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Wang D, Li M, Ma J, Wang X, Liu J. Effects of temperature on cathepsin B, cathepsin D and acid phosphatase during embryo development of the hard tick Haemaphysalis longicornis. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2023; 89:105-115. [PMID: 36656390 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-022-00774-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The effects of temperature on the expression patterns and enzyme activity of cathepsin B (HlCatB), cathepsin D (HlCatD) and acid phosphatase (HlACP) during the embryo development of Haemaphysalis longicornis (bisexual population) were investigated in this study. Eggs were exposed to 20 °C (low temperature), 26 °C (normal temperature), and 30 °C (high temperature) immediately after laying, and collected on odd days of embryo development to measure HlCatB, HlCatD and HlACP gene expression using quantitative real-time PCR, as well as three enzyme activities using spectrophotometry. Then the associations between mRNA expression levels of three enzymes and their enzyme activities were assessed. Compared with normal temperature, the mRNA expression peaks of HlCatB were higher and appeared later at low and high temperatures and the activity of HlCatB increased on most days of embryonic development at high temperature. As for HlCatD, the expression peak appeared later at low temperature, but earlier at high temperature. The activity peaks of HlCatD were lower and appeared earlier at low and high temperatures. As for HlACP, the expression peak was higher and appeared later at low temperature, whereas it formed no prominent peak at high temperature. The activity peak of HlACP was higher at low temperature, but lower at high temperature. The linear regression analysis showed that activities of three enzymes were associated with their mRNA expression levels (P < 0.05). Three enzymes are involved in the embryo adaptation to temperature stress. Moreover, the mRNA expression level may be another factor affecting its enzyme activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duo Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Hebei province, 050024, Shijiazhuang, Hebei province, China
| | - Mengmeng Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Hebei province, 050024, Shijiazhuang, Hebei province, China
| | - Jingyi Ma
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Hebei province, 050024, Shijiazhuang, Hebei province, China
| | - Xuanxuan Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Hebei province, 050024, Shijiazhuang, Hebei province, China
| | - Jingze Liu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Hebei province, 050024, Shijiazhuang, Hebei province, China.
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2
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Qin S, Zhu B, Huang X, Hull JJ, Chen L, Luo J. Functional Role of AsAP in the Reproduction of Adelphocoris suturalis (Hemiptera: Miridae). INSECTS 2022; 13:755. [PMID: 36005380 PMCID: PMC9409435 DOI: 10.3390/insects13080755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Adelphocoris suturalis Jakovlev (Hemiptera: Miridae) is an omnivorous agricultural pest that has severe economic impacts on a diverse range of agricultural crops. Although the targeted disruption of reproductive development among insects has been proposed as a novel control strategy for pest species, the current understanding of the physiology and molecular mechanisms of A. suturalis reproduction is very limited. In this study, we isolated a putative A. suturalisaspartic protease (AsAP) gene that is highly expressed in the fat body and ovaries of sexually mature females. The double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-mediated knockdown of AsAP suppressed ovarian development and negatively impacted female fertility, which suggested that it plays an essential role in A. suturalis reproduction. The results of this study could help to expand our understanding of A. suturalis reproductive development and have the potential to facilitate the development of effective strategies for the better control of this pest species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shidong Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Bangqin Zhu
- Guiyang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guiyang 550003, China
| | - Xingxing Huang
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - J. Joe Hull
- Pest Management and Biocontrol Research Unit, US Arid Land Agricultural Research Center, USDA Agricultural Research Services, Maricopa, AZ 85138, USA
| | - Lizhen Chen
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Jing Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
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3
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Ramos FO, Nouzova M, Fruttero LL, Leyria J, Ligabue-Braun R, Noriega FG, Canavoso LE. Role of Methoprene-tolerant in the regulation of oogenesis in Dipetalogaster maxima. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14195. [PMID: 35988007 PMCID: PMC9392760 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18384-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Juvenile hormone (JH) signalling, via its receptor Methoprene-tolerant (Met), controls metamorphosis and reproduction in insects. Met belongs to a superfamily of transcription factors containing the basic Helix Loop Helix (bHLH) and Per Arnt Sim (PAS) domains. Since its discovery in 1986, Met has been characterized in several insect species. However, in spite of the importance as vectors of Chagas disease, our knowledge on the role of Met in JH signalling in Triatominae is limited. In this study, we cloned and sequenced the Dipetalogaster maxima Met transcript (DmaxMet). Molecular modelling was used to build the structure of Met and identify the JH binding site. To further understand the role of the JH receptor during oogenesis, transcript levels were evaluated in two main target organs of JH, fat body and ovary. Functional studies using Met RNAi revealed significant decreases of transcripts for vitellogenin (Vg) and lipophorin (Lp), as well as their receptors. Lp and Vg protein amounts in fat body, as well as Vg in hemolymph were also decreased, and ovarian development was impaired. Overall, these studies provide additional molecular insights on the roles of JH signalling in oogenesis in Triatominae; and therefore are relevant for the epidemiology of Chagas´ disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian O Ramos
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Marcela Nouzova
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre CAS, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Leonardo L Fruttero
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Jimena Leyria
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Rodrigo Ligabue-Braun
- Department of Pharmacosciences and Graduate Program in Biosciences (PPGBio), Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Fernando G Noriega
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA.
- Department of Parasitology, University of South Bohemia, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.
| | - Lilian E Canavoso
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina.
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Lu K, Cheng YB, Li YM, Li WR, Song YY, Zeng RS, Sun ZX. The KNRL nuclear receptor controls hydrolase-mediated vitellin breakdown during embryogenesis in the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens. INSECT SCIENCE 2021; 28:1633-1650. [PMID: 33191602 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Vitellin (Vn) homeostasis is central to the fecundity of oviparous insects. Most studies have focused on the synthesis and transportation of Vn as a building block for developing eggs during vitellogenesis; however, less is known about how the utilization of this nutrient reserve affects embryonic development. Here, we show that the single ortholog of the knirps and knirps-like nuclear receptors, KNRL, negatively regulates Vn breakdown by suppressing the expression of hydrolase genes in the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens. KNRL was highly expressed in the ovary of adult females, and knockdown of KNRL by RNA interference resulted in the acceleration of Vn breakdown and the inhibition of embryonic development. Transcriptome sequencing analysis revealed that numerous hydrolase genes, including cathepsins and trypsins were up-regulated after KNRL knockdown. At least eight of the nine significantly enriched Gene Ontology terms for the up-regulated genes were in proteolysis-related categories. The expression levels of five selected trypsin genes and the enzymatic activities of trypsin in the embryos were significantly increased after KNRL knockdown. Moreover, trypsin injection prolonged egg duration, delayed embryonic development, accelerated Vn breakdown and severely reduced egg hatchability, a pattern similar to that observed in KNRL-silenced N. lugens. These observations suggest that KNRL controls Vn breakdown in embryos via the transcriptional inhibition of hydrolases. Generally, this study provides a foundation for understanding how embryo nutrient reserves are mobilized during embryogenesis and identifies several genes and pathways that may prove valuable targets for pest control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Lu
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yi-Bei Cheng
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yi-Min Li
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Wen-Ru Li
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Song
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Genetics, Breeding and Multiple Utilization of Crops, College of Agriculture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ren-Sen Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Genetics, Breeding and Multiple Utilization of Crops, College of Agriculture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhong-Xiang Sun
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Genetics, Breeding and Multiple Utilization of Crops, College of Agriculture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
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5
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Huang L, Wu BL, He JX, Zhang Y, Chen J, Chen XJ. Molecular characterization and functional analysis of the lysosomal cathepsin D-like gene in red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii. Genome 2021; 64:1041-1051. [PMID: 34323597 DOI: 10.1139/gen-2020-0154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Aspartic proteinases are one of the four families of proteinase enzymes that are widely present in living organisms. They are involved in various physiological events, such as protein degradation, development, and host defense. However, the characterization and functional roles of aspartic proteinases remain to be elucidated in crustaceans. Here, we characterized a fragment of cathepsin D-like cDNA from red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii (Pc-cathepsin D-like). The open reading frame of the Pc-cathepsin D-like gene contained 1152 bp, encoding a protein of 383 amino acid residues. We also evaluated the immunological role of the Pc-cathepsin D-like gene in vivo. Spatial distribution analysis revealed that the Pc-cathepsin D-like mRNA was high in the hepatopancreas, followed by the gut, gills, and hemocytes of P. clarkii. The expression levels of the Pc-cathepsin D-like gene increased following challenge with viral (polyinosinic: polycytidylic acid) and bacterial (lipopolysaccharides, peptidoglycan) PAMPs compared with PBS injection. The suppression of the Pc-cathepsin D-like gene by RNA interference significantly increased the expression of immune-associated genes. These results showed that the Pc-cathepsin D-like gene has an essential biological role in innate immune responses because it regulates the expression of immune-associated genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Huang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Aquaculture & Stock Enhancement, Fisher Institute of Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Aquaculture & Stock Enhancement, Fisher Institute of Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Ben-Li Wu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Aquaculture & Stock Enhancement, Fisher Institute of Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Aquaculture & Stock Enhancement, Fisher Institute of Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Ji-Xiang He
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Aquaculture & Stock Enhancement, Fisher Institute of Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Aquaculture & Stock Enhancement, Fisher Institute of Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Aquaculture & Stock Enhancement, Fisher Institute of Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Aquaculture & Stock Enhancement, Fisher Institute of Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Aquaculture & Stock Enhancement, Fisher Institute of Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Aquaculture & Stock Enhancement, Fisher Institute of Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Xia-Jun Chen
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Aquaculture & Stock Enhancement, Fisher Institute of Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Aquaculture & Stock Enhancement, Fisher Institute of Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
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Moyetta NR, Ramos FO, Leyria J, Canavoso LE, Fruttero LL. Morphological and Ultrastructural Characterization of Hemocytes in an Insect Model, the Hematophagous Dipetalogaster maxima (Hemiptera: Reduviidae). INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12070640. [PMID: 34357299 PMCID: PMC8303341 DOI: 10.3390/insects12070640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Chagas’ disease is a debilitating and life-threatening disease endemic of the Americas, although it currently affects about six to seven million people around the world. The triatomines, also known as kissing bugs, are blood-feeding insects that play a key role in the transmission of Chagas’ disease since they are the vectors of the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of the illness. On the other hand, the hemocytes are the cells present in the circulatory system of insects and other invertebrates. These cells are comparable to the white blood cells of vertebrates and fulfill vital functions in coagulation and defense against pathogens. The classification of hemocytes is mainly based in their cell shape, which is technically challenging to assess, and the authors have not always agreed upon this subject. In this study we combined different techniques to classify the hemocytes of the kissing bug Dipetalogaster maxima in a juvenile stage of development. We characterized the hemocytes in five types, including plasmatocytes, granulocytes, prohemocytes, adipohemocytes and oenocytes. These findings contribute to the understanding of insect and triatomine physiology and can be applied to unravel basic aspects of insect immune responses, coagulation cascades and endocrine processes. Abstract Hemocytes, the cells present in the hemolymph of insects and other invertebrates, perform several physiological functions, including innate immunity. The current classification of hemocyte types is based mostly on morphological features; however, divergences have emerged among specialists in triatomines, the insect vectors of Chagas’ disease (Hemiptera: Reduviidae). Here, we have combined technical approaches in order to characterize the hemocytes from fifth instar nymphs of the triatomine Dipetalogaster maxima. Moreover, in this work we describe, for the first time, the ultrastructural features of D. maxima hemocytes. Using phase contrast microscopy of fresh preparations, five hemocyte populations were identified and further characterized by immunofluorescence, flow cytometry and transmission electron microscopy. The plasmatocytes and the granulocytes were the most abundant cell types, although prohemocytes, adipohemocytes and oenocytes were also found. This work sheds light on a controversial aspect of triatomine cell biology and physiology setting the basis for future in-depth studies directed to address hemocyte classification using non-microscopy-based markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia R. Moyetta
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba 5000, Argentina; (N.R.M.); (F.O.R.); (J.L.); (L.E.C.)
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba 5000, Argentina
| | - Fabián O. Ramos
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba 5000, Argentina; (N.R.M.); (F.O.R.); (J.L.); (L.E.C.)
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba 5000, Argentina
| | - Jimena Leyria
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba 5000, Argentina; (N.R.M.); (F.O.R.); (J.L.); (L.E.C.)
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba 5000, Argentina
| | - Lilián E. Canavoso
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba 5000, Argentina; (N.R.M.); (F.O.R.); (J.L.); (L.E.C.)
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba 5000, Argentina
| | - Leonardo L. Fruttero
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba 5000, Argentina; (N.R.M.); (F.O.R.); (J.L.); (L.E.C.)
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba 5000, Argentina
- Correspondence:
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Ramos FO, Leyria J, Nouzova M, Fruttero LL, Noriega FG, Canavoso LE. Juvenile hormone mediates lipid storage in the oocytes of Dipetalogaster maxima. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 133:103499. [PMID: 33212190 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2020.103499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Triatomines are vectors of Chagas disease and important model organisms in insect physiology. "Kissing bugs" are obligatory hematophagous insects. A blood meal is required to successfully complete oogenesis, a process primarily controlled by juvenile hormone (JH). We used Dipetalogaster maxima as an experimental model to further understand the roles of JH in the regulation of vitellogenesis and oogenesis. A particular focus was set on the role of JH controlling lipid and protein recruitment by the oocytes. The hemolymph titer of JH III skipped bisepoxide increased after a blood meal. Following a blood meal there were increased levels of mRNAs in the fat body for the yolk protein precursors, vitellogenin (Vg) and lipophorin (Lp), as well as of their protein products in the hemolymph; mRNAs of the Vg and Lp receptors (VgR and LpR) were concomitantly up-regulated in the ovaries. Topical administration of JH induced the expression of Lp/LpR and Vg/VgR genes, and prompted the uptake of Lp and Vg in pre-vitellogenic females. Knockdown of the expression of LpR by RNA interference in fed females did not impair the Lp-mediated lipid transfer to oocytes, suggesting that the bulk of lipid acquisition by oocytes occurred by other pathways rather than by the endocytic Lp/LpR pathway. In conclusion, our results strongly suggest that JH signaling is critical for lipid storage in oocytes, by regulating Vg and Lp gene expression in the fat body as well as by modulating the expression of LpR and VgR genes in ovaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian O Ramos
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina.
| | - Jimena Leyria
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina.
| | - Marcela Nouzova
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre CAS, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.
| | - Leonardo L Fruttero
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina.
| | - Fernando G Noriega
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Lilian E Canavoso
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina.
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8
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Perin APA, Noronha MS, Moyetta NR, Coste Grahl MV, Fruttero LL, Staniscuaski F. Jaburetox, a urease-derived peptide: Effects on enzymatic pathways of the cockroach Nauphoeta cinerea. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 105:e21731. [PMID: 32761928 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Jaburetox is a recombinant peptide derived from one of the Canavalia ensiformis urease isoforms. This peptide induces several toxic effects on insects of different orders, including interference on muscle contractility in cockroaches, modulation of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylase (UAP) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activities in the central nervous system of triatomines, as well as activation of the immune system in Rhodnius prolixus. When injected, the peptide is lethal for R. prolixus and Triatoma infestans. Here, we evaluated Jaburetox toxicity to Nauphoeta cinerea cockroaches, exploring the effects on the central nervous system through the activities of UAP, NOS, acid phosphatases (ACP), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). The results indicated that N. cinerea is not susceptible to the lethal effect of the peptide. Moreover, both in vivo and in vitro treatments with Jaburetox inhibited NOS activity, without modifying the protein levels. No alterations on ACP activity were observed. In addition, the enzyme activity of UAP only had its activity affected at 18 hr after injection. The peptide increased the AChE activity, suggesting a mechanism involved in overcoming the toxic effects. In conclusion, our findings indicate that Jaburetox affects the nitrinergic signaling as well as the AChE and UAP activities and establishes N. cinerea as a Jaburetox-resistant model for future comparative studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana P A Perin
- Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Mila S Noronha
- Brain Institute (Instituto do Cérebro-INSCER), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Natalia R Moyetta
- Brain Institute (Instituto do Cérebro-INSCER), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Matheus V Coste Grahl
- Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Leonardo L Fruttero
- Brain Institute (Instituto do Cérebro-INSCER), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Staniscuaski
- Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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Moyetta NR, Fruttero LL, Leyria J, Ramos FO, Carlini CR, Canavoso L. The entomotoxin Jack Bean Urease changes cathepsin D activity in nymphs of the hematophagous insect Dipetalogaster maxima (Hemiptera: Reduviidae). Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 251:110511. [PMID: 33007467 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2020.110511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
In insects, cathepsin D is a lysosomal aspartic endopeptidase involved in several functions such as digestion, defense and reproduction. Jack Bean Urease (JBU) is the most abundant urease isoform obtained from the seeds of the plant Canavalia ensiformis. JBU is a multifunctional protein with entomotoxic effects unrelated to its catalytic activity, by mechanisms not yet fully understood. In this work, we employed nymphs of the hematophagous insect Dipetalogaster maxima as an experimental model in order to study the effects of JBU on D. maxima CatD (DmCatD). In insects without treatment, immunofluorescence assays revealed a conspicuous distribution pattern of DmCatD in the anterior and posterior midgut as well as in the fat body and hemocytes. Western blot assays showed that the active form of DmCatD was present in the fat body, the anterior and posterior midgut; whereas the proenzyme was visualized in hemocytes and hemolymph. The transcript of DmCatD and its enzymatic activity was detected in the anterior and posterior midgut as well as in fat body and hemocytes. JBU injections induced a significant increase of DmCatD activity in the posterior midgut (at 3 h post-injection) whereas in the hemolymph, such an effect was observed after 18 h. These changes were not correlated with modifications in DmCatD mRNA and protein levels or changes in the immunofluorescence pattern. In vitro experiments might suggest a direct effect of the toxin in DmCatD activity. Our findings indicated that the tissue-specific increment of cathepsin D activity is a novel effect of JBU in insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia R Moyetta
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, CP 5000, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, CP 5000, Argentina.
| | - Leonardo L Fruttero
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, CP 5000, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, CP 5000, Argentina.
| | - Jimena Leyria
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, CP 5000, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, CP 5000, Argentina.
| | - Fabian O Ramos
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, CP 5000, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, CP 5000, Argentina.
| | - Célia R Carlini
- Brain Institute (INSCER) and School of Medicine, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, CEP 90610-000, Brazil.
| | - Lilián Canavoso
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, CP 5000, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, CP 5000, Argentina.
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Transcriptomic analysis of regulatory pathways involved in female reproductive physiology of Rhodnius prolixus under different nutritional states. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11431. [PMID: 32651410 PMCID: PMC7351778 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67932-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The triatomine Rhodnius prolixus, a vector of the etiological agent of Chagas disease, has long been used as model to understand important aspects of insect physiology. Despite this history, the impact of the nutritional state on regulatory pathways associated with reproductive performance in triatomines has never been studied. The insulin-like peptide/target of rapamycin (ILP/ToR) signaling pathway is typically responsible for detecting and interpreting nutrient levels. Here, we analyzed transcriptomes from the central nervous system, fat bodies and ovaries of adult females in unfed and fed conditions, with a focus on the ILP/ToR signaling. The results show an up-regulation of transcripts involved in ILP/ToR signaling in unfed insects. However, we demonstrate that this signaling is only activated in tissues from fed insects. Moreover, we report that FoxO (forkhead box O) factor, which regulates longevity via ILP signaling, is responsible for the up-regulation of transcripts related with ILP/ToR signaling in unfed insects. As a consequence, we reveal that unfed females are in a sensitized state to respond to an increase of ILP levels by rapidly activating ILP/ToR signaling. This is the first analysis that correlates gene expression and protein activation of molecules involved with ILP/ToR signaling in R. prolixus females in different nutritional states.
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Qiu ZX, Li Y, Li MM, Wang WY, Zhang TT, Liu JZ. Investigation of three enzymes and their roles in the embryonic development of parthenogenetic Haemaphysalis longicornis. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:46. [PMID: 32005284 PMCID: PMC6995198 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-3916-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The tick Haemaphysalis longicornis exhibits two separate reproductive populations: bisexual and parthenogenetic, which have diploid and triploid karyotypes, respectively. The parthenogenetic population can undergo engorgement without copulation and produce viable female-only offspring with a longer incubation period than the bisexual population. Three enzymes, cathepsin B, cathepsin D and acid phosphatase, were found to be involved in vitellin degradation during the embryonic development of bisexual H. longicornis. However, the expression and activity profiles of these enzymes during the embryonic development of parthenogenetic ticks remain unknown. In the present study, the transcriptional expression profile, enzyme activity and roles in embryogenesis of the three enzymes during the embryonic development of parthenogenetic H. longicornis were investigated. METHODS Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and fluorescence detection were used to analyze the dynamic changes in the three enzymes during embryogenesis. The roles of the three enzymes during embryogenesis were also explored using RNA interference (RNAi). RESULTS The three enzymes were all expressed during embryonic development in parthenogenetic H. longicornis. The expression of cathepsin B was highest on day 15, whereas that of cathepsin D was highest on day 3 and the peak of acid phosphatase expression occurred on day 9. The activity of cathepsin B was highest on day 3 and lowest on day 5, then gradually increased and remained stable. Cathepsin D activity was highest on day 1 and showed a gradually decreasing trend, whereas acid phosphatase showed the opposite trend and reached a peak on day 23. RNA interference experiments in engorged female ticks revealed that there was no significant difference in the number of eggs laid, but the hatching rate of the eggs was significantly decreased. CONCLUSION The three enzymes all play important roles in embryonic development of H. longicornis, but the expression patterns and changes in the activity of the enzymes in the bisexual and parthenogenetic populations are different. The results will help a better understanding of the similarities and differences underlying embryonic development in the bisexual and parthenogenetic populations and contribute to the future exploration of the development of the parthenogenetic population of H. longicornis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Xi Qiu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Meng-Meng Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Wen-Ying Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Tian-Tian Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Jing-Ze Liu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China.
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Silencing of RpATG8 impairs the biogenesis of maternal autophagosomes in vitellogenic oocytes, but does not interrupt follicular atresia in the insect vector Rhodnius prolixus. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008012. [PMID: 31986144 PMCID: PMC7004382 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Follicular atresia is the mechanism by which the oocyte contents are degraded during oogenesis in response to stress conditions, allowing the energetic resources stored in the developing oocytes to be reallocated to optimize female fitness. Autophagy is a conserved intracellular degradation pathway where double-membrane vesicles are formed around target organelles leading to their degradation after lysosome fusion. The autophagy-related protein 8 (ATG8) is conjugated to the autophagic membrane and has a key role in the elongation and closure of the autophagosome. Here we identified one single isoform of ATG8 in the genome of the insect vector of Chagas Disease Rhodnius prolixus (RpATG8) and found that it is highly expressed in the ovary during vitellogenesis. Accordingly, autophagosomes were detected in the vitellogenic oocytes, as seen by immunoblotting and electron microscopy. To test if autophagosomes were important for follicular atresia, we silenced RpATG8 and elicited atresia in vitellogenic females by Zymosan-A injections. We found that silenced females were still able to trigger the same levels of follicle atresia, and that their atretic oocytes presented a characteristic morphology, with accumulated brown aggregates. Regardless of the difference in morphology, RpATG8-silenced atretic oocytes presented the same levels of protein, TAG and PolyP, as detected in control atretic oocytes, as well as the same levels of acidification of the yolk organelles. Because follicular atresia has the ultimate goal of restoring female fitness, we tested if RpATG8-silenced atresia would result in female physiology and behavior changes. Under insectarium conditions, we found that atresia-induced control and RpATG8-silenced females present no changes in blood meal digestion, survival, oviposition, TAG content in the fat body, haemolymph amino acid levels and overall locomotor activity. Altogether, we found that autophagosomes are formed during oogenesis and that the silencing of RpATG8 impairs autophagosome biogenesis in the oocytes. Nevertheless, regarding major macromolecule degradation and adaptations to the fitness costs imposed by triggering an immune response, we found that autophagic organelles are not essential for follicle atresia in R. prolixus. Follicular atresia is a phenomenon in response to environmental and physiological conditions in which female insects are able to signal the degeneration and resorption of their oocytes. It is crucial for the maintenance of female survival, as the energy stored in the developing oocytes can be reallocated allowing them to adapt to a stress condition. In the context of insect vectors of human diseases, such as flies, bugs and mosquitoes, the ability of the hematophagous female to interrupt oogenesis and reallocate its energy resources is strategic for safeguarding vector fitness. The cellular and molecular mechanisms that govern the oocytes degradation during atresia are mostly unknown. In this work, we found that a special degradation organelle, named autophagosome, is formed in the oocytes, and that these organelles are not needed for the oocytes to be degenerated during atresia in this insect. These findings are important in the context of vector population control as they provide us with knowledge regarding the vector’s specific molecular biology. Information such as these are important, as they can be used for the elaboration and design of novel population control strategies.
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Fruttero LL, Leyria J, Moyetta NR, Ramos FO, Settembrini BP, Canavoso LE. The Fat Body of the Hematophagous Insect, Panstrongylus megistus (Hemiptera: Reduviidae): Histological Features and Participation of the β-Chain of ATP Synthase in the Lipophorin-Mediated Lipid Transfer. JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2019; 19:5539020. [PMID: 31346627 PMCID: PMC6658809 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/iez078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
In insects, lipid transfer to the tissues is mediated by lipophorin, the major circulating lipoprotein, mainly through a nonendocytic pathway involving docking receptors. Currently, the role of such receptors in lipid metabolism remains poorly understood. In this work, we performed a histological characterization of the fat body of the Chagas' disease vector, Panstrongylus megistus (Burmeister), subjected to different nutritional conditions. In addition, we addressed the role of the β-chain of ATP synthase (β-ATPase) in the process of lipid transfer from lipophorin to the fat body. Fifth-instar nymphs in either fasting or fed condition were employed in the assays. Histological examination revealed that the fat body was composed by diverse trophocyte phenotypes. In the fasting condition, the cells were smaller and presented a homogeneous cytoplasmic content. The fat body of fed insects increased in size mainly due to the enlargement of lipid stores. In this condition, trophocytes contained abundant lipid droplets, and the rough endoplasmic reticulum was highly developed and mitochondria appeared elongated. Immunofluorescence assays showed that the β-ATPase, a putative lipophorin receptor, was located on the surface of fat body cells colocalizing partially with lipophorin, which suggests their interaction. No changes in β-ATPase expression were found in fasting and fed insects. Blocking the lipophorin-β-ATPase interaction impaired the lipophorin-mediated lipid transfer to the fat body. The results showed that the nutritional status of the insect influenced the morphohistological features of the tissue. Besides, these findings suggest that β-ATPase functions as a lipophorin docking receptor in the fat body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo L Fruttero
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba CP, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Jimena Leyria
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba CP, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Natalia R Moyetta
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba CP, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Fabian O Ramos
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba CP, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Beatriz P Settembrini
- Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales Bernardino Rivadavia (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Lilián E Canavoso
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba CP, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
- Corresponding author, e-mail:
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Zhang TT, Qiu ZX, Li Y, Wang WY, Li MM, Guo P, Liu JZ. The mRNA expression and enzymatic activity of three enzymes during embryonic development of the hard tick Haemaphysalis longicornis. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:96. [PMID: 30867025 PMCID: PMC6416942 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3360-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Three main enzymes including cathepsin B, cathepsin D and acid phosphatase are involved in vitellin degradation, which is a major biochemical event of the embryonic development and can provide nutrients and metabolites for tick embryos. In the present study, the mRNA expression profiles and enzymatic activity of cathepsin B, cathepsin D and acid phosphatase were investigated during embryonic development in the tick Haemaphysalis longicornis. Results The results revealed that all three enzymes were expressed throughout embryonic development. Both cathepsin B and acid phosphatase transcripts were accumulated during the first four days. Cathepsin B reached its highest expression on day 5, whereas the peak expression of acid phosphatase and cathepsin D occurred on day 11. The highest activity of cathepsin B was observed on the first day of egg development, whereas cathepsin D reached its highest activity on day 13. Acid phosphatase activity increased gradually during the first five days and then remained stable until the end of egg development. Conclusions Three enzymes were expressed and activated in eggs, and also presented different dynamic changes with the development of embryos. The profiles of both mRNA expression and enzymatic activity of these enzymes indicate that they are controlled orderly and play multiple roles during embryonic development in ticks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Tian Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Zhao-Xi Qiu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Wen-Ying Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Meng-Meng Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Pei Guo
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Jing-Ze Liu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China.
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Leyria J, Fruttero LL, Ligabue-Braun R, Defferrari MS, Arrese EL, Soulages JL, Settembrini BP, Carlini CR, Canavoso LE. DmCatD, a cathepsin D-like peptidase of the hematophagous insect Dipetalogaster maxima (Hemiptera: Reduviidae): Purification, bioinformatic analyses and the significance of its interaction with lipophorin in the internalization by developing oocytes. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2018; 105:28-39. [PMID: 29325877 PMCID: PMC5892828 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2018.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Revised: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/06/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
DmCatD, a cathepsin D-like peptidase of the hematophagous insect Dipetalogaster maxima, is synthesized by the fat body and the ovary and functions as yolk protein precursor. Functionally, DmCatD is involved in vitellin proteolysis. In this work, we purified and sequenced DmCatD, performed bioinformatic analyses and investigated the events involved in its targeting and storage in developing oocytes. By ion exchange and gel filtration chromatography, DmCatD was purified from egg homogenates and its identity was confirmed by mass spectrometry. Approximately 73% of the full-length transcript was sequenced. The phylogeny indicated that DmCatD has features which suggest its distancing from "classical" cathepsins D. Bioinformatic analyses using a chimeric construct were employed to predict post-translational modifications. Structural modeling showed that DmCatD exhibited the expected folding for this type of enzyme, and an active site with conserved architecture. The interaction between DmCatD and lipophorin in the hemolymph was demonstrated by co-immunoprecipitation. Colocalization of both proteins in developing oocyte membranes and yolk bodies was detected by immunofluorescence. Docking assays favoring the interaction DmCatD-lipophorin were carried out after modeling lipophorin of a related triatomine species. Our results suggest that lipophorin acts as a carrier for DmCatD to facilitate its further internalization by the oocytes. The mechanisms involved in the uptake of peptidases within the oocytes of insects have not been reported. This is the first experimental work supporting the interaction between cathepsin D and lipophorin in an insect species, enabling us to propose a pathway for its targeting and storage in developing oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jimena Leyria
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica-CIBICI-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.
| | - Leonardo L Fruttero
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica-CIBICI-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina; Brain Institute (Instituto do Cérebro-INSCER), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
| | - Rodrigo Ligabue-Braun
- Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Marina S Defferrari
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada.
| | - Estela L Arrese
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA.
| | - José L Soulages
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA.
| | | | - Celia R Carlini
- Brain Institute (Instituto do Cérebro-INSCER), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Lilián E Canavoso
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica-CIBICI-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.
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Moyetta NR, Broll V, Perin APA, Uberti AF, Coste Grahl MV, Staniscuaski F, Carlini CR, Fruttero LL. Jaburetox-induced toxic effects on the hemocytes of Rhodnius prolixus (Hemiptera: Reduviidae). Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2017; 200:17-26. [PMID: 28602911 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2017.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Jaburetox is a recombinant peptide derived from a Canavalia ensiformis urease that presents toxic effects upon several species of insects, phytopathogenic fungi and yeasts of medical importance. So far, no toxicity of Jaburetox to mammals has been shown. Previous reports have identified biochemical targets of this toxic peptide in insect models, although its mechanism of action is not completely understood. In this work, we aimed to characterize the effects of Jaburetox in hemolymphatic insect cells. For this purpose, the model insect and Chagas' disease vector Rhodnius prolixus was used. In vivo and in vitro experiments indicated that Jaburetox interacts with a subset of hemocytes and it can be found in various subcellular compartments. In insects injected with Jaburetox there was an increase in the gene expression of the enzymes UDP-N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylase (UAP), chitin synthase and nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Nevertheless, the expression of NOS protein, the enzyme activities of UAP and acid phosphatase (a possible link between UAP and NOS) as well as the phosphorylation state of proteins remained unchanged upon the in vivo Jaburetox treatment. Nitric oxide (NO) imaging using fluorescent probes showed that Jaburetox augmented NO production in the hemocyte aggregates when compared to controls. Even though Jaburetox activated the hemocytes, as demonstrated by wheat germ agglutinin binding assays, the peptide did not lead to an increase of their phagocytic behavior. Taken together, these findings contribute to our understanding of toxic effects of Jaburetox, a peptide with biotechnological applications and a prospective tool for rational insect control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia R Moyetta
- Brain Institute (Instituto do Cérebro-INSCER), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga 6690, prédio 63, CEP 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Valquiria Broll
- Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, prédio 43431, CEP 91501-970 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Ana Paula A Perin
- Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, prédio 43431, CEP 91501-970 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Augusto F Uberti
- Brain Institute (Instituto do Cérebro-INSCER), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga 6690, prédio 63, CEP 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Matheus V Coste Grahl
- Brain Institute (Instituto do Cérebro-INSCER), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga 6690, prédio 63, CEP 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Staniscuaski
- Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, prédio 43431, CEP 91501-970 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, prédio 43431, CEP 91501-970 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Celia R Carlini
- Brain Institute (Instituto do Cérebro-INSCER), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga 6690, prédio 63, CEP 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, prédio 43431, CEP 91501-970 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Leonardo L Fruttero
- Brain Institute (Instituto do Cérebro-INSCER), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga 6690, prédio 63, CEP 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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Fruttero LL, Moyetta NR, Krug MS, Broll V, Grahl MVC, Real-Guerra R, Stanisçuaski F, Carlini CR. Jaburetox affects gene expression and enzyme activities in Rhodnius prolixus, a Chagas' disease vector. Acta Trop 2017; 168:54-63. [PMID: 28108369 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Revised: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Jaburetox, a recombinant peptide of ∼11kDa derived from one of the Canavalia ensiformis (Jack Bean) urease isoforms, is toxic and lethal to insects belonging to different orders when administered orally or via injection. Previous findings indicated that Jaburetox acts on insects in a complex fashion, inhibiting diuresis and the transmembrane potential of Malpighian tubules, interfering with muscle contractility and affecting the immune system. In vitro, Jaburetox forms ionic channels and alters permeability of artificial lipid membranes. Moreover, recent data suggested that the central nervous system (CNS) is a target organ for ureases and Jaburetox. In this work, we employed biochemical, molecular and cellular approaches to explore the mode of action of Jaburetox using Rhodnius prolixus, one of the main Chagas' disease vectors, as experimental model. In vitro incubations with fluorescently labeled Jaburetox indicated a high affinity of the peptide for the CNS but not for salivary glands (SG). The in vitro treatment of CNS or SG homogenates with Jaburetox partially inhibited the activity of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), thus disrupting nitrinergic signaling. This inhibitory effect was also observed in vivo (by feeding) for CNS but not for SG, implying differential modulation of NOS in these organs. The inhibition of NOS activity did not correlate to a decrease in expression of its mRNA, as assessed by qPCR. UDP-N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylase (UAP), a key enzyme in chitin synthesis and glycosylation pathways and a known target of Jaburetox in insect CNS, was also affected in SG, with activation of the enzyme seen after both in vivo or in vitro treatments with the peptide. Unexpectedly, incubation of Jaburetox with a recombinant R. prolixus UAP had no effect on its activity, implying that the enzyme's modulation by the peptide requires the participation of other factor(s) present in CNS or SG homogenates. Feeding Jaburetox to R. prolixus decreased the mRNA levels of UAP and chitin synthase, indicating a complex regulation exerted by the peptide on these enzymes. No changes were observed upon Jaburetox treatment in vivo and in vitro on the activity of the enzyme acid phosphatase, a possible link between UAP and NOS. Here we have demonstrated for the first time that the Jaburetox induces changes in gene expression and that SG are another target for the toxic action of the peptide. Taken together, these findings contribute to a better understanding of the mechanism of action of Jaburetox as well as to the knowledge on basic aspects of the biochemistry and neurophysiology of insects, and might help in the development of optimized strategies for insect control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo L Fruttero
- Brain Institute (Instituto do Cérebro-INSCER), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga 6690, prédio 63, CEP 90610-000, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, prédio 43431, CEP 91501-970, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Natalia R Moyetta
- Brain Institute (Instituto do Cérebro-INSCER), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga 6690, prédio 63, CEP 90610-000, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Monique Siebra Krug
- Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, prédio 43431, CEP 91501-970, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Valquiria Broll
- Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, prédio 43431, CEP 91501-970, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Matheus V Coste Grahl
- Brain Institute (Instituto do Cérebro-INSCER), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga 6690, prédio 63, CEP 90610-000, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Rafael Real-Guerra
- Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, prédio 43431, CEP 91501-970, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Fernanda Stanisçuaski
- Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, prédio 43431, CEP 91501-970, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, prédio 43431, CEP 91501-970, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Celia R Carlini
- Brain Institute (Instituto do Cérebro-INSCER), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga 6690, prédio 63, CEP 90610-000, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, prédio 43431, CEP 91501-970, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
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Santiago PB, de Araújo CN, Motta FN, Praça YR, Charneau S, Bastos IMD, Santana JM. Proteases of haematophagous arthropod vectors are involved in blood-feeding, yolk formation and immunity - a review. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:79. [PMID: 28193252 PMCID: PMC5307778 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2005-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks, triatomines, mosquitoes and sand flies comprise a large number of haematophagous arthropods considered vectors of human infectious diseases. While consuming blood to obtain the nutrients necessary to carry on life functions, these insects can transmit pathogenic microorganisms to the vertebrate host. Among the molecules related to the blood-feeding habit, proteases play an essential role. In this review, we provide a panorama of proteases from arthropod vectors involved in haematophagy, in digestion, in egg development and in immunity. As these molecules act in central biological processes, proteases from haematophagous vectors of infectious diseases may influence vector competence to transmit pathogens to their prey, and thus could be valuable targets for vectorial control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Beatriz Santiago
- Laboratório de Interação Patógeno-Hospedeiro, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Asa Norte, 70910-900, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Carla Nunes de Araújo
- Laboratório de Interação Patógeno-Hospedeiro, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Asa Norte, 70910-900, Brasília, DF, Brazil.,Faculdade de Ceilândia, Universidade de Brasília, Centro Metropolitano, Conjunto A, Lote 01, 72220-275, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Flávia Nader Motta
- Laboratório de Interação Patógeno-Hospedeiro, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Asa Norte, 70910-900, Brasília, DF, Brazil.,Faculdade de Ceilândia, Universidade de Brasília, Centro Metropolitano, Conjunto A, Lote 01, 72220-275, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Yanna Reis Praça
- Laboratório de Interação Patógeno-Hospedeiro, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Asa Norte, 70910-900, Brasília, DF, Brazil.,Programa Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Asa Norte, 70910-900, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Sébastien Charneau
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Química de Proteínas, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Asa Norte, 70910-900, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Izabela M Dourado Bastos
- Laboratório de Interação Patógeno-Hospedeiro, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Asa Norte, 70910-900, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Jaime M Santana
- Laboratório de Interação Patógeno-Hospedeiro, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Asa Norte, 70910-900, Brasília, DF, Brazil.
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Zhang YN, Zhu XY, Wang WP, Wang Y, Wang L, Xu XX, Zhang K, Deng DG. Reproductive switching analysis of Daphnia similoides between sexual female and parthenogenetic female by transcriptome comparison. Sci Rep 2016; 6:34241. [PMID: 27671106 PMCID: PMC5037449 DOI: 10.1038/srep34241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The water flea Daphnia are planktonic crustaceans commonly found in freshwater environment that can switch their reproduction mode from parthenogenesis to sexual reproduction to adapt to the external environment. As such, Daphnia are great model organisms to study the mechanism of reproductive switching, the underlying mechanism of reproduction and development in cladocerans and other animals. However, little is known about the Daphnia's reproductive behaviour at a molecular level. We constructed a genetic database of the genes expressed in a sexual female (SF) and a parthenogenetic female (PF) of D. similoides using Illumina HiSeq 2500. A total of 1,763 differentially expressed genes (865 up- and 898 down-regulated) were detected in SF. Of the top 30 up-regulated SF unigenes, the top 4 unigenes belonged to the Chitin_bind_4 family. In contrast, of the top down-regulated SF unigenes, the top 3 unigenes belonged to the Vitellogenin_N family. This is the first study to indicate genes that may have a crucial role in reproductive switching of D. similoides, which could be used as candidate genes for further functional studies. Thus, this study provides a rich resource for investigation and elucidation of reproductive switching in D. similoides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Nan Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, China
| | - Xiu-Yun Zhu
- College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, China
| | - Wen-Ping Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, China
| | - Yi Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, China
| | - Lu Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, China
| | - Xiao-Xue Xu
- College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, China
| | - Kun Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, China
| | - Dao-Gui Deng
- College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, China
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