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Giraldo D, Hammond AM, Wu J, Feole B, Al-Saloum N, McMeniman CJ. An expanded neurogenetic toolkit to decode olfaction in the African malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2024; 4:100714. [PMID: 38412833 PMCID: PMC10921037 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2024.100714] [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: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Anopheles gambiae uses its sense of smell to hunt humans. We report a two-step method yielding cell-type-specific driver lines for enhanced neuroanatomical and functional studies of its olfactory system. We first integrated a driver-responder-marker (DRM) system cassette consisting of a linked T2A-QF2 driver, QUAS-GFP responder, and a gut-specific transgenesis marker into four chemoreceptor genes (Ir25a, Ir76b, Gr22, and orco) using CRISPR-Cas9-mediated homology-directed repair. The DRM system facilitated rapid selection of in-frame integrations via screening for GFP+ olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs) in G1 larval progeny, even at genomic loci such as orco where we found the transgenesis marker was not visible. Next, we converted these DRM integrations into T2A-QF2 driver-marker lines by Cre-loxP excision of the GFP responder, making them suitable for binary use in transcuticular calcium imaging. These cell-type-specific driver lines tiling key OSN subsets will support systematic efforts to decode olfaction in this prolific malaria vector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Giraldo
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Andrew M Hammond
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jinling Wu
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Brandon Feole
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Noor Al-Saloum
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Conor J McMeniman
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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2
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Barletta ABF, Smith JC, Burkart E, Bondarenko S, Sharakhov IV, Criscione F, O'Brochta D, Barillas-Mury C. Mosquito midgut stem cell cellular defense response limits Plasmodium parasite infection. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1422. [PMID: 38365823 PMCID: PMC10873411 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45550-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
A novel cellular response of midgut progenitors (stem cells and enteroblasts) to Plasmodium berghei infection was investigated in Anopheles stephensi. The presence of developing oocysts triggers proliferation of midgut progenitors that is modulated by the Jak/STAT pathway and is proportional to the number of oocysts on individual midguts. The percentage of parasites in direct contact with enteroblasts increases over time, as progenitors proliferate. Silencing components of key signaling pathways through RNA interference (RNAi) that enhance proliferation of progenitor cells significantly decreased oocyst numbers, while limiting proliferation of progenitors increased oocyst survival. Live imaging revealed that enteroblasts interact directly with oocysts and eliminate them. Midgut progenitors sense the presence of Plasmodium oocysts and mount a cellular defense response that involves extensive proliferation and tissue remodeling, followed by oocysts lysis and phagocytosis of parasite remnants by enteroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana-Beatriz F Barletta
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA.
| | - Jamie C Smith
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Emily Burkart
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Simon Bondarenko
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, USA
| | - Igor V Sharakhov
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, USA
| | - Frank Criscione
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - David O'Brochta
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research and Department of Entomology University of Maryland-College Park, Rockville, MD, 20850, USA
| | - Carolina Barillas-Mury
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA.
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3
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Häcker I, Rehling T, Schlosser H, Mayorga-Ch D, Heilig M, Yan Y, Armbruster PA, Schetelig MF. Improved piggyBac Transformation with Capped Transposase mRNA in Pest Insects. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15155. [PMID: 37894833 PMCID: PMC10606561 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Creating transgenic insects is a key technology in insect genetics and molecular biology. A widely used instrument in insect transgenesis is the piggyBac transposase, resulting in essentially random genomic integrations. In contrast, site-specific recombinases allow the targeted integration of the transgene construct into a specific genomic target site. Both strategies, however, often face limitations due to low transgenesis efficiencies. We aimed to enhance transgenesis efficiencies by utilizing capped mRNA as a source of transposase or recombinase instead of a helper plasmid. A systematic comparison of transgenesis efficiencies in Aedes mosquitoes, as models for hard-to-transform insects, showed that suppling piggyBac transposase as mRNA increased the average transformation efficiency in Aedes aegypti from less than 5% with the plasmid source to about 50% with mRNA. Similar high activity was observed in Ae. albopictus with pBac mRNA. No efficiency differences between plasmid and mRNA were observed in recombination experiments. Furthermore, a hyperactive version of piggyBac transposase delivered as a plasmid did not improve the transformation efficiency in Ae. aegypti or the agricultural pest Drosophila suzukii. We believe that the use of mRNA has strong potential for enhancing piggyBac transformation efficiencies in other mosquitoes and important agricultural pests, such as tephritids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Häcker
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Winchesterstr. 2, 35394 Giessen, Germany (H.S.); (Y.Y.); (M.F.S.)
- Liebig Centre for Agroecology & Climate Impact Research, 35394 Giessen, Germany
| | - Tanja Rehling
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Winchesterstr. 2, 35394 Giessen, Germany (H.S.); (Y.Y.); (M.F.S.)
- Liebig Centre for Agroecology & Climate Impact Research, 35394 Giessen, Germany
| | - Henrik Schlosser
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Winchesterstr. 2, 35394 Giessen, Germany (H.S.); (Y.Y.); (M.F.S.)
| | - Daniela Mayorga-Ch
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Winchesterstr. 2, 35394 Giessen, Germany (H.S.); (Y.Y.); (M.F.S.)
| | - Mara Heilig
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, 37th and O Streets NW, Washington, DC 20057-1229, USA; (M.H.); (P.A.A.)
| | - Ying Yan
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Winchesterstr. 2, 35394 Giessen, Germany (H.S.); (Y.Y.); (M.F.S.)
- Liebig Centre for Agroecology & Climate Impact Research, 35394 Giessen, Germany
| | - Peter A. Armbruster
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, 37th and O Streets NW, Washington, DC 20057-1229, USA; (M.H.); (P.A.A.)
| | - Marc F. Schetelig
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Winchesterstr. 2, 35394 Giessen, Germany (H.S.); (Y.Y.); (M.F.S.)
- Liebig Centre for Agroecology & Climate Impact Research, 35394 Giessen, Germany
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4
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Bottino-Rojas V, James AA. Mosquito Transposon-Mediated Transgenesis. Cold Spring Harb Protoc 2023:pdb.top107687. [PMID: 37816607 PMCID: PMC11025883 DOI: 10.1101/pdb.top107687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
Transposon-mediated transgenesis of mosquito vectors of disease pathogens followed the early success of transgenesis in the vinegar fly, Drosophila melanogaster The P transposable element used in Drosophila does not function canonically in mosquitoes, and repeatable, routine transgenesis in mosquitoes was not accomplished until new transposable elements were discovered and validated. A number of distinct transposons were subsequently identified that mediate the introduction of exogenous DNA in a stable and heritable manner in mosquito species, including members of the genera Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex The most versatile element, piggyBac, is functional in all of these mosquito genera, as well as in many other insects in diverse orders, and has been used extensively outside the class. Transposon-mediated transgenesis of recessive and dominant marker genes and reporter systems has been used to define functional fragments of gene control sequences, introduce exogenous DNA encoding products beneficial to medical interests, and act as "enhancer traps" to identify endogenous genes with specific expression characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Bottino-Rojas
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Irvine, California 92697-4500, USA
| | - Anthony A James
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Irvine, California 92697-4500, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, California 92697-3900, USA
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Barletta ABF, Smith JC, Burkart E, Bondarenko S, Sharakhov I, Criscione F, O’Brochta D, Barillas-Mury C. Mosquito midgut stem cell cellular defense response limits Plasmodium parasite infection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.02.551669. [PMID: 37577486 PMCID: PMC10418181 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.02.551669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
A novel cellular response of midgut progenitors (stem cells and enteroblasts) to Plasmodium berghei infection was investigated in Anopheles stephensi. The presence of developing oocysts triggers proliferation of midgut progenitors that is modulated by the Jak/STAT pathway, and proportional to the number of oocysts on individual midguts. The percentage of parasites in direct contact with enteroblasts increases over time, as progenitors proliferate. Enhancing proliferation of progenitors significantly decreases oocyst numbers, while limiting proliferation increases oocyst survival. Live imaging revealed that enteroblasts interact directly with oocysts and eliminate them. Midgut progenitors sense the presence of Plasmodium oocysts and mount a cellular defense response that involves extensive proliferation and tissue remodeling, followed by oocysts lysis and phagocytosis of parasite remnants by enteroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana-Beatriz F. Barletta
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health; Rockville, Maryland, 20852, USA
| | - Jamie C. Smith
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health; Rockville, Maryland, 20852, USA
| | - Emily Burkart
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health; Rockville, Maryland, 20852, USA
| | - Simon Bondarenko
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University; Blacksburg, Virginia, 24060, USA
| | - Igor Sharakhov
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University; Blacksburg, Virginia, 24060, USA
| | - Frank Criscione
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health; Rockville, Maryland, 20852, USA
| | - David O’Brochta
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research and Department of Entomology University of Maryland-College Park; Rockville, Maryland, 20850, USA
| | - Carolina Barillas-Mury
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health; Rockville, Maryland, 20852, USA
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6
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Coutinho-Abreu IV, Akbari OS. Technological advances in mosquito olfaction neurogenetics. Trends Genet 2023; 39:154-166. [PMID: 36414481 PMCID: PMC10564117 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2022.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Gene-editing technologies have revolutionized the field of mosquito sensory biology. These technologies have been used to knock in reporter genes in-frame with neuronal genes and tag specific mosquito neurons to detect their activities using binary expression systems. Despite these advances, novel tools still need to be developed to elucidate the transmission of olfactory signals from the periphery to the brain. Here, we propose the development of a set of tools, including novel driver lines as well as sensors of neuromodulatory activities, which can advance our knowledge of how sensory input triggers behavioral outputs. This information can change our understanding of mosquito neurobiology and lead to the development of strategies for mosquito behavioral manipulation to reduce bites and disease transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iliano V Coutinho-Abreu
- School of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Omar S Akbari
- School of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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7
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Genetics tools for corpora allata specific gene expression in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20426. [PMID: 36443489 PMCID: PMC9705396 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25009-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Juvenile hormone (JH) is synthesized by the corpora allata (CA) and controls development and reproduction in insects. Therefore, achieving tissue-specific expression of transgenes in the CA would be beneficial for mosquito research and control. Different CA promoters have been used to drive transgene expression in Drosophila, but mosquito CA-specific promoters have not been identified. Using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, we integrated transgenes encoding the reporter green fluorescent protein (GFP) close to the transcription start site of juvenile hormone acid methyl transferase (JHAMT), a locus encoding a JH biosynthetic enzyme, specifically and highly expressed in the CA of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Transgenic individuals showed specific GFP expression in the CA but failed to reproduce the full pattern of jhamt spatiotemporal expression. In addition, we created GeneSwitch driver and responder mosquito lines expressing an inducible fluorescent marker, enabling the temporal regulation of the transgene via the presence or absence of an inducer drug. The use of the GeneSwitch system has not previously been reported in mosquitoes and provides a new inducible binary system that can control transgene expression in Aedes aegypti.
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8
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Fölsz O, Lin CC, Task D, Riabinina O, Potter CJ. The Q-system: A Versatile Repressible Binary Expression System. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2540:35-78. [PMID: 35980572 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2541-5_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Binary expression systems are useful genetic tools for experimentally labeling or manipulating the function of defined cells. The Q-system is a repressible binary expression system that consists of a transcription factor QF (and the recently improved QF2/QF2w), the inhibitor QS, a QUAS-geneX effector, and a drug that inhibits QS (quinic acid). The Q-system can be used alone or in combination with other binary expression systems, such as GAL4/UAS and LexA/LexAop. In this review chapter, we discuss the past, present, and future of the Q-system for applications in Drosophila and other organisms. We discuss the in vivo application of the Q-system for transgenic labeling, the modular nature of QF that allows chimeric or split transcriptional activators to be developed, its temporal control by quinic acid, new methods to generate QF2 reagents, intersectional expression labeling, and its recent adoption into many emerging experimental species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orsolya Fölsz
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham, UK
| | - Chun-Chieh Lin
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Giesel School of Medicine, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Darya Task
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Christopher J Potter
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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9
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Schember I, Halfon MS. Identification of new Anopheles gambiae transcriptional enhancers using a cross-species prediction approach. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 30:410-419. [PMID: 33866636 PMCID: PMC8266755 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The success of transgenic mosquito vector control approaches relies on well-targeted gene expression, requiring the identification and characterization of a diverse set of mosquito promoters and transcriptional enhancers. However, few enhancers have been characterized in Anopheles gambiae to date. Here, we employ the SCRMshaw method we previously developed to predict enhancers in the A. gambiae genome, preferentially targeting vector-relevant tissues such as the salivary glands, midgut and nervous system. We demonstrate a high overall success rate, with at least 8 of 11 (73%) tested sequences validating as enhancers in an in vivo xenotransgenic assay. Four tested sequences drive expression in either the salivary gland or the midgut, making them directly useful for probing the biology of these infection-relevant tissues. The success of our study suggests that computational enhancer prediction should serve as an effective means for identifying A. gambiae enhancers with activity in tissues involved in malaria propagation and transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Schember
- Department of Biochemistry, University at Buffalo-State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203
| | - Marc S. Halfon
- Department of Biochemistry, University at Buffalo-State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University at Buffalo-State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo-State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203
- NY State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics & Life Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14203
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Program in Cancer Genetics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263
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10
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Caragata EP, Dong S, Dong Y, Simões ML, Tikhe CV, Dimopoulos G. Prospects and Pitfalls: Next-Generation Tools to Control Mosquito-Transmitted Disease. Annu Rev Microbiol 2021; 74:455-475. [PMID: 32905752 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-micro-011320-025557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Mosquito-transmitted diseases, including malaria and dengue, are a major threat to human health around the globe, affecting millions each year. A diverse array of next-generation tools has been designed to eliminate mosquito populations or to replace them with mosquitoes that are less capable of transmitting key pathogens. Many of these new approaches have been built on recent advances in CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing. These initiatives have driven the development of pathogen-resistant lines, new genetics-based sexing methods, and new methods of driving desirable genetic traits into mosquito populations. Many other emerging tools involve microorganisms, including two strategies involving Wolbachia that are achieving great success in the field. At the same time, other mosquito-associated bacteria, fungi, and even viruses represent untapped sources of new mosquitocidal or antipathogen compounds. Although there are still hurdles to be overcome, the prospect that such approaches will reduce the impact of these diseases is highly encouraging.
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Affiliation(s)
- E P Caragata
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA; , , , , ,
| | - S Dong
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA; , , , , ,
| | - Y Dong
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA; , , , , ,
| | - M L Simões
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA; , , , , ,
| | - C V Tikhe
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA; , , , , ,
| | - G Dimopoulos
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA; , , , , ,
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Farley EJ, Eggleston H, Riehle MM. Filtering the Junk: Assigning Function to the Mosquito Non-Coding Genome. INSECTS 2021; 12:186. [PMID: 33671692 PMCID: PMC7926655 DOI: 10.3390/insects12020186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The portion of the mosquito genome that does not code for proteins contains regulatory elements that likely underlie variation for important phenotypes including resistance and susceptibility to infection with arboviruses and Apicomplexan parasites. Filtering the non-coding genome to uncover these functional elements is an expanding area of research, though identification of non-coding regulatory elements is challenging due to the lack of an amino acid-like code for the non-coding genome and a lack of sequence conservation across species. This review focuses on three types of non-coding regulatory elements: (1) microRNAs (miRNAs), (2) long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and (3) enhancers, and summarizes current advances in technical and analytical approaches for measurement of each of these elements on a genome-wide scale. The review also summarizes and highlights novel findings following application of these techniques in mosquito-borne disease research. Looking beyond the protein-coding genome is essential for understanding the complexities that underlie differential gene expression in response to arboviral or parasite infection in mosquito disease vectors. A comprehensive understanding of the regulation of gene and protein expression will inform transgenic and other vector control methods rooted in naturally segregating genetic variation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michelle M. Riehle
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA; (E.J.F.); (H.E.)
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12
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Ruiz JL, Ranford-Cartwright LC, Gómez-Díaz E. The regulatory genome of the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae: integrating chromatin accessibility and gene expression. NAR Genom Bioinform 2021; 3:lqaa113. [PMID: 33987532 PMCID: PMC8092447 DOI: 10.1093/nargab/lqaa113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes are primary human malaria vectors, but we know very little about their mechanisms of transcriptional regulation. We profiled chromatin accessibility by the assay for transposase-accessible chromatin by sequencing (ATAC-seq) in laboratory-reared A. gambiae mosquitoes experimentally infected with the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. By integrating ATAC-seq, RNA-seq and ChIP-seq data, we showed a positive correlation between accessibility at promoters and introns, gene expression and active histone marks. By comparing expression and chromatin structure patterns in different tissues, we were able to infer cis-regulatory elements controlling tissue-specific gene expression and to predict the in vivo binding sites of relevant transcription factors. The ATAC-seq assay also allowed the precise mapping of active regulatory regions, including novel transcription start sites and enhancers that were annotated to mosquito immune-related genes. Not only is this study important for advancing our understanding of mechanisms of transcriptional regulation in the mosquito vector of human malaria, but the information we produced also has great potential for developing new mosquito-control and anti-malaria strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- José L Ruiz
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra (IPBLN), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Lisa C Ranford-Cartwright
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Science, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Elena Gómez-Díaz
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra (IPBLN), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 18016 Granada, Spain
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13
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Driesschaert B, Mergan L, Temmerman L. Conditional gene expression in invertebrate animal models. J Genet Genomics 2021; 48:14-31. [PMID: 33814307 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
A mechanistic understanding of biology requires appreciating spatiotemporal aspects of gene expression and its functional implications. Conditional expression allows for (ir)reversible switching of genes on or off, with the potential of spatial and/or temporal control. This provides a valuable complement to the more often used constitutive gene (in)activation through mutagenesis, providing tools to answer a wider array of research questions across biological disciplines. Spatial and/or temporal control are granted primarily by (combinations of) specific promoters, temperature regimens, compound addition, or illumination. The use of such genetic tool kits is particularly widespread in invertebrate animal models because they can be applied to study biological processes in short time frames and on large scales, using organisms amenable to easy genetic manipulation. Recent years witnessed an exciting expansion and optimization of such tools, of which we provide a comprehensive overview and discussion regarding their use in invertebrates. The mechanism, applicability, benefits, and drawbacks of each of the systems, as well as further developments to be expected in the foreseeable future, are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brecht Driesschaert
- Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Naamsestraat 59 - Box 2465, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lucas Mergan
- Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Naamsestraat 59 - Box 2465, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Liesbet Temmerman
- Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Naamsestraat 59 - Box 2465, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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Macias VM, Palatini U, Bonizzoni M, Rasgon JL. Leaning Into the Bite: The piRNA Pathway as an Exemplar for the Genetic Engineering Need in Mosquitoes. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 10:614342. [PMID: 33520739 PMCID: PMC7840538 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.614342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The piRNA pathway is a specialized small RNA interference that in mosquitoes is mechanistically distant from analogous biology in the Drosophila model. Current genetic engineering methods, such as targeted genome manipulation, have a high potential to tease out the functional complexity of this intricate molecular pathway. However, progress in utilizing these methods in arthropod vectors has been geared mostly toward the development of new vector control strategies rather than to study cellular functions. Herein we propose that genetic engineering methods will be essential to uncover the full functionality of PIWI/piRNA biology in mosquitoes and that extending the applications of genetic engineering on other aspects of mosquito biology will grant access to a much larger pool of knowledge in disease vectors that is just out of reach. We discuss motivations for and impediments to expanding the utility of genetic engineering to study the underlying biology and disease transmission and describe specific areas where efforts can be placed to achieve the full potential for genetic engineering in basic biology in mosquito vectors. Such efforts will generate a refreshed intellectual source of novel approaches to disease control and strong support for the effective use of approaches currently in development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa M Macias
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
| | - Umberto Palatini
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Jason L Rasgon
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States.,Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States.,Center for Infectious Disease Dynamics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
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15
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Lezcano ÓM, Sánchez-Polo M, Ruiz JL, Gómez-Díaz E. Chromatin Structure and Function in Mosquitoes. Front Genet 2020; 11:602949. [PMID: 33365050 PMCID: PMC7750206 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.602949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The principles and function of chromatin and nuclear architecture have been extensively studied in model organisms, such as Drosophila melanogaster. However, little is known about the role of these epigenetic processes in transcriptional regulation in other insects including mosquitoes, which are major disease vectors and a worldwide threat for human health. Some of these life-threatening diseases are malaria, which is caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Plasmodium and transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes; dengue fever, which is caused by an arbovirus mainly transmitted by Aedes aegypti; and West Nile fever, which is caused by an arbovirus transmitted by Culex spp. In this contribution, we review what is known about chromatin-associated mechanisms and the 3D genome structure in various mosquito vectors, including Anopheles, Aedes, and Culex spp. We also discuss the similarities between epigenetic mechanisms in mosquitoes and the model organism Drosophila melanogaster, and advocate that the field could benefit from the cross-application of state-of-the-art functional genomic technologies that are well-developed in the fruit fly. Uncovering the mosquito regulatory genome can lead to the discovery of unique regulatory networks associated with the parasitic life-style of these insects. It is also critical to understand the molecular interactions between the vectors and the pathogens that they transmit, which could hold the key to major breakthroughs on the fight against mosquito-borne diseases. Finally, it is clear that epigenetic mechanisms controlling mosquito environmental plasticity and evolvability are also of utmost importance, particularly in the current context of globalization and climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - José L. Ruiz
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra (IPBLN), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Granada, Spain
| | - Elena Gómez-Díaz
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra (IPBLN), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Granada, Spain
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16
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Pondeville E, Puchot N, Parvy JP, Carissimo G, Poidevin M, Waterhouse RM, Marois E, Bourgouin C. Hemocyte-targeted gene expression in the female malaria mosquito using the hemolectin promoter from Drosophila. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 120:103339. [PMID: 32105779 PMCID: PMC7181189 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2020.103339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Hemocytes, the immune cells in mosquitoes, participate in immune defenses against pathogens including malaria parasites. Mosquito hemocytes can also be infected by arthropod-borne viruses but the pro- or anti-viral nature of this interaction is unknown. Although there has been progress on hemocyte characterization during pathogen infection in mosquitoes, the specific contribution of hemocytes to immune responses and the hemocyte-specific functions of immune genes and pathways remain unresolved due to the lack of genetic tools to manipulate gene expression in these cells specifically. Here, we used the Gal4-UAS system to characterize the activity of the Drosophila hemocyte-specific hemolectin promoter in the adults of Anopheles gambiae, the malaria mosquito. We established an hml-Gal4 driver line that we further crossed to a fluorescent UAS responder line, and examined the expression pattern in the adult progeny driven by the hml promoter. We show that the hml regulatory region drives hemocyte-specific transgene expression in a subset of hemocytes, and that transgene expression is triggered after a blood meal. The hml promoter drives transgene expression in differentiating prohemocytes as well as in differentiated granulocytes. Analysis of different immune markers in hemocytes in which the hml promoter drives transgene expression revealed that this regulatory region could be used to study phagocytosis as well as melanization. Finally, the hml promoter drives transgene expression in hemocytes in which o'nyong-nyong virus replicates. Altogether, the Drosophila hml promoter constitutes a good tool to drive transgene expression in hemocyte only and to analyze the function of these cells and the genes they express during pathogen infection in Anopheles gambiae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Pondeville
- CNRS Unit of Evolutionary Genomics, Modeling, and Health (UMR2000), Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.
| | - Nicolas Puchot
- CNRS Unit of Evolutionary Genomics, Modeling, and Health (UMR2000), Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | | | - Guillaume Carissimo
- CNRS Unit of Evolutionary Genomics, Modeling, and Health (UMR2000), Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Mickael Poidevin
- Centre de Génétique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR 2167, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Robert M Waterhouse
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Lausanne, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eric Marois
- CNRS UPR9022, INSERM U1257, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Catherine Bourgouin
- CNRS Unit of Evolutionary Genomics, Modeling, and Health (UMR2000), Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.
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17
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Tomoyasu Y, Halfon MS. How to study enhancers in non-traditional insect models. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 223:223/Suppl_1/jeb212241. [PMID: 32034049 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.212241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Transcriptional enhancers are central to the function and evolution of genes and gene regulation. At the organismal level, enhancers play a crucial role in coordinating tissue- and context-dependent gene expression. At the population level, changes in enhancers are thought to be a major driving force that facilitates evolution of diverse traits. An amazing array of diverse traits seen in insect morphology, physiology and behavior has been the subject of research for centuries. Although enhancer studies in insects outside of Drosophila have been limited, recent advances in functional genomic approaches have begun to make such studies possible in an increasing selection of insect species. Here, instead of comprehensively reviewing currently available technologies for enhancer studies in established model organisms such as Drosophila, we focus on a subset of computational and experimental approaches that are likely applicable to non-Drosophila insects, and discuss the pros and cons of each approach. We discuss the importance of validating enhancer function and evaluate several possible validation methods, such as reporter assays and genome editing. Key points and potential pitfalls when establishing a reporter assay system in non-traditional insect models are also discussed. We close with a discussion of how to advance enhancer studies in insects, both by improving computational approaches and by expanding the genetic toolbox in various insects. Through these discussions, this Review provides a conceptual framework for studying the function and evolution of enhancers in non-traditional insect models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marc S Halfon
- Department of Biochemistry, University at Buffalo-State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
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18
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Nardini L, Holm I, Pain A, Bischoff E, Gohl DM, Zongo S, Guelbeogo WM, Sagnon N, Vernick KD, Riehle MM. Influence of genetic polymorphism on transcriptional enhancer activity in the malaria vector Anopheles coluzzii. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15275. [PMID: 31649293 PMCID: PMC6813320 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-51730-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Enhancers are cis-regulatory elements that control most of the developmental and spatial gene expression in eukaryotes. Genetic variation of enhancer sequences is known to influence phenotypes, but the effect of enhancer variation upon enhancer functional activity and downstream phenotypes has barely been examined in any species. In the African malaria vector, Anopheles coluzzii, we identified candidate enhancers in the proximity of genes relevant for immunity, insecticide resistance, and development. The candidate enhancers were functionally validated using luciferase reporter assays, and their activity was found to be essentially independent of their physical orientation, a typical property of enhancers. All of the enhancers segregated genetically polymorphic alleles, which displayed significantly different levels of functional activity. Deletion mutagenesis and functional testing revealed a fine structure of positive and negative regulatory elements that modulate activity of the enhancer core. Enhancer polymorphisms segregate in wild A. coluzzii populations in West Africa. Thus, enhancer variants that modify target gene expression leading to likely phenotypic consequences are frequent in nature. These results demonstrate the existence of naturally polymorphic A. coluzzii enhancers, which may help explain important differences between individuals or populations for malaria transmission efficiency and vector adaptation to the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Nardini
- Unit of Insect Vector Genetics and Genomics, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,CNRS Unit of Evolutionary Genomics, Modeling, and Health (UMR2000), Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Inge Holm
- Unit of Insect Vector Genetics and Genomics, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,CNRS Unit of Evolutionary Genomics, Modeling, and Health (UMR2000), Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Adrien Pain
- Unit of Insect Vector Genetics and Genomics, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,CNRS Unit of Evolutionary Genomics, Modeling, and Health (UMR2000), Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,Institut Pasteur Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Hub (C3BI), CNRS USR 3756, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Emmanuel Bischoff
- Unit of Insect Vector Genetics and Genomics, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,CNRS Unit of Evolutionary Genomics, Modeling, and Health (UMR2000), Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Daryl M Gohl
- University of Minnesota Genomics Center, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Soumanaba Zongo
- Centre National de Recherche et de Formation sur le Paludisme (CNRFP), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Wamdaogo M Guelbeogo
- Centre National de Recherche et de Formation sur le Paludisme (CNRFP), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - N'Fale Sagnon
- Centre National de Recherche et de Formation sur le Paludisme (CNRFP), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Kenneth D Vernick
- Unit of Insect Vector Genetics and Genomics, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France. .,CNRS Unit of Evolutionary Genomics, Modeling, and Health (UMR2000), Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.
| | - Michelle M Riehle
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
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19
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Abstract
Vector control programs based on population reduction by matings with mass-released sterile insects require the release of only male mosquitoes, as the release of females, even if sterile, would increase the number of biting and potentially disease-transmitting individuals. While small-scale releases demonstrated the applicability of sterile males releases to control the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti, large-scale programs for mosquitoes are currently prevented by the lack of efficient sexing systems in any of the vector species.Different approaches of sexing are pursued, including classical genetic and mechanical methods of sex separation. Another strategy is the development of transgenic sexing systems. Such systems already exist in other insect pests. Genome modification tools could be used to apply similar strategies to mosquitoes. Three major tools to modify mosquito genomes are currently used: transposable elements, site-specific recombination systems, and genome editing via TALEN or CRISPR/Cas. All three can serve the purpose of developing sexing systems and vector control strains in mosquitoes in two ways: first, via their use in basic research. A better understanding of mosquito biology, including the sex-determining pathways and the involved genes can greatly facilitate the development of sexing strains. Moreover, basic research can help to identify other regulatory elements and genes potentially useful for the construction of transgenic sexing systems. Second, these genome modification tools can be used to apply the gained knowledge to build and test mosquito sexing strains for vector control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Häcker
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
| | - Marc F Schetelig
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392, Giessen, Germany
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20
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Enhancer Trapping and Annotation in Zebrafish Mediated with Sleeping Beauty, piggyBac and Tol2 Transposons. Genes (Basel) 2018; 9:genes9120630. [PMID: 30551672 PMCID: PMC6316676 DOI: 10.3390/genes9120630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Although transposon-mediated enhancer trapping (ET) is successfully applied in diverse models, the efficiency of various transposon systems varies significantly, and little information is available regarding efficiency of enhancer trapping by various transposons in zebrafish. Most potential enhancers (Ens) still lack evidence of actual En activity. Here, we compared the differences in ET efficiency between sleeping beauty (SB), piggyBac (PB) and Tol2 transposons. Tol2 represented the highest germline transfer efficiencies at 55.56% (NF0 = 165), followed by SB (38.36%, NF0 = 151) and PB (32.65%, NF0 = 149). ET lines generated by the Tol2 transposon tended to produce offspring with a single expression pattern per line, while PB and SB tended to generate embryos with multiple expression patterns. In our tests, 10 putative Ens (En1–10) were identified by splinkerette PCR and comparative genomic analysis. Combining the GFP expression profiles and mRNA expression patterns revealed that En1 and En2 may be involved in regulation of the expression of dlx1a and dlx2a, while En6 may be involved in regulation of the expression of line TK4 transgene and rps26, and En7 may be involved in the regulation of the expression of wnt1 and wnt10b. Most identified Ens were found to be transcribed in zebrafish embryos, and their regulatory function may involve eRNAs.
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21
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Adolfi A, Lycett GJ. Opening the toolkit for genetic analysis and control of Anopheles mosquito vectors. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2018; 30:8-18. [PMID: 30553490 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2018.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Anopheles is the only genus of mosquitoes that transmit human malaria and consequently the focus of large scale genome and transcriptome-wide association studies. Genetic tools to define the function of the candidate genes arising from these analyses are vital. Moreover, genome editing offers the potential to modify Anopheles population structure at local and global scale to provide complementary tools towards the ultimate goal of malaria elimination. Major breakthroughs in Anopheles genetic analysis came with the development of germline transformation and RNA interference technology. Yet, the field has been revolutionised again by precise genome editing now possible through site-specific nucleases. Here we review the components of the current genetic toolkit available to study Anopheles, focusing particularly on how these technical advances are used to gain insight into malaria transmission and the design of genetic methods to control Anopheles vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Adolfi
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-4500, USA
| | - Gareth John Lycett
- Vector Biology Department, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
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22
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Mysore K, Li P, Duman-Scheel M. Identification of Aedes aegypti cis-regulatory elements that promote gene expression in olfactory receptor neurons of distantly related dipteran insects. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:406. [PMID: 29996889 PMCID: PMC6042464 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2982-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sophisticated tools for manipulation of gene expression in select neurons, including neurons that regulate sexually dimorphic behaviors, are increasingly available for analysis of genetic model organisms. However, we lack comparable genetic tools for analysis of non-model organisms, including Aedes aegypti, a vector mosquito which displays sexually dimorphic behaviors that contribute to pathogen transmission. Formaldehyde-assisted isolation of regulatory elements followed by sequencing (FAIRE-seq) recently facilitated genome-wide discovery of putative A. aegypti cis-regulatory elements (CREs), many of which could be used to manipulate gene expression in mosquito neurons and other tissues. The goal of this investigation was to identify FAIRE DNA elements that promote gene expression in the olfactory system, a tissue of vector importance. Results Eight A. aegypti CREs that promote gene expression in antennal olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) were identified in a Drosophila melanogaster transgenic reporter screen. Four CREs identified in the screen were cloned upstream of GAL4 in a transgenic construct that is compatible with transformation of a variety of insect species. These constructs, which contained FAIRE DNA elements associated with the A. aegypti odorant coreceptor (orco), odorant receptor 1 (Or1), odorant receptor 8 (Or8) and fruitless (fru) genes, were used for transformation of A. aegypti. Six A. aegypti strains, including strains displaying transgene expression in all ORNs, subsets of these neurons, or in a sex-specific fashion, were isolated. The CREs drove transgene expression in A. aegypti that corresponded to endogenous gene expression patterns of the orco, Or1, Or8 and fru genes in the mosquito antenna. CRE activity in A. aegypti was found to be comparable to that observed in D. melanogaster reporter assays. Conclusions These results provide further evidence that FAIRE-seq, which can be paired with D. melanogaster reporter screening to test FAIRE DNA element activity in select tissues, is a useful method for identification of mosquito cis-regulatory elements. These findings expand the genetic toolkit available for the study of Aedes neurobiology. Moreover, given that the CREs drive comparable olfactory neural expression in both A. aegypti and D. melanogaster, it is likely that they may function similarly in multiple dipteran insects, including other disease vector mosquito species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keshava Mysore
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1234 Notre Dame Avenue, Raclin-Carmichael Hall, South Bend, IN, 46617, USA.,The University of Notre Dame Eck Institute for Global Health, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1234 Notre Dame Avenue, Raclin-Carmichael Hall, South Bend, IN, 46617, USA.,The University of Notre Dame Eck Institute for Global Health, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA
| | - Molly Duman-Scheel
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1234 Notre Dame Avenue, Raclin-Carmichael Hall, South Bend, IN, 46617, USA. .,The University of Notre Dame Eck Institute for Global Health, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA. .,Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA.
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23
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Homem RA, Davies TGE. An overview of functional genomic tools in deciphering insecticide resistance. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2018; 27:103-110. [PMID: 30025625 PMCID: PMC6060081 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2018.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2017] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
In this short review, we highlight three functional genomic technologies that have recently been contributing to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underpinning insecticide resistance: the GAL4/UAS system, a molecular tool used to express genes of interest in a spatiotemporal controlled manner; the RNAi system, which is used to knock-down gene expression; and the most recently developed gene editing tool, CRISPR/Cas9, which can be used to knock-out and knock-in sequences of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael A Homem
- Department of Biointeractions and Crop Protection, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden AL5 2JQ, UK.
| | - Thomas G Emyr Davies
- Department of Biointeractions and Crop Protection, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden AL5 2JQ, UK.
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24
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Adolfi A, Pondeville E, Lynd A, Bourgouin C, Lycett GJ. Multi-tissue GAL4-mediated gene expression in all Anopheles gambiae life stages using an endogenous polyubiquitin promoter. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 96:1-9. [PMID: 29578046 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2018.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The ability to manipulate the Anopheles gambiae genome and alter gene expression effectively and reproducibly is a prerequisite for functional genetic analysis and for the development of novel control strategies in this important disease vector. However, in vivo transgenic analysis in mosquitoes is limited by the lack of promoters active ubiquitously. To address this, we used the GAL4/UAS system to investigate the promoter of the An. gambiae Polyubiquitin-c (PUBc) gene and demonstrated its ability to drive expression in mosquito cell culture before incorporation into An. gambiae transgenic driver lines. To generate such lines, piggyBac-mediated insertion was used to identify genomic regions able to sustain widespread expression and to create φC31 docking lines at these permissive sites. Patterns of expression induced by PUBc-GAL4 drivers carrying single intergenic insertions were assessed by crossing with a novel responder UAS-mCD8:mCherry line that was created by φC31-mediated integration. Amongst the drivers created at single, unique chromosomal integration loci, two were isolated that induced differential expression levels in a similar multiple-tissue spatial pattern throughout the mosquito life cycle. This work expands the tools available for An. gambiae functional analysis by providing a novel promoter for investigating phenotypes resulting from widespread multi-tissue expression, as well as identifying and tagging genomic sites that sustain broad transcriptional activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Adolfi
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Vector Biology Department, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Emilie Pondeville
- Institut Pasteur, Genetics and Genomics of Insect Vectors, CNRS Unit URA3012, Paris, France.
| | - Amy Lynd
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Vector Biology Department, Liverpool, UK
| | - Catherine Bourgouin
- Institut Pasteur, Genetics and Genomics of Insect Vectors, CNRS Unit URA3012, Paris, France
| | - Gareth J Lycett
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Vector Biology Department, Liverpool, UK.
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25
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Riabinina O, Task D, Marr E, Lin CC, Alford R, O'Brochta DA, Potter CJ. Organization of olfactory centres in the malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae. Nat Commun 2016; 7:13010. [PMID: 27694947 PMCID: PMC5063964 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms13010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Mosquitoes are vectors for multiple infectious human diseases and use a variety of sensory cues (olfactory, temperature, humidity and visual) to locate a human host. A comprehensive understanding of the circuitry underlying sensory signalling in the mosquito brain is lacking. Here we used the Q-system of binary gene expression to develop transgenic lines of Anopheles gambiae in which olfactory receptor neurons expressing the odorant receptor co-receptor (Orco) gene are labelled with GFP. These neurons project from the antennae and maxillary palps to the antennal lobe (AL) and from the labella on the proboscis to the suboesophageal zone (SEZ), suggesting integration of olfactory and gustatory signals occurs in this brain region. We present detailed anatomical maps of olfactory innervations in the AL and the SEZ, identifying glomeruli that may respond to human body odours or carbon dioxide. Our results pave the way for anatomical and functional neurogenetic studies of sensory processing in mosquitoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olena Riabinina
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 855 North Wolfe Street, 434 Rangos Building, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
| | - Darya Task
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 855 North Wolfe Street, 434 Rangos Building, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
| | - Elizabeth Marr
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 855 North Wolfe Street, 434 Rangos Building, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
| | - Chun-Chieh Lin
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 855 North Wolfe Street, 434 Rangos Building, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
| | - Robert Alford
- University of Maryland College Park, 9600 Gudelsky Drive, Rockville, Maryland 20850, USA
| | - David A O'Brochta
- University of Maryland College Park, 9600 Gudelsky Drive, Rockville, Maryland 20850, USA
| | - Christopher J Potter
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 855 North Wolfe Street, 434 Rangos Building, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
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26
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Huang Y, Liu Z, Rong YS. Genome Editing: From Drosophila to Non-Model Insects and Beyond. J Genet Genomics 2016; 43:263-72. [PMID: 27216295 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2016.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Revised: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Insect is the largest group of animals on land. Many insect species inflict economical and health losses to humans. Yet many more benefit us by helping to maintain balances in our ecosystem. The benefits that insects offer remain largely untapped, justifying our continuing efforts to develop tools to better understand their biology and to better manage their activities. Here we focus on reviewing the progresses made in the development of genome engineering tools for model insects. Instead of detailed descriptions of the molecular mechanisms underlying each technical advance, we focus our discussion on the logistics for implementing similar tools in non-model insects. Since none of the tools were developed specific for insects, similar approaches can be applied to other non-model organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueping Huang
- Institute of Entomology, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zhiping Liu
- Institute of Entomology, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yikang S Rong
- Institute of Entomology, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
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Adelman ZN, Tu Z. Control of Mosquito-Borne Infectious Diseases: Sex and Gene Drive. Trends Parasitol 2016; 32:219-229. [PMID: 26897660 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2015.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2015] [Revised: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Sterile male releases have successfully reduced local populations of the dengue vector, Aedes aegypti, but challenges remain in scale and in separating sexes before release. The recent discovery of the first mosquito male determining factor (M factor) will facilitate our understanding of the genetic programs that initiate sexual development in mosquitoes. Manipulation of the M factor and possible intermediary factors may result in female-to-male conversion or female killing, enabling efficient sex separation and effective reduction of target mosquito populations. Given recent breakthroughs in the development of CRISPR-Cas9 reagents as a source of gene drive, more advanced technologies at driving maleness, the ultimate disease refractory phenotype, become possible and may represent efficient and self-limiting methods to control mosquito populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zach N Adelman
- Department of Entomology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA; Fralin Life Science Institute, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
| | - Zhijian Tu
- Fralin Life Science Institute, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
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Abstract
Since its introduction in 1993, the GAL4 system has become an essential part of the Drosophila geneticist's toolkit. Widely used to drive gene expression in a multitude of cell- and tissue-specific patterns, the system has been adapted and extended to form the basis of many modern tools for the manipulation of gene expression in Drosophila and other model organisms.
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Criscione F, O'Brochta DA, Reid W. Genetic technologies for disease vectors. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2015; 10:90-97. [PMID: 29588019 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2015.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Revised: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The first genetic technologies for insect vectors of disease were introduced 20 years ago. As of today there are 12 classes of genetic technologies used as functional genomic tools for insect vectors of important diseases. Although the applications of genetic technologies in insect disease vectors have been conducted primarily in mosquitoes, other insect systems could benefit from current technologies. While the various technological platforms are likely to function in diverse arthropods, the delivery of these technologies to cells and tissues of interest is the major technical constraint that limits their widespread adoption. Increased community resources of various types would enhance the adoption of these technologies and potentially eliminate technical limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Criscione
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, College Park, 9600 Gudelsky Drive, Rockville, MD 20850, United States.
| | - David A O'Brochta
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, 9600 Gudelsky Drive, Rockville, MD 20850, United States.
| | - William Reid
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, College Park, 9600 Gudelsky Drive, Rockville, MD 20850, United States.
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30
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Pondeville E, Puchot N, Meredith JM, Lynd A, Vernick KD, Lycett GJ, Eggleston P, Bourgouin C. Efficient ΦC31 integrase-mediated site-specific germline transformation of Anopheles gambiae. Nat Protoc 2014; 9:1698-712. [PMID: 24945385 DOI: 10.1038/nprot.2014.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Current transgenic methodology developed for mosquitoes has not been applied widely to the major malaria vector Anopheles gambiae, which has proved more difficult to genetically manipulate than other mosquito species and dipteran insects. In this protocol, we describe ΦC31-mediated site-specific integration of transgenes into the genome of A. gambiae. The ΦC31 system has many advantages over 'classical' transposon-mediated germline transformation systems, because it allows integration of large transgenes at specific, characterized genomic locations. Starting from a general protocol, we have optimized steps from embryo collection to co-injection of transgene-containing plasmid and in vitro-produced ΦC31 integrase mRNA. We also provide tips for screening transgenic larvae. The outlined procedure provides robust transformation in A. gambiae, resulting in homozygous transgenic lines in ∼2-3 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Pondeville
- Institut Pasteur, Genetics and Genomics of Insect Vectors, CNRS unit URA3012, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Puchot
- Institut Pasteur, Genetics and Genomics of Insect Vectors, CNRS unit URA3012, Paris, France
| | - Janet M Meredith
- Centre for Applied Entomology and Parasitology, School of Life Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Amy Lynd
- Department of Vector Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Kenneth D Vernick
- Institut Pasteur, Genetics and Genomics of Insect Vectors, CNRS unit URA3012, Paris, France
| | - Gareth J Lycett
- 1] Department of Vector Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK. [2]
| | - Paul Eggleston
- 1] Centre for Applied Entomology and Parasitology, School of Life Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK. [2]
| | - Catherine Bourgouin
- 1] Institut Pasteur, Genetics and Genomics of Insect Vectors, CNRS unit URA3012, Paris, France. [2]
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31
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Akbari OS, Papathanos PA, Sandler JE, Kennedy K, Hay BA. Identification of germline transcriptional regulatory elements in Aedes aegypti. Sci Rep 2014; 4:3954. [PMID: 24492376 PMCID: PMC3912481 DOI: 10.1038/srep03954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2013] [Accepted: 01/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The mosquito Aedes aegypti is the principal vector for the yellow fever and dengue viruses, and is also responsible for recent outbreaks of the alphavirus chikungunya. Vector control strategies utilizing engineered gene drive systems are being developed as a means of replacing wild, pathogen transmitting mosquitoes with individuals refractory to disease transmission, or bringing about population suppression. Several of these systems, including Medea, UD(MEL), and site-specific nucleases, which can be used to drive genes into populations or bring about population suppression, utilize transcriptional regulatory elements that drive germline-specific expression. Here we report the identification of multiple regulatory elements able to drive gene expression specifically in the female germline, or in the male and female germline, in the mosquito Aedes aegypti. These elements can also be used as tools with which to probe the roles of specific genes in germline function and in the early embryo, through overexpression or RNA interference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar S Akbari
- 1] Division of Biology, MC 156-29, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA [2]
| | - Philippos A Papathanos
- 1] Division of Biology, MC 156-29, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA [2]
| | - Jeremy E Sandler
- Division of Biology, MC 156-29, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Katie Kennedy
- Division of Biology, MC 156-29, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Bruce A Hay
- Division of Biology, MC 156-29, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
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32
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Schetelig MF, Handler AM. Germline transformation of the spotted wing drosophilid, Drosophila suzukii, with a piggyBac transposon vector. Genetica 2013; 141:189-93. [DOI: 10.1007/s10709-013-9717-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2013] [Accepted: 03/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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