change and the international fruit trade have favored the movement of allochthonous species such as harmful insects into new geographic areas. The settlement of phytophagous insects and vectors in new areas, where potential predators are often lacking, has increased the use of chemical insecticides for their control. The intensive use of these substances represents a serious problem for ecosystems and human health; a possible alternative to chemical control is biological control, i.e., the use of biological insecticides that are compatible with the environment. The aim of our work was to further improve biological control methods for the management of the dipteran Spotted Wing Drosophila, an insect recently introduced in America and Europe, which can damage thin-skinned fruit crops. The methodologies applied are based on the combined use of different entomopathogens, i.e., bacteria, fungi, nematodes, etc., harmful for insects, with the purpose of increasing their effectiveness. The results obtained show that the combined use of two entomopathogenic bacteria increases both the lethality and rapidity of action. From an application viewpoint, studies like this are essential to identify new methods and bioinsecticides and, once transferred to the field, can be crucial to eliminate or, at least, reduce the use of chemicals. Abstract Drosophila suzukii, Spotted Wing Drosophila (SWD), is a serious economic issue for thin-skinned fruit farmers. The invasion of this dipteran is mainly counteracted by chemical control methods; however, it would be desirable to replace them with biological control. All assays were performed with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), Xenorhabdus nematophila (Xn), and Xn secretions, administered orally in single or combination, then larval lethality was assessed at different times. Gut damage caused by Bt and the influence on Xn into the hemocoelic cavity was also evaluated. In addition, the hemolymph cell population was analyzed after treatments. The data obtained show that the combined use of Bt plus Xn secretions on larvae, compared to single administration of bacteria, significantly improved the efficacy and reduced the time of treatments. The results confirm the destructive action of Bt on the gut of SWD larvae, and that Bt-induced alteration promotes the passage of Xn to the hemocoel cavity. Furthermore, hemocytes decrease after bioinsecticides treatments. Our study demonstrates that combining bioinsecticides can improve the efficacy of biocontrol and such combinations should be tested in greenhouse and in field in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maristella Mastore
- Laboratory of Comparative Immunology and Parasitology, Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (M.M.); (S.C.)
| | - Sara Caramella
- Laboratory of Comparative Immunology and Parasitology, Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (M.M.); (S.C.)
| | - Silvia Quadroni
- Laboratory of Ecology, Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy;
| | - Maurizio Francesco Brivio
- Laboratory of Comparative Immunology and Parasitology, Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (M.M.); (S.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0332-421404
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