1
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Suárez-Grimalt R, Grunwald Kadow IC, Scheunemann L. An integrative sensor of body states: how the mushroom body modulates behavior depending on physiological context. Learn Mem 2024; 31:a053918. [PMID: 38876486 PMCID: PMC11199956 DOI: 10.1101/lm.053918.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
The brain constantly compares past and present experiences to predict the future, thereby enabling instantaneous and future behavioral adjustments. Integration of external information with the animal's current internal needs and behavioral state represents a key challenge of the nervous system. Recent advancements in dissecting the function of the Drosophila mushroom body (MB) at the single-cell level have uncovered its three-layered logic and parallel systems conveying positive and negative values during associative learning. This review explores a lesser-known role of the MB in detecting and integrating body states such as hunger, thirst, and sleep, ultimately modulating motivation and sensory-driven decisions based on the physiological state of the fly. State-dependent signals predominantly affect the activity of modulatory MB input neurons (dopaminergic, serotoninergic, and octopaminergic), but also induce plastic changes directly at the level of the MB intrinsic and output neurons. Thus, the MB emerges as a tightly regulated relay station in the insect brain, orchestrating neuroadaptations due to current internal and behavioral states leading to short- but also long-lasting changes in behavior. While these adaptations are crucial to ensure fitness and survival, recent findings also underscore how circuit motifs in the MB may reflect fundamental design principles that contribute to maladaptive behaviors such as addiction or depression-like symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Suárez-Grimalt
- Institute for Biology/Genetics, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
- Institut für Neurophysiologie and NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Lisa Scheunemann
- Institute for Biology/Genetics, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
- Institut für Neurophysiologie and NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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2
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Han X, Weng M, Shi W, Wen Y, Long Y, Hu X, Ji G, Zhu Y, Wen X, Zhang F, Wu S. The Neurotranscriptome of Monochamus alternatus. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4553. [PMID: 38674138 PMCID: PMC11050616 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084553] [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] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The Japanese pine sawyer Monochamus alternatus serves as the primary vector for pine wilt disease, a devastating pine disease that poses a significant threat to the sustainable development of forestry in the Eurasian region. Currently, trap devices based on informational compounds have played a crucial role in monitoring and controlling the M. alternatus population. However, the specific proteins within M. alternatus involved in recognizing the aforementioned informational compounds remain largely unclear. To elucidate the spatiotemporal distribution of M. alternatus chemosensory-related genes, this study conducted neural transcriptome analyses to investigate gene expression patterns in different body parts during the feeding and mating stages of both male and female beetles. The results revealed that 15 genes in the gustatory receptor (GR) gene family exhibited high expression in the mouthparts, most genes in the odorant binding protein (OBP) gene family exhibited high expression across all body parts, 22 genes in the odorant receptor (OR) gene family exhibited high expression in the antennae, a significant number of genes in the chemosensory protein (CSP) and sensory neuron membrane protein (SNMP) gene families exhibited high expression in both the mouthparts and antennae, and 30 genes in the ionotropic receptors (IR) gene family were expressed in the antennae. Through co-expression analyses, it was observed that 34 genes in the IR gene family were co-expressed across the four developmental stages. The Antenna IR subfamily and IR8a/Ir25a subfamily exhibited relatively high expression levels in the antennae, while the Kainate subfamily, NMDA subfamily, and Divergent subfamily exhibited predominantly high expression in the facial region. MalIR33 is expressed only during the feeding stage of M. alternatus, the MalIR37 gene exhibits specific expression in male beetles, the MalIR34 gene exhibits specific expression during the feeding stage in male beetles, the MalIR8 and MalIR39 genes exhibit specific expression during the feeding stage in female beetles, and MalIR8 is expressed only during two developmental stages in male beetles and during the mating stage in female beetles. The IR gene family exhibits gene-specific expression in different spatiotemporal contexts, laying the foundation for the subsequent selection of functional genes and facilitating the full utilization of host plant volatiles and insect sex pheromones, thereby enabling the development of more efficient attractants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohong Han
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Mingqing Weng
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Wenchao Shi
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yingxin Wen
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yirong Long
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Xinran Hu
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Guoxi Ji
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yukun Zhu
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Xuanye Wen
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Feiping Zhang
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Ecological Forests, Fujian Province University, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Songqing Wu
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (X.H.); (M.W.); (W.S.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.); (X.H.); (G.J.); (Y.Z.); (X.W.)
- Fujian Colleges and Universities Engineering Research Institute of Conservation and Utilization of Natural Bioresources, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
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3
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Brissette B, Ficaro L, Li C, Jones DR, Ramanathan S, Ringstad N. Chemosensory detection of polyamine metabolites guides C. elegans to nutritive microbes. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadj4387. [PMID: 38517971 PMCID: PMC10959419 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj4387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Much is known about molecular mechanisms by which animals detect pathogenic microbes, but how animals sense beneficial microbes remains poorly understood. The roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans is a microbivore that must distinguish nutritive microbes from pathogens. We characterized a neural circuit used by C. elegans to rapidly discriminate between nutritive bacteria and pathogens. Distinct sensory neuron populations responded to chemical cues from nutritive Escherichia coli and pathogenic Enterococcus faecalis, and these neural signals are decoded by downstream AIB interneurons. The polyamine metabolites cadaverine, putrescine, and spermidine produced by E. coli activate this neural circuit and elicit positive chemotaxis. Our study shows how polyamine odorants can be sensed by animals as proxies for microbe identity and suggests that, hence, polyamines might have widespread roles brokering host-microbe interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Brissette
- Department of Cell Biology, Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Lia Ficaro
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Chenguang Li
- Biophysics Program, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Drew R. Jones
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Sharad Ramanathan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Niels Ringstad
- Department of Cell Biology, Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
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4
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Burns JA, Becker KP, Casagrande D, Daniels J, Roberts P, Orenstein E, Vogt DM, Teoh ZE, Wood R, Yin AH, Genot B, Gruber DF, Katija K, Wood RJ, Phillips BT. An in situ digital synthesis strategy for the discovery and description of ocean life. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadj4960. [PMID: 38232174 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj4960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Revolutionary advancements in underwater imaging, robotics, and genomic sequencing have reshaped marine exploration. We present and demonstrate an interdisciplinary approach that uses emerging quantitative imaging technologies, an innovative robotic encapsulation system with in situ RNA preservation and next-generation genomic sequencing to gain comprehensive biological, biophysical, and genomic data from deep-sea organisms. The synthesis of these data provides rich morphological and genetic information for species description, surpassing traditional passive observation methods and preserved specimens, particularly for gelatinous zooplankton. Our approach enhances our ability to study delicate mid-water animals, improving research in the world's oceans.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A Burns
- Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, East Boothbay, ME 04544, USA
| | - Kaitlyn P Becker
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - David Casagrande
- Department of Ocean Engineering, University of Rhode Island, 215 South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882, USA
| | - Joost Daniels
- Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Research and Development, Moss Landing, CA 95039, USA
| | - Paul Roberts
- Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Research and Development, Moss Landing, CA 95039, USA
| | - Eric Orenstein
- Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Research and Development, Moss Landing, CA 95039, USA
| | - Daniel M Vogt
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | | | - Ryan Wood
- PA Consulting, Concord, MA 01742, USA
| | - Alexander H Yin
- Department of Ocean Engineering, University of Rhode Island, 215 South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882, USA
| | - Baptiste Genot
- Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, East Boothbay, ME 04544, USA
| | - David F Gruber
- Department of Natural Sciences, Baruch College, City University of New York, New York, NY 10010, USA
| | - Kakani Katija
- Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Research and Development, Moss Landing, CA 95039, USA
| | - Robert J Wood
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Brennan T Phillips
- Department of Ocean Engineering, University of Rhode Island, 215 South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882, USA
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5
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Chen R, Ai D, Wang G, Wang B. Comparative transcriptome analysis of the antenna and proboscis reveals feeding state-dependent chemosensory genes in Eupeodes corollae. Open Biol 2024; 14:230208. [PMID: 38195061 PMCID: PMC10776234 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.230208] [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: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The physiological state of an insect can affect its olfactory system. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the effect of nutrition-dependent states on odour-guided behaviours in hoverflies remains unclear. In this study, comparative transcriptome analysis of the antenna and proboscis from Eupeodes corollae under different feeding states was conducted. Compared with the previously published antennal transcriptome, a total of 32 novel chemosensory genes were identified, including 4 ionotropic receptors, 17 gustatory receptors, 9 odorant binding proteins and 2 chemosensory proteins. Analysis of differences in gene expression between different feeding states in male and female antennae and proboscises revealed that the expression levels of chemosensory genes were impacted by feeding state. For instance, the expression levels of EcorOBP19 in female antennae, EcorOBP6 in female proboscis, and EcorOR6, EcorOR14, EcorIR5 and EcorIR84a in male antennae were significantly upregulated after feeding. On the other hand, the expression levels of EcorCSP7 in male proboscis and EcorOR40 in male antennae were significantly downregulated. These findings suggest that nutritional state plays a role in the adaptation of hoverflies' olfactory system to food availability. Overall, our study provides important insights into the plasticity and adaptation of chemosensory systems in hoverflies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruipeng Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Dong Ai
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Guirong Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518120, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bing Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China
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Guo JM, Wei ZQ, Hou JH, He Y, Luan XP, Zhang YY, Liu XL, Zhang XT, Zhang J, Yan Q, Dong SL. Ionotropic Receptor IR75q.2 Mediates Avoidance Reaction to Nonanoic Acid in the Fall Armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae). JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:20602-20612. [PMID: 38088835 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c05704] [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: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Ionotropic receptors (IRs) play an important role in olfaction, but little is known in nondrosophila insects. Here, we report in vitro and in vivo functional characterization of IR75q.2 in the invasive moth pest Spodoptera frugiperda. First, 13 IRs (including four coreceptor IRs) were found specifically or highly expressed in adult antennae. Second, these IRs were tested for responding profiles to 59 odorants using the Xenopus oocyte expression system, showing that only SfruIR75q.2 responded to 8-10C fatty acids and their corresponding aldehydes, with SfruIR8a as the only coreceptor. Third, the three acids (especially nonanoic acid) showed repellent effects on moth's behavior and oviposition, but the repellence significantly reduced to the insects with IR75q.2 knockout by CRISPR/Cas9. Taken together, our study reveals the function of SfruIR75q.2 in perception of acid and aldehyde odorants and provides the first in vivo evidence for olfactory function of an odor-specific IR in Lepidoptera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Meng Guo
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Disease and Pests, Ministry of Education/College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Wei
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Disease and Pests, Ministry of Education/College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Jing-Hao Hou
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Disease and Pests, Ministry of Education/College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yu He
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Disease and Pests, Ministry of Education/College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Xuan-Pu Luan
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Disease and Pests, Ministry of Education/College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yun-Ying Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Disease and Pests, Ministry of Education/College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Xiao-Long Liu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Disease and Pests, Ministry of Education/College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Xiao-Tong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Disease and Pests, Ministry of Education/College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Disease and Pests, Ministry of Education/College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Qi Yan
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Disease and Pests, Ministry of Education/College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Shuang-Lin Dong
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Disease and Pests, Ministry of Education/College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
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7
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Ali MZ, Anushree, Ahsan A, Ola MS, Haque R, Ahsan J. Ionotropic receptors mediate olfactory learning and memory in Drosophila. INSECT SCIENCE 2023. [PMID: 38114448 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Phenylacetaldehyde (PAH), an aromatic compound, is present in a diverse range of fruits including overripe bananas and prickly pear cactus, the two major host fruits for Drosophila melanogaster. PAH acts as a potent ligand for the ionotropic receptor 84a (IR84a) in the adult fruit fly and it is detected by the IR84a/IR8a heterotetrameric complex. Its role in the male courtship behavior through IR84a as an environmental aphrodisiac is of additional importance. In D. melanogaster, two distinct kinds of olfactory receptors, that is, odorant receptors (ORs) and ionotropic receptors (IRs), perceive the odorant stimuli. They display unique structural, molecular, and functional characteristics in addition to having different evolutionary origins. Traditionally, olfactory cues detected by the ORs such as ethyl acetate, 1-butanol, isoamyl acetate, 1-octanol, 4-methylcyclohexanol, etc. classified as aliphatic esters and alcohols have been employed in olfactory classical conditioning using fruit flies. This underlines the participation of OR-activated olfactory pathways in learning and memory formation. Our study elucidates that likewise ethyl acetate (EA) (an OR-responsive odorant), PAH (an IR-responsive aromatic compound) too can form learning and memory when associated with an appetitive gustatory reinforcer. The association of PAH with sucrose (PAH/SUC) led to learning and formation of the long-term memory (LTM). Additionally, the Orco1 , Ir84aMI00501 , and Ir8a1 mutant flies were used to confirm the exclusive participation of the IR84a/IR8a complex in PAH/SUC olfactory associative conditioning. These results highlight the involvement of IRs via an IR-activated pathway in facilitating robust olfactory behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Zeeshan Ali
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of South Bihar, Gaya, Bihar, India
| | - Anushree
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of South Bihar, Gaya, Bihar, India
| | - Aarif Ahsan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Mohammad Shamsul Ola
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rizwanul Haque
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of South Bihar, Gaya, Bihar, India
| | - Jawaid Ahsan
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of South Bihar, Gaya, Bihar, India
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Wu JN, Cai CX, Liu WB, Ai D, Cao S, Wang B, Wang GR. Mutagenesis of Odorant Receptor Coreceptor Orco Reveals the Odorant-Detected Behavior of the Predator Eupeodes corollae. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17284. [PMID: 38139113 PMCID: PMC10744098 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417284] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The successful mating of the hoverfly and the search for prey aphids are of great significance for biological control and are usually mediated by chemical cues. The odorant receptor co-receptor (Orco) genes play a crucial role in the process of insect odor perception. However, the function of Orco in the mating and prey-seeking behaviors of the hoverfly remains relatively unexplored. In this study, we characterized the Orco gene from the hoverfly, Eupeodes corollae, a natural enemy insect. We used the CRISPR/Cas9 technique to knock out the Orco gene of E. corollae, and the EcorOrco-/- homozygous mutant was verified by the genotype analysis. Fluorescence in situ hybridization showed that the antennal ORN of EcorOrco-/- mutant lack Orco staining. Electroantennogram (EAG) results showed that the adult mutant almost lost the electrophysiological response to 15 odorants from three types. The two-way choice assay and the glass Y-tube olfactometer indicated that both the larvae and adults of hoverflies lost their behavioral preference to the aphid alarm pheromone (E)-β-farnesene (EBF). In addition, the mating assay results showed a significant decrease in the mating rate of males following the knock out of the EcorOrco gene. Although the mating of females was not affected, the amount of eggs being laid and the hatching rate of the eggs were significantly reduced. These results indicated that the EcorOrco gene was not only involved in the detection of semiochemicals in hoverflies but also plays a pivotal role in the development of eggs. In conclusion, our results expand the comprehension of the chemoreceptive mechanisms in the hoverflies and offers valuable insights for the advancement of more sophisticated pest management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Nan Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (J.-N.W.); (C.-X.C.); (W.-B.L.); (D.A.); (S.C.)
| | - Chen-Xi Cai
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (J.-N.W.); (C.-X.C.); (W.-B.L.); (D.A.); (S.C.)
| | - Wen-Biao Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (J.-N.W.); (C.-X.C.); (W.-B.L.); (D.A.); (S.C.)
| | - Dong Ai
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (J.-N.W.); (C.-X.C.); (W.-B.L.); (D.A.); (S.C.)
| | - Song Cao
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (J.-N.W.); (C.-X.C.); (W.-B.L.); (D.A.); (S.C.)
| | - Bing Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (J.-N.W.); (C.-X.C.); (W.-B.L.); (D.A.); (S.C.)
| | - Gui-Rong Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (J.-N.W.); (C.-X.C.); (W.-B.L.); (D.A.); (S.C.)
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518120, China
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9
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Ruedenauer FA, Parreño MA, Grunwald Kadow IC, Spaethe J, Leonhardt SD. The ecology of nutrient sensation and perception in insects. Trends Ecol Evol 2023; 38:994-1004. [PMID: 37328389 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2023.05.006] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Insects are equipped with neurological, physiological, and behavioral tools to locate potential food sources and assess their nutritional quality based on volatile and chemotactile cues. We summarize current knowledge on insect taste perception and the different modalities of reception and perception. We suggest that the neurophysiological mechanisms of reception and perception are closely linked to the species-specific ecology of different insects. Understanding these links consequently requires a multidisciplinary approach. We also highlight existing knowledge gaps, especially in terms of the exact ligands of receptors, and provide evidence for a perceptional hierarchy suggesting that insects have adapted their reception and perception to preferentially perceive nutrient stimuli that are important for their fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian A Ruedenauer
- Plant-Insect Interactions, Research Department Life Science Systems, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Freising, Germany.
| | - Maria Alejandra Parreño
- Plant-Insect Interactions, Research Department Life Science Systems, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Freising, Germany
| | - Ilona C Grunwald Kadow
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Bonn, University Clinic Bonn (UKB), Bonn, Germany
| | - Johannes Spaethe
- Department of Behavioral Physiology and Sociobiology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Am Hubland, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sara D Leonhardt
- Plant-Insect Interactions, Research Department Life Science Systems, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Freising, Germany
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10
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Haddad-Tóvolli R, Claret M. Metabolic and feeding adjustments during pregnancy. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2023; 19:564-580. [PMID: 37525006 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-023-00871-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Eating behaviours are determined by the integration of interoceptive and environmental inputs. During pregnancy, numerous physiological adaptations take place in the maternal organism to provide an adequate environment for embryonic growth. Among them, whole-body physiological remodelling directly influences eating patterns, commonly causing notable taste perception alterations, food aversions and cravings. Recurrent food cravings for and compulsive eating of highly palatable food can contribute to the development and maintenance of gestational overweight and obesity with potential adverse health consequences for the offspring. Although much is known about how maternal eating habits influence offspring health, the mechanisms that underlie changes in taste perception and food preference during pregnancy (which guide and promote feeding) are only just starting to be elucidated. Given the limited and diffuse understanding of the neurobiology of gestational eating patterns, the aim of this Review is to compile, integrate and discuss the research conducted on this topic in both experimental models and humans. This article sheds light on the mechanisms that drive changes in female feeding behaviours during distinct physiological states. Understanding these processes is crucial to improve gestational parent health and decrease the burden of metabolic and food-related diseases in future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Haddad-Tóvolli
- Neuronal Control of Metabolism (NeuCoMe) Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Marc Claret
- Neuronal Control of Metabolism (NeuCoMe) Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.
- CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Barcelona, Spain.
- School of Medicine, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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11
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Fan Z, Wang LY, Xiao L, Tan B, Luo B, Ren TY, Liu N, Zhang ZS, Bai M. Lampshade web spider Ectatosticta davidi chromosome-level genome assembly provides evidence for its phylogenetic position. Commun Biol 2023; 6:748. [PMID: 37463957 PMCID: PMC10354039 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05129-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The spider of Ectatosticta davidi, belonging to the lamp-shade web spider family, Hypochilidae, which is closely related to Hypochilidae and Filistatidae and recovered as sister of the rest Araneomorphs spiders. Here we show the final assembled genome of E. davidi with 2.16 Gb in 15 chromosomes. Then we confirm the evolutionary position of Hypochilidae. Moreover, we find that the GMC gene family exhibit high conservation throughout the evolution of true spiders. We also find that the MaSp genes of E. davidi may represent an early stage of MaSp and MiSp genes in other true spiders, while CrSp shares a common origin with AgSp and PySp but differ from MaSp. Altogether, this study contributes to addressing the limited availability of genomic sequences from Hypochilidae spiders, and provides a valuable resource for investigating the genomic evolution of spiders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Fan
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China
- School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400700, Chongqing, China
| | - Lu-Yu Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400700, Chongqing, China
| | - Lin Xiao
- School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400700, Chongqing, China
| | - Bing Tan
- School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400700, Chongqing, China
| | - Bin Luo
- School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400700, Chongqing, China
| | - Tian-Yu Ren
- School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400700, Chongqing, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China.
| | - Zhi-Sheng Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400700, Chongqing, China.
| | - Ming Bai
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China.
- Northeast Asia Biodiversity Research Center, Northeast Forestry University, 150040, Harbin, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049, Beijing, China.
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12
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Vijayan V, Wang F, Wang K, Chakravorty A, Adachi A, Akhlaghpour H, Dickson BJ, Maimon G. A rise-to-threshold process for a relative-value decision. Nature 2023; 619:563-571. [PMID: 37407812 PMCID: PMC10356611 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06271-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Whereas progress has been made in the identification of neural signals related to rapid, cued decisions1-3, less is known about how brains guide and terminate more ethologically relevant decisions in which an animal's own behaviour governs the options experienced over minutes4-6. Drosophila search for many seconds to minutes for egg-laying sites with high relative value7,8 and have neurons, called oviDNs, whose activity fulfills necessity and sufficiency criteria for initiating the egg-deposition motor programme9. Here we show that oviDNs express a calcium signal that (1) dips when an egg is internally prepared (ovulated), (2) drifts up and down over seconds to minutes-in a manner influenced by the relative value of substrates-as a fly determines whether to lay an egg and (3) reaches a consistent peak level just before the abdomen bend for egg deposition. This signal is apparent in the cell bodies of oviDNs in the brain and it probably reflects a behaviourally relevant rise-to-threshold process in the ventral nerve cord, where the synaptic terminals of oviDNs are located and where their output can influence behaviour. We provide perturbational evidence that the egg-deposition motor programme is initiated once this process hits a threshold and that subthreshold variation in this process regulates the time spent considering options and, ultimately, the choice taken. Finally, we identify a small recurrent circuit that feeds into oviDNs and show that activity in each of its constituent cell types is required for laying an egg. These results argue that a rise-to-threshold process regulates a relative-value, self-paced decision and provide initial insight into the underlying circuit mechanism for building this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikram Vijayan
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Function and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Fei Wang
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Kaiyu Wang
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Arun Chakravorty
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Function and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Atsuko Adachi
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Function and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
- Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hessameddin Akhlaghpour
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Function and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Barry J Dickson
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Gaby Maimon
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Function and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA.
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13
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Luo M, Li B, Jander G, Zhou S. Non-volatile metabolites mediate plant interactions with insect herbivores. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 114:1164-1177. [PMID: 36891808 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.16180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Non-volatile metabolites constitute the bulk of plant biomass. From the perspective of plant-insect interactions, these structurally diverse compounds include nutritious core metabolites and defensive specialized metabolites. In this review, we synthesize the current literature on multiple scales of plant-insect interactions mediated by non-volatile metabolites. At the molecular level, functional genetics studies have revealed a large collection of receptors targeting plant non-volatile metabolites in model insect species and agricultural pests. By contrast, examples of plant receptors of insect-derived molecules remain sparse. For insect herbivores, plant non-volatile metabolites function beyond the dichotomy of core metabolites, classed as nutrients, and specialized metabolites, classed as defensive compounds. Insect feeding tends to elicit evolutionarily conserved changes in plant specialized metabolism, whereas its effect on plant core metabolism varies widely based the interacting species. Finally, several recent studies have demonstrated that non-volatile metabolites can mediate tripartite communication on the community scale, facilitated by physical connections established through direct root-to-root communication, parasitic plants, arbuscular mycorrhizae and the rhizosphere microbiome. Recent advances in both plant and insect molecular biology will facilitate further research on the role of non-volatile metabolites in mediating plant-insect interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Luo
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, 518120, China
| | - Bin Li
- Key Laboratory of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Department of Entomology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100091, China
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Georg Jander
- Boyce Thompson Institute, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Shaoqun Zhou
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, 518120, China
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14
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Zhang R, Lun X, Zhang Y, Zhao Y, Xu X, Zhang Z. Characterization of Ionotropic Receptor Gene EonuIR25a in the Tea Green Leafhopper, Empoasca onukii Matsuda. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:2034. [PMID: 37653951 PMCID: PMC10223087 DOI: 10.3390/plants12102034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Ionotropic receptors (IRs) play a central role in detecting chemosensory information from the environment and guiding insect behaviors and are potential target genes for pest control. Empoasca onukii Matsuda is a major pest of the tea plant Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Ktze, and seriously influences tea yields and quality. In this study, the ionotropic receptor gene EonuIR25a in E. onukii was cloned, and the expression pattern of EonuIR25a was detected in various tissues. Behavioral responses of E. onukii to volatile compounds emitted by tea plants were determined using olfactometer bioassay and field trials. To further explore the function of EonuIR25a in olfactory recognition of compounds, RNA interference (RNAi) of EonuIR25a was carried out by ingestion of in vitro synthesized dsRNAs. The coding sequence (CDS) length of EonuIR25a was 1266 bp and it encoded a 48.87 kD protein. EonuIR25a was enriched in the antennae of E. onukii. E. onukii was more significantly attracted by 1-phenylethanol at a concentration of 100 µL/mL. Feeding with dsEonuIR25a significantly downregulated the expression level of EonuIR25a, after 3 h of treatment, which disturbed the behavioral responses of E. onukii to 1-phenylethanol at a concentration of 100 µL/mL. The response rate of E. onukii to 1-phenylethanol was significantly decreased after dsEonuIR25a treatment for 12 h. In summary, the ionotropic receptor gene EonuIR25a was highly expressed in the antennae of E. onukii and was involved in olfactory recognition of the tea plant volatile 1-phenylethanol. The present study may help us to use the ionotropic receptor gene as a target for the behavioral manipulation of E. onukii in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruirui Zhang
- College of Horticulture Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271000, China; (R.Z.)
| | - Xiaoyue Lun
- College of Horticulture Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271000, China; (R.Z.)
| | - Yu Zhang
- College of Horticulture Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271000, China; (R.Z.)
| | - Yunhe Zhao
- College of Horticulture Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271000, China; (R.Z.)
| | - Xiuxiu Xu
- Tea Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Science, Ji’nan 250100, China
| | - Zhengqun Zhang
- College of Horticulture Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271000, China; (R.Z.)
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15
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Zhang L, Sun H, Grosse-Wilde E, Zhang L, Hansson BS, Dweck HKM. Cross-generation pheromonal communication drives Drosophila oviposition site choice. Curr Biol 2023; 33:2095-2103.e3. [PMID: 37098339 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.03.090] [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: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
In a heterogeneous and changing environment, oviposition site selection strongly affects the survival and fitness of the offspring.1,2 Similarly, competition between larvae affects their prospects.3 However, little is known about the involvement of pheromones in regulating these processes.4,5,6,7,8 Here, we show that mated females of Drosophila melanogaster prefer to lay eggs on substrates containing extracts of conspecific larvae. After analyzing these extracts chemically, we test each compound in an oviposition assay and find that mated females display a dose-dependent preference to lay eggs on substrates spiked with (Z)-9-octadecenoic acid ethyl ester (OE). This egg-laying preference relies on gustatory receptor Gr32a and tarsal sensory neurons expressing this receptor. The concentration of OE also regulates larval place choice in a dose-dependent manner. Physiologically, OE activates female tarsal Gr32a+ neurons. In conclusion, our results reveal a cross-generation communication strategy essential for oviposition site selection and regulation of larval density.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Zhang
- College of Grassland Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Yuanmingyuan West Rd. 2, Beijing 100193, China; Department of Evolutionary Neuroethology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll-Str. 8, 07745 Jena, Germany.
| | - Huiwen Sun
- College of Grassland Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Yuanmingyuan West Rd. 2, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Ewald Grosse-Wilde
- Department of Evolutionary Neuroethology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll-Str. 8, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Long Zhang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Gongye North Rd. 202, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Bill S Hansson
- Department of Evolutionary Neuroethology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll-Str. 8, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Hany K M Dweck
- Department of Evolutionary Neuroethology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll-Str. 8, 07745 Jena, Germany
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16
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Benton R, Dahanukar A. Chemosensory Coding in Drosophila Single Sensilla. Cold Spring Harb Protoc 2023; 2023:107803-pdb.top. [PMID: 36446528 DOI: 10.1101/pdb.top107803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The chemical senses-smell and taste-detect and discriminate an enormous diversity of environmental stimuli and provide fascinating but challenging models to investigate how sensory cues are represented in the brain. Important stimulus-coding events occur in peripheral sensory neurons, which express specific combinations of chemosensory receptors with defined ligand-response profiles. These receptors convert ligand recognition into spatial and temporal patterns of neural activity that are transmitted to, and interpreted in, central brain regions. Drosophila melanogaster provides an attractive model to study chemosensory coding because it possesses relatively simple peripheral olfactory and gustatory systems that display many organizational parallels to those of vertebrates. Moreover, nearly all peripheral chemosensory neurons have been molecularly characterized and are accessible for physiological analysis, as they are exposed on the surface of sensory organs housed in specialized hairs called sensilla. Here, we briefly review anatomical, molecular, and physiological properties of adult Drosophila olfactory and gustatory systems and provide background to methods for electrophysiological recordings of ligand-evoked activity from different types of chemosensory sensilla.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Benton
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anupama Dahanukar
- Department of Molecular, Cell & Systems Biology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, USA
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17
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King BH, Gunathunga PB. Gustation in insects: taste qualities and types of evidence used to show taste function of specific body parts. JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2023; 23:11. [PMID: 37014302 PMCID: PMC10072106 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/iead018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The insect equivalent of taste buds are gustatory sensilla, which have been found on mouthparts, pharynxes, antennae, legs, wings, and ovipositors. Most gustatory sensilla are uniporous, but not all apparently uniporous sensilla are gustatory. Among sensilla containing more than one neuron, a tubular body on one dendrite is also indicative of a taste sensillum, with the tubular body adding tactile function. But not all taste sensilla are also tactile. Additional morphological criteria are often used to recognize if a sensillum is gustatory. Further confirmation of such criteria by electrophysiological or behavioral evidence is needed. The five canonical taste qualities to which insects respond are sweet, bitter, sour, salty, and umami. But not all tastants that insects respond to easily fit in these taste qualities. Categories of insect tastants can be based not only on human taste perception, but also on whether the response is deterrent or appetitive and on chemical structure. Other compounds that at least some insects taste include, but are not limited to: water, fatty acids, metals, carbonation, RNA, ATP, pungent tastes as in horseradish, bacterial lipopolysaccharides, and contact pheromones. We propose that, for insects, taste be defined not only as a response to nonvolatiles but also be restricted to responses that are, or are thought to be, mediated by a sensillum. This restriction is useful because some of the receptor proteins in gustatory sensilla are also found elsewhere.
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18
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Raji JI, Konopka JK, Potter CJ. A spatial map of antennal-expressed ionotropic receptors in the malaria mosquito. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112101. [PMID: 36773296 PMCID: PMC10412736 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112101] [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: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The mosquito's antenna represents its main olfactory appendage for detecting volatile chemical cues from the environment. Whole-mount fluorescence in situ hybridization of ionotropic receptors (IRs) expressed in the antennae reveals that the antenna might be divisible into proximal and distal functional domains. The number of IR-positive cells appear stereotyped within each antennal segment (flagellomere). Highly expressed odor-tuning IRs exhibit distinct co-localization patterns with the IR coreceptors Ir8a, Ir25a, and Ir76b that might predict their functional properties. Genetic knockin and in vivo functional imaging of IR41c-expressing neurons indicate both odor-induced activation and inhibition in response to select amine compounds. Targeted mutagenesis of IR41c does not abolish behavioral responses to the amine compounds. Our study provides a comprehensive map of IR-expressing neurons in the main olfactory appendage of mosquitoes. These findings show organizing principles of Anopheles IR-expressing neurons, which might underlie their functional contribution to the detection of behaviorally relevant odors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua I Raji
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Joanna K Konopka
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Christopher J Potter
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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19
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Molecular sensors in the taste system of Drosophila. Genes Genomics 2023; 45:693-707. [PMID: 36828965 DOI: 10.1007/s13258-023-01370-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most animals, including humans and insects, consume foods based on their senses. Feeding is mostly regulated by taste and smell. Recent insect studies shed insight into the cross-talk between taste and smell, sweetness and temperature, sweetness and texture, and other sensory modality pairings. Five canonical tastes include sweet, umami, bitter, salty, and sour. Furthermore, other receptors that mediate the detection of noncanonical sensory attributes encoded by taste stimuli, such as Ca2+, Zn2+, Cu2+, lipid, and carbonation, have been characterized. Deorphanizing receptors and interactions among different modalities are expanding the taste field. METHODS Our study explores the taste system of Drosophila melanogaster and perception processing in insects to broaden the neuroscience of taste. Attractive and aversive taste cues and their chemoreceptors are categorized as tables. In addition, we summarize the recent progress in animal behavior as affected by the integration of multisensory information in relation to different gustatory receptor neuronal activations, olfaction, texture, and temperature. We mainly focus on peripheral responses and insect decision-making. CONCLUSION Drosophila is an excellent model animal to study the cellular and molecular mechanism of the taste system. Despite the divergence in the receptors to detect chemicals, taste research in the fruit fly can offer new insights into the many different taste sensors of animals and how to test the interaction among different sensory modalities.
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20
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Yu J, Guo X, Zheng S, Zhang W. A dedicate sensorimotor circuit enables fine texture discrimination by active touch. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1010562. [PMID: 36649336 PMCID: PMC9882754 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Active touch facilitates environments exploration by voluntary, self-generated movements. However, the neural mechanisms underlying sensorimotor control for active touch are poorly understood. During foraging and feeding, Drosophila gather information on the properties of food (texture, hardness, taste) by constant probing with their proboscis. Here we identify a group of neurons (sd-L neurons) on the fly labellum that are mechanosensitive to labellum displacement and synapse onto the sugar-sensing neurons via axo-axonal synapses to induce preference to harder food. These neurons also feed onto the motor circuits that control proboscis extension and labellum spreading to provide on-line sensory feedback critical for controlling the probing processes, thus facilitating ingestion of less liquified food. Intriguingly, this preference was eliminated in mated female flies, reflecting an elevated need for softer food. Our results propose a sensorimotor circuit composed of mechanosensory, gustatory and motor neurons that enables the flies to select ripe yet not over-rotten food by active touch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yu
- School of Life Sciences, IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xuan Guo
- School of Life Sciences, IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shen Zheng
- School of Life Sciences, IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
- * E-mail:
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21
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Dong JF, Yang HB, Li DX, Yu HQ, Tian CH. Identification and expression analysis of chemosensory receptors in the tarsi of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith). Front Physiol 2023; 14:1177297. [PMID: 37101698 PMCID: PMC10123274 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1177297] [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: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemosensation of tarsi provides moths with the ability to detect chemical signals which are important for food recognition. However, molecular mechanisms underlying the chemosensory roles of tarsi are still unknown. The fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda is a serious moth pest that can damage many plants worldwide. In the current study, we conducted transcriptome sequencing with total RNA extracted from S. frugiperda tarsi. Through sequence assembly and gene annotation, 23 odorant receptors 10 gustatory receptors and 10 inotropic receptors (IRs) were identified. Further phylogenetic analysis with these genes and homologs from other insect species indicated specific genes, including ORco, carbon dioxide receptors, fructose receptor, IR co-receptors, and sugar receptors were expressed in the tarsi of S. frugiperda. Expression profiling with RT-qPCR in different tissues of adult S. frugiperda showed that most annotated SfruORs and SfruIRs were mainly expressed in the antennae, and most SfruGRs were mainly expressed in the proboscises. However, SfruOR30, SfruGR9, SfruIR60a, SfruIR64a, SfruIR75d, and SfruIR76b were also highly enriched in the tarsi of S. frugiperda. Especially SfruGR9, the putative fructose receptor, was predominantly expressed in the tarsi, and with its levels significantly higher in the female tarsi than in the male ones. Moreover, SfruIR60a was also found to be expressed with higher levels in the tarsi than in other tissues. This study not only improves our insight into the tarsal chemoreception systems of S. frugiperda but also provides useful information for further functional studies of chemosensory receptors in S. frugiperda tarsi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Feng Dong
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Hai-Bo Yang
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Ding-Xu Li
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Hong-Qi Yu
- Information Center of Ministry of Natural Resources, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Hong-Qi Yu, ; Cai-Hong Tian,
| | - Cai-Hong Tian
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- *Correspondence: Hong-Qi Yu, ; Cai-Hong Tian,
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Dey M, Ganguly A, Dahanukar A. An inhibitory mechanism for suppressing high salt intake in Drosophila. Chem Senses 2023; 48:bjad014. [PMID: 37201555 PMCID: PMC10413321 DOI: 10.1093/chemse/bjad014] [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: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
High concentrations of dietary salt are harmful to health. Like most animals, Drosophila melanogaster are attracted to foods that have low concentrations of salt, but show strong taste avoidance of high salt foods. Salt in known on multiple classes of taste neurons, activating Gr64f sweet-sensing neurons that drive food acceptance and 2 others (Gr66a bitter and Ppk23 high salt) that drive food rejection. Here we find that NaCl elicits a bimodal dose-dependent response in Gr64f taste neurons, which show high activity with low salt and depressed activity with high salt. High salt also inhibits the sugar response of Gr64f neurons, and this action is independent of the neuron's taste response to salt. Consistent with the electrophysiological analysis, feeding suppression in the presence of salt correlates with inhibition of Gr64f neuron activity, and remains if high salt taste neurons are genetically silenced. Other salts such as Na2SO4, KCl, MgSO4, CaCl2, and FeCl3 act on sugar response and feeding behavior in the same way. A comparison of the effects of various salts suggests that inhibition is dictated by the cationic moiety rather than the anionic component of the salt. Notably, high salt-dependent inhibition is not observed in Gr66a neurons-response to a canonical bitter tastant, denatonium, is not altered by high salt. Overall, this study characterizes a mechanism in appetitive Gr64f neurons that can deter ingestion of potentially harmful salts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali Dey
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, United States
| | - Anindya Ganguly
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, United States
| | - Anupama Dahanukar
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, United States
- Department of Molecular, Cell & Systems Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, United States
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Yuan TT, Luo ZJ, Luo ZX, Cai XM, Bian L, Xiu CL, Fu NX, Chen ZM, Zhang LW, Li ZQ. Olfactory Gene Families in Scopula subpunctaria and Candidates for Type-II Sex Pheromone Detection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415775. [PMID: 36555416 PMCID: PMC9779464 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Scopula subpunctaria, an abundant pest in tea gardens, produce type-II sex pheromone components, which are critical for its communicative and reproductive abilities; however, genes encoding the proteins involved in the detection of type-II sex pheromone components have rarely been documented in moths. In the present study, we sequenced the transcriptomes of the male and female S. subpunctaria antennae. A total of 150 candidate olfaction genes, comprising 58 odorant receptors (SsubORs), 26 ionotropic receptors (SsubIRs), 24 chemosensory proteins (SsubCSPs), 40 odorant-binding proteins (SsubOBPs), and 2 sensory neuron membrane proteins (SsubSNMPs) were identified in S. subpunctaria. Phylogenetic analysis, qPCR, and mRNA abundance analysis results suggested that SsubOR46 may be the Orco (non-traditional odorant receptor, a subfamily of ORs) of S. subpunctaria. SsubOR9, SsubOR53, and SsubOR55 belonged to the pheromone receptor (PR) clades which have a higher expression in male antennae. Interestingly, SsubOR44 was uniquely expressed in the antennae, with a higher expression in males than in females. SsubOBP25, SsubOBP27, and SsubOBP28 were clustered into the moth pheromone-binding protein (PBP) sub-family, and they were uniquely expressed in the antennae, with a higher expression in males than in females. SsubOBP19, a member of the GOBP2 group, was the most abundant OBP in the antennae. These findings indicate that these olfactory genes, comprising five candidate PRs, three candidate PBPs, and one candidate GOBP2, may be involved in type II sex pheromone detection. As well as these genes, most of the remaining SsubORs, and all of the SsubIRs, showed a considerably higher expression in the female antennae than in the male antennae. Many of these, including SsubOR40, SsubOR42, SsubOR43, and SsubIR26, were more abundant in female antennae. These olfactory and ionotropic receptors may be related to the detection of host plant volatiles. The results of this present study provide a basis for exploring the olfaction mechanisms in S. subpunctaria, with a focus on the genes involved in type II sex pheromones. The evolutionary analyses in our study provide new insights into the differentiation and evolution of lepidopteran PRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Ting Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Control, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
| | - Zi-Jun Luo
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
| | - Zong-Xiu Luo
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Cai
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
| | - Lei Bian
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
| | - Chun-Li Xiu
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
| | - Nan-Xia Fu
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
| | - Zong-Mao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
| | - Long-Wa Zhang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Control, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
- Correspondence: (L.-W.Z.); (Z.-Q.L.)
| | - Zhao-Qun Li
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou 310008, China
- Correspondence: (L.-W.Z.); (Z.-Q.L.)
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Vijayan V, Wang Z, Chandra V, Chakravorty A, Li R, Sarbanes SL, Akhlaghpour H, Maimon G. An internal expectation guides Drosophila egg-laying decisions. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabn3852. [PMID: 36306348 PMCID: PMC9616500 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abn3852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
To better understand how animals make ethologically relevant decisions, we studied egg-laying substrate choice in Drosophila. We found that flies dynamically increase or decrease their egg-laying rates while exploring substrates so as to target eggs to the best, recently visited option. Visiting the best option typically yielded inhibition of egg laying on other substrates for many minutes. Our data support a model in which flies compare the current substrate's value with an internally constructed expectation on the value of available options to regulate the likelihood of laying an egg. We show that dopamine neuron activity is critical for learning and/or expressing this expectation, similar to its role in certain tasks in vertebrates. Integrating sensory experiences over minutes to generate an estimate of the quality of available options allows flies to use a dynamic reference point for judging the current substrate and might be a general way in which decisions are made.
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Fan XB, Mo BT, Li GC, Huang LQ, Guo H, Gong XL, Wang CZ. Mutagenesis of the odorant receptor co-receptor (Orco) reveals severe olfactory defects in the crop pest moth Helicoverpa armigera. BMC Biol 2022; 20:214. [PMID: 36175945 PMCID: PMC9524114 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01411-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Odorant receptors (ORs) as odorant-gated ion channels play a crucial role in insect olfaction. They are formed by a heteromultimeric complex of the odorant receptor co-receptor (Orco) and a ligand-selective Or. Other types of olfactory receptor proteins, such as ionotropic receptors (IRs) and some gustatory receptors (GRs), are also involved in the olfactory system of insects. Orco as an obligatory subunit of ORs is highly conserved, providing an opportunity to systematically evaluate OR-dependent olfactory responses. RESULTS Herein, we successfully established a homozygous mutant (Orco-/-) of Helicoverpa armigera, a notorious crop pest, using the CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technique. We then compared the olfactory response characteristics of wild type (WT) and Orco-/- adults and larvae. Orco-/- males were infertile, while Orco-/- females were fertile. The lifespan of Orco-/- females was longer than that of WT females. The expressions of most Ors, Irs, and other olfaction-related genes in adult antennae of Orco-/- moths were not obviously affected, but some of them were up- or down-regulated. In addition, there was no change in the neuroanatomical phenotype of Orco-/- moths at the level of the antennal lobe (including the macroglomerular complex region of the male). Using EAG and SSR techniques, we discovered that electrophysiological responses of Orco-/- moths to sex pheromone components and many host plant odorants were absent. The upwind flight behaviors toward sex pheromones of Orco-/- males were severely reduced in a wind tunnel experiment. The oviposition selectivity of Orco-/- females to the host plant (green pepper) has completely disappeared, and the chemotaxis toward green pepper was also lost in Orco-/- larvae. CONCLUSIONS Our study indicates that OR-mediated olfaction is essential for pheromone communication, oviposition selection, and larval chemotaxis of H. armigera, suggesting a strategy in which mate searching and host-seeking behaviors of moth pests could be disrupted by inhibiting or silencing Orco expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Bin Fan
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bao-Tong Mo
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guo-Cheng Li
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ling-Qiao Huang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101 People’s Republic of China
| | - Hao Guo
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin-Lin Gong
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chen-Zhu Wang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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26
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Sun YL, Jiang PS, Dong BX, Tian CH, Dong JF. Candidate chemosensory receptors in the antennae and maxillae of Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) larvae. Front Physiol 2022; 13:970915. [PMID: 36187799 PMCID: PMC9520170 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.970915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although most of the damage caused by lepidopteran insects to plants is caused by the larval stage, chemosensory systems have been investigated much more frequently for lepidopteran adults than for larvae. The fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a polyphagous and worldwide pest. To understand the larval chemosensory system in S. frugiperda, we sequenced and assembled the antennae and maxillae transcriptome of larvae in the sixth instar (larval a-m) using the Illumina platform. A total of 30 putative chemosensory receptor genes were identified, and these receptors included 11 odorant receptors (ORs), 4 gustatory receptors (GRs), and 15 ionotropic receptors/ionotropic glutamate receptors (IRs/iGluRs). Phylogeny tests with the candidate receptors and homologs from other insect species revealed some specific genes, including a fructose receptor, a pheromone receptor, IR co-receptors, CO2 receptors, and the OR co-receptor. Comparison of the expression of annotated genes between S. frugiperda adults and larvae (larval a-m) using RT-qPCR showed that most of the annotated OR and GR genes were predominantly expressed in the adult stage, but that 2 ORs and 1 GR were highly expressed in both the adult antennae and the larval a-m. Although most of the tested IR/iGluR genes were mainly expressed in adult antennae, transcripts of 3 iGluRs were significantly more abundant in the larval a-m than in the adult antennae of both sexes. Comparison of the expression levels of larval a-m expressed chemosensory receptors among the first, fourth, and sixth instars revealed that the expression of some of the genes varied significantly among different larval stages. These results increase our understanding of the chemosensory systems of S. frugiperda larvae and provide a basis for future functional studies aimed at the development of novel strategies to manage this pest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Lan Sun
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Peng-Shuo Jiang
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Bing-Xin Dong
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Cai-Hong Tian
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Cai-Hong Tian, ; Jun-Feng Dong,
| | - Jun-Feng Dong
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
- *Correspondence: Cai-Hong Tian, ; Jun-Feng Dong,
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27
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Herre M, Goldman OV, Lu TC, Caballero-Vidal G, Qi Y, Gilbert ZN, Gong Z, Morita T, Rahiel S, Ghaninia M, Ignell R, Matthews BJ, Li H, Vosshall LB, Younger MA. Non-canonical odor coding in the mosquito. Cell 2022; 185:3104-3123.e28. [PMID: 35985288 PMCID: PMC9480278 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2022.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are a persistent human foe, transmitting arboviruses including dengue when they feed on human blood. Mosquitoes are intensely attracted to body odor and carbon dioxide, which they detect using ionotropic chemosensory receptors encoded by three large multi-gene families. Genetic mutations that disrupt the olfactory system have modest effects on human attraction, suggesting redundancy in odor coding. The canonical view is that olfactory sensory neurons each express a single chemosensory receptor that defines its ligand selectivity. We discovered that Ae. aegypti uses a different organizational principle, with many neurons co-expressing multiple chemosensory receptor genes. In vivo electrophysiology demonstrates that the broad ligand-sensitivity of mosquito olfactory neurons depends on this non-canonical co-expression. The redundancy afforded by an olfactory system in which neurons co-express multiple chemosensory receptors may increase the robustness of the mosquito olfactory system and explain our long-standing inability to disrupt the detection of humans by mosquitoes. Humans produce a complex blend of odor cues that attract female mosquitoes, and these cues are typically detected by olfactory neurons expressing a single receptor. In female Aedes aegypti mosquitos, however, many of these neurons co-express multiple chemosensory receptors directly affecting mosquito behavior and challenging the canonical one-receptor-to-one-neuron organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Herre
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA; Kavli Neural Systems Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA; Weill Cornell/Rockefeller/Sloan Kettering Tri-Institutional MD-PhD Program, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Olivia V Goldman
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA; Kavli Neural Systems Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Tzu-Chiao Lu
- Huffington Center on Aging and Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Gabriela Caballero-Vidal
- Disease Vector Group, Unit of Chemical Ecology, Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp 234 22, Sweden
| | - Yanyan Qi
- Huffington Center on Aging and Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Zachary N Gilbert
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Zhongyan Gong
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Takeshi Morita
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Saher Rahiel
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Majid Ghaninia
- Disease Vector Group, Unit of Chemical Ecology, Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp 234 22, Sweden
| | - Rickard Ignell
- Disease Vector Group, Unit of Chemical Ecology, Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp 234 22, Sweden
| | - Benjamin J Matthews
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Hongjie Li
- Huffington Center on Aging and Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Leslie B Vosshall
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA; Kavli Neural Systems Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Meg A Younger
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA; Kavli Neural Systems Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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28
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Li X, Li JW, Sun WX, Li W, Gao HY, Liu TX, Qu MJ. Candidate Chemosensory Genes Identified in the Adult Antennae of Sympiezomias velatus and Binding Property of Odorant-Binding Protein 15. Front Physiol 2022; 13:907667. [PMID: 35711318 PMCID: PMC9193972 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.907667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemosensory genes play important roles in insect behaviors and have thus become potential molecular targets for pest control based on the manipulation of chemoreception-driven behaviors. The great gray weevil Sympiezomias velatus (Chevrolat) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is an important agricultural pest that causes serious economic losses to many crops in China, but its chemosensory genes have not been reported. Here we assembled the antennal transcriptomes of female and male adult S. velatus and revealed the major chemosensory genes necessary for olfaction. A total of 138 candidate chemosensory genes in six families were identified, including 41 encoding odorant-binding proteins (OBPs), 11 encoding chemosensory proteins (CSPs), 62 encoding odorant receptors (ORs), 15 encoding gustatory receptors (GRs), six encoding ionotropic receptors (IRs), and three encoding sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs). We analyzed their phylogenetic relationship based on the amino acid sequences of these chemosensory-related protein families in S. velatus and other insects, and the expression profiles based on their antennal transcriptomes. Chemosensory genes that show antenna-abundant/specific or sex-biased expression were observed, suggesting that these genes might have functions in olfaction. Furthermore, we chose an antenna-abundant OBP belonging to ABPX subfamily, SvelOBP15, to investigate its binding property. The results showed that among 33 tested compounds, SvelOBP15 displayed high binding affinities (Ki = 7.36-12.94 μmol/L) with farnesol, nerolidol, limonene and diisobutyl phthalate, indicating that SvelOBP15 plays olfactory roles by binding and transporting specific plant volatiles. These findings will help us better understand the olfactory systems of S. velatus, and provide a basis for functional elucidation of these chemosensory genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Li
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Qingdao, China
| | - Jian-Wen Li
- College of Life Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China.,Weinan Product Quality Supervision and Inspection Institute, Weinan, China
| | - Wen-Xiu Sun
- College of Life Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Wei Li
- College of Life Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Hua-Yuan Gao
- Peanut Research Institute, Jilin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Tong-Xian Liu
- College of Plant Health and Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ming-Jing Qu
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Qingdao, China
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Ye Z, Liu F, Sun H, Ferguson ST, Baker A, Ochieng SA, Zwiebel LJ. Discrete roles of Ir76b ionotropic coreceptor impact olfaction, blood feeding, and mating in the malaria vector mosquito Anopheles coluzzii. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2112385119. [PMID: 35648836 PMCID: PMC9191353 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2112385119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Anopheline mosquitoes rely on their highly sensitive chemosensory apparatus to detect diverse chemical stimuli that drive the host-seeking and blood-feeding behaviors required to vector pathogens for malaria and other diseases. This process incorporates a variety of chemosensory receptors and transduction pathways. We used advanced in vivo gene-editing and -labeling approaches to localize and functionally characterize the ionotropic coreceptor AcIr76b in the malaria mosquito Anopheles coluzzii, where it impacts both olfactory and gustatory systems. AcIr76b has a broad expression pattern in female adult antennal grooved pegs, coeloconic sensilla, and T1 and T2 sensilla on the labellum, stylets, and tarsi, as well as the larval sensory peg. AcIr76b is colocalized with the Orco odorant receptor (OR) coreceptor in a subset of cells across the female antennae and labella. In contrast to Orco and Ir8a, chemosensory coreceptors that appear essential for the activity of their respective sets of chemosensory neurons in mosquitoes, AcIr76b−/− mutants maintain wild-type peripheral responses to volatile amines on the adult palps, labellum, and larval sensory cone. Interestingly, AcIr76b−/− mutants display significantly increased responses to amines in antennal grooved peg sensilla, while coeloconic sensilla reveal significant deficits in responses to several acids and amines. Behaviorally, AcIr76b mutants manifest significantly female-specific insemination deficits, and although AcIr76b−/− mutant females can locate, alight on, and probe artificial blood hosts, they are incapable of blood feeding successfully. Taken together, our findings reveal a multidimensional functionality of Ir76b in anopheline olfactory and gustatory pathways that directly impacts the vectorial capacity of these mosquitoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi Ye
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235
| | - Feng Liu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235
| | - Huahua Sun
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235
| | - Stephen T. Ferguson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235
| | - Adam Baker
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235
| | - Samuel A. Ochieng
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235
| | - Laurence J. Zwiebel
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235
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30
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Yang S, Zhang W. Systematic analysis of olfactory protein-protein interactions network of fruitfly, Drosophila melanogaster. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 110:e21882. [PMID: 35249240 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21882] [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: 12/04/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Olfaction is one of the physiological traits of insect behavior. Insects have evolved a sophisticated olfactory system and use a combined coding strategy to process general odor. Drosophila melanogaster is a powerful model to reveal the molecular and cellular mechanisms of odor detection. Identifying new olfactory targets through complex interactions will contribute to a better understanding of the functions, interactions, and signaling pathways of olfactory proteins. However, the mechanism of D. melanogaster olfaction is still unclear, and more olfactory proteins are required to be discovered. In this study, we tried to explore essential proteins in the olfactory system of D. melanogaster and conduct protein-protein interactions (PPIs) analysis. We constructed the PPIs network of the olfactory system of D. melanogaster, consisting of 863 proteins and 18,959 interactions. Various methods were used to perform functional enrichment analysis, topological analysis and cluster analysis. Our results confirmed that Class B scavenger receptors (SR-Bs), glutathione S-transferases (GSTs), and UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs) play an essential role in olfaction of D. melanogaster. The proteins obtained in this study can be used for subsequent functional identification in D. melanogaster olfactory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Agriculture, Sun Yat-sen University, Shengzhen, China
| | - WenJun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Zhang XX, Yang B, Sun DD, Guo MB, Zhang J, Wang GR. Ionotropic receptor 8a is involved in the attraction of Helicoverpa armigera to acetic acid. INSECT SCIENCE 2022; 29:657-668. [PMID: 34427396 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Ionotropic receptors (IRs) were first found in Drosophila melanogaster, and derive from ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs), which are implicated in detecting acids, ammonia, amine, temperature and humidity. Although IRs are involved in sensing acid odors in a few insects, such as D. melanogaster, Aedes aegypti, and Manduca sexta, the function of IRs in Helicoverpa armigera is still unknown. IR8a was confirmed to be a co-receptor associated with acid detection. From the results of phylogenetic analysis, HarmIR8a displayed high similarity compared to homologs in D. melanogaster, M. sexta, and A. aegypti, suggesting that HarmIR8a might have a consistent function as a co-receptor for acid detection. In this study, clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats (CRISPR) / CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9)-mediated genome editing was implemented to knockout HarmIR8a for in vivo functional analysis. Electrophysiological and behavioral assays were performed to compare the differences between HarmIR8a knockout mutants and wild type individuals. From electroantennogram (EAG) analysis, we found that wild type H. armigera adults could detect short-chain carboxylic acids. In addition, wind tunnel experiments showed that 1% acetic acid attracted wild type H. armigera adults. However, acid sensing and attraction were reduced or abolished in the HarmIR8a knockout mutants. Our data suggest that HarmIR8a is important for H. armigera to detect short-chain carboxylic acids and mediate attraction behavior to acetic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia-Xuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Lingnan Guangdong Laboratory of Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Bin Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dong-Dong Sun
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, Anhui Province, China
| | - Meng-Bo Guo
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Lingnan Guangdong Laboratory of Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Gui-Rong Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Lingnan Guangdong Laboratory of Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
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Task D, Lin CC, Vulpe A, Afify A, Ballou S, Brbic M, Schlegel P, Raji J, Jefferis GSXE, Li H, Menuz K, Potter CJ. Chemoreceptor co-expression in Drosophila melanogaster olfactory neurons. eLife 2022; 11:e72599. [PMID: 35442190 PMCID: PMC9020824 DOI: 10.7554/elife.72599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Drosophila melanogaster olfactory neurons have long been thought to express only one chemosensory receptor gene family. There are two main olfactory receptor gene families in Drosophila, the odorant receptors (ORs) and the ionotropic receptors (IRs). The dozens of odorant-binding receptors in each family require at least one co-receptor gene in order to function: Orco for ORs, and Ir25a, Ir8a, and Ir76b for IRs. Using a new genetic knock-in strategy, we targeted the four co-receptors representing the main chemosensory families in D. melanogaster (Orco, Ir8a, Ir76b, Ir25a). Co-receptor knock-in expression patterns were verified as accurate representations of endogenous expression. We find extensive overlap in expression among the different co-receptors. As defined by innervation into antennal lobe glomeruli, Ir25a is broadly expressed in 88% of all olfactory sensory neuron classes and is co-expressed in 82% of Orco+ neuron classes, including all neuron classes in the maxillary palp. Orco, Ir8a, and Ir76b expression patterns are also more expansive than previously assumed. Single sensillum recordings from Orco-expressing Ir25a mutant antennal and palpal neurons identify changes in olfactory responses. We also find co-expression of Orco and Ir25a in Drosophila sechellia and Anopheles coluzzii olfactory neurons. These results suggest that co-expression of chemosensory receptors is common in insect olfactory neurons. Together, our data present the first comprehensive map of chemosensory co-receptor expression and reveal their unexpected widespread co-expression in the fly olfactory system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darya Task
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Chun-Chieh Lin
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
- Mortimer B. Zuckermann Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Columbia UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Alina Vulpe
- Physiology & Neurobiology Department, University of ConnecticutMansfieldUnited States
| | - Ali Afify
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Sydney Ballou
- Physiology & Neurobiology Department, University of ConnecticutMansfieldUnited States
| | - Maria Brbic
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
| | - Philipp Schlegel
- Drosophila Connectomics Group, Department of Zoology, University of CambridgeCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Joshua Raji
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Gregory SXE Jefferis
- Drosophila Connectomics Group, Department of Zoology, University of CambridgeCambridgeUnited Kingdom
- Neurobiology Division, MRC Laboratory of Molecular BiologyCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Hongjie Li
- Department of Biology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
| | - Karen Menuz
- Physiology & Neurobiology Department, University of ConnecticutMansfieldUnited States
| | - Christopher J Potter
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
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33
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Dweck HK, Talross GJ, Luo Y, Ebrahim SA, Carlson JR. Ir56b is an atypical ionotropic receptor that underlies appetitive salt response in Drosophila. Curr Biol 2022; 32:1776-1787.e4. [PMID: 35294865 PMCID: PMC9050924 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.02.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Salt taste is one of the most ancient of all sensory modalities. However, the molecular basis of salt taste remains unclear in invertebrates. Here, we show that the response to low, appetitive salt concentrations in Drosophila depends on Ir56b, an atypical member of the ionotropic receptor (Ir) family. Ir56b acts in concert with two coreceptors, Ir25a and Ir76b. Mutation of Ir56b virtually eliminates an appetitive behavioral response to salt. Ir56b is expressed in neurons that also sense sugars via members of the Gr (gustatory receptor) family. Misexpression of Ir56b in bitter-sensing neurons confers physiological responses to appetitive doses of salt. Ir56b is unique among tuning Irs in containing virtually no N-terminal region, a feature that is evolutionarily conserved. Moreover, Ir56b is a "pseudo-pseudogene": its coding sequence contains a premature stop codon that can be replaced with a sense codon without loss of function. This stop codon is conserved among many Drosophila species but is absent in a number of species associated with cactus in arid regions. Thus, Ir56b serves the evolutionarily ancient function of salt detection in neurons that underlie both salt and sweet taste modalities.
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34
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The Genome of Rhyzopertha dominica (Fab.) (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae): Adaptation for Success. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13030446. [PMID: 35328000 PMCID: PMC8956072 DOI: 10.3390/genes13030446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The lesser grain borer, Rhyzopertha dominica (F.) (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae), is a major global pest of cereal grains. Infestations are difficult to control as larvae feed inside grain kernels, and many populations are resistant to both contact insecticides and fumigants. We sequenced the genome of R. dominica to identify genes responsible for important biological functions and develop more targeted and efficacious management strategies. The genome was assembled from long read sequencing and long-range scaffolding technologies. The genome assembly is 479.1 Mb, close to the predicted genome size of 480.4 Mb by flow cytometry. This assembly is among the most contiguous beetle assemblies published to date, with 139 scaffolds, an N50 of 53.6 Mb, and L50 of 4, indicating chromosome-scale scaffolds. Predicted genes from biologically relevant groups were manually annotated using transcriptome data from adults and different larval tissues to guide annotation. The expansion of carbohydrase and serine peptidase genes suggest that they combine to enable efficient digestion of cereal proteins. A reduction in the copy number of several detoxification gene families relative to other coleopterans may reflect the low selective pressure on these genes in an insect that spends most of its life feeding internally. Chemoreceptor genes contain elevated numbers of pseudogenes for odorant receptors that also may be related to the recent ontogenetic shift of R. dominica to a diet consisting primarily of stored grains. Analysis of repetitive sequences will further define the evolution of bostrichid beetles compared to other species. The data overall contribute significantly to coleopteran genetic research.
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Gao YQ, Chen ZZ, Liu MY, Song CY, Jia ZF, Liu FH, Qu C, Dewer Y, Zhao HP, Xu YY, Kang ZW. Characterization of Antennal Chemosensilla and Associated Chemosensory Genes in the Orange Spiny Whitefly, Aleurocanthus spiniferus (Quaintanca). Front Physiol 2022; 13:847895. [PMID: 35295577 PMCID: PMC8920487 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.847895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The insect chemosensory system plays an important role in many aspects of insects' behaviors necessary for their survival. Despite the complexity of this system, an increasing number of studies have begun to understand its structure and function in different insect species. Nonetheless, the chemosensory system in the orange spiny whitefly Aleurocanthus spiniferus, as one of the most destructive insect pests of citrus in tropical Asia, has not been investigated yet. In this study, the sensillum types, morphologies and distributions of the male and female antennae of A. spiniferus were characterized using scanning electron microscopy. In both sexes, six different sensilla types were observed: trichodea sensilla, chaetica sensilla, microtrichia sensilla, coeloconic sensilla, basiconic sensilla, and finger-like sensilla. Moreover, we identified a total of 48 chemosensory genes, including 5 odorant-binding proteins (OBPs), 12 chemosensory proteins (CSPs), 3 sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs), 6 odorant receptors (ORs), 8 gustatory receptors (GRs), and 14 ionotropic receptors (IRs) using transcriptome data analysis. Tissue-specific transcriptome analysis of these genes showed predominantly expression in the head (including antennae), whereas CSPs were broadly expressed in both head (including the antennae) and body tissue of adult A. spiniferus. In addition, the expression profiling of selected chemosensory genes at different developmental stages was examined by quantitative real time-PCR which was mapped to the transcriptome. We found that the majority of these genes were highly expressed in adults, while AspiORco, AspiGR1, AspiGR2, and AspiIR4 genes were only detected in the pupal stage. Together, this study provides a basis for future chemosensory and genomic studies in A. spiniferus and closely related species. Furthermore, this study not only provides insights for further research on the molecular mechanisms of A. spiniferus-plant interactions but also provides extensive potential targets for pest control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Qing Gao
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Chen
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Meng-Yuan Liu
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Chang-Yuan Song
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Zhi-Fei Jia
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Fang-Hua Liu
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Cheng Qu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environment Friendly Management on Fruit Diseases and Pests in North China, Institute of Plant and Environment Protection, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Youssef Dewer
- Phytotoxicity Research Department, Central Agricultural Pesticide Laboratory, Agricultural Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Hai-Peng Zhao
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Yong-Yu Xu
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Zhi-Wei Kang
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
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36
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Nutrient Sensing via Gut in Drosophila melanogaster. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052694. [PMID: 35269834 PMCID: PMC8910450 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nutrient-sensing mechanisms in animals' sense available nutrients to generate a physiological regulatory response involving absorption, digestion, and regulation of food intake and to maintain glucose and energy homeostasis. During nutrient sensing via the gastrointestinal tract, nutrients interact with receptors on the enteroendocrine cells in the gut, which in return respond by secreting various hormones. Sensing of nutrients by the gut plays a critical role in transmitting food-related signals to the brain and other tissues informing the composition of ingested food to digestive processes. These signals modulate feeding behaviors, food intake, metabolism, insulin secretion, and energy balance. The increasing significance of fly genetics with the availability of a vast toolbox for studying physiological function, expression of chemosensory receptors, and monitoring the gene expression in specific cells of the intestine makes the fly gut the most useful tissue for studying the nutrient-sensing mechanisms. In this review, we emphasize on the role of Drosophila gut in nutrient-sensing to maintain metabolic homeostasis and gut-brain cross talk using endocrine and neuronal signaling pathways stimulated by internal state or the consumption of various dietary nutrients. Overall, this review will be useful in understanding the post-ingestive nutrient-sensing mechanisms having a physiological and pathological impact on health and diseases.
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37
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Nissinen SI, Venäläinen M, Kumpulainen P, Roine A, Häkkinen MR, Vepsäläinen J, Oksala N, Rantanen T. Discrimination between Pancreatic Cancer, Pancreatitis and Healthy Controls Using Urinary Polyamine Panel. Cancer Control 2022; 28:10732748211039762. [PMID: 35135363 PMCID: PMC8832577 DOI: 10.1177/10732748211039762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKROUND Polyamines play an important role in cellular proliferation, and the change in polyamine metabolism is reported in various cancers. We searched for urinary polyamine signature for distinguishing between pancreatic cancer, premalignant lesions of the pancreas (PLP), acute and chronic pancreatitis, and controls. METHODS Patients and controls were prospectively recruited in three Finnish hospitals between October 2013 and June 2016. The patients provided a urine sample at the time of the diagnosis. The panel of 14 polyamines was obtained in a single run with mass spectrometry. The polyamine concentrations were analysed with quadratic discriminant analysis and cross-validated with leave-one-out cross-validation. RESULTS Sixty-eight patients with pancreatic cancer, 36 with acute pancreatitis, 18 with chronic pancreatitis and 7 with PLP were recruited, as were 53 controls. The combination of 4 polyamines - acetylputrescine, diacetylspermidine, N8-acetylspermidine and diacetylputrescine - distinguished pancreatic cancer and PLP from controls (sensitivity = 94%, specificity = 68% and AUC = 0.88). The combination of diacetylspermidine, N8-acetylspermidine and diacetylspermine distinguished acute pancreatitis from controls (sensitivity = 94%, specificity = 92%, AUC = 0.98). The combination of acetylputrescine, diacetylspermidine and diacetylputrescine distinguished chronic pancreatitis from controls (sensitivity = 98%, specificity = 71%, AUC = 0.93). CONCLUSIONS Optimally selected urinary polyamine panels discriminate between pancreatic cancer and controls, as well as between acute and chronic pancreatitis and controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuli I Nissinen
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, 205537University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,Department of Internal Medicine, 3701Kanta-Häme Central Hospital, Hämeenlinna, Finland
| | - Markus Venäläinen
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, 205537University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Antti Roine
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, 7840Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Merja R Häkkinen
- School of Pharmacy, Biocenter Kuopio, 205537University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jouko Vepsäläinen
- School of Pharmacy, Biocenter Kuopio, 205537University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Niku Oksala
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, 7840Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.,Centre for Vascular Surgery and Interventional Radiology, 60670Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Tuomo Rantanen
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, 205537University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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38
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Hou XQ, Zhang DD, Powell D, Wang HL, Andersson MN, Löfstedt C. Ionotropic receptors in the turnip moth Agrotis segetum respond to repellent medium-chain fatty acids. BMC Biol 2022; 20:34. [PMID: 35130883 PMCID: PMC8822749 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01235-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In insects, airborne chemical signals are mainly detected by two receptor families, odorant receptors (ORs) and ionotropic receptors (IRs). Functions of ORs have been intensively investigated in Diptera and Lepidoptera, while the functions and evolution of the more ancient IR family remain largely unexplored beyond Diptera. Results Here, we identified a repertoire of 26 IRs from transcriptomes of female and male antennae, and ovipositors in the moth Agrotis segetum. We observed that a large clade formed by IR75p and IR75q expansions is closely related to the acid-sensing IRs identified in Diptera. We functionally assayed each of the five AsegIRs from this clade using Xenopus oocytes and found that two receptors responded to the tested ligands. AsegIR75p.1 responded to several compounds but hexanoic acid was revealed to be the primary ligand, and AsegIR75q.1 responded primarily to octanoic acid, and less so to nonanoic acid. It has been reported that the C6-C10 medium-chain fatty acids repel various insects including many drosophilids and mosquitos. We show that the C6-C10 medium-chain fatty acids elicited antennal responses of both sexes of A. segetum, while only octanoic acid had repellent effect to the moths in a behavioral assay. In addition, using fluorescence in situ hybridization, we demonstrated that the five IRs and their co-receptor AsegIR8a are not located in coeloconic sensilla as found in Drosophila, but in basiconic or trichoid sensilla. Conclusions Our results significantly expand the current knowledge of the insect IR family. Based on the functional data in combination with phylogenetic analysis, we propose that subfunctionalization after gene duplication plays an important role in the evolution of ligand specificities of the acid-sensing IRs in Lepidoptera. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12915-022-01235-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Qing Hou
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, 223 62, Lund, Sweden.,Present address: Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Dan-Dan Zhang
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, 223 62, Lund, Sweden
| | - Daniel Powell
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, 223 62, Lund, Sweden.,Present address: Global Change Ecology Research Group, School of Science and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, QLD, Sunshine Coast, Australia
| | - Hong-Lei Wang
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, 223 62, Lund, Sweden
| | - Martin N Andersson
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, 223 62, Lund, Sweden
| | - Christer Löfstedt
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, 223 62, Lund, Sweden.
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Crava CM, Bobkov YV, Sollai G, Anfora G, Crnjar R, Cattaneo AM. Chemosensory Receptors in the Larval Maxilla of Papilio hospiton. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.795994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the butterflies of the genus Papilio (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae), Papilio hospiton (Géné) has a geographical distribution limited to the Mediterranean islands of Sardinia (Italy) and Corsica (France). This is mainly due to the host range that includes only a few plant species of Apiaceae and Rutaceae growing on these islands. In a previous electrophysiological investigation conducted on the maxillary gustatory system of larvae of P. hospiton and its closely phylogenetically related species Papilio machaon, a significantly higher spike activity was shown for the gustatory neurons of lateral and medial styloconic sensilla in P. hospiton when bitter compounds were tested. This effect was possibly correlated to the limited host choice range for P. hospiton. To shed light on the molecular aspects of this phenomenon, we investigated the expression pattern of sensory-related sequences by conducting a transcriptomic analysis from total RNA isolates of P. hospiton larval maxillae. We identified several transcripts that may be involved in taste (one gustatory receptor, one divergent ionotropic receptor, and several transient receptor potential channels, TRPs) as well as transcripts supporting an olfactory function for this appendage, including odorant receptors (ORs), antennal ionotropic receptors (A-IRs), sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs), and odorant-binding proteins (OBPs). We used Human Embryonic Kidney (HEK293A) cells to heterologously express two of the identified receptors, PhospOR1 and PhospPain, together with their orthologs from P. machaon, for functional characterization. While our data suggest no activation of these two receptors by the ligands known so far to activate the electrophysiological response in larval maxillary neurons of Papilio species, nor temperature activation of both Papilio TRPA-channel Painless, they represent the first attempt in connecting neuronal activity with their molecular bases to unravel diet specialization between closely related Papilio species.
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40
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Tanaka K, Shimomura K, Hosoi A, Sato Y, Oikawa Y, Seino Y, Kuribara T, Yajima S, Tomizawa M. Antennal transcriptome analysis of chemosensory genes in the cowpea beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (F.). PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262817. [PMID: 35045135 PMCID: PMC8769365 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Olfaction, one of the most important sensory systems governing insect behavior, is a possible target for pest management. Therefore, in this study, we analyzed the antennal transcriptome of the cowpea beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae), which is a major pest of stored pulses and legumes. The de novo antennal RNA-seq assembly results identified 17 odorant, 2 gustatory, and 10 ionotropic receptors, 1 sensory neuron membrane protein, and 12 odorant-binding and 7 chemosensory proteins. Moreover, differential gene expression analysis of virgin male and female antennal samples followed by qRT-PCR revealed 1 upregulated and 4 downregulated odorant receptors in males. We also performed homology searches using the coding sequences built from previously proposed amino acid sequences derived from genomic data and identified additional chemosensory-related genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Tanaka
- NODAI Genome Research Center, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Shimomura
- Department of Chemistry for Life Sciences and Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akito Hosoi
- Department of Bioscience, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yui Sato
- Department of Bioscience, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukari Oikawa
- Department of Bioscience, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuma Seino
- Department of Chemistry for Life Sciences and Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takuto Kuribara
- Department of Chemistry for Life Sciences and Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Yajima
- NODAI Genome Research Center, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Bioscience, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Motohiro Tomizawa
- Department of Chemistry for Life Sciences and Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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A functional division of Drosophila sweet taste neurons that is value-based and task-specific. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:2110158119. [PMID: 35031566 PMCID: PMC8784143 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2110158119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sucrose is an attractive feeding substance and a positive reinforcer for Drosophila But Drosophila females have been shown to robustly reject a sucrose-containing option for egg-laying when given a choice between a plain and a sucrose-containing option in specific contexts. How the sweet taste system of Drosophila promotes context-dependent devaluation of an egg-laying option that contains sucrose, an otherwise highly appetitive tastant, is unknown. Here, we report that devaluation of sweetness/sucrose for egg-laying is executed by a sensory pathway recruited specifically by the sweet neurons on the legs of Drosophila First, silencing just the leg sweet neurons caused acceptance of the sucrose option in a sucrose versus plain decision, whereas expressing the channelrhodopsin CsChrimson in them caused rejection of a plain option that was "baited" with light over another that was not. Analogous bidirectional manipulations of other sweet neurons did not produce these effects. Second, circuit tracing revealed that the leg sweet neurons receive different presynaptic neuromodulations compared to some other sweet neurons and were the only ones with postsynaptic partners that projected prominently to the superior lateral protocerebrum (SLP) in the brain. Third, silencing one specific SLP-projecting postsynaptic partner of the leg sweet neurons reduced sucrose rejection, whereas expressing CsChrimson in it promoted rejection of a light-baited option during egg-laying. These results uncover that the Drosophila sweet taste system exhibits a functional division that is value-based and task-specific, challenging the conventional view that the system adheres to a simple labeled-line coding scheme.
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42
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Maier GL, Komarov N, Meyenhofer F, Kwon JY, Sprecher SG. Taste sensing and sugar detection mechanisms in Drosophila larval primary taste center. eLife 2021; 10:67844. [PMID: 34859782 PMCID: PMC8709573 DOI: 10.7554/elife.67844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the small number of gustatory sense neurons, Drosophila larvae are able to sense a wide range of chemicals. Although evidence for taste multimodality has been provided in single neurons, an overview of gustatory responses at the periphery is missing and hereby we explore whole-organ calcium imaging of the external taste center. We find that neurons can be activated by different combinations of taste modalities, including opposite hedonic valence and identify distinct temporal dynamics of response. Although sweet sensing has not been fully characterized so far in the external larval gustatory organ, we recorded responses elicited by sugar. Previous findings established that larval sugar sensing relies on the Gr43a pharyngeal receptor, but the question remains if external neurons contribute to this taste. Here, we postulate that external and internal gustation use distinct and complementary mechanisms in sugar sensing and we identify external sucrose sensing neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Larisa Maier
- Department of Biology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Nikita Komarov
- Department of Biology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Felix Meyenhofer
- Department of Biology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Jae Young Kwon
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Simon G Sprecher
- Department of Biology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
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43
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Vulpe A, Menuz K. Ir76b is a Co-receptor for Amine Responses in Drosophila Olfactory Neurons. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:759238. [PMID: 34867202 PMCID: PMC8635857 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.759238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Two large families of olfactory receptors, the Odorant Receptors (ORs) and Ionotropic Receptors (IRs), mediate responses to most odors in the insect olfactory system. Individual odorant binding "tuning" OrX receptors are expressed by olfactory neurons in basiconic and trichoid sensilla and require the co-receptor Orco. The situation for IRs is more complex. Different tuning IrX receptors are expressed by olfactory neurons in coeloconic sensilla and rely on either the Ir25a or Ir8a co-receptors; some evidence suggests that Ir76b may also act as a co-receptor, but its function has not been systematically examined. Surprisingly, recent data indicate that nearly all coeloconic olfactory neurons co-express Ir25a, Ir8a, and Ir76b. Here, we demonstrate that Ir76b and Ir25a function together in all amine-sensing olfactory receptor neurons. In most neurons, loss of either co-receptor abolishes amine responses. In contrast, amine responses persist in the absence of Ir76b or Ir25a in ac1 sensilla but are lost in a double mutant. We show that responses mediated by acid-sensing neurons do not require Ir76b, despite their expression of this co-receptor. Our study also demonstrates that one population of coeloconic olfactory neurons exhibits Ir76b/Ir25a-dependent and Orco-dependent responses to distinct odorants. Together, our data establish the role of Ir76b as a bona fide co-receptor, which acts in partnership with Ir25a. Given that these co-receptors are among the most highly conserved olfactory receptors and are often co-expressed in chemosensory neurons, our data suggest Ir76b and Ir25a also work in tandem in other insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Vulpe
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Karen Menuz
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- Connecticut Institute for Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
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44
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Dhakal S, Sang J, Aryal B, Lee Y. Ionotropic receptors mediate nitrogenous waste avoidance in Drosophila melanogaster. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1281. [PMID: 34773080 PMCID: PMC8589963 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02799-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Ammonia and its amine-containing derivatives are widely found in natural decomposition byproducts. Here, we conducted biased chemoreceptor screening to investigate the mechanisms by which different concentrations of ammonium salt, urea, and putrescine in rotten fruits affect feeding and oviposition behavior. We identified three ionotropic receptors, including the two broadly required IR25a and IR76b receptors, as well as the narrowly tuned IR51b receptor. These three IRs were fundamental in eliciting avoidance against nitrogenous waste products, which is mediated by bitter-sensing gustatory receptor neurons (GRNs). The aversion of nitrogenous wastes was evaluated by the cellular requirement by expressing Kir2.1 and behavioral recoveries of the mutants in bitter-sensing GRNs. Furthermore, by conducting electrophysiology assays, we confirmed that ammonia compounds are aversive in taste as they directly activated bitter-sensing GRNs. Therefore, our findings provide insights into the ecological roles of IRs as a means to detect and avoid toxic nitrogenous waste products in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subash Dhakal
- Department of Bio and Fermentation Convergence Technology, Kookmin University, Seoul, 02707, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiun Sang
- Department of Bio and Fermentation Convergence Technology, Kookmin University, Seoul, 02707, Republic of Korea
| | - Binod Aryal
- Department of Bio and Fermentation Convergence Technology, Kookmin University, Seoul, 02707, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngseok Lee
- Department of Bio and Fermentation Convergence Technology, Kookmin University, Seoul, 02707, Republic of Korea.
- Interdisciplinary Program for Bio-Health Convergence, Kookmin University, Seoul, 02707, Republic of Korea.
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45
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Mosquera KD, Martinez Villegas LE, Pidot SJ, Sharif C, Klimpel S, Stinear TP, Moreira LA, Tobias NJ, Lorenzo MG. Multi-Omic Analysis of Symbiotic Bacteria Associated With Aedes aegypti Breeding Sites. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:703711. [PMID: 34475861 PMCID: PMC8406634 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.703711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Mosquito breeding sites are complex aquatic environments with wide microbial diversity and physicochemical parameters that can change over time during the development of immature insect stages. Changes in biotic and abiotic conditions in water can alter life-history traits of adult mosquitos but this area remains understudied. Here, using microbial genomic and metabolomics analyses, we explored the metabolites associated with Aedes aegypti breeding sites as well as the potential contribution of Klebsiella sp., symbiotic bacteria highly associated with mosquitoes. We sought to address whether breeding sites have a signature metabolic profile and understand the metabolite contribution of the bacteria in the aquatic niches where Ae. aegypti larvae develop. An analysis of 32 mosquito-associated bacterial genomes, including Klebsiella, allowed us to identify gene clusters involved in primary metabolic pathways. From them, we inferred metabolites that could impact larval development (e.g., spermidine), as well as influence the quality assessment of a breeding site by a gravid female (e.g., putrescine), if produced by bacteria in the water. We also detected significant variance in metabolite presence profiles between water samples representing a decoupled oviposition event (oviposition by single females and manually deposited eggs) versus a control where no mosquito interactions occurred (PERMANOVA: p < 0.05; R2 = 24.64% and R2 = 30.07%). Five Klebsiella metabolites were exclusively linked to water samples where oviposition and development occurred. These data suggest metabolomics can be applied to identify compounds potentially used by female Ae. aegypti to evaluate the quality of a breeding site. Elucidating the physiological mechanisms by which the females could integrate these sensory cues while ovipositing constitutes a growing field of interest, which could benefit from a more depurated list of candidate molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine D Mosquera
- Vector Behavior and Pathogen Interaction Group, Instituto René Rachou (FIOCRUZ), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luis E Martinez Villegas
- Vector Behavior and Pathogen Interaction Group, Instituto René Rachou (FIOCRUZ), Belo Horizonte, Brazil.,Mosquito Vectors: Endosymbionts and Pathogen-Vector Interactions Group, Instituto Ren Rachou (FIOCRUZ), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Sacha J Pidot
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Doherty Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Chinhda Sharif
- Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sven Klimpel
- Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.,LOEWE Center for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (TBG), Frankfurt, Germany.,Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Timothy P Stinear
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Doherty Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Luciano A Moreira
- Mosquito Vectors: Endosymbionts and Pathogen-Vector Interactions Group, Instituto Ren Rachou (FIOCRUZ), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Nicholas J Tobias
- LOEWE Center for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (TBG), Frankfurt, Germany.,Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Marcelo G Lorenzo
- Vector Behavior and Pathogen Interaction Group, Instituto René Rachou (FIOCRUZ), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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46
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Liu F, Chen Z, Ye Z, Liu N. The Olfactory Chemosensation of Hematophagous Hemipteran Insects. Front Physiol 2021; 12:703768. [PMID: 34434117 PMCID: PMC8382127 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.703768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As one of the most abundant insect orders on earth, most Hemipteran insects are phytophagous, with the few hematophagous exceptions falling into two families: Cimicidae, such as bed bugs, and Reduviidae, such as kissing bugs. Many of these blood-feeding hemipteran insects are known to be realistic or potential disease vectors, presenting both physical and psychological risks for public health. Considerable researches into the interactions between hemipteran insects such as kissing bugs and bed bugs and their human hosts have revealed important information that deepens our understanding of their chemical ecology and olfactory physiology. Sensory mechanisms in the peripheral olfactory system of both insects have now been characterized, with a particular emphasis on their olfactory sensory neurons and odorant receptors. This review summarizes the findings of recent studies of both kissing bugs (including Rhodnius prolixus and Triatoma infestans) and bed bugs (Cimex lectularius), focusing on their chemical ecology and peripheral olfactory systems. Potential chemosensation-based applications for the management of these Hemipteran insect vectors are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Liu
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States.,Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Zhou Chen
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States.,Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Zi Ye
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States.,Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Nannan Liu
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
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47
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Montell C. Drosophila sensory receptors-a set of molecular Swiss Army Knives. Genetics 2021; 217:1-34. [PMID: 33683373 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyaa011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic approaches in the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, have led to a major triumph in the field of sensory biology-the discovery of multiple large families of sensory receptors and channels. Some of these families, such as transient receptor potential channels, are conserved from animals ranging from worms to humans, while others, such as "gustatory receptors," "olfactory receptors," and "ionotropic receptors," are restricted to invertebrates. Prior to the identification of sensory receptors in flies, it was widely assumed that these proteins function in just one modality such as vision, smell, taste, hearing, and somatosensation, which includes thermosensation, light, and noxious mechanical touch. By employing a vast combination of genetic, behavioral, electrophysiological, and other approaches in flies, a major concept to emerge is that many sensory receptors are multitaskers. The earliest example of this idea was the discovery that individual transient receptor potential channels function in multiple senses. It is now clear that multitasking is exhibited by other large receptor families including gustatory receptors, ionotropic receptors, epithelial Na+ channels (also referred to as Pickpockets), and even opsins, which were formerly thought to function exclusively as light sensors. Genetic characterizations of these Drosophila receptors and the neurons that express them also reveal the mechanisms through which flies can accurately differentiate between different stimuli even when they activate the same receptor, as well as mechanisms of adaptation, amplification, and sensory integration. The insights gleaned from studies in flies have been highly influential in directing investigations in many other animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig Montell
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, The Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
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48
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Vulpe A, Kim HS, Ballou S, Wu ST, Grabe V, Nava Gonzales C, Liang T, Sachse S, Jeanne JM, Su CY, Menuz K. An ammonium transporter is a non-canonical olfactory receptor for ammonia. Curr Biol 2021; 31:3382-3390.e7. [PMID: 34111404 PMCID: PMC8355169 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Numerous hematophagous insects are attracted to ammonia, a volatile released in human sweat and breath.1-3 Low levels of ammonia also attract non-biting insects such as the genetic model organism Drosophila melanogaster and several species of agricultural pests.4,5 Two families of ligand-gated ion channels function as olfactory receptors in insects,6-10 and studies have linked ammonia sensitivity to a particular olfactory receptor in Drosophila.5,11,12 Given the widespread importance of ammonia to insect behavior, it is surprising that the genomes of most insects lack an ortholog of this gene.6 Here, we show that canonical olfactory receptors are not necessary for responses to ammonia in Drosophila. Instead, we demonstrate that a member of the ancient electrogenic ammonium transporter family, Amt, is likely a new type of olfactory receptor. We report two hitherto unidentified olfactory neuron populations that mediate neuronal and behavioral responses to ammonia in Drosophila. Their endogenous ammonia responses are lost in Amt mutant flies, and ectopic expression of either Drosophila or Anopheles Amt confers ammonia sensitivity. These results suggest that Amt is the first transporter known to function as an olfactory receptor in animals and that its function may be conserved across insect species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Vulpe
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Hyong S Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Sydney Ballou
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Shiuan-Tze Wu
- Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Veit Grabe
- Department of Evolutionary Neuroethology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena 07745, Germany
| | - Cesar Nava Gonzales
- Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Tiffany Liang
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Silke Sachse
- Department of Evolutionary Neuroethology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena 07745, Germany
| | - James M Jeanne
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Chih-Ying Su
- Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Karen Menuz
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA; Connecticut Institute for Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
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49
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Wu L, Zhai X, Li L, Li Q, Liu F, Zhao H. Identification and Expression Profile of Chemosensory Genes in the Small Hive Beetle Aethina tumida. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12080661. [PMID: 34442228 PMCID: PMC8396569 DOI: 10.3390/insects12080661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aethina tumida is a parasite and predator of honeybee causing severe loss to the bee industry. No effective and environmentally friendly methods are available to control this pest at present. Chemosensory genes play key roles in insect behavior which can potentially be used as targets for developing environmentally friendly pest control agents. In this study, the putative chemosensory genes in antennae and forelegs of A. tumida involved in olfaction or contact chemical communication of adults were investigated using RNA transcriptome sequencing and PCR methods. Based on transcriptomic data, unigenes encoding 38 odorant receptors (ORs), 24 ionotropic receptors (IRs), 14 gustatory receptors (GRs), 3 sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs), 29 odorant binding proteins (OBPs), and 22 chemosensory proteins (CSPs) were identified. The analyses of tissue expression profiles revealed that genes encoding 38 ORs, 13 antennal IRs, 11 GRs, 1 SNMP, 24 OBPs, and 12 CSPs were predominately expressed in antennae. No significant differences in expression levels of these genes were found between males and females. Genes encoding 5 non-NMDA iGluRs, 3 GRs, 2 SNMPs, 5 OBPs, and 12 CSPs were predominately expressed in forelegs. RT-PCR assays for SNMPs, OBPs and CSPs further revealed that 3 OBPs (AtumOBP3, 26 and 28) and 3 CSPs (AtumCSP7, 8 and 21) were highly expressed in antennae. Our results enrich the gene inventory of A. tumida and facilitate the discovery of potential novel targets for developing new pest control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixian Wu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510260, China; (L.W.); (X.Z.); (L.L.); (Q.L.)
| | - Xin Zhai
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510260, China; (L.W.); (X.Z.); (L.L.); (Q.L.)
| | - Liangbin Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510260, China; (L.W.); (X.Z.); (L.L.); (Q.L.)
- College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510260, China; (L.W.); (X.Z.); (L.L.); (Q.L.)
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu 030801, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510260, China; (L.W.); (X.Z.); (L.L.); (Q.L.)
- Correspondence: (F.L.); (H.Z.)
| | - Hongxia Zhao
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510260, China; (L.W.); (X.Z.); (L.L.); (Q.L.)
- Correspondence: (F.L.); (H.Z.)
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50
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Koutroumpa FA, Monsempes C, François MC, Severac D, Montagné N, Meslin C, Jacquin-Joly E. Description of Chemosensory Genes in Unexplored Tissues of the Moth Spodoptera littoralis. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.678277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Illumina-based transcriptome sequencing of chemosensory organs has become a standard in deciphering the molecular bases of chemical senses in insects, especially in non-model species. A plethora of antennal transcriptomes is now available in the literature, describing large sets of chemosensory receptors and binding proteins in a diversity of species. However, little is still known on other organs such as mouthparts, legs and ovipositors, which are also known to carry chemosensory sensilla. This is the case of the noctuid Spodoptera littoralis, which has been established as a model insect species in molecular chemical ecology thanks to the description of many—but not all—chemosensory genes. To fulfill this gap, we present here an unprecedented transcriptomic survey of chemosensory tissues in this species. RNAseq from male and female proboscis, labial palps, legs and female ovipositors allowed us to annotate 115 putative chemosensory gene transcripts, including 30 novel genes in this species. Especially, we doubled the number of candidate gustatory receptor transcripts described in this species. We also evidenced ectopic expression of many chemosensory genes. Remarkably, one third of the odorant receptors were found to be expressed in the proboscis. With a total of 196 non-overlapping chemosensory genes annotated, the S. littoralis repertoire is one of the most complete in Lepidoptera. We further evaluated the expression of transcripts between males and females, pinpointing sex-specific transcripts. We identified five female-specific transcripts, including one odorant receptor, one gustatory receptor, one ionotropic receptor and one odorant-binding protein, and one male-specific gustatory receptor. Such sex-biased expression suggests that these transcripts participate in sex-specific behaviors, such as host choice for oviposition in females and/or mating partner recognition in both sexes.
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