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Zeng MZ, Zhou W, Wen SS, Wu H, Zhang Q, Fu KY, Guo WC, Shi JF. Identification and Functional Insights of Knickkopf Genes in the Larval Cuticle of Leptinotarsa decemlineata. INSECTS 2024; 15:623. [PMID: 39194827 DOI: 10.3390/insects15080623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
The Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) is a major pest of potato crops. While Knickkopf (Knk) genes are essential for insect cuticle formation, their roles in pests like L. decemlineata remain unclear. This study aims to identify and characterize Knk genes in L. decemlineata and explore their functions in larval development and cuticle integrity. We used genomic and transcriptomic databases to identify LdKnk-family genes, validated through RT-PCR and RACE. Gene expression was analyzed at various developmental stages and tissues using qRT-PCR. RNA interference (RNAi) and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were applied to determine the functional roles of these genes. Four LdKnk-family genes were identified. Spatio-temporal expression analysis indicated significant gene expression during larval molting and pupal stages, especially in the epidermis. RNAi experiments showed that silencing LdKnk and LdKnk3-5' led to reduced larval weight, cuticle thinning, and increased mortality, while LdKnk3-FL knockdown caused abnormal cuticle thickening and molting disruptions. LdKnk2 knockdown increased epicuticle and endocuticle thickness without visible phenotypic changes. The study highlights the essential roles of LdKnk-family genes in maintaining cuticle structure and integrity, suggesting their potential as targets for RNAi-based pest control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mu-Zi Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, College of Sericulture, Textile, and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, College of Sericulture, Textile, and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Shan-Shan Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, College of Sericulture, Textile, and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Hao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, College of Sericulture, Textile, and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, College of Sericulture, Textile, and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Kai-Yun Fu
- Institute of Plant Protection Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Northwestern Oasis, Ministry of Agriculture/Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety, Urumqi 830091, China
| | - Wen-Chao Guo
- Institute of Plant Protection Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Northwestern Oasis, Ministry of Agriculture/Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety, Urumqi 830091, China
| | - Ji-Feng Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, College of Sericulture, Textile, and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
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Chen J, Wu Y, Chen J, Lu H, Cheng G, Tu ZJ, Liao C, Han Q. Roles of a newly lethal cuticular structural protein, AaCPR100A, and its upstream interaction protein, G12-like, in Aedes aegypti. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 268:131704. [PMID: 38670198 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131704] [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: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Mosquitoes form a vital group of vector insects, which can transmit various diseases and filarial worms. The cuticle is a critical structure that protects mosquitoes from adverse environmental conditions and penetration resistance. Thus, cuticle proteins can be used as potential targets for controlling the mosquito population. In the present study, we found that AaCPR100A is a structural protein in the soft cuticle, which has flexibility and elasticity allowing insects to move or fly freely, of Aedes aegypti. RNA interference (RNAi) of AaCPR100A caused high mortality in Aedes aegypti larvae and adults and significantly decreased the egg hatching rate. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed that the larval microstructure had no recognizable endocuticle in AaCPR100A-deficient mosquitoes. A yeast two-hybrid assay was performed to screen proteins interacting with AaCPR100A. We verified that the G12-like protein had the strongest interaction with AaCPR100A using yeast two-hybrid and GST pull-down assays. Knockdown of G12-like transcription resulted in high mortality in Ae. aegypti larvae, but not in adults. Interestingly, RNAi of G12-like rescued the high mortality of adults caused by decreased AaCPR100A expression. Additionally, adults treated with G12-like dsRNA were found to be sensitive to low temperature, and their eggshell formation and hatching were decreased. Overall, our results demonstrated that G12-like may interacts with AaCPR100A, and both G12-like and AaCPR100A are involved in Ae. aegypti cuticle development and eggshell formation. AaCPR100A and G12-like can thus be considered newly potential targets for controlling the Ae. aegypti mosquito.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Chen
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of One Health, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Yuchen Wu
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of One Health, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Jiukai Chen
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of One Health, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Haoran Lu
- Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Gong Cheng
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhijian Jake Tu
- Department of Biochemistry and the Fralin Life Science Institute, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Chenghong Liao
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of One Health, Hainan University, Haikou, China.
| | - Qian Han
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of One Health, Hainan University, Haikou, China.
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Flaven-Pouchon J, Froschauer C, Moussian B. Dynamics of cuticle-associated transcript profiles during moulting of the bed bug Cimexlectularius. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 168:104112. [PMID: 38513961 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2024.104112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
The bed bug Cimex lectularius is a worldwide human pest. The sequenced genome allows molecular analyses of all aspects of bed bug biology. The present work was conducted to contribute to bed bug cuticle biology. As in other insect species, the C. lectularius cuticle consists of the three horizontal layers procuticle, epicuticle and envelope. To analyse the genes needed for the establishment of the stratified cuticle, we studied the expression pattern of 42 key cuticle-related genes at the transition of the penultimate nymphal stage to adult animals when a new cuticle is formed. Based on gene expression dynamics, in simplified model, we distinguish two key events during cuticle renewal in C. lectularius. First, upon blood feeding, modulation of ecdysone signalling culminates in the transcriptional activation of the transcription factor Clec-Ftz-F1 that possibly controls the expression of 32 of the 42 genes tested. Second, timed expression of Clec-Ftz-F1 seems to depend also on the insulin signalling pathway as RNA interference against transcripts of the insulin receptor delays Clec-Ftz-F1 expression and stage transition. An important observation of our transcript survey is that genes needed for the construction of the three cuticle layers are largely expressed simultaneously. Based on these data, we hypothesise a considerable synchronous mechanism of layer formation rather than a strictly sequential one. Together, this work provides a basis for functional analyses of cuticle formation in C. lectularius.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Flaven-Pouchon
- Universität Tübingen, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, Genetik der Tiere, Tübingen, Germany
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Kozisek F, Cenovic J, Armendariz S, Muthukrishnan S, Park Y, Thomas VC, Chaudhari SS. An optimized artificial blood feeding assay to study tick cuticle biology. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 168:104113. [PMID: 38527710 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2024.104113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Ticks, ectoparasitic arachnids, are prominent disease vectors impacting both humans and animals. Their unique blood-feeding phase involves significant abdominal cuticle expansion, sharing certain similarities with insects. However, vital aspects, including the mechanisms of cuticle expansion, changes in cuticular protein composition, chitin synthesis, and cuticle function, remain poorly understood. Given that the cuticle expansion is crucial for complete engorgement of the ticks, addressing these knowledge gaps is essential. Traditional tick research involving live animal hosts has inherent limitations, such as ethical concerns and host response variability. Artificial membrane feeding systems provide an alternative approach, offering controlled experimental conditions and reduced ethical dilemmas. These systems enable precise monitoring of tick attachment, feeding parameters, and pathogen acquisition. Despite the existence of various methodologies for artificial tick-feeding systems, there is a pressing need to enhance their reproducibility and effectiveness. In this context, we introduce an improved tick-feeding system that incorporates adjustments related to factors like humidity, temperature, and blood-feeding duration. These refinements markedly boost tick engorgement rates, presenting a valuable tool for in-depth investigations into tick cuticle biology and facilitating studies on molting. This refined system allows for collecting feeding ticks at specific stages, supporting research on tick cuticle biology, and evaluating chemical agents' efficacy in the engorgement process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith Kozisek
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5900, United States
| | - Jonathon Cenovic
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5900, United States
| | - Savannah Armendariz
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5900, United States
| | - Subbaratnam Muthukrishnan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Chalmers Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506, United States
| | - Yoonseong Park
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Waters Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506, United States
| | - Vinai C Thomas
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5900, United States
| | - Sujata S Chaudhari
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5900, United States.
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Yu RR, Duan JQ, Zhao XM, Abbas M, Zhang YP, Shi XK, Chen N, Zhang JZ. Knickkopf (LmKnk) is required for chitin organization in the foregut of Locusta migratoria. INSECT SCIENCE 2024. [PMID: 38214184 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
The foregut, located at the front of the digestive tract, serves a vital role in insects by storing and grinding food into small particles. The innermost layer of the foregut known as the chitinous intima, comes into direct contact with the food and acts as a protective barrier against abrasive particles. Knickkopf (Knk) is required for chitin organization in the chitinous exoskeleton, tracheae and wings. Despite its significance, little is known about the biological function of Knk in the foregut. In this study, we found that LmKnk was stably expressed in the foregut, and highly expressed before molting in Locusta migratoria. To ascertain the biological function of LmKnk in the foregut, we synthesized specific double-stranded LmKnk (dsLmKnk) and injected it into locusts. Our findings showed a significant decrease in the foregut size, along with reduced food intake and accumulation of residues in the foregut after dsLmKnk injection. Morphological observations revealed that newly formed intima became thinner and lacked chitin lamella. Furthermore, fluorescence immunohistochemistry revealed that LmKnk was located in the apical region of new intima and epithelial cells. Taken together, this study provides insights into the biological function of LmKnk in the foregut, and identifies the potential target gene for exploring biological pest management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong-Rong Yu
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Taiyuan Normal University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Jia-Qi Duan
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Taiyuan Normal University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Zhao
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Nucleic Acid Biopesticides, Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Mureed Abbas
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Nucleic Acid Biopesticides, Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Yu-Ping Zhang
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Taiyuan Normal University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Xue-Kai Shi
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Taiyuan Normal University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Nan Chen
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian-Zhen Zhang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Nucleic Acid Biopesticides, Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
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Yu A, Beck M, Merzendorfer H, Yang Q. Advances in understanding insect chitin biosynthesis. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 164:104058. [PMID: 38072083 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2023.104058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Chitin, a natural polymer of N-acetylglucosamine chains, is a principal component of the apical extracellular matrix in arthropods. Chitin microfibrils serve as structural components of natural biocomposites present in the extracellular matrix of a variety of invertebrates including sponges, molluscs, nematodes, fungi and arthropods. In this review, we summarize the frontier advances of insect chitin synthesis. More specifically, we focus on the chitin synthase (CHS), which catalyzes the key biosynthesis step. CHS is also known as an attractive insecticidal target in that this enzyme is absent in mammals, birds or plants. As no insect chitin synthase structure have been reported so far, we review recent studies on glycosyltransferase domain structures derived from fungi and oomycetes, which are conserved in CHS from all species containing chitin. Auxiliary proteins, which coordinate with CHS in chitin biosynthesis and assembly, are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ailing Yu
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, China; State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Marius Beck
- Department of Chemistry-Biology, University of Siegen, Siegen, Germany
| | - Hans Merzendorfer
- Department of Chemistry-Biology, University of Siegen, Siegen, Germany.
| | - Qing Yang
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, China; State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Zhang Y, Tan Q, Lin M, Shen C, Jin L, Li G. Dusky-like Is Critical for Morphogenesis of the Cellular Protuberances and Formation of the Cuticle in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:866. [PMID: 37372150 DOI: 10.3390/biology12060866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Dusky-like (Dyl) is a transmembrane protein containing a zona pellucida domain. Its physiological roles during metamorphosis have been well explored in Drosophila melanogaster and have also been documented in Tribolium castaneum. However, Dyl has undergone a functional shift between Diptera and Coleoptera insects. Further investigation of Dyl in other insects will be helpful to further clarify its function in insect growth and development. Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata is an important Coleoptera that causes enormous economic losses in agriculture in China. In this study, we found that the expression of Hvdyl was detectable in embryos, larvae, prepupae, pupae, and adults. We knocked down Hvdyl in third- and fourth-instar larvae and pupae with RNA interference (RNAi). RNAi of Hvdyl mainly caused two phenotypic defects. Firstly, the growth of epidermal cellular protuberances was suppressed. Injection of dsdyl (double-stranded dusky-like RNA) at the third-instar larval stage truncated the scoli throughout the thorax and abdomen and shortened the setae on the head capsules and mouthparts of the fourth-instar larvae. Introduction of dsdyl at the third- and fourth-instar stages led to misshapen pupal setae. The setae were shortened or became black nodules. Treatment with dsdyl at the larval and pupal stages resulted in deformed adults with completely suppressed wing hairs. Moreover, the knockdown of Hvdyl at the third-instar stage caused deformed larval mouthparts at the fourth-instar period. As a result, foliage consumption was inhibited, and larval growth was slowed. The results indicate that Dyl is associated with the growth of cellular protuberances throughout development and with the formation of the cuticle in H. vigintioctopunctata.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxing Zhang
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Invention and Application, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Qiao Tan
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Invention and Application, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Mengjiao Lin
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Invention and Application, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Chenhui Shen
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Invention and Application, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Lin Jin
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Invention and Application, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Guoqing Li
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Invention and Application, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
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Tan D, Hu H, Tong X, Han M, Gai T, Lou J, Yan Z, Xiong G, Lu C, Dai F. Mutation of a lepidopteran-specific PMP-like protein, BmLSPMP-like, induces a stick body shape in silkworm, Bombyx mori. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2022; 78:5334-5346. [PMID: 36039742 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lepidoptera is one of the largest orders of insects, some of which are major pests of crops and forests. The cuticles of lepidopteran pests play important roles in defense against insecticides and pathogens, and are indispensable for constructing and maintaining extracellular structures and locomotion during their life cycle. Lepidopteran-specific cuticular proteins could be potential targets for lepidopteran pest control. But information on this is limited. Our research aimed to screen the lepidopteran-specific cuticular proteins using the lepidopteran model, the silkworm, to explore the molecular mechanism underlying the involvement of cuticular proteins in body shape construction. RESULTS Positional cloning showed that BmLSPMP-like, a gene encoding a lepidopteran-specific peritrophic matrix protein (PMP) like protein which includes a peritrophin A-type chitin-binding domain (CBM_14), is responsible for the stick (sk) mutation. BmLSPMP-like is an evolutionarily conserved gene that exhibits synteny in Lepidoptera and underwent purifying selection during evolution. Expression profiles demonstrated that BmLSPMP-like is expressed in chitin-forming tissues, testis and ovary, and accumulates in the cuticle. BmLSPMP-like knockout, generated with CRISPR/Cas9, resulted in a stick-like larval body shape phenotype. Over-expression of BmLSPMP-like in the sk mutant rescued its abnormal body shape. The results showed that BmLSPMP-like may be involved in assemblage in the larval cuticle. CONCLUSION Our results suggested that the dysfunction of BmLSPMP-like may result in a stick body shape phenotype in silkworm, through the regulation of the arrangement of the chitinous laminae and cuticle thickness. Our study provides new evidence of the effects of LSPMP-likes on lepidopteran body shape formation, metamorphosis and mortality, which could be an eco-friendly target for lepidopteran pest management. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duan Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hai Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoling Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Minjin Han
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tingting Gai
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jinghou Lou
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhengwen Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Gao Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Cheng Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fangyin Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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Chen J, Zou X, Zhu W, Duan Y, Merzendorfer H, Zhao Z, Yang Q. Fatty acid binding protein is required for chitin biosynthesis in the wing of Drosophila melanogaster. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 149:103845. [PMID: 36165873 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2022.103845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Chitin, the major structural polysaccharide in arthropods such as insects and mites, is a linear polymer of N-acetylglucosamine units. The growth and development of insects are intimately coupled with chitin biosynthesis. The membrane-bound β-glycosyltransferase chitin synthase is known to catalyze the key polymerization step of N-acetylglucosamine. However, the additional proteins that might assist chitin synthase during chitin biosynthesis are not well understood. Recently, fatty acid binding protein (Fabp) has been suggested as a candidate that interacts with the chitin synthase Krotzkopf verkehrt (Kkv) in Drosophila melanogaster. Here, using split-ubiquitin membrane yeast two-hybrid and pull-down assays, we have demonstrated that the Fabp-B splice variant physically interacts with Kkv in vitro. The global knockdown of Fabp in D. melanogaster using RNA interference (RNAi) induced lethality at the larval stage. Moreover, in tissue-specific RNAi experiments, silenced Fabp expression in the epidermis and tracheal system caused a lethal larval phenotype. Fabp knockdown in the wings resulted in an abnormal wing development and uneven cuticular surface. In addition to reducing the chitin content in the first longitudinal vein of wings, Fabp silencing also caused the loss of procuticle laminate structures. This study revealed that Fabp plays an important role in chitin synthesis and contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the complex insect chitin biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiqiang Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, China; Department of Entomology, MOA Key Laboratory of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xu Zou
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Weixing Zhu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2, Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Yanwei Duan
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No 7 Pengfei Road, Shenzhen, 518120, China
| | - Hans Merzendorfer
- Institute of Biology, University of Siegen, Adolf-Reichwein-Strasse 2, Siegen, 57068, Germany
| | - Zhangwu Zhao
- Department of Entomology, MOA Key Laboratory of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Qing Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, China; School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2, Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China; Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No 7 Pengfei Road, Shenzhen, 518120, China.
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Zhu W, Duan Y, Chen J, Merzendorfer H, Zou X, Yang Q. SERCA interacts with chitin synthase and participates in cuticular chitin biogenesis in Drosophila. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 145:103783. [PMID: 35525402 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2022.103783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The biogenesis of chitin, a major structural polysaccharide found in the cuticle and peritrophic matrix, is crucial for insect growth and development. Chitin synthase, a membrane-integral β-glycosyltransferase, has been identified as the core of the chitin biogenesis machinery. However, a yet unknown number of auxiliary proteins appear to assist in chitin biosynthesis, whose precise function remains elusive. Here, we identified a sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA), in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, as a chitin biogenesis-associated protein. The physical interaction between DmSERCA and epidermal chitin synthase (Krotzkopf verkehrt, Kkv) was demonstrated and analyzed using split-ubiquitin membrane yeast two-hybrid, bimolecular fluorescent complementation, pull-down, and immunoprecipitation assays. The interaction involves N-terminal regions (aa 48-81 and aa 247-33) and C-terminal regions (aa 743-783 and aa 824-859) of DmSERCA and two N-terminal regions (aa 121-179 and aa 369-539) of Kkv, all of which are predicted be transmembrane helices. While tissue-specific knock-down of DmSERCA in the epidermis caused larval and pupal lethality, the knock-down of DmSERCA in wings resulted in smaller and crinkled wings, a significant decrease in chitin deposition, and the loss of chitin lamellar structure. Although DmSERCA is well-known for its role in muscular contraction, this study reveals a novel role in chitin synthesis, contributing to our knowledge on the machinery of chitin biogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixing Zhu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2, Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Yanwei Duan
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2, Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Jiqiang Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Hans Merzendorfer
- Institute of Biology, University of Siegen, Adolf-Reichwein-Strasse 2, Siegen, 57068, Germany
| | - Xu Zou
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Qing Yang
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2, Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China; State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, China; Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No 7 Pengfei Road, Shenzhen, 518120, China.
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11
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Improving Polysaccharide-Based Chitin/Chitosan-Aerogel Materials by Learning from Genetics and Molecular Biology. MATERIALS 2022; 15:ma15031041. [PMID: 35160985 PMCID: PMC8839503 DOI: 10.3390/ma15031041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Improved wound healing of burnt skin and skin lesions, as well as medical implants and replacement products, requires the support of synthetical matrices. Yet, producing synthetic biocompatible matrices that exhibit specialized flexibility, stability, and biodegradability is challenging. Synthetic chitin/chitosan matrices may provide the desired advantages for producing specialized grafts but must be modified to improve their properties. Synthetic chitin/chitosan hydrogel and aerogel techniques provide the advantages for improvement with a bioinspired view adapted from the natural molecular toolbox. To this end, animal genetics provide deep knowledge into which molecular key factors decisively influence the properties of natural chitin matrices. The genetically identified proteins and enzymes control chitin matrix assembly, architecture, and degradation. Combining synthetic chitin matrices with critical biological factors may point to the future direction with engineering materials of specific properties for biomedical applications such as burned skin or skin blistering and extensive lesions due to genetic diseases.
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12
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Wang Y, Gao L, Moussian B. Drosophila, Chitin and Insect Pest Management. Curr Pharm Des 2021; 26:3546-3553. [PMID: 32693764 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200721002354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Insects are a great menace in agriculture and vectors of human diseases. Hence, controlling insect populations is an important issue worldwide. A common strategy to control insects is the application of insecticides. However, insecticides entail three major problems. First, insecticides are chemicals that stress ecosystems and may even be harmful to humans. Second, insecticides are often unspecific and also eradicate beneficial insect species like the honeybee. Third, insects are able to develop resistance to insecticides. Therefore, the efficient generation of new potent insecticides and their intelligent delivery are the major tasks in agriculture. In addition, acceptance or refusal in society is a major issue that has to be considered in the application of a pest management strategy. In this paper, we unify two issues: 1) we illustrate that our molecular knowledge of the chitin synthesis and organization pathways may offer new opportunities to design novel insecticides that are environmentally harmless at the same time being specific to a pest species; and 2) we advocate that the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster may serve as an excellent model of insect to study the effects of insecticides at the genetic, molecular and histology level in order to better understand their mode of action and to optimize their impact. Especially, chitin synthesis and organization proteins and enzymes are excellently dissected in the fruit fly, providing a rich source for new insecticide targets. Thus, D. melanogaster offers a cheap, efficient and fast assay system to address agricultural questions, as has been demonstrated to be the case in bio-medical research areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwen Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, 300072, Tianjin, China
| | - Lujuan Gao
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, 300072, Tianjin, China
| | - Bernard Moussian
- Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology (Ifiz), University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 15, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
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13
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Zhang R, Zhao X, Liu X, Zhang X, Yu R, Ma E, Moussian B, Zhu K, Zhang J. Effect of RNAi-mediated silencing of two Knickkopf family genes (LmKnk2 and LmKnk3) on cuticle formation and insecticide susceptibility in Locusta migratoria. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2020; 76:2907-2917. [PMID: 32358831 DOI: 10.1002/ps.5879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knickkopf (Knk) proteins play crucial roles in the formation of insect cuticle. Recent studies in the holometabolous insect red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum) have shown that three Knk genes encoding TcKnk, TcKnk2 and TcKnk3 play different but essential roles at different developmental stages and in different tissues. However, the functions of Knk genes had not been fully explored in hemimetabolous insects such as the migratory locust Locusta migratoria. RESULTS We identified three transcripts of LmKnk-like genes LmKnk2 and LmKnk3 with the full-length cDNA sequences, which were named as LmKnk2, LmKnk3-FL and LmKnk3-5'. These three transcripts were highly expressed before molting and mainly expressed in the integument. Among these genes, silencing only LmKnk3-5' by RNA interference (RNAi) caused molting defects and high mortality of the locusts. Injection of dsLmKnk3-5' dramatically decreased chitin content, but did not affect cuticle laminar ultra-structures in the integument. After the knockdown of LmKnk3-5' transcript, lipid deposition on the cuticle surface was impeded, and locusts exhibited increased susceptibility to each of four insecticides in three different classes. However, no visible phenotypic changes were observed after LmKnk2 or LmKnk3-FL was silenced by RNAi. CONCLUSION We demonstrate that LmKnk3-5' is essential for cuticle formation in L. migratoria. This contrasts the findings that the cognate protein in T. castaneum TcKnk3-5' is dispensable for cuticle formation and survival. Hence, we provide some evidence that the function of Knk-type proteins may be species-specific. We therefore think that LmKnk3-5' may be a good target for the application of RNAi-based technologies for species-specific insect pest management. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zhang
- Institute of Applied Biology and College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
- College of Life Science, Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China
| | - Xiaoming Zhao
- Institute of Applied Biology and College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiaojian Liu
- Institute of Applied Biology and College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xueyao Zhang
- Institute of Applied Biology and College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Rongrong Yu
- Institute of Applied Biology and College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Enbo Ma
- Institute of Applied Biology and College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Bernard Moussian
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, Institute of Biology Valrose, Nice, France
| | - KunYan Zhu
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Institute of Applied Biology and College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
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14
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Shao ZM, Li YJ, Zhang XR, Chu J, Ma JH, Liu ZX, Wang J, Sheng S, Wu FA. Identification and Functional Study of Chitin Metabolism and Detoxification-Related Genes in Glyphodes pyloalis Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) Based on Transcriptome Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051904. [PMID: 32164390 PMCID: PMC7084822 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Glyphodes pyloalis Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralididae) is a serious pest in the sericulture industry, which has caused damage and losses in recent years. With the widespread use of insecticides, the insecticide resistance of G. pyloalis has becomes increasingly apparent. In order to find other effective methods to control G. pyloalis, this study performed a transcriptome analysis of the midgut, integument, and whole larvae. Transcriptome data were annotated with KEGG and GO, and they have been shown to be of high quality by RT-qPCR. The different significant categories of differentially expressed genes between the midgut and the integument suggested that the transcriptome data could be used for next analysis. With the exception of Dda9 (GpCDA5), 19 genes were involved in chitin metabolism, most of which had close protein–protein interactions. Among them, the expression levels of 11 genes, including GpCHSA, GpCDA1, GpCDA2, GpCDA4, GPCHT1, GPCHT2a, GPCHT3a, GPCHT7, GpTre1, GpTre2, and GpRtv were higher in the integument than in the midgut, while the expression levels of the last eight genes, including GpCHSB, GpCDA5, GpCHT2b, GpCHT3b, GpCHT-h, GpPAGM, GpNAGK, and GpUAP, were higher in the midgut than in the integument. Moreover, 282 detoxification-related genes were identified and can be divided into 10 categories, including cytochrome P450, glutathione S-transferase, carboxylesterase, nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, aquaporin, chloride channel, methoprene-tolerant, serine protease inhibitor, sodium channel, and calcium channel. In order to further study the function of chitin metabolism-related genes, dsRNA injection knocked down the expression of GpCDA1 and GpCHT3a, resulting in the significant downregulation of its downstream genes. These results provide an overview of chitin metabolism and detoxification of G. pyloalis and lay the foundation for the effective control of this pest in the sericulture industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuo-min Shao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Yi-jiangcheng Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Xiao-rui Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Jie Chu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Jia-hui Ma
- Zhenjiang Runshen Sericulture Development Co., Ltd, Zhenjiang 212001, China;
| | - Zhi-xiang Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Jun Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
- The Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Mulberry Genetic Improvement, Ministry of Agriculture, Sericultural Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Zhenjiang 212018, China
| | - Sheng Sheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
- The Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Mulberry Genetic Improvement, Ministry of Agriculture, Sericultural Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Zhenjiang 212018, China
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (F.-a.W.)
| | - Fu-an Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, China; (Z.-m.S.); (Y.-j.L.); (X.-r.Z.); (J.C.); (Z.-x.L.); (J.W.)
- The Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Mulberry Genetic Improvement, Ministry of Agriculture, Sericultural Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Zhenjiang 212018, China
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (F.-a.W.)
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15
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Falcon T, Pinheiro DG, Ferreira-Caliman MJ, Turatti ICC, de Abreu FCP, Galaschi-Teixeira JS, Martins JR, Elias-Neto M, Soares MPM, Laure MB, Figueiredo VLC, Lopes NP, Simões ZLP, Garófalo CA, Bitondi MMG. Exploring integument transcriptomes, cuticle ultrastructure, and cuticular hydrocarbons profiles in eusocial and solitary bee species displaying heterochronic adult cuticle maturation. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0213796. [PMID: 30870522 PMCID: PMC6417726 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0213796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Differences in the timing of exoskeleton melanization and sclerotization are evident when comparing eusocial and solitary bees. This cuticular maturation heterochrony may be associated with life style, considering that eusocial bees remain protected inside the nest for many days after emergence, while the solitary bees immediately start outside activities. To address this issue, we characterized gene expression using large-scale RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), and quantified cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in comparative studies of the integument (cuticle plus its underlying epidermis) of two eusocial and a solitary bee species. In addition, we used transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for studying the developing cuticle of these and other three bee species also differing in life style. We found 13,200, 55,209 and 30,161 transcript types in the integument of the eusocial Apis mellifera and Frieseomelitta varia, and the solitary Centris analis, respectively. In general, structural cuticle proteins and chitin-related genes were upregulated in pharate-adults and newly-emerged bees whereas transcripts for odorant binding proteins, cytochrome P450 and antioxidant proteins were overrepresented in foragers. Consistent with our hypothesis, a distance correlation analysis based on the differentially expressed genes suggested delayed cuticle maturation in A. mellifera in comparison to the solitary bee. However, this was not confirmed in the comparison with F. varia. The expression profiles of 27 of 119 genes displaying functional attributes related to cuticle formation/differentiation were positively correlated between A. mellifera and F. varia, and negatively or non-correlated with C. analis, suggesting roles in cuticular maturation heterochrony. However, we also found transcript profiles positively correlated between each one of the eusocial species and C. analis. Gene co-expression networks greatly differed between the bee species, but we identified common gene interactions exclusively between the eusocial species. Except for F. varia, the TEM analysis is consistent with cuticle development timing adapted to the social or solitary life style. In support to our hypothesis, the absolute quantities of n-alkanes and unsaturated CHCs were significantly higher in foragers than in the earlier developmental phases of the eusocial bees, but did not discriminate newly-emerged from foragers in C. analis. By highlighting differences in integument gene expression, cuticle ultrastructure, and CHC profiles between eusocial and solitary bees, our data provided insights into the process of heterochronic cuticle maturation associated to the way of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Falcon
- Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Núcleo de Bioinformática, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Daniel G. Pinheiro
- Departamento de Tecnologia, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista “Júlio de Mesquita Filho”, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Maria Juliana Ferreira-Caliman
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Izabel C. C. Turatti
- Departamento de Física e Química, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Fabiano C. Pinto de Abreu
- Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Juliana S. Galaschi-Teixeira
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Juliana R. Martins
- Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Moysés Elias-Neto
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Michelle P. M. Soares
- Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Marcela B. Laure
- Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Vera L. C. Figueiredo
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Norberto Peporine Lopes
- Departamento de Física e Química, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Zilá L. P. Simões
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Carlos A. Garófalo
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Márcia M. G. Bitondi
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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16
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Baudouin-Gonzalez L, Santos MA, Tempesta C, Sucena É, Roch F, Tanaka K. Diverse Cis-Regulatory Mechanisms Contribute to Expression Evolution of Tandem Gene Duplicates. Mol Biol Evol 2018; 34:3132-3147. [PMID: 28961967 PMCID: PMC5850857 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msx237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pairs of duplicated genes generally display a combination of conserved expression patterns inherited from their unduplicated ancestor and newly acquired domains. However, how the cis-regulatory architecture of duplicated loci evolves to produce these expression patterns is poorly understood. We have directly examined the gene-regulatory evolution of two tandem duplicates, the Drosophila Ly6 genes CG9336 and CG9338, which arose at the base of the drosophilids between 40 and 60 Ma. Comparing the expression patterns of the two paralogs in four Drosophila species with that of the unduplicated ortholog in the tephritid Ceratitis capitata, we show that they diverged from each other as well as from the unduplicated ortholog. Moreover, the expression divergence appears to have occurred close to the duplication event and also more recently in a lineage-specific manner. The comparison of the tissue-specific cis-regulatory modules (CRMs) controlling the paralog expression in the four Drosophila species indicates that diverse cis-regulatory mechanisms, including the novel tissue-specific enhancers, differential inactivation, and enhancer sharing, contributed to the expression evolution. Our analysis also reveals a surprisingly variable cis-regulatory architecture, in which the CRMs driving conserved expression domains change in number, location, and specificity. Altogether, this study provides a detailed historical account that uncovers a highly dynamic picture of how the paralog expression patterns and their underlying cis-regulatory landscape evolve. We argue that our findings will encourage studying cis-regulatory evolution at the whole-locus level to understand how interactions between enhancers and other regulatory levels shape the evolution of gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luís Baudouin-Gonzalez
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal.,Centre de Biologie du Développement, Centre de Biologie Intégrative, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, France
| | | | - Camille Tempesta
- Centre de Biologie du Développement, Centre de Biologie Intégrative, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, France
| | - Élio Sucena
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal.,Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Fernando Roch
- Centre de Biologie du Développement, Centre de Biologie Intégrative, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, France
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17
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Li K, Zhang X, Zuo Y, Liu W, Zhang J, Moussian B. Timed Knickkopf function is essential for wing cuticle formation in Drosophila melanogaster. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 89:1-10. [PMID: 28821399 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The insect cuticle is an extracellular matrix that consists of the polysaccharide chitin, proteins, lipids and organic molecules that are arranged in distinct horizontal layers. In Drosophila melanogaster, these layers are not formed sequentially, but, at least partially, at the same time. Timing of the underlying molecular mechanisms is conceivably crucial for cuticle formation. To study this issue, we determined the time period during which the function of Knickkopf (Knk), a key factor of chitin organization, is required for wing cuticle differentiation in D. melanogaster. Although knk is expressed throughout metamorphosis, we demonstrate that its expression 30 h prior and 48 h after pupariation is essential for correct wing cuticle formation. In other words, expression beyond this period is futile. Importantly, manipulation of Knk expression during this time causes wing bending suggesting an effect of Knk amounts on the physical properties of the wing cuticle. Manipulation of Knk expression also interferes with the structure and function of the cuticle surface. First, we show that the shape of surface nano-structures depends on the expression levels of knk. Second, we find that cuticle impermeability is compromised in wings with reduced knk expression. In summary, despite the extended supply of Knk during metamorphosis, controlled amounts of Knk are important for correct wing cuticle differentiation and function in a concise period of time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaixia Li
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China; College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
| | - Xubo Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
| | - Ying Zuo
- Scientific Instrument Center, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
| | - Weimin Liu
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China.
| | - Bernard Moussian
- Institute of Biology Valrose, University of Nice, France & Applied Zoology, TU Dresden, Germany.
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18
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Body Shape and Coloration of Silkworm Larvae Are Influenced by a Novel Cuticular Protein. Genetics 2017; 207:1053-1066. [PMID: 28923848 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.117.300300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The genetic basis of body shape and coloration patterns on caterpillars is often assumed to be regulated separately, but it is possible that common molecules affect both types of trait simultaneously. Here we examine the genetic basis of a spontaneous cuticle defect in silkworm, where larvae exhibit a bamboo-like body shape and decreased pigmentation. We performed linkage mapping and mutation screening to determine the gene product that affects body shape and coloration simultaneously. In these mutant larvae we identified a null mutation in BmorCPH24, a gene encoding a cuticular protein with low complexity sequence. Spatiotemporal expression analyses showed that BmorCPH24 is expressed in the larval epidermis postecdysis. RNAi-mediated knockdown and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of BmorCPH24 produced the abnormal body shape and the inhibited pigment typical of the mutant phenotype. In addition, our results showed that BmorCPH24 may be involved in the synthesis of endocuticle and its disruption-induced apoptosis of epidermal cells that accompanied the reduced expression of R&R-type larval cuticle protein genes and pigmentation gene Wnt1 Strikingly, BmorCPH24, a fast-evolving gene, has evolved a new function responsible for the assembly of silkworm larval cuticle and has evolved to be an indispensable factor maintaining the larval body shape and its coloration pattern. This is the first study to identify a molecule whose pleiotropic function affects the development of body shape and color patterns in insect larvae.
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19
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Qu M, Ren Y, Liu Y, Yang Q. Studies on the chitin/chitosan binding properties of six cuticular proteins analogous to peritrophin 3 from Bombyx mori. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 26:432-439. [PMID: 28432772 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Chitin deacetylation is required to make the cuticle rigid and compact through chitin chain crosslinking. Thus it is presumed that specialized proteins are required to bind deacetylated chitin chains together. However, deacetylated-chitin binding proteins have not ever been reported. In a previous work, six cuticular proteins analogous to peritrophin 3 (CPAP3s) were found to be abundant in the moulting fluid of Bombyx mori. In this study, these BmCPAP3s (BmCPAP3-A1, BmCPAP3-A2, BmCPAP3-B, BmCPAP3-C, BmCPAP3-D1 and BmCPAP3-D2) were cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli and purified using metal-chelating affinity chromatography. Their binding activities demonstrated that although all of the BmCPAP3s showed similar binding abilities toward crystalline chitin and colloidal chitin, they differed in their affinities toward partially and fully deacetylated chitin. Amongst them, BmCPAP3-D1 exhibited the highest binding activity toward deacetylated chitin. The gene expression pattern of BmCPAP3-D1 was similar to BmCPAP3-A1 and BmCPAP3-C at most stages except that it was dramatically upregulated at the beginning of the pupa to adult transition stage. This work is the first report of a chitin-binding protein, BmCPAP3-D1, which exhibits high binding affinity to deacetylated chitin.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Y Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Y Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Q Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
- Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
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20
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Khan FI, Bisetty K, Singh S, Permaul K, Hassan MI. Chitinase from Thermomyces lanuginosus SSBP and its biotechnological applications. Extremophiles 2016; 19:1055-66. [PMID: 26462798 DOI: 10.1007/s00792-015-0792-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 10/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Chitinases are ubiquitous class of extracellular enzymes, which have gained attention in the past few years due to their wide biotechnological applications. The effectiveness of conventional insecticides is increasingly compromised by the occurrence of resistance; thus, chitinase offers a potential alternative to the use of chemical fungicides. The thermostable enzymes from thermophilic microorganisms have numerous industrial, medical, environmental and biotechnological applications due to their high stability for temperature and pH. Thermomyces lanuginosus produced a large number of chitinases, of which chitinase I and II are successfully cloned and purified recently. Molecular dynamic simulations revealed that the stability of these enzymes are maintained even at higher temperature. In this review article we have focused on chitinases from different sources, mainly fungal chitinase of T. lanuginosus and its industrial application.
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miR-71 and miR-263 Jointly Regulate Target Genes Chitin synthase and Chitinase to Control Locust Molting. PLoS Genet 2016; 12:e1006257. [PMID: 27532544 PMCID: PMC4988631 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1006257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chitin synthase and chitinase play crucial roles in chitin biosynthesis and degradation during insect molting. Silencing of Dicer-1 results in reduced levels of mature miRNAs and severely blocks molting in the migratory locust. However, the regulatory mechanism of miRNAs in the molting process of locusts has remained elusive. In this study, we found that in chitin metabolism, two crucial enzymes, chitin synthase (CHS) and chitinase (CHT) were regulated by miR-71 and miR-263 during nymph molting. The coding sequence of CHS1 and the 3'-untranslated region of CHT10 contain functional binding sites for miR-71 and miR-263, respectively. miR-71/miR-263 displayed cellular co-localization with their target genes in epidermal cells and directly interacted with CHS1 and CHT10 in the locust integument, respectively. Injections of miR-71 and miR-263 agomirs suppressed the expression of CHS1 and CHT10, which consequently altered chitin production of new and old cuticles and resulted in a molting-defective phenotype in locusts. Unexpectedly, reduced expression of miR-71 and miR-263 increased CHS1 and CHT10 mRNA expression and led to molting defects similar to those induced by miRNA delivery. This study reveals a novel function and balancing modulation pattern of two miRNAs in chitin biosynthesis and degradation, and it provides insight into the underlying molecular mechanisms of the molting process in locusts.
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22
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Sobala LF, Adler PN. The Gene Expression Program for the Formation of Wing Cuticle in Drosophila. PLoS Genet 2016; 12:e1006100. [PMID: 27232182 PMCID: PMC4883753 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1006100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The cuticular exoskeleton of insects and other arthropods is a remarkably versatile material with a complex multilayer structure. We made use of the ability to isolate cuticle synthesizing cells in relatively pure form by dissecting pupal wings and we used RNAseq to identify genes expressed during the formation of the adult wing cuticle. We observed dramatic changes in gene expression during cuticle deposition, and combined with transmission electron microscopy, we were able to identify candidate genes for the deposition of the different cuticular layers. Among genes of interest that dramatically change their expression during the cuticle deposition program are ones that encode cuticle proteins, ZP domain proteins, cuticle modifying proteins and transcription factors, as well as genes of unknown function. A striking finding is that mutations in a number of genes that are expressed almost exclusively during the deposition of the envelope (the thin outermost layer that is deposited first) result in gross defects in the procuticle (the thick chitinous layer that is deposited last). An attractive hypothesis to explain this is that the deposition of the different cuticle layers is not independent with the envelope instructing the formation of later layers. Alternatively, some of the genes expressed during the deposition of the envelope could form a platform that is essential for the deposition of all cuticle layers. Insects and other arthropods are an extremely successful group of animals. A unique and key feature of their lifestyle is their chitin containing cuticular exoskeleton, a complex layered material, which remains rather poorly understood for so prominent of a biological material. We have characterized the gene expression pattern of wing epithelial cells over the period of cuticle formation and also carried out transmission electron microscopy, which allows us to identify genes that likely play a role in the formation of different cuticle layers. Functional studies suggest that the deposition of the earliest layer influences the deposition of the later ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukasz F. Sobala
- Biology Department and Cell Biology Department, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Paul N. Adler
- Biology Department and Cell Biology Department, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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23
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Duan J, Ladd T, Doucet D, Cusson M, vanFrankenhuyzen K, Mittapalli O, Krell PJ, Quan G. Transcriptome Analysis of the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis: De Novo Assembly, Functional Annotation and Comparative Analysis. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0134824. [PMID: 26244979 PMCID: PMC4526369 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0134824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis, is an invasive phloem-feeding insect pest of ash trees. Since its initial discovery near the Detroit, US- Windsor, Canada area in 2002, the spread of EAB has had strong negative economic, social and environmental impacts in both countries. Several transcriptomes from specific tissues including midgut, fat body and antenna have recently been generated. However, the relatively low sequence depth, gene coverage and completeness limited the usefulness of these EAB databases. Methodology and Principal Findings High-throughput deep RNA-Sequencing (RNA-Seq) was used to obtain 473.9 million pairs of 100 bp length paired-end reads from various life stages and tissues. These reads were assembled into 88,907 contigs using the Trinity strategy and integrated into 38,160 unigenes after redundant sequences were removed. We annotated 11,229 unigenes by searching against the public nr, Swiss-Prot and COG. The EAB transcriptome assembly was compared with 13 other sequenced insect species, resulting in the prediction of 536 unigenes that are Coleoptera-specific. Differential gene expression revealed that 290 unigenes are expressed during larval molting and 3,911 unigenes during metamorphosis from larvae to pupae, respectively (FDR< 0.01 and log2 FC>2). In addition, 1,167 differentially expressed unigenes were identified from larval and adult midguts, 435 unigenes were up-regulated in larval midgut and 732 unigenes were up-regulated in adult midgut. Most of the genes involved in RNA interference (RNAi) pathways were identified, which implies the existence of a system RNAi in EAB. Conclusions and Significance This study provides one of the most fundamental and comprehensive transcriptome resources available for EAB to date. Identification of the tissue- stage- or species- specific unigenes will benefit the further study of gene functions during growth and metamorphosis processes in EAB and other pest insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Duan
- Great Lakes Forestry Centre, Canadian Forest Service, Natural Resources Canada, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tim Ladd
- Great Lakes Forestry Centre, Canadian Forest Service, Natural Resources Canada, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel Doucet
- Great Lakes Forestry Centre, Canadian Forest Service, Natural Resources Canada, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michel Cusson
- Laurentian Forestry Centre, Canadian Forest Service, Natural Resources Canada, Québec City, Québec, Canada
- Département de biochimie, de microbiologie et bio-informatique, Université Laval Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Kees vanFrankenhuyzen
- Great Lakes Forestry Centre, Canadian Forest Service, Natural Resources Canada, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada
| | - Omprakash Mittapalli
- Department of Entomology, Ohio Agricultural and Research Development Center, The Ohio State University, Wooster, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Peter J. Krell
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Guoxing Quan
- Great Lakes Forestry Centre, Canadian Forest Service, Natural Resources Canada, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Jacobs CGC, Braak N, Lamers GEM, van der Zee M. Elucidation of the serosal cuticle machinery in the beetle Tribolium by RNA sequencing and functional analysis of Knickkopf1, Retroactive and Laccase2. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2015; 60:7-12. [PMID: 25747006 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2015.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2014] [Revised: 02/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/23/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Insects have been extraordinary successful in colonizing terrestrial habitats and this success is partly due to a protective cuticle that mainly contains chitin and proteins. The cuticle has been well studied in larvae and adults, but little attention has been paid to the cuticle of the egg. This cuticle is secreted by the serosa, an extraembryonic epithelium that surrounds the yolk and embryo in all insect eggs, but was lost in the Schizophoran flies to which Drosophila belongs. We therefore set out to investigate serosal cuticle formation and function in a beetle (Tribolium castaneum) using RNAi-mediated knockdown of three candidate genes known to structure chitin in the adult cuticle, and we aimed to identify other serosal cuticle genes using RNA sequencing. Knockdown of Knickkopf (TcKnk-1) or Retroactive (TcRtv) affects the laminar structure of the serosal cuticle, as revealed by Transmission Electron Microscopy in knockdown eggs. In the absence of this laminar structure, significantly fewer eggs survive at low humidity compared to wild-type eggs. Survival in dry conditions is also adversely affected when cross-linking among proteins and chitin is prevented by Laccase2 (TcLac-2) RNAi. Finally, we compare the transcriptomes of wild-type eggs to serosa-less eggs and find serosa-biased expression of 21 cuticle-related genes including structural components, chitin deacetylases and chitinases. Our data indicate that the serosal cuticle utilizes the same machinery for structuring the cuticle as adults. We demonstrate that the structure of the cuticle is crucial for desiccation resistance, and we put forward the serosal cuticle of Tribolium as an excellent model to study the ecological properties of the insect cuticle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris G C Jacobs
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333BE Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Nora Braak
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333BE Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Gerda E M Lamers
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333BE Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Maurijn van der Zee
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333BE Leiden, The Netherlands.
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25
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Chaudhari SS, Noh MY, Moussian B, Specht CA, Kramer KJ, Beeman RW, Arakane Y, Muthukrishnan S. Knickkopf and retroactive proteins are required for formation of laminar serosal procuticle during embryonic development of Tribolium castaneum. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2015; 60:1-6. [PMID: 25747009 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2015.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Revised: 01/25/2015] [Accepted: 02/23/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Chitin, a homopolymer of β-1-4-linked N-acetylglucosamine synthesized by chitin synthase A (Chs-A), is organized in the procuticle of the postembryonic cuticle or exoskeleton, which is composed of laminae stacked parallel to the cell surface to give stability and integrity to the underlying insect epidermal and other tissues. Our previous work has revealed an important role for two proteins from Tribolium castaneum named Knickkopf (TcKnk) and Retroactive (TcRtv) in postembryonic cuticular chitin maintenance. TcKnk and TcRtv were shown to be required for protection and organization of newly synthesized procuticular chitin. To study the functions of TcKnk and TcRtv in serosal and larval cuticles produced during embryogenesis in T. castaneum, dsRNAs specific for these two genes were injected into two week-old adult females. The effects of dsRNA treatment on ovarial integrity, oviposition, egg hatching and adult survival were determined. Insects treated with dsRNA for chitin synthase-A (TcChs-A) and tryptophan oxygenase (TcVer) were used as positive and negative controls for these experiments, respectively. Like TcChs-A RNAi, injection of dsRNA for TcKnk or TcRtv into adult females exhibited no adult lethality and oviposition was normal. However, a vast majority of the embryos did not hatch. The remaining (∼10%) of the embryos hatched into first instar larvae that died without molting to the second instar. Chitin content analysis following TcKnk and TcRtv parental RNAi revealed approximately 50% reduction in chitin content of eggs in comparison with control TcVer RNAi, whereas TcChs-A dsRNA-treatment led to >90% loss of chitin. Furthermore, transmission electron microscopic (TEM) analysis of serosal cuticle from TcChs-A, TcKnk and TcRtv dsRNA-treated insects revealed a complete absence of laminar organization of serosal (and larval) procuticle in comparison with TcVer dsRNA-treated controls, which exhibited normal laminar organization of procuticular chitin. The results of this study demonstrate that in addition to their essential roles in maintenance and organization of chitin in epidermal cuticle in larval and later stages of insect development, TcKnk and TcRtv also are required for egg hatch, chitin maintenance and laminar organization of both serosal and larval cuticle during embryonic development of T. castaneum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujata S Chaudhari
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, 141 Chalmers Hall, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
| | - Mi Young Noh
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 500-757, Republic of Korea
| | - Bernard Moussian
- Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, Animal Genetics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Charles A Specht
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Karl J Kramer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, 141 Chalmers Hall, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Richard W Beeman
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, 123 W. Waters Hall, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Yasuyuki Arakane
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 500-757, Republic of Korea.
| | - Subbaratnam Muthukrishnan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, 141 Chalmers Hall, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
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26
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Molecular characterisation and functional analysis of LsChi2, a chitinase found in the salmon louse (Lepeophtheirus salmonis salmonis, Krøyer 1838). Exp Parasitol 2015; 151-152:39-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2015.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2014] [Revised: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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27
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Tanaka K, Diekmann Y, Hazbun A, Hijazi A, Vreede B, Roch F, Sucena É. Multispecies Analysis of Expression Pattern Diversification in the Recently Expanded Insect Ly6 Gene Family. Mol Biol Evol 2015; 32:1730-47. [PMID: 25743545 PMCID: PMC4476152 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msv052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene families often consist of members with diverse expression domains reflecting their functions in a wide variety of tissues. However, how the expression of individual members, and thus their tissue-specific functions, diversified during the course of gene family expansion is not well understood. In this study, we approached this question through the analysis of the duplication history and transcriptional evolution of a rapidly expanding subfamily of insect Ly6 genes. We analyzed different insect genomes and identified seven Ly6 genes that have originated from a single ancestor through sequential duplication within the higher Diptera. We then determined how the original embryonic expression pattern of the founding gene diversified by characterizing its tissue-specific expression in the beetle Tribolium castaneum, the butterfly Bicyclus anynana, and the mosquito Anopheles stephensi and those of its duplicates in three higher dipteran species, representing various stages of the duplication history (Megaselia abdita, Ceratitis capitata, and Drosophila melanogaster). Our results revealed that frequent neofunctionalization episodes contributed to the increased expression breadth of this subfamily and that these events occurred after duplication and speciation events at comparable frequencies. In addition, at each duplication node, we consistently found asymmetric expression divergence. One paralog inherited most of the tissue-specificities of the founder gene, whereas the other paralog evolved drastically reduced expression domains. Our approach attests to the power of combining a well-established duplication history with a comprehensive coverage of representative species in acquiring unequivocal information about the dynamics of gene expression evolution in gene families.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Assia Hijazi
- Centre de Biologie du Développement, CNRS UMR 5547, Université de Toulouse UPS, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Fernando Roch
- Centre de Biologie du Développement, CNRS UMR 5547, Université de Toulouse UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Élio Sucena
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Edifício C2, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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28
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Pesch YY, Riedel D, Behr M. Obstructor A organizes matrix assembly at the apical cell surface to promote enzymatic cuticle maturation in Drosophila. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:10071-82. [PMID: 25737451 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.614933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Assembly and maturation of the apical extracellular matrix (aECM) is crucial for protecting organisms, but underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. Epidermal cells secrete proteins and enzymes that assemble at the apical cell surface to provide epithelial integrity and stability during developmental growth and upon tissue damage. We analyzed molecular mechanisms of aECM assembly and identified the conserved chitin-binding protein Obst-A (Obstructor A) as an essential regulator. We show in Drosophila that Obst-A is required to coordinate protein and chitin matrix packaging at the apical cell surface during development. Secreted by epidermal cells, the Obst-A protein is specifically enriched in the apical assembly zone where matrix components are packaged into their highly ordered architecture. In obst-A null mutant larvae, the assembly zone is strongly diminished, resulting in severe disturbance of matrix scaffold organization and impaired aECM integrity. Furthermore, enzymes that support aECM stability are mislocalized. As a biological consequence, cuticle architecture, integrity, and function are disturbed in obst-A mutants, finally resulting in immediate lethality upon wounding. Our studies identify a new core organizing center, the assembly zone that controls aECM assembly at the apical cell surface. We propose a genetically conserved molecular mechanism by which Obst-A forms a matrix scaffold to coordinate trafficking and localization of proteins and enzymes in the newly deposited aECM. This mechanism is essential for maturation and stabilization of the aECM in a growing and remodeling epithelial tissue as an outermost barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanina-Yasmin Pesch
- From the Department of Molecular Developmental Biology, Life & Medical Sciences Institute (LIMES), University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany, the Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Translational Centre for Regenerative Medicine (TRM), University of Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany, and
| | - Dietmar Riedel
- the Electron Microscopy Group, Max-Planck-Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Matthias Behr
- From the Department of Molecular Developmental Biology, Life & Medical Sciences Institute (LIMES), University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany, the Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Translational Centre for Regenerative Medicine (TRM), University of Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany, and
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29
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Zhang J, Lu A, Kong L, Zhang Q, Ling E. Functional analysis of insect molting fluid proteins on the protection and regulation of ecdysis. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:35891-906. [PMID: 25368323 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.599597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Molting fluid accumulates between the old and new cuticles during periodical ecdysis in Ecdysozoa. Natural defects in insect ecdysis are frequently associated with melanization (an immunity response) occurring primarily in molting fluids, suggesting that molting fluid may impact immunity as well as affect ecdysis. To address this hypothesis, proteomic analysis of molting fluids from Bombyx mori during three different types of ecdysis was performed. Many proteins were newly identified, including immunity-related proteins, in each molting fluid. Molting fluids inhibited the growth of bacteria in vitro. The entomopathogenic fungi Beauveria bassiana, which can escape immune responses in feeding larvae, is quickly recognized by larvae during ecdysis, followed by melanization in molting fluid and old cuticle. Fungal conidia germination was delayed, and no hyphae were detected in the hemocoels of pharate instar insects. Molting fluids protect the delicate pharate instar insects with extremely thin cuticles against microorganisms. To explore the function of molting fluids in ecdysis regulation, based on protein similarity, 32 genes were selected for analysis in ecdysis regulation through RNAi in Tribolium castaneum, a model commonly used to study integument development because RNAi is difficult to achieve in B. mori. We identified 24 molting proteins that affected ecdysis after knockdown, with different physiological functions, including old cuticle protein recycling, molting fluid pressure balance, detoxification, and signal detection and transfer of molting fluids. We report that insects secrete molting fluid for protection and regulation of ecdysis, which indicates a way to develop new pesticides through interrupting insect ecdysis in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- From the Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China and
| | - Anrui Lu
- From the Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China and
| | - Lulu Kong
- the College of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiaotong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Qiaoli Zhang
- From the Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China and
| | - Erjun Ling
- From the Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China and
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30
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Chaudhari SS, Moussian B, Specht CA, Arakane Y, Kramer KJ, Beeman RW, Muthukrishnan S. Functional specialization among members of Knickkopf family of proteins in insect cuticle organization. PLoS Genet 2014; 10:e1004537. [PMID: 25144557 PMCID: PMC4140639 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1004537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Accepted: 06/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Our recent study on the functional analysis of the Knickkopf protein from T. castaneum (TcKnk), indicated a novel role for this protein in protection of chitin from degradation by chitinases. Knk is also required for the laminar organization of chitin in the procuticle. During a bioinformatics search using this protein sequence as the query, we discovered the existence of a small family of three Knk-like genes (including the prototypical TcKnk) in the T. castaneum genome as well as in all insects with completed genome assemblies. The two additional Knk-like genes have been named TcKnk2 and TcKnk3. Further complexity arises as a result of alternative splicing and alternative polyadenylation of transcripts of TcKnk3, leading to the production of three transcripts (and by inference, three proteins) from this gene. These transcripts are named TcKnk3-Full Length (TcKnk3-FL), TcKnk3-5' and TcKnk3-3'. All three Knk-family genes appear to have essential and non-redundant functions. RNAi for TcKnk led to developmental arrest at every molt, while down-regulation of either TcKnk2 or one of the three TcKnk3 transcripts (TcKnk3-3') resulted in specific molting arrest only at the pharate adult stage. All three Knk genes appear to influence the total chitin content at the pharate adult stage, but to variable extents. While TcKnk contributes mostly to the stability and laminar organization of chitin in the elytral and body wall procuticles, proteins encoded by TcKnk2 and TcKnk3-3' transcripts appear to be required for the integrity of the body wall denticles and tracheal taenidia, but not the elytral and body wall procuticles. Thus, the three members of the Knk-family of proteins perform different essential functions in cuticle formation at different developmental stages and in different parts of the insect anatomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujata S Chaudhari
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Bernard Moussian
- Department of Animal Genetics, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Charles A Specht
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Yasuyuki Arakane
- Division of Plant Biotechnology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Karl J Kramer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Richard W Beeman
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Subbaratnam Muthukrishnan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
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Shaik KS, Wang Y, Aravind L, Moussian B. The Knickkopf DOMON domain is essential for cuticle differentiation in Drosophila melanogaster. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2014; 86:100-106. [PMID: 24723222 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The dopamine monoxygenase N-terminal (DOMON) domain is found in extracellular proteins across several eukaryotic and prokaryotic taxa. It has been proposed that this domain binds to heme or sugar moieties. Here, we have analyzed the role of four highly conserved amino acids in the DOMON domain of the Drosophila melanogaster Knickkopf protein that is inserted into the apical plasma membrane and assists extracellular chitin organization. In principal, we generated Knickkopf versions with exchanged residues tryptophan(299), methionine(333), arginine(401), or histidine(437), and scored for the ability of the respective engineered protein to normalize the knickkopf mutant phenotype. Our results confirm the absolute necessity of tryptophan(299), methionine(333), and histidine(437) for Knickkopf function and stability, the latter two being predicted to be critical for heme binding. In contrast, arginine(401) is required for full efficiency of Knickkopf activity. Taken together, our genetic data support the prediction of these residues to mediate the function of Knickkopf during cuticle differentiation in insects. Hence, the DOMON domain is apparently an essential factor contributing to the construction of polysaccharide-based extracellular matrices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaleelulla Saheb Shaik
- Genetik der Tiere, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, Eberhard-Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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Mutation of a cuticular protein, BmorCPR2, alters larval body shape and adaptability in silkworm, Bombyx mori. Genetics 2014; 196:1103-15. [PMID: 24514903 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.113.158766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cuticular proteins (CPs) are crucial components of the insect cuticle. Although numerous genes encoding cuticular proteins have been identified in known insect genomes to date, their functions in maintaining insect body shape and adaptability remain largely unknown. In the current study, positional cloning led to the identification of a gene encoding an RR1-type cuticular protein, BmorCPR2, highly expressed in larval chitin-rich tissues and at the mulberry leaf-eating stages, which is responsible for the silkworm stony mutant. In the Dazao-stony strain, the BmorCPR2 allele is a deletion mutation with significantly lower expression, compared to the wild-type Dazao strain. Dysfunctional BmorCPR2 in the stony mutant lost chitin binding ability, leading to reduced chitin content in larval cuticle, limitation of cuticle extension, abatement of cuticle tensile properties, and aberrant ratio between internodes and intersegmental folds. These variations induce a significant decrease in cuticle capacity to hold the growing internal organs in the larval development process, resulting in whole-body stiffness, tightness, and hardness, bulging intersegmental folds, and serious defects in larval adaptability. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report the corresponding phenotype of stony in insects caused by mutation of RR1-type cuticular protein. Our findings collectively shed light on the specific role of cuticular proteins in maintaining normal larval body shape and will aid in the development of pest control strategies for the management of Lepidoptera.
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