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Zeng T, Teng FY, Wei H, Lu YY, Xu YJ, Qi YX. AANAT1 regulates insect midgut detoxification through the ROS/CncC pathway. Commun Biol 2024; 7:808. [PMID: 38961219 PMCID: PMC11222512 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06505-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Insecticide resistance has been a problem in both the agricultural pests and vectors. Revealing the detoxification mechanisms may help to better manage insect pests. Here, we showed that arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase 1 (AANAT1) regulates intestinal detoxification process through modulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-activated transcription factors cap"n"collar isoform-C (CncC): muscle aponeurosis fibromatosis (Maf) pathway in both the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis, and the arbovirus vector, Aedes aegypti. Knockout/knockdown of AANAT1 led to accumulation of biogenic amines, which induced a decreased in the gut ROS level. The reduced midgut ROS levels resulted in decreased expression of CncC and Maf, leading to lower expression level of detoxification genes. AANAT1 knockout/knockdown insects were more susceptible to insecticide treatments. Our study reveals that normal functionality of AANAT1 is important for the regulation of gut detoxification pathways, providing insights into the mechanism underlying the gut defense against xenobiotics in metazoans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Zeng
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fei-Yue Teng
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Wei
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong-Yue Lu
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Juan Xu
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yi-Xiang Qi
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
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2
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Teng FY, Feng JM, Ma FC, Wang ZX, Lu YY, Qi YX. Characterization of an agmatine N-acetyltransferase from Bactrocera dorsalis that modulates ovary development. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 170:104130. [PMID: 38734116 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2024.104130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Agmatine N-acetyltransferase (AgmNAT), which catalyzes the formation of N-acetylagmatine from acetyl-CoA and agmatine, is a member of the GCN5-related N-acetyltransferase family. So far, knowledge of the physiological roles of AgmNAT in insects is limited. Here, we identified one gene encoding protein homologous to that of Drosophila AgmNAT using sequence information from an activity-verified Drosophila AgmNAT in a BLAST search of the Bactrocera dorsalis genome. We expressed and purified B. dorsalis AgmNAT in Escherichia coli and used the purified enzyme to define the substrate specificity for acyl-CoA and amine substrates. Our application of the screening strategy to BdorAgmNAT led to the identification of agmatine as the best amine substrate for this enzyme, with the highest kcat/Km value. We successfully obtained a BdorAgmNAT knockout strain based on a wild-type strain (WT) using the CRISPR/Cas9 technique. The ovary development of the BdorAgmNAT knockout mutants was delayed for 10 days compared with the WT specimens. Moreover, mutants had a much smaller mature ovary size and laid far fewer eggs than WT. Loss of function of BdorAgmNAT caused by RNAi with mature WT females did not affect their fecundity. These findings indicate that BdorAgmNAT is critical for oogenesis. Our data provide the first evidence for AgmNAT in regulating ovary development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei-Yue Teng
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ji-Mei Feng
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fu-Cai Ma
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuo-Xin Wang
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong-Yue Lu
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Xiang Qi
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
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3
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Gong LL, Ma YF, Zhang MQ, Feng HY, Zhou YY, Zhao YQ, Hull JJ, Dewer Y, He M, He P. The melanin pigment gene black mediates body pigmentation and courtship behaviour in the German cockroach Blattella germanica. BULLETIN OF ENTOMOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2024; 114:271-280. [PMID: 38623047 DOI: 10.1017/s0007485324000166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Genes involved in melanin production directly impact insect pigmentation and can affect diverse physiology and behaviours. The role these genes have on sex behaviour, however, is unclear. In the present study, the crucial melanin pigment gene black was functionally characterised in an urban pest, the German cockroach, Blattella germanica. RNAi knockdown of B. germanica black (Bgblack) had no effect on survival, but did result in black pigmentation of the thoraxes, abdomens, heads, wings, legs, antennae, and cerci due to cuticular accumulation of melanin. Sex-specific variation in the pigmentation pattern was apparent, with females exhibiting darker coloration on the abdomen and thorax than males. Bgblack knockdown also resulted in wing deformation and negatively impacted the contact sex pheromone-based courtship behaviour of males. This study provides evidence for black function in multiple aspects of B. germanica biology and opens new avenues of exploration for novel pest control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lang-Lang Gong
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - Yun-Feng Ma
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - Meng-Qi Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - Hong-Yan Feng
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - Yang-Yuntao Zhou
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - Ya-Qin Zhao
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - J Joe Hull
- USDA-ARS Arid Land Agricultural Research Center, Maricopa AZ, 85138, USA
| | - Youssef Dewer
- Phytotoxicity Research Department, Central Agricultural Pesticide Laboratory, Agricultural Research Center, 7 Nadi El-Seid Street, Dokki 12618, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ming He
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - Peng He
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
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4
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Wang N, Ji A, Masoudi A, Li S, Hu Y, Zhang Y, Yu Z, Wang H, Wang H, Liu J. Protein regulation mechanism of cold tolerance in Haemaphysalis longicornis. INSECT SCIENCE 2023; 30:725-740. [PMID: 36285346 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Ticks are external parasitic arthropods that can transmit a variety of pathogens by sucking blood. Low-temperature tolerance is essential for ticks to survive during the cold winter. Exploring the protein regulation mechanism of low-temperature tolerance of Haemaphysalis longicornis could help to explain how ticks survive in winter. In this study, the quantitative proteomics of several tissues of H. longicornis exposed to low temperature were studied by data independent acquisition technology. Totals of 3 699, 3 422, and 1 958 proteins were identified in the salivary gland, midgut, and ovary, respectively. The proteins involved in energy metabolism, cell signal transduction, protein synthesis and repair, and cytoskeleton synthesis changed under low-temperature stress. The comprehensive analysis of the protein regulation of multiple tissues of female ticks exposed to low temperature showed that maintaining cell homeostasis, maintaining cell viability, and enhancing cell tolerance were the most important means for ticks to maintain vital signs under low temperature. The expression of proteins involved in and regulating the above cell activities was the key to the survival of ticks under low temperatures. Through the analysis of a large amount of data, we found that the expression levels of arylamine N-acetyltransferase, inositol polyphosphate multikinase, and dual-specificity phosphatase were up-regulated under low temperature. We speculated that they might have important significance in low-temperature tolerance. Then, we performed RNA interference on the mRNA of these 3 proteins, and the results showed that the ability of female ticks to tolerate low temperatures decreased significantly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningmei Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Aimeng Ji
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Abolfazl Masoudi
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Shuang Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yuhong Hu
- Instrumental Analysis Center, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yefei Zhang
- Hebei Xiaowutai Mountain National Nature Reserve Management Center, Zhangjiakou, Hebei Province, China
| | - Zhijun Yu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Han Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jingze Liu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
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5
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Tang Y, Chen H, Lin Z, Zhang L, Upadhyay A, Liao C, Merkler DJ, Han Q. Evolutionary genomics analysis reveals gene expansion and functional diversity of arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferases in the Culicinae subfamily of mosquitoes. INSECT SCIENCE 2023; 30:569-581. [PMID: 35922881 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13100] [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] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (aaNAT), considered a potential new insecticide target, catalyzes the acetylation of arylalkylamine substrates such as serotonin and dopamine and, hence, mediates diverse functions in insects. However, the origin of insect aaNATs (iaaNATs) and the evolutionary process that generates multiple aaNATs in mosquitoes remain largely unknown. Here, we have analyzed the genomes of 33 species to explore and expand our understanding of the molecular evolution of this gene family in detail. We show that aaNAT orthologs are present in Bacteria, Cephalochordata, Chondrichthyes, Cnidaria, Crustacea, Mammalia, Placozoa, and Teleoste, as well as those from a number of insects, but are absent in some species of Annelida, Echinozoa, and Mollusca as well as Arachnida. Particularly, more than 10 aaNATs were detected in the Culicinae subfamily of mosquitoes. Molecular evolutionary analysis of aaNAT/aaNAT-like genes in mosquitoes reveals that tandem duplication events led to gene expansion in the Culicinae subfamily of mosquitoes more than 190 million years ago. Further selection analysis demonstrates that mosquito aaNATs evolved under strongly positive pressures that generated functional diversity following gene duplication events. Overall, this study may provide novel insights into the molecular evolution of the aaNAT family in mosquitoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Tang
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Huaqing Chen
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Zhinan Lin
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Archana Upadhyay
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Chenghong Liao
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - David J Merkler
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Qian Han
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, China
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6
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Zhang L, Tang Y, Merkler DJ, Han Q. Function, structure, evolution, regulation of a potent drug target, arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2023; 134:211-223. [PMID: 36858736 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2022.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (aaNAT) catalyzes the transacetylation of acetyl coenzyme A to arylamines and arylalkylamines. Based on three-dimensional structural information, aaNAT belongs to the GCN5-related N-acetyltransferases superfamily with a conserved acetyl-CoA binding domain (Dyda et al., 2000). By comparison of sequence similarity, aaNAT is usually divided into vertebrate aaNAT (VT-aaNAT) and non-vertebrate aaNAT (NV-aaNAT) (Cazaméa-Catalan et al., 2014). Insects have evolved multiple aaNATs in comparison to mammals, thus more diverse functions are also reflected in insects. This chapter will summarize previous studies on the function, regulation, structure and evolution of aaNAT, and provide insight into future pest management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, P.R. China; One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, P.R. China
| | - Yu Tang
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, P.R. China; One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, P.R. China
| | - David J Merkler
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Qian Han
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, P.R. China; One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, P.R. China.
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7
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Zhang L, Tang Y, Chen H, Zhu X, Gong X, Wang S, Luo J, Han Q. Arylalkalamine N-acetyltransferase-1 acts on a secondary amine in the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti. FEBS Lett 2022; 596:1081-1091. [PMID: 35178730 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (aaNAT) in Aedes aegypti is primarily involved in cuticle pigmentation and formation. The reported arylalkylamine substrates are all primary amines. In this study, we report a novel substrate, a secondary amine, of Ae. aegypti aaNAT1. The recombinant aaNAT1 protein exhibited high activity to a secondary amine, epinephrine, which has not been reported for any aaNATs previously. Structure-activity relationship study demonstrated that aaNAT1 has an epinephrine binding site, and molecular docking and dynamic simulation showed that epinephrine is quite stable in the active cavity. Further functional studies demonstrated that epinephrine affected mosquito fecundity, egg hatching and development. The new biochemical function of aaNAT1 in metabolizing epinephrine could reduce some negative effects of the compound in the mosquito.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228, China.,One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228, China
| | - Yu Tang
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228, China.,One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228, China
| | - Huaqing Chen
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228, China.,One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228, China
| | - Xiaojing Zhu
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228, China.,One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228, China
| | - Xue Gong
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228, China.,One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228, China
| | - Shouchuang Wang
- Hainan Key Laboratory for Sustainable Utilisation of Tropical Bioresource, College of Tropical Crops, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228, China
| | - Jie Luo
- Hainan Key Laboratory for Sustainable Utilisation of Tropical Bioresource, College of Tropical Crops, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228, China
| | - Qian Han
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228, China.,One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228, China
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8
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Zhang L, Li MZ, Chen ZH, Tang Y, Liao CH, Han Q. Arylalkalamine N-acetyltransferase-1 functions on cuticle pigmentation in the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti. INSECT SCIENCE 2021; 28:1591-1600. [PMID: 33369191 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (aaNAT) catalyzes the acetylation of dopamine, 5-hydroxy-tryptamine, tryptamine, octopamine, norepinephrine and other arylalkylamines to form respective N-acetyl-arylalkylamines. Depending on the products formed, aaNATs are involved in a variety of physiological functions. In the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti, a number of aaNATs and aaNAT-like proteins have been reported. However, the primary function of each individual aaNAT is yet to be identified. In this study we investigated the function of Ae. aegypti aaNAT1 (Ae-aaNAT1) in cuticle pigmentation and development of morphology. Ae-aaNAT1 transcripts were detected at all stages of development with highest expressions after pupation and right before adult eclosion. Ae-aaNAT1 mutant mosquitoes generated using clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats (CRISPR) - CRISPR-associated protein 9 had no obvious effect on larval and pupal development. However, the mutant mosquitoes exhibited a roughened exoskeletal surface, darker cuticles, and color pattern changes suggesting that Ae-aaNAT1 plays a role in development of the morphology and pigmentation of Ae. aegypti adult cuticles. The mutant also showed less blood feeding efficiency and lower fecundity when compared with the wild-type. The mutation of Ae-aaNAT1 influenced expression of genes involved in cuticle formation. In summary, Ae-aaNAT1 mainly functions on cuticular pigmentation and also affects blood feeding efficiency and fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
| | - Miao-Zhen Li
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
| | - Zhao-Hui Chen
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
| | - Yu Tang
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
| | - Cheng-Hong Liao
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
| | - Qian Han
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
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Bento FMM, Darolt JC, Merlin BL, Penã L, Wulff NA, Cônsoli FL. The molecular interplay of the establishment of an infection - gene expression of Diaphorina citri gut and Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:677. [PMID: 34544390 PMCID: PMC8454146 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07988-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas) is one the causative agents of greening disease in citrus, an unccurable, devastating disease of citrus worldwide. CLas is vectored by Diaphorina citri, and the understanding of the molecular interplay between vector and pathogen will provide additional basis for the development and implementation of successful management strategies. We focused in the molecular interplay occurring in the gut of the vector, a major barrier for CLas invasion and colonization. RESULTS We investigated the differential expression of vector and CLas genes by analyzing a de novo reference metatranscriptome of the gut of adult psyllids fed of CLas-infected and healthy citrus plants for 1-2, 3-4 and 5-6 days. CLas regulates the immune response of the vector affecting the production of reactive species of oxygen and nitrogen, and the production of antimicrobial peptides. Moreover, CLas overexpressed peroxiredoxin, probably in a protective manner. The major transcript involved in immune expression was related to melanization, a CLIP-domain serine protease we believe participates in the wounding of epithelial cells damaged during infection, which is supported by the down-regulation of pangolin. We also detected that CLas modulates the gut peristalsis of psyllids through the down-regulation of titin, reducing the elimination of CLas with faeces. The up-regulation of the neuromodulator arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase implies CLas also interferes with the double brain-gut communication circuitry of the vector. CLas colonizes the gut by expressing two Type IVb pilin flp genes and several chaperones that can also function as adhesins. We hypothesized biofilm formation occurs by the expression of the cold shock protein of CLas. CONCLUSIONS The thorough detailed analysis of the transcritome of Ca. L. asiaticus and of D. citri at different time points of their interaction in the gut tissues of the host led to the identification of several host genes targeted for regulation by L. asiaticus, but also bacterial genes coding for potential effector proteins. The identified targets and effector proteins are potential targets for the development of new management strategies directed to interfere with the successful utilization of the psyllid vector by this pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Moura Manoel Bento
- Insect Interactions Laboratory, Department of Entomology and Acarology, Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture, University of São Paulo, Avenida Pádua Dias 11, Piracicaba, São Paulo 13418-900 Brazil
| | - Josiane Cecília Darolt
- Fund for Citrus Protection (FUNDECITRUS), Araraquara, São Paulo 14807-040 Brazil
- Institute of Chemistry, São Paulo State University – UNESP, Araraquara, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Bruna Laís Merlin
- Insect Interactions Laboratory, Department of Entomology and Acarology, Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture, University of São Paulo, Avenida Pádua Dias 11, Piracicaba, São Paulo 13418-900 Brazil
| | - Leandro Penã
- Fund for Citrus Protection (FUNDECITRUS), Araraquara, São Paulo 14807-040 Brazil
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas (IBMCP), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Politécnica de Valencia (UPV), 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Nelson Arno Wulff
- Fund for Citrus Protection (FUNDECITRUS), Araraquara, São Paulo 14807-040 Brazil
- Institute of Chemistry, São Paulo State University – UNESP, Araraquara, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Fernando Luis Cônsoli
- Insect Interactions Laboratory, Department of Entomology and Acarology, Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture, University of São Paulo, Avenida Pádua Dias 11, Piracicaba, São Paulo 13418-900 Brazil
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10
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Kamruzzaman ASM, Hiragaki S, Watari Y, Natsukawa T, Yasuhara A, Ichihara N, Mohamed AA, Elgendy AM, Takeda M. Clock-controlled arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (aaNAT) regulates circadian rhythms of locomotor activity in the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana, via melatonin/MT2-like receptor. J Pineal Res 2021; 71:e12751. [PMID: 34091948 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin (MEL) orchestrates daily and seasonal rhythms (eg, locomotion, sleep/wake cycles, and migration among other rhythms) in diverse organisms. We investigated the effects of pharmacological doses (0.03-1 mM) of exogenous MEL intake in the cockroach, Periplaneta americana, on locomotor activity. As per os MEL concentration increased, cockroach locomotor rhythm in light-dark (LD) cycles became more synchronized. The ratio of night activity to 24-h activity increased and the acrophase (peak) slightly advanced. MEL application also influenced total activity bouts in the free-running rhythm. Since MEL slightly influenced τ in the free-running rhythms, it is not a central element of the circadian pacemaker but must influence mutual coupling of multi-oscillatory system components. Arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (aaNAT) regulates enzymatic production of MEL. aaNAT activities vary in circadian rhythms, and the immunoreactive aaNAT (aaNAT-ir) is colocalized with the key clock proteins cycle (CYC)-ir and pigment-dispersing factor (PDF)-ir These are elements of the central pacemaker and its output pathway as well as other circadian landmarks such as the anterior and posterior optic commissures (AOC and POC, respectively). It also partially shares immunohistochemical reactivity with PER-ir and DBT-ir neurons. We analyzed the role of Pamericana aaNAT1 (PaaaNAT1) (AB106562.1) by injecting dsRNAaaNAT1 . qPCR showed a decrease in accumulations of mRNAs encoding PaaaNAT1. The injections led to arrhythmicity in LD cycles and the arrhythmicity persisted in constant dark (DD). Continuous administration of MEL resynchronized the rhythm after arrhythmicity was induced by dsRNAaaNAT1 injection, suggesting that PaaaNAT is the key regulator of the circadian system in the cockroach via MEL production. PaaaNAT1 contains putative E-box regions which may explain its tight circadian control. The receptor that mediates MEL function is most likely similar to the mammalian MT2, because injecting the competitive MT2 antagonist luzindole blocked MEL function, and MEL injection after luzindole treatment restored MT function. Human MT2-ir was localized in the circadian neurons in the cockroach brain and subesophageal ganglion. We infer that MEL and its synthesizing enzyme, aaNAT, constitute at least one circadian output pathway of locomotor activity either as a distinct route or in association with PDF system.
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Affiliation(s)
- A S M Kamruzzaman
- Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Susumu Hiragaki
- Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Watari
- Faculty of Clinical Education, Ashiya University, Ashiya, Japan
| | - Takashi Natsukawa
- Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Akie Yasuhara
- Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Naoyuki Ichihara
- Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Amr A Mohamed
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Azza M Elgendy
- Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Makio Takeda
- Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
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11
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Amaral DT, Johnson CH, Viviani VR. RNA-Seq analysis of the blue light-emitting Orfelia fultoni (Diptera: Keroplatidae) suggest photoecological adaptations at the molecular level. COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY. PART D, GENOMICS & PROTEOMICS 2021; 39:100840. [PMID: 34022525 PMCID: PMC8495875 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2021.100840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Bioluminescence in Diptera is found in the Keroplatidae family, within Arachnocampininae and Keroplatinae subfamilies, with reported occurrences in Oceania, Eurasia, and Americas. Larvae of Orfelia fultoni, which inhabit stream banks in the Appalachian Mountains, emit the bluest bioluminescence among insects, using it for prey attraction, similarly to Arachnocampa spp. Although bioluminescence has a similar prey attraction function, the systems of Arachonocampininae and Keroplatinae subfamilies are morphologically/biochemically distinct, indicating different evolutionary origins. To identify the possible coding genes associated with physiological control, ecological adaptations, and origin/evolution of bioluminescence in the Keroplatinae subfamily, we performed the RNA-Seq analysis of O. fultoni larvae during day and night and compared it with the transcriptomes of Arachnocampa luminosa, and reanalyzed the previously published proteomic data of O. fultoni against the RNA-Seq dataset. The abundance of chaperones/heat-shock and hexamerin gene products at night and in luciferase enriched fractions supports their possible association and participation in bioluminescence. The low diversity of copies/families of opsins indicate a simpler visual system in O. fultoni. Noteworthy, gene products associated with silk protein biosynthesis in Orfelia were more similar to Lepidoptera than to the Arachnocampa, indicating that, similarly to the bioluminescent systems, at some point, the biochemical apparatus for web construction may have evolved independently in Orfelia and Arachnocampa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo T Amaral
- Graduate School of Biotechnology and Environmental Monitoring (UFSCar), Sorocaba, SP, Brazil
| | - Carl H Johnson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Vadim R Viviani
- Graduate School of Biotechnology and Environmental Monitoring (UFSCar), Sorocaba, SP, Brazil; Graduate School of Evolutive Genetics and Molecular Biology, Federal Univ. São Carlos (UFSCar), São Carlos, SP, Brazil.
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12
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Hayakawa Y. N-acetyltyrosine-induced redox signaling in hormesis. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2021; 1868:118990. [PMID: 33617888 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2021.118990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A suite of adaptations allows insects to survive in hostile terrestrial environments for long periods of time. Temperature represents a key environmental factor for most ectothermic insects, and they rapidly acclimate to high and low temperatures. Vast amounts of data in this research field support the idea that an insect's ability to tolerate fluctuating temperatures can be regarded as a biphasic hormetic dose response. Observation indicates that their thermal hormetic response represents a conservative estimate of their intrinsic capacity for rapid adaptation to environmental changes in nature because they naturally experience diel or seasonal temperature fluctuations. It is therefore reasonable to suppose that the hormetic response in insects reflects a surplus physiological capacity to deal with temperature changes that they would experience naturally. Although it has been unknown how thermal acclimation is induced, a stress-dependent increase in N-acetyltyrosine (NAT) was recently found to occur in insect larvae who had endured high temperatures. NAT treatment was demonstrated to induce thermotolerance in several tested insect species. NAT was also identified in the serum of humans as well as mice, and its concentration in mice was shown to be increased by heat and restraint stress, with NAT pretreatment lowering the concentrations of corticosterone and peroxidized lipids in stressed mice. These recent findings may give us some hints about how long a hormetic response lasts. Here, I will discuss recent findings underlying hormetic responses induced by an intrinsic factor, NAT, and how the hormetic response may begin and end.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoichi Hayakawa
- Department of Applied Biological Sciences, Saga University, Saga 840-8502, Japan.
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13
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Adedeji EO, Ogunlana OO, Fatumo S, Beder T, Ajamma Y, Koenig R, Adebiyi E. Anopheles metabolic proteins in malaria transmission, prevention and control: a review. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:465. [PMID: 32912275 PMCID: PMC7488410 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04342-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The increasing resistance to currently available insecticides in the malaria vector, Anopheles mosquitoes, hampers their use as an effective vector control strategy for the prevention of malaria transmission. Therefore, there is need for new insecticides and/or alternative vector control strategies, the development of which relies on the identification of possible targets in Anopheles. Some known and promising targets for the prevention or control of malaria transmission exist among Anopheles metabolic proteins. This review aims to elucidate the current and potential contribution of Anopheles metabolic proteins to malaria transmission and control. Highlighted are the roles of metabolic proteins as insecticide targets, in blood digestion and immune response as well as their contribution to insecticide resistance and Plasmodium parasite development. Furthermore, strategies by which these metabolic proteins can be utilized for vector control are described. Inhibitors of Anopheles metabolic proteins that are designed based on target specificity can yield insecticides with no significant toxicity to non-target species. These metabolic modulators combined with each other or with synergists, sterilants, and transmission-blocking agents in a single product, can yield potent malaria intervention strategies. These combinations can provide multiple means of controlling the vector. Also, they can help to slow down the development of insecticide resistance. Moreover, some metabolic proteins can be modulated for mosquito population replacement or suppression strategies, which will significantly help to curb malaria transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunice Oluwatobiloba Adedeji
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
| | - Olubanke Olujoke Ogunlana
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
| | - Segun Fatumo
- Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, Bloomsbury, London, UK
| | - Thomas Beder
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center, Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Yvonne Ajamma
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
| | - Rainer Koenig
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center, Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Ezekiel Adebiyi
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
- Computer and Information Sciences, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
- Division of Applied Bioinformatics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), G200, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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14
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Barberà M, Escrivá L, Collantes-Alegre JM, Meca G, Rosato E, Martínez-Torres D. Melatonin in the seasonal response of the aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum. INSECT SCIENCE 2020; 27:224-238. [PMID: 30422395 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Aphids display life cycles largely determined by the photoperiod. During the warm long-day seasons, most aphid species reproduce by viviparous parthenogenesis. The shortening of the photoperiod in autumn induces a switch to sexual reproduction. Males and sexual females mate to produce overwintering resistant eggs. In addition to this full life cycle (holocycle), there are anholocyclic lineages that do not respond to changes in photoperiod and reproduce continuously by parthenogenesis. The molecular or hormonal events that trigger the seasonal response (i.e., induction of the sexual phenotypes) are still unknown. Although circadian synthesis of melatonin is known to play a key role in vertebrate photoperiodism, the involvement of the circadian clock and/or of the hormone melatonin in insect seasonal responses is not so well established. Here we show that melatonin levels in the aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum are significantly higher in holocyclic aphids reared under short days than under long days, while no differences were found between anholocyclic aphids under the same conditions. We also found that melatonin is localized in the aphid suboesophageal ganglion (SOG) and in the thoracic ganglionic mass (TGM). In analogy to vertebrates, insect-type arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferases (i-AANATs) are thought to play a key role in melatonin synthesis. We measured the expression of four i-AANAT genes identified in A. pisum and localized two of them in situ in the insect central nervous systems (CNS). Levels of expression of these genes were compatible with the quantities of melatonin observed. Moreover, like melatonin, expression of these genes was found in the SOG and the TGM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miquel Barberà
- Institut de Biologia Integrativa de Sistemes & Institut Cavanilles de Biodiversitat i Biologia Evolutiva, Parc Cientific Universitat de Valencia, C/ Catedrático José Beltrán n° 2, 46980, Paterna, València, Spain
| | - Laura Escrivá
- Laboratory of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitat de València, Burjassot, Spain
| | - Jorge Mariano Collantes-Alegre
- Institut de Biologia Integrativa de Sistemes & Institut Cavanilles de Biodiversitat i Biologia Evolutiva, Parc Cientific Universitat de Valencia, C/ Catedrático José Beltrán n° 2, 46980, Paterna, València, Spain
| | - Giuseppe Meca
- Laboratory of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitat de València, Burjassot, Spain
| | - Ezio Rosato
- Department of Genetics, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | - David Martínez-Torres
- Institut de Biologia Integrativa de Sistemes & Institut Cavanilles de Biodiversitat i Biologia Evolutiva, Parc Cientific Universitat de Valencia, C/ Catedrático José Beltrán n° 2, 46980, Paterna, València, Spain
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15
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Kamruzzaman ASM, Mikani A, Mohamed AA, Elgendy AM, Takeda M. Crosstalk among Indoleamines, Neuropeptides and JH/20E in Regulation of Reproduction in the American Cockroach, Periplaneta americana. INSECTS 2020; 11:insects11030155. [PMID: 32121505 PMCID: PMC7143859 DOI: 10.3390/insects11030155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Although the regulation of vitellogenesis in insects has been mainly discussed in terms of ‘classical’ lipid hormones, juvenile hormone (JH), and 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E), recent data support the notion that this process must be adjusted in harmony with a nutritional input/reservoir and involvement of certain indoleamines and neuropeptides in regulation of such process. This study focuses on crosstalks among these axes, lipid hormones, monoamines, and neuropeptides in regulation of vitellogenesis in the American cockroach Periplaneta americana with novel aspects in the roles of arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (aaNAT), a key enzyme in indoleamine metabolism, and the enteroendocrine peptides; crustacean cardioactive peptide (CCAP) and short neuropeptide F (sNPF). Double-stranded RNA against aaNAT (dsRNAaaNAT) was injected into designated-aged females and the effects were monitored including the expressions of aaNAT itself, vitellogenin 1 and 2 (Vg1 and Vg2) and the vitellogenin receptor (VgR) mRNAs, oocyte maturation and changes in the hemolymph peptide concentrations. Effects of peptides application and 20E were also investigated. Injection of dsRNAaaNAT strongly suppressed oocyte maturation, transcription of Vg1, Vg2, VgR, and genes encoding JH acid- and farnesoate O-methyltransferases (JHAMT and FAMeT, respectively) acting in the JH biosynthetic pathway. However, it did not affect hemolymph concentrations of CCAP and sNPF. Injection of CCAP stimulated, while sNPF suppressed oocyte maturation and Vgs/VgR transcription, i.e., acting as allatomedins. Injection of CCAP promoted, while sNPF repressed ecdysteroid (20E) synthesis, particularly at the second step of Vg uptake. 20E also affected the JH biosynthetic pathway and Vg/VgR synthesis. The results revealed that on the course of vitellogenesis, JH- and 20E-mediated regulation occurs downstream to indoleamines- and peptides-mediated regulations. Intricate mutual interactions of these regulatory routes must orchestrate reproduction in this species at the highest potency.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. S. M. Kamruzzaman
- Department of Agrobioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai-cho, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan;
| | - Azam Mikani
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14115-336, Iran;
| | - Amr A. Mohamed
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt;
- Correspondence: (A.A.M.); (M.T.); Tel.: +2-0106-943-1998 (A.A.M.); +81-78-982-2531/070-4425-68319 (M.T.)
| | - Azza M. Elgendy
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt;
| | - Makio Takeda
- Department of Agrobioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai-cho, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan;
- Correspondence: (A.A.M.); (M.T.); Tel.: +2-0106-943-1998 (A.A.M.); +81-78-982-2531/070-4425-68319 (M.T.)
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16
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O’Flynn BG, Lewandowski EM, Prins KC, Suarez G, McCaskey AN, Rios-Guzman NM, Anderson RL, Shepherd BA, Gelis I, Leahy JW, Chen Y, Merkler DJ. Characterization of Arylalkylamine N-Acyltransferase from Tribolium castaneum: An Investigation into a Potential Next-Generation Insecticide Target. ACS Chem Biol 2020; 15:513-523. [PMID: 31967772 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.9b00973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The growing issue of insecticide resistance has meant the identification of novel insecticide targets has never been more important. Arylalkylamine N-acyltransferases (AANATs) have been suggested as a potential new target. These promiscuous enzymes are involved in the N-acylation of biogenic amines to form N-acylamides. In insects, this process is a key step in melanism, hardening of the cuticle, removal of biogenic amines, and in the biosynthesis of fatty acid amides. The unique nature of each AANAT isoform characterized indicates each organism accommodates an assembly of discrete AANATs relatively exclusive to that organism. This implies a high potential for selectivity in insecticide design, while also maintaining polypharmacology. Presented here is a thorough kinetic and structural analysis of AANAT found in one of the most common secondary pests of all plant commodities in the world, Tribolium castaneum. The enzyme, named TcAANAT0, catalyzes the formation of short-chain N-acylarylalkylamines, with short-chain acyl-CoAs (C2-C10), benzoyl-CoA, and succinyl-CoA functioning in the role of acyl donor. Recombinant TcAANAT0 was expressed and purified from E. coli and was used to investigate the kinetic and chemical mechanism of catalysis. The kinetic mechanism is an ordered sequential mechanism with the acyl-CoA binding first. pH-rate profiles and site-directed mutagenesis studies identified amino acids critical to catalysis, providing insights about the chemical mechanism of TcAANAT0. A crystal structure was obtained for TcAANAT0 bound to acetyl-CoA, revealing valuable information about its active site. This combination of kinetic analysis and crystallography alongside mutagenesis and sequence analysis shines light on some approaches possible for targeting TcAANAT0 and other AANATs for novel insecticide design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian G. O’Flynn
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
| | - Eric M. Lewandowski
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, 33612, United States
| | - Karin Claire Prins
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
| | - Gabriela Suarez
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
| | - Angelica N. McCaskey
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
| | - Nasha M. Rios-Guzman
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
| | - Ryan L. Anderson
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80238, United States
| | - Britney A. Shepherd
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
| | - Ioannis Gelis
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
| | - James W. Leahy
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, 33612, United States
- Center for Drug Discovery and Innovation, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, 33612, United States
| | - David J. Merkler
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
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17
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Han Q, Phillips RS, Li J. Editorial: Aromatic Amino Acid Metabolism. Front Mol Biosci 2019; 6:22. [PMID: 31024928 PMCID: PMC6468166 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2019.00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Han
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences and Pharmacy, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Robert S Phillips
- Department of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Jianyong Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
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18
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Battistini MR, O'Flynn BG, Shoji C, Suarez G, Galloway LC, Merkler DJ. Bm-iAANAT3: Expression and characterization of a novel arylalkylamine N-acyltransferase from Bombyx mori. Arch Biochem Biophys 2018; 661:107-116. [PMID: 30452894 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2018.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The arylalkylamine N-acyltransferases (AANATs) are enzymes that catalyze the acyl-CoA-dependent formation of N-acylarylalkylamides: acyl-CoA + arylalkylamine → N-acylarylalkylamides + CoA-SH. Herein, we describe our study of a previously uncharacterized AANAT from Bombyx mori: Bm-iAANAT3. Bm-iAANAT3 catalyzes the direct formation of N-acylarylalkylamides and accepts a broad range of short-chain acyl-CoA thioesters and amines as substrates. Acyl-CoA thioesters possessing an acyl chain length >10 carbon atoms are not substrates for Bm-iAANAT3. We report that Bm-iAANAT3 is a "versatile generalist", most likely, functioning in amine acetylation - a reaction in amine inactivation/excretion, cuticle sclerotization, and melanism. We propose a kinetic and chemical mechanism for Bm-iAANAT3 that is consistent with our steady-state kinetic analysis, dead-end inhibition studies, determination of the pH-rate profiles, and site-directed mutagenesis of a catalytically important amino acid in Bm-iAANAT3. These mechanistic studies of Bm-iAANAT3 will foster the development of novel compounds targeted against this enzyme and other insect AANATs for the control of insect pests.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brian G O'Flynn
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA
| | - Christopher Shoji
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA
| | - Gabriela Suarez
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA
| | - Lamar C Galloway
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA
| | - David J Merkler
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA.
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19
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O'Flynn BG, Suarez G, Hawley AJ, Merkler DJ. Insect Arylalkylamine N-Acyltransferases: Mechanism and Role in Fatty Acid Amide Biosynthesis. Front Mol Biosci 2018; 5:66. [PMID: 30094237 PMCID: PMC6070697 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2018.00066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Arylalkylamine N-acyltransferases (AANATs) catalyze the formation of an N-acylamide from an acyl-CoA thioester and an amine. One well known example is the production of N-acetylserotonin from acetyl-CoA and serotonin, a reaction in the melatonin biosynthetic pathway from tryptophan. AANATs have been identified from a variety of vertebrates and invertebrates. Considerable efforts have been devoted to the mammalian AANAT because a cell-permeable inhibitor specifically targeted against this enzyme could prove useful to treat diseases related to dysfunction in melatonin production. Insects are an interesting model for the study of AANATs because more than one isoform is typically expressed by a specific insect and the different insect AANATs (iAANATs) serve different roles in the insect cell. In contrast, mammals express only one AANAT. The major role of iAANATs seem to be in the production of N-acetyldopamine, a reaction important in the tanning and sclerotization of the cuticle. Metabolites identified in insects including N-acetylserotonin and long-chain N-fatty acyl derivatives of dopamine, histidine, phenylalanine, serotonin, tyrosine, and tryptophan are likely produced by an iAANAT. In vitro studies of specific iAANATs are consistent with this hypothesis. In this review, we highlight the current metabolomic knowledge of the N-acylated aromatic amino acids and N-acylated derivatives of the aromatic amino acids, the current mechanistic understanding of the iAANATs, and explore the possibility that iAANATs serve as insect "rhymezymes" regulating photoperiodism and other rhythmic processes in insects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - David J. Merkler
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
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Abstract
Despite decades of intense study, the functions of sleep are still shrouded in mystery. The difficulty in understanding these functions can be at least partly attributed to the varied manifestations of sleep in different animals. Daily sleep duration can range from 4-20 hrs among mammals, and sleep can manifest throughout the brain, or it can alternate over time between cerebral hemispheres, depending on the species. Ecological factors are likely to have shaped these and other sleep behaviors during evolution by altering the properties of conserved arousal circuits in the brain. Nonetheless, core functions of sleep are likely to have arisen early and to have persisted to the present day in diverse organisms. This review will discuss the evolutionary forces that may be responsible for phylogenetic differences in sleep and the potential core functions that sleep fulfills.
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Affiliation(s)
- William J Joiner
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0636, USA; Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0636, USA; Neurosciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0636, USA; Center for Circadian Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0636, USA.
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Chapman EC, O’Dell AR, Meligi NM, Parsons DR, Rotchell JM. Seasonal expression patterns of clock-associated genes in the blue mussel Mytilus edulis. Chronobiol Int 2017; 34:1300-1314. [DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2017.1363224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emma C. Chapman
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | | | - Noha M. Meligi
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
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Subala SPRR, Shivakumar MS. Changes in light and dark periods affect the arylalkylamine N-acetyl transferase, melatonin activities and redox status in the head and hemolymph of nocturnal insectSpodoptera litura. BIOL RHYTHM RES 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/09291016.2017.1325564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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23
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Aboalroub AA, Zhang Z, Keramisanou D, Gelis I. Backbone resonance assignment of an insect arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase from Bombyx mori reveals conformational heterogeneity. BIOMOLECULAR NMR ASSIGNMENTS 2017; 11:105-109. [PMID: 28236225 DOI: 10.1007/s12104-017-9729-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferases (AANATs) catalyze the transfer of an acetyl group from the acetyl-group donor, acetyl-CoA, to an arylalkylamine acceptor. Although a single AANAT has been identified in mammals, insects utilize multiple AANATs in a diverse array of biological processes. AANATs belong to the GCN5-related acetyltransferase (GNAT) superfamily of enzymes, which despite their overall very low sequence homology, are characterized by a well conserved catalytic core domain. The structural properties of many GNATs have been extensively studied by X-ray crystallography that revealed common features during the catalytic cycle. Here we report the 1H, 13C and 15N backbone NMR resonance assignment of the 24 kDa AANAT3 from Bombyx mori (bmAANAT3) as a first step towards understanding the role of protein dynamics in the catalytic properties of AANATs. Our preliminary solution NMR studies reveal that bmAANAT3 is well-folded in solution. The P-loop, which is responsible for cofactor binding, is flexible in the free-state, while a large region of the enzyme interconverts between two distinct conformations in the slow exchange regime.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam A Aboalroub
- Chemistry Department, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA
| | - Ziming Zhang
- Chemistry Department, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA
| | | | - Ioannis Gelis
- Chemistry Department, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA.
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Noh MY, Koo B, Kramer KJ, Muthukrishnan S, Arakane Y. Arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase 1 gene (TcAANAT1) is required for cuticle morphology and pigmentation of the adult red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2016; 79:119-129. [PMID: 27816487 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2016.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
In the insect cuticle tanning pathway (sclerotization and pigmentation), the enzyme arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT) catalyzes the acetylation of dopamine to form N-acetyldopamine (NADA), which is one of the major precursors for quinone-mediated tanning. In this study we characterized and investigated the function of TcAANAT1 in cuticle pigmentation of the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum. We isolated a full length TcAANAT1 cDNA that encodes a protein of 256 amino acid residues with a predicted GCN5-related acetyltransferase domain containing an acetyl-CoA binding motif. TcAANAT1 transcripts were detected at all stages of development with lowest expressions at the embryonic and pharate pupal stages. We expressed and purified the encoded recombinant TcAANAT1 protein (rTcAANAT1) that exhibited highest activity at slightly basic pH values (for example, pH 7.5 to 8.5 using dopamine as the substrate). In addition, rTcAANAT1 acts on a wide range of substrates including tryptamine, octopamine and norepinephrine with similar substrate affinities with Km values in the range of 0.05-0.11 mM except for tyramine (Km = 0.56 mM). Loss of function of TcAANAT1 caused by RNAi had no effect on larval and pupal development. The tanning of pupal setae, gin traps and urogomphi proceeded normally. However, the resulting adults (∼70%) exhibited a roughened exoskeletal surface, separated elytra and improperly folded hindwings. The body wall, elytra and veins of the hindwing of the mature adults were significantly darker than those of control insects probably due to the accumulation of dopamine melanin. A dark pigmentation surrounding the bristles located on the inter-veins of the elytron was evident primarily because of the underlying darkly pigmented trabeculae that partition the dorsal and ventral layers of the elytron. These results support the hypothesis that TcAANAT1 acetylates dopamine and plays a role in development of the morphology and pigmentation of T. castaneum adult cuticle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Young Noh
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 500-757, South Korea
| | - Bonwoo Koo
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 500-757, South Korea
| | - Karl J Kramer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Subbaratnam Muthukrishnan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Yasuyuki Arakane
- Department of Applied Biology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 500-757, South Korea.
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25
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Critical Analysis of the Melanogenic Pathway in Insects and Higher Animals. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17101753. [PMID: 27775611 PMCID: PMC5085778 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17101753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Animals synthesize melanin pigments for the coloration of their skin and use it for their protection from harmful solar radiation. Insects use melanins even more ingeniously than mammals and employ them for exoskeletal pigmentation, cuticular hardening, wound healing and innate immune responses. In this review, we discuss the biochemistry of melanogenesis process occurring in higher animals and insects. A special attention is given to number of aspects that are not previously brought to light: (1) the molecular mechanism of dopachrome conversion that leads to the production of two different dihydroxyindoles; (2) the role of catecholamine derivatives other than dopa in melanin production in animals; (3) the critical parts played by various biosynthetic enzymes associated with insect melanogenesis; and (4) the presence of a number of important gaps in both melanogenic and sclerotinogenic pathways. Additionally, importance of the melanogenic process in insect physiology especially in the sclerotization of their exoskeleton, wound healing reactions and innate immune responses is highlighted. The comparative biochemistry of melanization with sclerotization is also discussed.
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26
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Goto SG. Physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying photoperiodism in the spider mite: comparisons with insects. J Comp Physiol B 2016; 186:969-984. [PMID: 27424162 DOI: 10.1007/s00360-016-1018-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Revised: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 07/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Photoperiodism is an adaptive, seasonal timing system that enables organisms to coordinate their development and physiology to annual changes in the environment using day length (photoperiod) as a cue. This review summarizes our knowledge of the physiological mechanisms underlying photoperiodism in spider mites. In particular, the two-spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae is focussed, which has long been used as a model species for studying photoperiodism. Photoperiodism is established by several physiological modules, such as the photoreceptor, photoperiodic time measurement system, counter system, and endocrine effector. It is now clear that retinal photoreception through the ocelli is indispensable for the function of photoperiodism, at least in T. urticae. Visual pigment, which comprised opsin protein and a vitamin A-based pigment, is involved in photoreception. The physiological basis of the photoperiodic time measurement system is still under debate, and we have controversial evidence for the hourglass-based time measurement and the oscillator-based time measurement. Less attention has been centred on the counter system in insects and mites. Mite reproduction is possibly regulated by the ecdysteroid, ponasterone A. Prior physiological knowledge has laid the foundation for the next steps essential for the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms driving photoperiodism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin G Goto
- Department of Biology and Geosciences, Graduate School of Science, Osaka City University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi-ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan.
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Cabezas-Cruz A, Alberdi P, Ayllón N, Valdés JJ, Pierce R, Villar M, de la Fuente J. Anaplasma phagocytophilum increases the levels of histone modifying enzymes to inhibit cell apoptosis and facilitate pathogen infection in the tick vector Ixodes scapularis. Epigenetics 2016; 11:303-19. [PMID: 27019326 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2016.1163460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms have not been characterized in ticks despite their importance as vectors of human and animal diseases worldwide. The objective of this study was to characterize the histones and histone modifying enzymes (HMEs) of the tick vector Ixodes scapularis and their role during Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection. We first identified 5 histones and 34 HMEs in I. scapularis in comparison with similar proteins in model organisms. Then, we used transcriptomic and proteomic data to analyze the mRNA and protein levels of I. scapularis histones and HMEs in response to A. phagocytophilum infection of tick tissues and cultured cells. Finally, selected HMEs were functionally characterized by pharmacological studies in cultured tick cells. The results suggest that A. phagocytophilum manipulates tick cell epigenetics to increase I. scapularis p300/CBP, histone deacetylase, and Sirtuin levels, resulting in an inhibition of cell apoptosis that in turn facilitates pathogen infection and multiplication. These results also suggest that a compensatory mechanism might exist by which A. phagocytophilum manipulates tick HMEs to regulate transcription and apoptosis in a tissue-specific manner to facilitate infection, but preserving tick fitness to guarantee survival of both pathogens and ticks. Our study also indicates that the pathogen manipulates arthropod and vertebrate cell epigenetics in similar ways to inhibit the host response to infection. Epigenetic regulation of tick biological processes is an essential element of the infection by A. phagocytophilum and the study of the mechanisms and principal actors involved is likely to provide clues for the development of anti-tick drugs and vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Cabezas-Cruz
- a University Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL - Center d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille , Lille , France
| | - Pilar Alberdi
- b SaBio. Instituto de Investigación de Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC-CSIC-UCLM-JCCM , Ciudad Real , Spain
| | - Nieves Ayllón
- b SaBio. Instituto de Investigación de Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC-CSIC-UCLM-JCCM , Ciudad Real , Spain
| | - James J Valdés
- c Institute of Parasitology, Biology Center of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic , Branisovska 31, Budweis, České Budějovice , Czech Republic.,d Department of Virology , Veterinary Research Institute , Hudcova 70, Brno , Czech Republic
| | - Raymond Pierce
- a University Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL - Center d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille , Lille , France
| | - Margarita Villar
- b SaBio. Instituto de Investigación de Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC-CSIC-UCLM-JCCM , Ciudad Real , Spain
| | - José de la Fuente
- b SaBio. Instituto de Investigación de Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC-CSIC-UCLM-JCCM , Ciudad Real , Spain.,e Department of Veterinary Pathobiology , Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University , Stillwater , OK , USA
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28
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Escrivá L, Manyes L, Barberà M, Martínez-Torres D, Meca G. Determination of melatonin in Acyrthosiphon pisum aphids by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2016; 86:48-53. [PMID: 26778054 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2016.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Revised: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin is a hormone mainly involved in the regulation of circadian and seasonal rhythms in both invertebrates and vertebrates. Despite the identification of melatonin in many insects, its involvement in the insect seasonal response remains unclear. A liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method has been developed for melatonin analysis in aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum) for the first time. After comparing two different procedures and five extraction solvents, a sample preparation procedure with a mixture of methanol/water (50:50) was selected for melatonin extraction. The method was validated by analyzing melatonin recovery at three spiked concentrations (5, 50 and 100 pg/mg) and showed satisfactory recoveries (75-110%), and good repeatability, expressed as relative standard deviation (<10%). Limits of detection (LOD) and quantitation (LOQ) were 1 pg/mg and 5 pg/mg, respectively. Eight concentration levels were used for constructing the calibration curves which showed good linearity between LOQ and 200 times LOQ. The validated method was successfully applied to 26 aphid samples demonstrating its usefulness for melatonin determination in insects. This is -to our knowledge- the first identification of melatonin in aphids by LC-MS/MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Escrivá
- Laboratory of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Burjassot, Spain.
| | - Lara Manyes
- Laboratory of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Burjassot, Spain
| | - Miquel Barberà
- Institut Cavanilles de Biodiversitat i Biologia Evolutiva, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - David Martínez-Torres
- Institut Cavanilles de Biodiversitat i Biologia Evolutiva, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Guiseppe Meca
- Laboratory of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Burjassot, Spain
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Hardeland R. Melatonin in Plants - Diversity of Levels and Multiplicity of Functions. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2016; 7:198. [PMID: 26925091 PMCID: PMC4759497 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2016.00198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin has been detected in numerous plant species. A particularly surprising finding concerns the highly divergent levels of melatonin that vary between species, organs and environmental conditions, from a few pg/g to over 20 μg/g, reportedly up to 200 μg/g. Highest values have been determined in oily seeds and in plant organs exposed to high UV radiation. The divergency of melatonin concentrations is discussed under various functional aspects and focused on several open questions. This comprises differences in precursor availability, catabolism, the relative contribution of isoenzymes of the melatonin biosynthetic pathway, and differences in rate limitation by either serotonin N-acetyltransferase or N-acetylserotonin O-methyltransferase. Other differences are related to the remarkable pleiotropy of melatonin, which exhibits properties as a growth regulator and morphogenetic factor, actually debated in terms of auxin-like effects, and as a signaling molecule that modulates pathways of ethylene, abscisic, jasmonic and salicylic acids and is involved in stress tolerance, pathogen defense and delay of senescence. In the context of high light/UV intensities, elevated melatonin levels exceed those required for signaling via stress-related phytohormones and may comprise direct antioxidant and photoprotectant properties, perhaps with a contribution of its oxidatively formed metabolites, such as N (1)-acetyl-N (2)-formyl-5-methoxykynuramine and its secondary products. High melatonin levels in seeds may also serve antioxidative protection and have been shown to promote seed viability and germination capacity.
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Dempsey DR, Carpenter AM, Ospina SR, Merkler DJ. Probing the chemical mechanism and critical regulatory amino acid residues of Drosophila melanogaster arylalkylamine N-acyltransferase like 2. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2015; 66:1-12. [PMID: 26476413 PMCID: PMC4663176 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2015.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Revised: 10/04/2015] [Accepted: 10/04/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Arylalkylamine N-acyltransferase like 2 (AANATL2) catalyzes the formation of N-acylarylalkylamides from the corresponding acyl-CoA and arylalkylamine. The N-acylation of biogenic amines in Drosophila melanogaster is a critical step for the inactivation of neurotransmitters, cuticle sclerotization, and melatonin biosynthesis. In addition, D. melanogaster has been used as a model system to evaluate the biosynthesis of fatty acid amides: a family of potent cell signaling lipids. We have previously showed that AANATL2 catalyzes the formation of N-acylarylakylamides, including long-chain N-acylserotonins and N-acyldopamines. Herein, we define the kinetic mechanism for AANATL2 as an ordered sequential mechanism with acetyl-CoA binding first followed by tyramine to generate the ternary complex prior to catalysis. Bell shaped kcat,app - acetyl-CoA and (kcat/Km)app - acetyl-CoA pH-rate profiles identified two apparent pKa,app values of ∼7.4 and ∼8.9 that are critical to catalysis, suggesting the AANATL2-catalyzed formation of N-acetyltyramine occurs through an acid/base chemical mechanism. Site-directed mutagenesis of a conserved glutamate that corresponds to the catalytic base for other D. melanogaster AANATL enzymes did not produce a substantial depression in the kcat,app value nor did it abolish the pKa,app value attributed to the general base in catalysis (pKa ∼7.4). These data suggest that AANATL2 catalyzes the formation of N-acylarylalkylamides using either different catalytic residues or a different chemical mechanism relative to other D. melanogaster AANATL enzymes. In addition, we constructed other site-directed mutants of AANATL2 to help define the role of targeted amino acids in substrate binding and/or enzyme catalysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Dempsey
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA
| | | | | | - David J Merkler
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA.
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