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Biradar N, Hosalli G. An effective segmentation and attention-based reptile residual capsule auto encoder for pest classification. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024; 80:3815-3828. [PMID: 38507257 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8085] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Insect pests are a major global factor affecting agricultural crop productivity and quality. Rapid and precise insect pest detection is crucial for improving handling and prediction techniques. There are several methods for pest detection and classification tasks; still, the inaccurate detection, computation complexity and several other challenges affect the performance of the model. DESIGN Thus, this research presents a Deep Learning (DL) approach that has led to significant advancements and is currently being applied successfully in many domains, such as autonomous insect pest detection. Initially, the input images are gathered from the test dataset. The next step in pre-processing the input images is to improve the model capacity by removing unwanted data using the Enhanced Kuan filter method. Then, the pre-processed images are segmented using the Attention-based U-Net method. ORIGINALITY Finally, a novel Attention Based Reptile Residual Capsule Auto Encoder (ARRCAE) technique is proposed to classify and recognize crop pests. Furthermore, the Improved Reptile Search Optimisation (IRSO) algorithm is employed to fine-tune the classification parameters optimally. As a result, the proposed study enhances performance by classifying crop pest detection systems. The suggested method makes use of a Python tool for simulation, and pest datasets are utilized for result analysis. FINDINGS The suggested model beats other current models with an accuracy of 98%, precision of 97%, recall of 96%, and specificity of 99% for the pest dataset, per the simulation results that were obtained. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagaveni Biradar
- Department of Computer Science & Engineering, Rao Bahadhur Y Mahabaleswarappa Engineering College, VTU, Belagavi, India
| | - Girisha Hosalli
- Department of Computer Science & Engineering, Rao Bahadhur Y Mahabaleswarappa Engineering College, VTU, Belagavi, India
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Adedeji EO, Beder T, Damiani C, Cappelli A, Accoti A, Tapanelli S, Ogunlana OO, Fatumo S, Favia G, Koenig R, Adebiyi E. Combination of computational techniques and RNAi reveal targets in Anopheles gambiae for malaria vector control. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0305207. [PMID: 38968330 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305207] [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: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Increasing reports of insecticide resistance continue to hamper the gains of vector control strategies in curbing malaria transmission. This makes identifying new insecticide targets or alternative vector control strategies necessary. CLassifier of Essentiality AcRoss EukaRyote (CLEARER), a leave-one-organism-out cross-validation machine learning classifier for essential genes, was used to predict essential genes in Anopheles gambiae and selected predicted genes experimentally validated. The CLEARER algorithm was trained on six model organisms: Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila melanogaster, Homo sapiens, Mus musculus, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Schizosaccharomyces pombe, and employed to identify essential genes in An. gambiae. Of the 10,426 genes in An. gambiae, 1,946 genes (18.7%) were predicted to be Cellular Essential Genes (CEGs), 1716 (16.5%) to be Organism Essential Genes (OEGs), and 852 genes (8.2%) to be essential as both OEGs and CEGs. RNA interference (RNAi) was used to validate the top three highly expressed non-ribosomal predictions as probable vector control targets, by determining the effect of these genes on the survival of An. gambiae G3 mosquitoes. In addition, the effect of knockdown of arginase (AGAP008783) on Plasmodium berghei infection in mosquitoes was evaluated, an enzyme we computationally inferred earlier to be essential based on chokepoint analysis. Arginase and the top three genes, AGAP007406 (Elongation factor 1-alpha, Elf1), AGAP002076 (Heat shock 70kDa protein 1/8, HSP), AGAP009441 (Elongation factor 2, Elf2), had knockdown efficiencies of 91%, 75%, 63%, and 61%, respectively. While knockdown of HSP or Elf2 significantly reduced longevity of the mosquitoes (p<0.0001) compared to control groups, Elf1 or arginase knockdown had no effect on survival. However, arginase knockdown significantly reduced P. berghei oocytes counts in the midgut of mosquitoes when compared to LacZ-injected controls. The study reveals HSP and Elf2 as important contributors to mosquito survival and arginase as important for parasite development, hence placing them as possible targets for vector control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunice O Adedeji
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria
- School of Biosciences & Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas Beder
- Medical Department II, Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
- University Cancer Center Schleswig-Holstein, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel and Lübeck, Germany
- Institute for Infectious Diseases and Infection Control (IIMK, RG Systemsbiology), Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Claudia Damiani
- School of Biosciences & Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Alessia Cappelli
- School of Biosciences & Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Anastasia Accoti
- School of Biosciences & Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Sofia Tapanelli
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Olubanke O Ogunlana
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria
- African Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics & Data Intensive Science, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Segun Fatumo
- Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Guido Favia
- School of Biosciences & Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Rainer Koenig
- Institute for Infectious Diseases and Infection Control (IIMK, RG Systemsbiology), Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Ezekiel Adebiyi
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria
- African Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics & Data Intensive Science, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Division of Applied Bioinformatics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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3
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Koo J, Palli SR. Recent advances in understanding of the mechanisms of RNA interference in insects. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 38957135 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
We highlight the recent 5 years of research that contributed to our understanding of the mechanisms of RNA interference (RNAi) in insects. Since its first discovery, RNAi has contributed enormously as a reverse genetic tool for functional genomic studies. RNAi is also being used in therapeutics, as well as agricultural crop and livestock production and protection. Yet, for the wider application of RNAi, improvement of its potency and delivery technologies is needed. A mechanistic understanding of every step of RNAi, from cellular uptake of RNAi trigger molecules to targeted mRNA degradation, is key for developing an efficient strategy to improve RNAi technology. Insects provide an excellent model for studying the mechanism of RNAi due to species-specific variations in RNAi efficiency. This allows us to perform comparative studies in insect species with different RNAi sensitivity. Understanding the mechanisms of RNAi in different insects can lead to the development of better strategies to improve RNAi and its application to manage agriculturally and medically important insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinmo Koo
- Department of Entomology, Gatton-Martin College of Agriculture, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Subba Reddy Palli
- Department of Entomology, Gatton-Martin College of Agriculture, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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Jackson DJ, Cerveau N, Posnien N. De novo assembly of transcriptomes and differential gene expression analysis using short-read data from emerging model organisms - a brief guide. Front Zool 2024; 21:17. [PMID: 38902827 PMCID: PMC11188175 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-024-00538-y] [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: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Many questions in biology benefit greatly from the use of a variety of model systems. High-throughput sequencing methods have been a triumph in the democratization of diverse model systems. They allow for the economical sequencing of an entire genome or transcriptome of interest, and with technical variations can even provide insight into genome organization and the expression and regulation of genes. The analysis and biological interpretation of such large datasets can present significant challenges that depend on the 'scientific status' of the model system. While high-quality genome and transcriptome references are readily available for well-established model systems, the establishment of such references for an emerging model system often requires extensive resources such as finances, expertise and computation capabilities. The de novo assembly of a transcriptome represents an excellent entry point for genetic and molecular studies in emerging model systems as it can efficiently assess gene content while also serving as a reference for differential gene expression studies. However, the process of de novo transcriptome assembly is non-trivial, and as a rule must be empirically optimized for every dataset. For the researcher working with an emerging model system, and with little to no experience with assembling and quantifying short-read data from the Illumina platform, these processes can be daunting. In this guide we outline the major challenges faced when establishing a reference transcriptome de novo and we provide advice on how to approach such an endeavor. We describe the major experimental and bioinformatic steps, provide some broad recommendations and cautions for the newcomer to de novo transcriptome assembly and differential gene expression analyses. Moreover, we provide an initial selection of tools that can assist in the journey from raw short-read data to assembled transcriptome and lists of differentially expressed genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Jackson
- University of Göttingen, Department of Geobiology, Goldschmidtstr.3, Göttingen, 37077, Germany.
| | - Nicolas Cerveau
- University of Göttingen, Department of Geobiology, Goldschmidtstr.3, Göttingen, 37077, Germany
| | - Nico Posnien
- University of Göttingen, Department of Developmental Biology, GZMB, Justus-Von-Liebig-Weg 11, Göttingen, 37077, Germany.
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Liu X, Gao Y, Li Y, El Wakil A, Moussian B, Zhang J. Syntaxin5 is essential for survival by ensuring midgut epithelial homeostsis and regulating feeding in Locusta migratoria. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 202:105934. [PMID: 38879326 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.105934] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024]
Abstract
Syntaxin5 (Syx5) belongs to SNAREs family, which play important roles in fusion of vesicles to target membranes. Most of what we know about functions of Syx5 originates from studies in fungal or vertebrate cells, how Syx5 operates during the development of insects is poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the role of LmSyx5 in the gut development of the hemimetabolous insect Locusta migratoria. LmSyx5 was expressed in many tissues, with higher levels in the gut. Knockdown of LmSyx5 by RNA interference (RNAi) considerably suppressed feeding in both nymphs and adults. The dsLmSyx5-injected locusts lost body weight and finally died at a mortality of 100%. Furthermore, hematoxylin-eosin staining indicated that the midgut is deformed in dsLmSyx5-treated nymphs and the brush border in midgut epithelial cells is severely damaged, suggesting that LmSyx5 is involved in morphogenesis of the midgut. TEM further showed that the endoplasmic reticulum of midgut cells have a bloated appearance. Taken together, these results suggest that LmSyx5 is essential for midgut epithelial homeostsis that affects growth and development of L. migratoria. Thus, Syx5 is a promising RNAi target for controlling L. migratoria, and even other pests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojian Liu
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Nucleic Acid Biopesticides; Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Ya Gao
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Nucleic Acid Biopesticides; Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Yao Li
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Nucleic Acid Biopesticides; Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Abeer El Wakil
- Faculty of Education, Department of Biological and Geological Sciences, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Bernard Moussian
- INRAE, CNRS, Université Côte d'Azur, Institut Sophia Agrobiotech, Sophia Antipolis, France
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Nucleic Acid Biopesticides; Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China.
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Figueiredo Prates LH, Fiebig J, Schlosser H, Liapi E, Rehling T, Lutrat C, Bouyer J, Sun Q, Wen H, Xi Z, Schetelig MF, Häcker I. Challenges of Robust RNAi-Mediated Gene Silencing in Aedes Mosquitoes. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5218. [PMID: 38791257 PMCID: PMC11121262 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105218] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, we report the complexities and challenges associated with achieving robust RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated gene knockdown in the mosquitoes Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, a pivotal approach for genetic analysis and vector control. Despite RNAi's potential for species-specific gene targeting, our independent efforts to establish oral delivery of RNAi for identifying genes critical for mosquito development and fitness encountered significant challenges, failing to reproduce previously reported potent RNAi effects. We independently evaluated a range of RNAi-inducing molecules (siRNAs, shRNAs, and dsRNAs) and administration methods (oral delivery, immersion, and microinjection) in three different laboratories. We also tested various mosquito strains and utilized microorganisms for RNA delivery. Our results reveal a pronounced inconsistency in RNAi efficacy, characterized by minimal effects on larval survival and gene expression levels in most instances despite strong published effects for the tested targets. One or multiple factors, including RNase activity in the gut, the cellular internalization and processing of RNA molecules, and the systemic dissemination of the RNAi signal, could be involved in this variability, all of which are barely understood in mosquitoes. The challenges identified in this study highlight the necessity for additional research into the underlying mechanisms of mosquito RNAi to develop more robust RNAi-based methodologies. Our findings emphasize the intricacies of RNAi application in mosquitoes, which present a substantial barrier to its utilization in genetic control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Henrique Figueiredo Prates
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35394 Giessen, Germany; (L.H.F.P.); (J.F.); (H.S.); (T.R.); (I.H.)
| | - Jakob Fiebig
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35394 Giessen, Germany; (L.H.F.P.); (J.F.); (H.S.); (T.R.); (I.H.)
| | - Henrik Schlosser
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35394 Giessen, Germany; (L.H.F.P.); (J.F.); (H.S.); (T.R.); (I.H.)
| | - Eleni Liapi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece;
| | - Tanja Rehling
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35394 Giessen, Germany; (L.H.F.P.); (J.F.); (H.S.); (T.R.); (I.H.)
| | | | - Jeremy Bouyer
- ASTRE, CIRAD, 34398 Montpellier, France (J.B.)
- ASTRE, CIRAD, INRAE, Univ. Montpellier, Plateforme Technologique CYROI, 97491 Sainte-Clotilde, La Réunion, France
| | - Qiang Sun
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (Q.S.); (H.W.); (Z.X.)
| | - Han Wen
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (Q.S.); (H.W.); (Z.X.)
| | - Zhiyong Xi
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (Q.S.); (H.W.); (Z.X.)
| | - Marc F. Schetelig
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35394 Giessen, Germany; (L.H.F.P.); (J.F.); (H.S.); (T.R.); (I.H.)
| | - Irina Häcker
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35394 Giessen, Germany; (L.H.F.P.); (J.F.); (H.S.); (T.R.); (I.H.)
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Cedden D, Güney G, Scholten S, Rostás M. Lethal and sublethal effects of orally delivered double-stranded RNA on the cabbage stem flea beetle, Psylliodes chrysocephala. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024; 80:2282-2293. [PMID: 37020381 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cabbage stem flea beetle (Psylliodes chrysocephala) is one of the most important insect pests of oilseed rape (Brassica napus) in northern Europe. The emergence of insecticide-resistant populations and the ban on neonicotinoid seed treatments have made the management of this pest challenging and research is needed to develop alternative strategies such as RNA interference (RNAi). We investigated lethal and sublethal effects of orally delivered double-stranded (ds)RNAs targeting P. chrysocephala orthologs of Sec23 and vacuolar adenosine triphosphatase subunit G (VatpG), which are involved in endoplasmic reticulum-Golgi transport and organelle acidification, respectively. RESULTS Feeding bioassays on P. chrysocephala adults showed that the highest concentration (200 ng/leaf disk) of dsSec23 caused mortalities of 76% and 56% in pre-aestivating and post-aestivating beetles, respectively, while the same concentration of dsVatpG led to mortality rates of ~34% in both stages. Moreover, sublethal effects, such as decreased feeding rates and attenuated locomotion were observed. Small RNA sequencing and gene expression measurements following the delivery of dsRNAs demonstrated the generation of ~21 nucleotide-long small interfering RNAs and a systemic RNAi response in P. chrysocephala. CONCLUSION We demonstrate that P. chrysocephala is a promising candidate for developing RNAi-based pest management strategies. Further research is necessary to identify more effective target genes and to assess potential non-target effects. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doga Cedden
- Agricultural Entomology, Department of Crop Sciences, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Evolutionary Developmental Genetics, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute, GZMB, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Gözde Güney
- Agricultural Entomology, Department of Crop Sciences, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Stefan Scholten
- Division of Crop Plant Genetics, Department of Crop Sciences, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Michael Rostás
- Agricultural Entomology, Department of Crop Sciences, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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Xie Y, Tan Y, Wen X, Deng W, Yu J, Li M, Meng F, Wang X, Zhu D. The Expression and Function of Notch Involved in Ovarian Development and Fecundity in Basilepta melanopus. INSECTS 2024; 15:292. [PMID: 38667422 PMCID: PMC11050577 DOI: 10.3390/insects15040292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Basilepta melanopus is a pest that severely affects oil tea plants, and the Notch signaling pathway plays a significant role in the early development of insect ovaries. In this study, we explored the function of the notch gene within the Notch signaling pathway in the reproductive system of B. melanopus. The functional domains and expression patterns of Bmnotch were analyzed. Bmnotch contains 45 epidermal growth factor-like (EGF-like) domains, one negative regulatory region, one NODP domain and one repeat-containing domain superfamily. The qPCR reveals heightened expression in early developmental stages and specific tissues like the head and ovaries. The RNA interference (RNAi)-based suppression of notch decreased its expression by 52.1%, exhibiting heightened sensitivity to dsNotch at lower concentrations. Phenotypic and mating experiments have demonstrated that dsNotch significantly impairs ovarian development, leading to reduced mating frequencies and egg production. This decline underscores the Notch pathway's crucial role in fecundity. The findings advocate for RNAi-based, Notch-targeted pest control as an effective and sustainable strategy for managing B. melanopus populations, signifying a significant advancement in forest pest control endeavors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Xie
- Laboratory of Insect Behavior and Evolutionary Ecology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China; (Y.X.); (Y.T.); (F.M.)
- Institute of Forestry and Grassland Protection, Hunan Academy of Forestry, Changsha 410018, China; (W.D.); (J.Y.); (M.L.)
| | - Yifan Tan
- Laboratory of Insect Behavior and Evolutionary Ecology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China; (Y.X.); (Y.T.); (F.M.)
| | - Xuanye Wen
- Center for Biological Disaster Prevention and Control, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Shenyang 110031, China;
| | - Wan Deng
- Institute of Forestry and Grassland Protection, Hunan Academy of Forestry, Changsha 410018, China; (W.D.); (J.Y.); (M.L.)
| | - Jinxiu Yu
- Institute of Forestry and Grassland Protection, Hunan Academy of Forestry, Changsha 410018, China; (W.D.); (J.Y.); (M.L.)
| | - Mi Li
- Institute of Forestry and Grassland Protection, Hunan Academy of Forestry, Changsha 410018, China; (W.D.); (J.Y.); (M.L.)
| | - Fanhui Meng
- Laboratory of Insect Behavior and Evolutionary Ecology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China; (Y.X.); (Y.T.); (F.M.)
| | - Xiudan Wang
- Laboratory of Insect Behavior and Evolutionary Ecology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China; (Y.X.); (Y.T.); (F.M.)
| | - Daohong Zhu
- Laboratory of Insect Behavior and Evolutionary Ecology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China; (Y.X.); (Y.T.); (F.M.)
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Dalakouras A, Koidou V, Papadopoulou K. DsRNA-based pesticides: Considerations for efficiency and risk assessment. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141530. [PMID: 38401868 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141530] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
In view of the ongoing climate change and the ever-growing world population, novel agricultural solutions are required to ensure sustainable food supply. Microbials, natural substances, semiochemicals and double stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) are all considered potential low risk pesticides. DsRNAs function at the molecular level, targeting specific regions of specific genes of specific organisms, provided that they share a minimal sequence complementarity of approximately 20 nucleotides. Thus, dsRNAs may offer a great alternative to conventional chemicals in environmentally friendly pest control strategies. Any low-risk pesticide needs to be efficient and exhibit low toxicological potential and low environmental persistence. Having said that, in the current review, the mode of dsRNA action is explored and the parameters that need to be taken into consideration for the development of efficient dsRNA-based pesticides are highlighted. Moreover, since dsRNAs mode of action differs from those of synthetic pesticides, custom-made risk assessment schemes may be required and thus, critical issues related to the risk assessment of dsRNA pesticides are discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Venetia Koidou
- ELGO-DIMITRA, Institute of Industrial and Forage Crops, Larissa, Greece; University of Thessaly, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Larissa, Greece
| | - Kalliope Papadopoulou
- University of Thessaly, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Larissa, Greece
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Gal'chinsky NV, Yatskova EV, Novikov IA, Sharmagiy AK, Plugatar YV, Oberemok VV. Mixed insect pest populations of Diaspididae species under control of oligonucleotide insecticides: 3'-end nucleotide matters. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 200:105838. [PMID: 38582600 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.105838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Diaspididae are one of the most serious small herbivorous insects with piercing-sucking mouth parts and are major economic pests as they attack and destroy perennial ornamentals and food crops. Chemical control is the primary management approach for armored scale infestation. However, chemical insecticides do not possess selectivity in action and not always effective enough for the control of armored scale insects. Our previous work showed that green oligonucleotide insecticides (olinscides) are highly effective against armored and soft scale insects. Moreover, olinscides possess affordability, selectivity in action, fast biodegradability, and a low carbon footprint. Insect pest populations undergo microevolution and olinscides should take into account the problem of insecticide resistance. Using sequencing results, it was found that in the mixed populations of insect pests Dynaspidiotus britannicus Newstead and Aonidia lauri Bouche, predominates the population of A. lauri. Individuals of A. lauri comprised for 80% of individuals with the sequence 3'-ATC-GTT-GGC-AT-5' in the 28S rRNA site, and 20% of the population comprised D. britannicus individuals with the sequence 3'-ATC-GTC-GGT-AT-5'. We created olinscides Diasp80-11 (5'-ATG-CCA-ACG-AT-3') and Diasp20-11 (5'-ATA-CCG-ACG-AT-3') with perfect complementarity to each of the sequences. Mortality of insects on the 14th day comprised 98.19 ± 3.12% in Diasp80-11 group, 64.66 ± 0.67% in Diasp20-11 group (p < 0.05), and 3.77 ± 0.94% in the control group. Results indicate that for maximum insecticidal effect it is necessary to use an oligonucleotide insecticide that corresponds to the dominant species. Mortality in Diasp80-11 group was accompanied with significant decrease in target 28S rRNA concentration and was 8.44 ± 0.14 and 1.72 ± 0.36 times lower in comparison with control (p < 0.05) on the 10th and 14th days, respectively. We decided to make single nucleotide substitutions in Diasp20-11 olinscide to understand which nucleotide will play the most important role in insecticidal effect. We created three sequences with single nucleotide transversion substitutions at the 5'-end - Diasp20(5')-11 (A to T), 3'-end - Diasp20(3')-11 (T to A), and in the middle of the sequence - Diasp20(6)-11 (6th nitrogenous base of the sequence; G to C), respectively. As a result, mortality of mixed population of the field experiment decreased and comprised 53.89 ± 7.25% in Diasp20(5')-11 group, 40.68 ± 4.33% in Diasp20(6)-11 group, 35.74 ± 5.51% in Diasp20(3')-11 group, and 3.77 ± 0.94% in the control group on the 14th day. Thus, complementarity of the 3'-end nucleotide to target 28S rRNA was the most important for pronounced insecticidal effect (significance of complementarity of nucleotides for insecticidal effect: 5' nt < 6 nt < 3' nt). As was found in our previous research works, the most important rule to obtain maximum insecticidal effect is complete complementarity to the target rRNA sequence and maximum coverage of target sequence in insect pest populations. However, in this article we also show that the complementarity of 3'-end is a second important factor for insecticidal potential of olinscides. Also in this article we propose 2-step DNA containment mechanism of action of olinscides, recruiting RNase H. The data obtained indicate the selectivity of olinscides and at the same time provide a simple and flexible platform for the creation of effective plant protection products, based on antisense DNA oligonucleotides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikita V Gal'chinsky
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Biotechnologies, Institute of Biochemical Technologies, Ecology and Pharmacy, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Simferopol 295007, Crimea, Ukraine.
| | - Ekaterina V Yatskova
- Laboratory of Entomology and Phytopathology, Dendrology and Landscape Architecture, Nikita Botanical Gardens-National Scientific Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Yalta 298648, Crimea, Ukraine
| | - Ilya A Novikov
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Biotechnologies, Institute of Biochemical Technologies, Ecology and Pharmacy, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Simferopol 295007, Crimea, Ukraine
| | - Alexander K Sharmagiy
- Laboratory of Entomology and Phytopathology, Dendrology and Landscape Architecture, Nikita Botanical Gardens-National Scientific Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Yalta 298648, Crimea, Ukraine
| | - Yuri V Plugatar
- Department of Natural Ecosystems, Nikita Botanical Garden-National Scientific Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Yalta 298648, Crimea, Ukraine
| | - Vladimir V Oberemok
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Biotechnologies, Institute of Biochemical Technologies, Ecology and Pharmacy, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Simferopol 295007, Crimea, Ukraine; Laboratory of Entomology and Phytopathology, Dendrology and Landscape Architecture, Nikita Botanical Gardens-National Scientific Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Yalta 298648, Crimea, Ukraine
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11
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Ma YF, Liu TT, Zhao YQ, Luo J, Feng HY, Zhou YY, Gong LL, Zhang MQ, He YY, Hull JJ, Dewer Y, He M, He P. RNA Interference-Screening of Potentially Lethal Gene Targets in the White-Backed Planthopper Sogatella furcifera via a Spray-Induced and Nanocarrier-Delivered Gene Silencing System. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:1007-1016. [PMID: 38166405 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c05659] [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: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a widespread post-transcriptional silencing mechanism that targets homologous mRNA sequences for specific degradation. An RNAi-based pest management strategy is target-specific and considered a sustainable biopesticide. However, the specific genes targeted and the efficiency of the delivery methods can vary widely across species. In this study, a spray-induced and nanocarrier-delivered gene silencing (SI-NDGS) system that incorporated gene-specific dsRNAs targeting conserved genes was used to evaluate phenotypic effects in white-backed planthopper (WBPH). At 2 days postspraying, transcript levels for all target genes were significantly reduced and knockdown of two gene orthologs, hsc70-3 and PP-α, resulted in an elevated mortality (>60%) and impaired ecdysis. These results highlight the utility of the SI-NDGS system for identifying genes involved in WBPH growth and development that could be potentially exploitable as high mortality target genes to develop an alternative method for WBPH control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Feng Ma
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Ting-Ting Liu
- Qianxinan Agricultural Technology Extension Center, Xingyi 562404, P. R. China
| | - Ya-Qin Zhao
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Juan Luo
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Hong-Yan Feng
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Yang-Yuntao Zhou
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Lang-Lang Gong
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Meng-Qi Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Yin-Yin He
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - J Joe Hull
- USDA-ARS Arid Land Agricultural Research Center, Maricopa, Arizona 20250,United States
| | - Youssef Dewer
- Phytotoxicity Research Department, Central Agricultural Pesticide Laboratory, Agricultural Research Center, 7 Nadi El-Seid Street, Dokki 12618, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ming He
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Peng He
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
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12
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Sagna AB, Zéla L, Ouedraogo COW, Pooda SH, Porciani A, Furnival-Adams J, Lado P, Somé AF, Pennetier C, Chaccour CJ, Dabiré RK, Mouline K. Ivermectin as a novel malaria control tool: Getting ahead of the resistance curse. Acta Trop 2023; 245:106973. [PMID: 37352998 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.106973] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Reduction in malaria clinical cases is strongly dependent on the ability to prevent Anopheles infectious bites. Vector control strategies using long-lasting insecticidal nets and indoor residual spraying with insecticides have contributed to significantly reduce the incidence of malaria in many endemic countries, especially in the Sub-Saharan region. However, global progress in reducing malaria cases has plateaued since 2015 mostly due to the increased insecticide resistance and behavioral changes in Anopheles vectors. Additional control strategies are thus required to further reduce the burden of malaria and contain the spread of resistant and invasive Anopheles vectors. The use of endectocides such as ivermectin as an additional malaria control tool is now receiving increased attention, driven by its different mode of action compared to insecticides used so far and its excellent safety record for humans. In this opinion article, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using ivermectin for malaria control with a focus on the risk of selecting ivermectin resistance in malaria vectors. We also highlight the importance of understanding how ivermectin resistance could develop in mosquitoes and what its underlying mechanisms and associated molecular markers are, and propose a research agenda to manage this phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- André B Sagna
- MIVEGEC, University of Montpellier, IRD, CNRS, Montpellier, France.
| | - Lamidi Zéla
- Centre International de Recherche-Développement sur l'Elevage en zone Subhumide, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Cheick Oumar W Ouedraogo
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Direction Régionale de l'Ouest, Centre National de Recherche Scientifique et Technologique, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Sié H Pooda
- Centre International de Recherche-Développement sur l'Elevage en zone Subhumide, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso; Université de Dédougou, Dédougou, Burkina Faso
| | | | | | - Paula Lado
- Center for Vector-borne Infectious Diseases, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Anyirékun F Somé
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Direction Régionale de l'Ouest, Centre National de Recherche Scientifique et Technologique, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Cédric Pennetier
- MIVEGEC, University of Montpellier, IRD, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Carlos J Chaccour
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Madrid, Spain; Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Roch K Dabiré
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Direction Régionale de l'Ouest, Centre National de Recherche Scientifique et Technologique, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Karine Mouline
- MIVEGEC, University of Montpellier, IRD, CNRS, Montpellier, France
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Vengatharajuloo V, Goh HH, Hassan M, Govender N, Sulaiman S, Afiqah-Aleng N, Harun S, Mohamed-Hussein ZA. Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis Reveals Key Regulatory Genes in Metisa plana Hormone Pathways. INSECTS 2023; 14:503. [PMID: 37367319 DOI: 10.3390/insects14060503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Metisa plana Walker (Lepidoptera: Psychidae) is a major oil palm pest species distributed across Southeast Asia. M. plana outbreaks are regarded as serious ongoing threats to the oil palm industry due to their ability to significantly reduce fruit yield and subsequent productivity. Currently, conventional pesticide overuses may harm non-target organisms and severely pollute the environment. This study aims to identify key regulatory genes involved in hormone pathways during the third instar larvae stage of M. plana gene co-expression network analysis. A weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was conducted on the M. plana transcriptomes to construct a gene co-expression network. The transcriptome datasets were obtained from different development stages of M. plana, i.e., egg, third instar larvae, pupa, and adult. The network was clustered using the DPClusO algorithm and validated using Fisher's exact test and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The clustering analysis was performed on the network and 20 potential regulatory genes (such as MTA1-like, Nub, Grn, and Usp) were identified from ten top-most significant clusters. Pathway enrichment analysis was performed to identify hormone signalling pathways and these pathways were identified, i.e., hormone-mediated signalling, steroid hormone-mediated signalling, and intracellular steroid hormone receptor signalling as well as six regulatory genes Hnf4, Hr4, MED14, Usp, Tai, and Trr. These key regulatory genes have a potential as important targets in future upstream applications and validation studies in the development of biorational pesticides against M. plana and the RNA interference (RNAi) gene silencing method.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hoe-Han Goh
- Institute of Systems Biology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Maizom Hassan
- Institute of Systems Biology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nisha Govender
- Institute of Systems Biology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Suhaila Sulaiman
- FGV R&D Sdn Bhd, FGV Innovation Center, PT23417 Lengkuk Teknologi, Bandar Baru Enstek, Nilai 71760, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
| | - Nor Afiqah-Aleng
- Institute of Marine Biotechnology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus 21030, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Sarahani Harun
- Institute of Systems Biology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Zeti-Azura Mohamed-Hussein
- Institute of Systems Biology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Applied Physics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
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14
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Müller R, Bálint M, Hardes K, Hollert H, Klimpel S, Knorr E, Kochmann J, Lee KZ, Mehring M, Pauls SU, Smets G, Steinbrink A, Vilcinskas A. RNA interference to combat the Asian tiger mosquito in Europe: A pathway from design of an innovative vector control tool to its application. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 66:108167. [PMID: 37164239 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108167] [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: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The Asian tiger mosquito Aedes albopictus is currently spreading across Europe, facilitated by climate change and global transportation. It is a vector of arboviruses causing human diseases such as chikungunya, dengue hemorrhagic fever and Zika fever. For the majority of these diseases, no vaccines or therapeutics are available. Options for the control of Ae. albopictus are limited by European regulations introduced to protect biodiversity by restricting or phasing out the use of pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs) or products of genome editing. Alternative solutions are thus urgently needed to avoid a future scenario in which Europe faces a choice between prioritizing human health or biodiversity when it comes to Aedes-vectored pathogens. To ensure regulatory compliance and public acceptance, these solutions should preferably not be based on chemicals or GMOs and must be cost-efficient and specific. The present review aims to synthesize available evidence on RNAi-based mosquito vector control and its potential for application in the European Union. The recent literature has identified some potential target sites in Ae. albopictus and formulations for delivery. However, we found little information concerning non-target effects on the environment or human health, on social aspects, regulatory frameworks, or on management perspectives. We propose optimal designs for RNAi-based vector control tools against Ae. albopictus (target product profiles), discuss their efficacy and reflect on potential risks to environmental health and the importance of societal aspects. The roadmap from design to application will provide readers with a comprehensive perspective on the application of emerging RNAi-based vector control tools for the suppression of Ae. albopictus populations with special focus on Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Müller
- Unit Entomology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium; Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 9, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Miklós Bálint
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (SBiK-F), Georg-Voigt-Str. 14-16, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig University, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Kornelia Hardes
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Branch of Bioresources, Ohlebergsweg 12, 35392 Giessen, Germany; BMBF Junior Research Group in Infection Research "ASCRIBE", Germany
| | - Henner Hollert
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (SBiK-F), Georg-Voigt-Str. 14-16, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Department Media-related Toxicity, Max-von-Laue-Str. 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Evolutionary Ecology and Environmental Toxicology, Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Str. 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sven Klimpel
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (SBiK-F), Georg-Voigt-Str. 14-16, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Integrative Parasitology and Zoophysiology, Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Str. 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Eileen Knorr
- Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Branch of Bioresources, Ohlebergsweg 12, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Judith Kochmann
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (SBiK-F), Georg-Voigt-Str. 14-16, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Kwang-Zin Lee
- Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Branch of Bioresources, Ohlebergsweg 12, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Marion Mehring
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (SBiK-F), Georg-Voigt-Str. 14-16, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; ISOE - Institute for Social-Ecological Research, Hamburger Allee 45, 60486 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Steffen U Pauls
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig University, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Giessen, Germany; Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum Frankfurt, Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Greet Smets
- Perseus BV, Kortrijksesteenweg 127 B1, B-9830 Sint-Martens-Latem, Belgium
| | - Antje Steinbrink
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig University, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Vilcinskas
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig University, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Giessen, Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Branch of Bioresources, Ohlebergsweg 12, 35392 Giessen, Germany.
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15
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Waldman J, Klafke GM, Tirloni L, Logullo C, da Silva Vaz I. Putative target sites in synganglion for novel ixodid tick control strategies. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2023; 14:102123. [PMID: 36716581 PMCID: PMC10033424 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2023.102123] [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: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Acaricide resistance is a global problem that has impacts worldwide. Tick populations with broad resistance to all commercially available acaricides have been reported. Since resistance selection in ticks and their role in pathogen transmission to animals and humans result in important economic and public health burden, it is essential to develop new strategies for their control (i.e., novel chemical compounds, vaccines, biological control). The synganglion is the tick central nervous system and it is responsible for synthesizing and releasing signaling molecules with different physiological functions. Synganglion proteins are the targets of the majority of available acaricides. In this review we provide an overview of the mode-of-action and resistance mechanisms against neurotoxic acaricides in ticks, as well as putative target sites in synganglion, as a supporting tool to identify new target proteins and to develop new strategies for tick control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jéssica Waldman
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Marcondes Klafke
- Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor - Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Secretaria da Agricultura, Pecuária e Desenvolvimento Rural, Eldorado do Sul, RS, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia - Entomologia Molecular, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Lucas Tirloni
- Laboratory of Bacteriology, Tick-Pathogen Transmission Unit, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Carlos Logullo
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia - Entomologia Molecular, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Laboratório de Bioquímica de Artrópodes Hematófagos, IBqM, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Itabajara da Silva Vaz
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia - Entomologia Molecular, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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16
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Timani K, Bastarache P, Morin PJ. Leveraging RNA Interference to Impact Insecticide Resistance in the Colorado Potato Beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata. INSECTS 2023; 14:insects14050418. [PMID: 37233046 DOI: 10.3390/insects14050418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say, is a potato pest that can cause important economic losses to the potato industry worldwide. Diverse strategies have been deployed to target this insect such as biological control, crop rotation, and a variety of insecticides. Regarding the latter, this pest has demonstrated impressive abilities to develop resistance against the compounds used to regulate its spread. Substantial work has been conducted to better characterize the molecular signatures underlying this resistance, with the overarching objective of leveraging this information for the development of novel approaches, including RNAi-based techniques, to limit the damage associated with this insect. This review first describes the various strategies utilized to control L. decemlineata and highlights different examples of reported cases of resistances against insecticides for this insect. The molecular leads identified as potential players modulating insecticide resistance as well as the growing interest towards the use of RNAi aimed at these leads as part of novel means to control the impact of L. decemlineata are described subsequently. Finally, select advantages and limitations of RNAi are addressed to better assess the potential of this technology in the broader context of insecticide resistance for pest management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenan Timani
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Université de Moncton, 18 Antonine-Maillet Avenue, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Pierre Bastarache
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Université de Moncton, 18 Antonine-Maillet Avenue, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Pier Jr Morin
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Université de Moncton, 18 Antonine-Maillet Avenue, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
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17
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Xia X, Peng CW, Ye QT, Bing XL, Hong XY. Rop plays conserved roles in the reproductive and digestive processes of spider mites. INSECT SCIENCE 2023; 30:351-364. [PMID: 35980307 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13103] [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: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Ras opposite (Rop) is known to play an essential role in regulating vesicle trafficking, including synaptic transmission and general secretion. The fundamental roles of Rop have been confirmed by the observation that null mutations in many organisms generate lethal phenotypes during embryogenesis. However, the effects of Rop during the postembryonic stages, especially in non-model organisms, remain largely unknown. Here, we provide new data that enhance our understanding of Rop's roles in the adults of multiple species of Tetranychus spider mites (Acari: Tetranychidae), a class of notorious agricultural pests. Our in silico and experimental evidence demonstrated that Rop is under purifying selection and is highly conserved in Tetranychus spp. RNA interference experiments showed that Rop is required for maintaining normal fecundity but has no significant effect on survival. We further demonstrate that knockdown of Rop darkens the body color of spider mites and blocks the excretion of fecal pellets, which is likely to be related to an abnormality in the excretion of food waste in the digestive system. Overall, our findings clarify novel functions of a vesicle trafficking-related gene in the adult stage of multiple Tetranychus species and highlight the need to evaluate the roles of essential genes in various organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Xia
- Department of Entomology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chang-Wu Peng
- Department of Entomology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qing-Tong Ye
- Department of Entomology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao-Li Bing
- Department of Entomology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao-Yue Hong
- Department of Entomology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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18
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Bai M, Liu ZL, Zhou YY, Xu QX, Liu TX, Tian HG. Influence of diverse storage conditions of double-stranded RNA in vitro on the RNA interference efficiency in vivo insect Tribolium castaneum. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2023; 79:45-54. [PMID: 36086883 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A significant variation in RNA interference (RNAi) efficiency hinders further functional gene studies and pest control application in many insects. The available double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) molecules introduced into the target cells are regarded as the crucial factor for efficient RNAi response. However, numerous studies have only focused on dsRNA stability in vivo; it is uncertain whether different dsRNA storage conditions in vitro play a role in variable RNAi efficiency among insects. RESULTS A marker gene cardinal, which leads to white eyes when knocked-down in the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum, was used to evaluate the effects of RNAi efficiency under different dsRNA storage conditions. We demonstrated that the dsRNA molecule is very stable under typical cryopreservation temperatures (-80 and -20 °C) within 180 days, and RNAi efficiency shows no significant differences under either low temperature. Unexpectedly, while dsRNA molecules were treated with multiple freeze-thaw cycles up to 50 times between -80/-20 °C and room temperature, we discovered that dsRNA integrity and RNAi efficiency were comparable with fresh dsRNA. Finally, when the stability of dsRNA was further measured under refrigerated storage conditions (4 °C), we surprisingly found that dsRNA is still stable within 180 days and can induce an efficient RNAi response as that of initial dsRNA. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that dsRNA is extraordinarily stable under various temperature storage conditions that did not significantly impact RNAi efficiency in vivo insects. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Zi-Ling Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Yu-Yu Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Qiu-Xuan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Tong-Xian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Hong-Gang Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on the Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
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19
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Finetti L, Benetti L, Leyria J, Civolani S, Bernacchia G. Topical delivery of dsRNA in two hemipteran species: Evaluation of RNAi specificity and non-target effects. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 189:105295. [PMID: 36549821 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2022.105295] [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: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Double-stranded (ds) RNA-based technologies could provide novel and potential tool for pest management with efficiency and specificity of action. However, before applying this technique in the field, it is necessary to identify effective delivery methods and evaluate the non-target effects that may occur. In this article, we evaluated the effectiveness of dsRNA by topical delivery on a species of great agricultural interest, Halyomorpha halys. The specificity of action of the dsRNA was also investigated in Rhodnius prolixus, an insect phylogenetically close to H. halys. Of the three investigated genes (putative ATPase N2B, ATPase, serine/threonine-protein phosphatase PP1-β catalytic subunit, PP1, and IAP repeat-containing protein 7-B-like, IAP), IAP and ATPase were able to induce higher mortality in H. halys nymphs compared to the control, with specific concentrations for each gene targeted. However, when the same RNAs were topically delivered to both R. prolixus 2nd and 3rd instar nymphs, no gene silencing and mortality were observed. For this reason, to assess dsRNA application-mediated non-target effects, we injected both H. halys and R. prolixus specific dsRNA in R. prolixus 5th instar nymphs. When the dsRNA targeting H. halys IAP was microinjected into R. prolixus 5th instar nymphs, no mortality was observed, suggesting a strong RNAi specificity. Together, these data suggest that the topical delivery could be suitable for the dsRNA to control H. halys population. Furthermore, its specificity of action would allow treatments towards single harmful species with limited non-target effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Finetti
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada.
| | - Lorenzo Benetti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Jimena Leyria
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Stefano Civolani
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Bernacchia
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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20
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Mondal M, Carver M, Brown JK. Characteristics of environmental RNAi in potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli (Sulc) (Hemiptera: Psylloidea: Triozidae). Front Physiol 2022; 13:931951. [PMID: 36330211 PMCID: PMC9623324 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.931951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) has potential to become a major tool for integrated management of insect pests of agricultural crops based on sequence-specificity and low doses of rapidly biodegradable dsRNA. Deploying ‘environmental RNAi’ for control of insect vectors of plant pathogens is of increasing interest for combatting emerging plant diseases. Hemipteran insect vectors, including psyllids, are vascular feeders, making their development difficult to control specifically by targeting with pesticidal chemistries. Psyllids transmit “Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum” the causal organism of potato zebra chip and tomato vein greening diseases, transmitted, respectively, by the potato or tomato psyllid (PoP). Until now, the optimal effective concentration(s) of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) required for significant gene knockdown and RNAi persistence in PoP have not been determined. The objective of this study was to optimize RNAi in young PoP adults and 3rd instars for screening by oral delivery of dsRNAs. The minimal effective dsRNA concentrations required for robust knockdown and persistence were evaluated by delivering seven concentrations spanning 0.1 ng/μL to 500 ng/μL over post ingestion-access periods (IAP) ranging from 48 h to 12 days. The PoP gene candidates evaluated as targets were vacuolar ATPase subunit A, clathrin heavy chain, and non-fermenting protein 7, which were evaluated for knockdown by qPCR amplification. The minimum and/or the second most effective dsRNA concentration resulting in effective levels of gene knockdown was 100 ng/μL for all three targets. Higher concentrations did not yield further knockdown, indicating potential RISC saturation at the higher doses. Gene silencing post-IAP of 100 ng/μL dsRNA persisted for 3–5 days in adults and nymphs, with the PoP 3rd instar, followed by teneral and mature adults, respectively, exhibiting the most robust RNAi-response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mosharrof Mondal
- School of Plant Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- RNAissance Ag LLC, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Megan Carver
- School of Plant Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Judith K. Brown
- School of Plant Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- *Correspondence: Judith K. Brown,
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21
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Jeckel AM, Beran F, Züst T, Younkin G, Petschenka G, Pokharel P, Dreisbach D, Ganal-Vonarburg SC, Robert CAM. Metabolization and sequestration of plant specialized metabolites in insect herbivores: Current and emerging approaches. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1001032. [PMID: 36237530 PMCID: PMC9552321 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1001032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Herbivorous insects encounter diverse plant specialized metabolites (PSMs) in their diet, that have deterrent, anti-nutritional, or toxic properties. Understanding how they cope with PSMs is crucial to understand their biology, population dynamics, and evolution. This review summarizes current and emerging cutting-edge methods that can be used to characterize the metabolic fate of PSMs, from ingestion to excretion or sequestration. It further emphasizes a workflow that enables not only to study PSM metabolism at different scales, but also to tackle and validate the genetic and biochemical mechanisms involved in PSM resistance by herbivores. This review thus aims at facilitating research on PSM-mediated plant-herbivore interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Moriguchi Jeckel
- Laboratory of Chemical Ecology, Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Franziska Beran
- Department of Insect Symbiosis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
| | - Tobias Züst
- Department of Systematic and Evolutionary Botany, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Gordon Younkin
- Boyce Thompson Institute, Ithaca, NY, United States
- Plant Biology Section, School of Integrative Plant Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Georg Petschenka
- Department of Applied Entomology, Institute of Phytomedicine, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Prayan Pokharel
- Department of Applied Entomology, Institute of Phytomedicine, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Domenic Dreisbach
- Institute for Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Stephanie Christine Ganal-Vonarburg
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christelle Aurélie Maud Robert
- Laboratory of Chemical Ecology, Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Christelle Aurélie Maud Robert,
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22
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Kebede M, Fite T. RNA interference (RNAi) applications to the management of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae): Its current trends and future prospects. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:944774. [PMID: 36158573 PMCID: PMC9490220 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.944774] [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: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is among the invasive insect pests that damages maize and sorghum, the high-priority crops in newly colonized agro-ecologies, including African contexts. Owing to the increasing infestation of the pest and the limitations of current conventional methods for its management, there is a call for discovering advanced pest management approaches. RNA interference (RNAi) is an emerging molecular tool showing flexible potential for the management of S. frugiperda. We conducted a search of the recent application of RNAi literature using Google Scholar and Mendeley to find advanced papers on S. frugiperda management using RNAi molecular tools that led to growth inhibition, developmental aberrations, reduced fecundity, and mortality, mainly by disruption of normal biological processes of the pest. Although efforts have been made to accelerate the utility of RNAi, many factors limit the efficiency of RNAi to achieve successful control over S. frugiperda. Owing to RNAi’s potential bioactivity and economic and ecological acceptability, continued research efforts should focus on improving its broad applicability, including field conditions. Screening and identification of key target genes should be a priority task to achieve effective and sustainable management of this insect via RNAi. In addition, a clear understanding of the present status of RNAi utilization in S. frugiperda management is of paramount importance to improve its efficiency. Therefore, in this review, we highlight the biology of S. frugiperda and the RNAi mechanism as a foundation for the molecular management of the pest. Then, we discuss the current knowledge of the RNAi approach in S. frugiperda management and the factors affecting the efficiency of RNAi application. Finally, the prospects for RNAi-based insect pest management are highlighted for future research to achieve effective management of S. frugiperda.
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23
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Klingler M, Bucher G. The red flour beetle T. castaneum: elaborate genetic toolkit and unbiased large scale RNAi screening to study insect biology and evolution. EvoDevo 2022; 13:14. [PMID: 35854352 PMCID: PMC9295526 DOI: 10.1186/s13227-022-00201-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum has emerged as an important insect model system for a variety of topics. With respect to studying gene function, it is second only to the vinegar fly D. melanogaster. The RNAi response in T. castaneum is exceptionally strong and systemic, and it appears to target all cell types and processes. Uniquely for emerging model organisms, T. castaneum offers the opportunity of performing time- and cost-efficient large-scale RNAi screening, based on commercially available dsRNAs targeting all genes, which are simply injected into the body cavity. Well established transgenic and genome editing approaches are met by ease of husbandry and a relatively short generation time. Consequently, a number of transgenic tools like UAS/Gal4, Cre/Lox, imaging lines and enhancer trap lines are already available. T. castaneum has been a genetic experimental system for decades and now has become a workhorse for molecular and reverse genetics as well as in vivo imaging. Many aspects of development and general biology are more insect-typical in this beetle compared to D. melanogaster. Thus, studying beetle orthologs of well-described fly genes has allowed macro-evolutionary comparisons in developmental processes such as axis formation, body segmentation, and appendage, head and brain development. Transgenic approaches have opened new ways for in vivo imaging. Moreover, this emerging model system is the first choice for research on processes that are not represented in the fly, or are difficult to study there, e.g. extraembryonic tissues, cryptonephridial organs, stink gland function, or dsRNA-based pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Klingler
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Staudtstr. 5, 91058, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Gregor Bucher
- Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach-Institut, GZMB, University of Göttingen, Justus-von-Liebig-Weg 11, 37077, Göttingen, Germany.
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