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Vatanparast M, Merkel L, Amari K. Exogenous Application of dsRNA in Plant Protection: Efficiency, Safety Concerns and Risk Assessment. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6530. [PMID: 38928236 PMCID: PMC11204322 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126530] [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: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The use of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) for plant protection shows great potential as a sustainable alternative to traditional pesticides. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge on using exogenous dsRNA in plant protection and includes the latest findings on the safety and efficiency of this strategy. The review also emphasizes the need for a cautious and comprehensive approach, considering safety considerations such as off-target effects and formulation challenges. The regulatory landscape in different regions is also discussed, underscoring the need for specific guidelines tailored to dsRNA-based pesticides. The review provides a crucial resource for researchers, regulators, and industry stakeholders, promoting a balanced approach incorporating innovation with thorough safety assessments. The continuous dialog emphasized in this review is essential for shaping the future of dsRNA-based plant protection. As the field advances, collaboration among scientists, regulators, and industry partners will play a vital role in establishing guidelines and ensuring the responsible, effective, and sustainable use of dsRNA in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Khalid Amari
- Julius Kühn Institute (JKI), Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plant, Institute for Biosafety in Plant Biotechnology, D-06484 Quedlinburg, Germany
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Knudsen-Palmer DR, Raman P, Ettefa F, De Ravin L, Jose AM. Target-specific requirements for RNA interference can arise through restricted RNA amplification despite the lack of specialized pathways. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.02.07.527351. [PMID: 36798330 PMCID: PMC9934570 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.07.527351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Since double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is effective for silencing a wide variety of genes, all genes are typically considered equivalent targets for such RNA interference (RNAi). Yet, loss of some regulators of RNAi in the nematode C. elegans can selectively impair the silencing of some genes. Here we show that such selective requirements can be explained by an intersecting network of regulators acting on genes with differences in their RNA metabolism. In this network, the Maelstrom domain-containing protein RDE-10, the intrinsically disordered protein MUT-16, and the Argonaute protein NRDE-3 work together so that any two are required for silencing one somatic gene, but each is singly required for silencing another somatic gene, where only the requirement for NRDE-3 can be overcome by enhanced dsRNA processing. Quantitative models and their exploratory simulations led us to find that (1) changing cis-regulatory elements of the target gene can reduce the dependence on NRDE-3, (2) animals can recover from silencing in non-dividing cells and (3) cleavage and tailing of mRNAs with UG dinucleotides, which makes them templates for amplifying small RNAs, is enriched within 'pUG zones' matching the dsRNA. Similar crosstalk between pathways and restricted amplification could result in apparently selective silencing by endogenous RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daphne R. Knudsen-Palmer
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland, College Park, USA. Biological Sciences Graduate Program, University of Maryland, College Park, USA
| | - Pravrutha Raman
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland, College Park, USA. Biological Sciences Graduate Program, University of Maryland, College Park, USA
- Current address: Division of Basic Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Farida Ettefa
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland, College Park, USA. Biological Sciences Graduate Program, University of Maryland, College Park, USA
- Current address: Institute for Systems Genetics, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Laura De Ravin
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland, College Park, USA. Biological Sciences Graduate Program, University of Maryland, College Park, USA
| | - Antony M. Jose
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland, College Park, USA. Biological Sciences Graduate Program, University of Maryland, College Park, USA
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Johnson NS, Lewandoski SA, Jubar AK, Symbal MJ, Solomon BM, Bravener GA, Barber JM, Siefkes MJ. A decade-long study demonstrates that a population of invasive sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) can be controlled by introducing sterilized males. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12689. [PMID: 38830863 PMCID: PMC11148153 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61460-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The release of sterilized insects to control pest populations has been used successfully during the past 6 decades, but application of the method in vertebrates has largely been overlooked or met with failure. Here, we demonstrate for the first time in fish, that a small population of sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus; Class Agnatha), arguably one of the most impactful invasive fish in the world, can be controlled by the release of sterilized males. Specifically, the release of high numbers of sterile males (~ 1000's) into a geographically isolated population of adult sea lamprey resulted in the first multiyear delay in pesticide treatment since treatments began during 1966. Estimates of percent reduction in recruitment of age-1 sea lamprey due to sterile male release ranged from 7 to 99.9% with the precision of the estimate being low because of substantial year-to-year variability in larval density and distribution. Additional monitoring that accounts for recruitment variability in time and space would reduce uncertainty in the degree to which sterile male release reduces recruitment rates. The results are relevant to vertebrate pest control programs worldwide, especially as technical opportunities to sterilize vertebrates and manipulate sex ratios expand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas S Johnson
- U.S. Geological Survey, Great Lakes Science Center, Hammond Bay Biological Station, 11188 Ray Road, Millersburg, MI, 49759, USA.
| | - Sean A Lewandoski
- U.S. Geological Survey, Great Lakes Science Center, Hammond Bay Biological Station, 11188 Ray Road, Millersburg, MI, 49759, USA
- U.S. Fish Wildlife Service, Marquette Biological Station, 1095 Cornerstone Drive, Marquette, MI, 49855, USA
| | - Aaron K Jubar
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife, Ludington Biological Station, 5050 Commerce Drive, Ludington, MI, 49660, USA
| | - Matthew J Symbal
- U.S. Fish Wildlife Service, Marquette Biological Station, 1095 Cornerstone Drive, Marquette, MI, 49855, USA
| | - Benson M Solomon
- U.S. Fish Wildlife Service, Marquette Biological Station, 1095 Cornerstone Drive, Marquette, MI, 49855, USA
| | - Gale A Bravener
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Sea Lamprey Control Centre, 1219 Queen Street East, Sault Ste., Marie, ON, P6A 2E5, Canada
| | - Jessica M Barber
- U.S. Fish Wildlife Service, Marquette Biological Station, 1095 Cornerstone Drive, Marquette, MI, 49855, USA
| | - Michael J Siefkes
- Great Lakes Fishery Commission, 2200 Commonwealth Blvd., Suite 100, Ann Arbor, MI, 48105, USA
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Deng P, Peng Y, Sheng Z, Li W, Liu Y. RNAi silencing CHS1 gene shortens the mortality time of Plutella xylostella feeding Bt-transgenic Brassica napus. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024; 80:2610-2618. [PMID: 38252693 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7968] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Insect-resistance genetically modified (GM) plants derived from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) have been cultivated to control pests, but continuous cultivation of Bt-transgenic plants at large-scale regions leads to the resistance evolution of target insects to transgenic plants. RNA interference (RNAi) technology is considered an effective strategy in delaying the resistance evolution of target insects. RESULTS We here developed a single transgenic oilseed rape (Brassica napus) line with hairpin RNA of the chitin-synthase 1 gene (CHS1) of Plutella xylostella (hpPxCHS1) and a pyramid transgenic B. napus line harboring hpPxCHS1 and Bt gene (Cry1Ac). Escherichia coli HT115 delivered hpPxCHS1 showed negative effects on the growth of P. xylostella. The single transgenic and pyramid transgenic B. napus significantly reduced the larval weight and length of P. xylostella and increased its lethality rate, with down-regulation expression of the PxCHS1 gene in insects. CONCLUSION Compared to Bt-transgenic B. napus, pyramid-transgenic B. napus shorted the mortality time of P. xylostella, indicating that RNAi technology synergistic with Bt protein improves the effectiveness of controlling target insects. Our results proved that RNAi can delay the resistance evolution of target insects to Bt-transgenic plants. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Purong Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Regional Eco-process and Function Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yujia Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Regional Eco-process and Function Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhilu Sheng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Regional Eco-process and Function Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wencui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Regional Eco-process and Function Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yongbo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Regional Eco-process and Function Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
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McGruddy RA, Smeele ZE, Manley B, Masucci JD, Haywood J, Lester PJ. RNA interference as a next-generation control method for suppressing Varroa destructor reproduction in honey bee (Apis mellifera) hives. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024. [PMID: 38801186 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Varroa mite (Varroa destructor) is considered to be the greatest threat to apiculture worldwide. RNA interference (RNAi) using double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) as a gene silencing mechanism has emerged as a next-generation strategy for mite control. RESULTS We explored the impact of a dsRNA biopesticide, named vadescana, designed to silence the calmodulin gene in Varroa, on mite fitness in mini-hives housed in a laboratory. Two dosages were tested: 2 g/L dsRNA and 8 g/L dsRNA. Vadescana appeared to have no effect on mite survival, however, mite fertility was substantially reduced. The majority of foundress mites exposed to vadescana failed to produce any offspring. No dose-dependent effect of vadescana was observed, as both the low and high doses inhibited mite reproduction equally well in the mini-hives and neither dose impacted pupal survival of the honey bee. Approximately 95% of bee pupae were alive at uncapping across all treatment groups. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that vadescana has significant potential as an effective alternative to conventional methods for Varroa control, with broader implications for the utilization of RNAi as a next-generation tool in the management of pest species. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose A McGruddy
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Zoe E Smeele
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Brian Manley
- GreenLight Biosciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
| | - James D Masucci
- GreenLight Biosciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
| | - John Haywood
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Philip J Lester
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
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Geens B, Goossens S, Li J, Van de Peer Y, Vanden Broeck J. Untangling the gordian knot: The intertwining interactions between developmental hormone signaling and epigenetic mechanisms in insects. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 585:112178. [PMID: 38342134 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2024.112178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Hormones control developmental and physiological processes, often by regulating the expression of multiple genes simultaneously or sequentially. Crosstalk between hormones and epigenetics is pivotal to dynamically coordinate this process. Hormonal signals can guide the addition and removal of epigenetic marks, steering gene expression. Conversely, DNA methylation, histone modifications and non-coding RNAs can modulate regional chromatin structure and accessibility and regulate the expression of numerous (hormone-related) genes. Here, we provide a review of the interplay between the classical insect hormones, ecdysteroids and juvenile hormones, and epigenetics. We summarize the mode-of-action and roles of these hormones in post-embryonic development, and provide a general overview of epigenetic mechanisms. We then highlight recent advances on the interactions between these hormonal pathways and epigenetics, and their involvement in development. Furthermore, we give an overview of several 'omics techniques employed in the field. Finally, we discuss which questions remain unanswered and possible avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart Geens
- Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59 box 2465, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Stijn Goossens
- Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59 box 2465, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Jia Li
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; VIB Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Yves Van de Peer
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; VIB Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Jozef Vanden Broeck
- Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59 box 2465, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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Cedden D, Güney G, Scholten S, Rostás M. Lethal and sublethal effects of orally delivered double-stranded RNA on the cabbage stem flea beetle, Psylliodes chrysocephala. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024; 80:2282-2293. [PMID: 37020381 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cabbage stem flea beetle (Psylliodes chrysocephala) is one of the most important insect pests of oilseed rape (Brassica napus) in northern Europe. The emergence of insecticide-resistant populations and the ban on neonicotinoid seed treatments have made the management of this pest challenging and research is needed to develop alternative strategies such as RNA interference (RNAi). We investigated lethal and sublethal effects of orally delivered double-stranded (ds)RNAs targeting P. chrysocephala orthologs of Sec23 and vacuolar adenosine triphosphatase subunit G (VatpG), which are involved in endoplasmic reticulum-Golgi transport and organelle acidification, respectively. RESULTS Feeding bioassays on P. chrysocephala adults showed that the highest concentration (200 ng/leaf disk) of dsSec23 caused mortalities of 76% and 56% in pre-aestivating and post-aestivating beetles, respectively, while the same concentration of dsVatpG led to mortality rates of ~34% in both stages. Moreover, sublethal effects, such as decreased feeding rates and attenuated locomotion were observed. Small RNA sequencing and gene expression measurements following the delivery of dsRNAs demonstrated the generation of ~21 nucleotide-long small interfering RNAs and a systemic RNAi response in P. chrysocephala. CONCLUSION We demonstrate that P. chrysocephala is a promising candidate for developing RNAi-based pest management strategies. Further research is necessary to identify more effective target genes and to assess potential non-target effects. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doga Cedden
- Agricultural Entomology, Department of Crop Sciences, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Evolutionary Developmental Genetics, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute, GZMB, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Gözde Güney
- Agricultural Entomology, Department of Crop Sciences, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Stefan Scholten
- Division of Crop Plant Genetics, Department of Crop Sciences, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Michael Rostás
- Agricultural Entomology, Department of Crop Sciences, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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Salman Hameed M, Ren Y, Tuda M, Basit A, Urooj N. Role of Argonaute proteins in RNAi pathway in Plutella xylostella: A review. Gene 2024; 903:148195. [PMID: 38295911 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Argonaute (Ago) proteins act as key elements in RNA interference (RNAi) pathway, orchestrating the intricate machinery of gene regulation within eukaryotic cells. Within the RNAi pathway, small RNA molecules, including microRNA (miRNA), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA), collaborate with Ago family member proteins such as Ago1, Ago2, and Ago3 to form the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). This RISC complex, in turn, either cleaves the target mRNA or inhibits the process of protein translation. The precise contributions of Ago proteins have been well-established in numerous animals and plants, although they still remain unclear in some insect species. This review aims to shed light on the specific roles played by Ago proteins within the RNAi mechanism in a destructive lepidopteran pest, the diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella). Furthermore, we explore the potential of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-mediated RNAi as a robust genetic tool in pest management strategies. Through an in-depth examination of Ago proteins and dsRNA-mediated RNAi, this review seeks to contribute to our understanding of innovative approaches for controlling this pest and potentially other insect species of agricultural significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Salman Hameed
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, International Joint Research Center for Intelligent Biosensor Technology and Health, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China.
| | - Yanliang Ren
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, International Joint Research Center for Intelligent Biosensor Technology and Health, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China.
| | - Midori Tuda
- Institute of Biological Control, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Abdul Basit
- Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University Guiyang 550025, Guizhou China
| | - Nida Urooj
- Department of Business Administrative, Bahaudin Zakriya University, Multan, Pakistan
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Wang Y, Guo Y, Guo S, Qi L, Li B, Jiang L, Xu C, An M, Wu Y. RNA interference-based exogenous double-stranded RNAs confer resistance to Rhizoctonia solani AG-3 on Nicotiana tabacum. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024; 80:2170-2178. [PMID: 38284497 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7962] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rhizoctonia solani Kühn is a pathogenic fungus causing tobacco target spot disease, and leads to great losses worldwide. At present, resistant varieties and effective control strategy on tobacco target spot disease are very limited. Host-induced gene silencing (HIGS) as well as the exogenous dsRNA can be used to suppress disease progression, and reveal the function of crucial genes involved in the growth and pathogenesis of the fungus. RESULTS The silencing of endoPGs or RPMK1 in host plants by TRV-based HIGS resulted in a significant reduction in disease development in Nicotiana benthamiana. In vitro analysis validated that red fluorescence signals were consistently observed in the hyphae treated with Cy3-fluorescein-labeled dsRNA at 12, 24, 48 and 72 h postinoculation (hpi). Additionally, application of dsRNA-endoPGs, dsRNA-RPMK1 and dsRNA-PGMK (fusion of partial endoPGs and RPMK1 sequences) effectively inhibited the hyphal growth of R. solani YC-9 in vitro and suppressed disease progression in the leaves, and quantitative real-time PCR confirmed that the application of dsRNAs significantly reduced the expression levels of endoPGs and RPMK1. CONCLUSION These results provide theoretical basis and new direction for RNAi approaches on the prevention and control of disease caused by R. solani. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Plant Pathology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yi Guo
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Plant Pathology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shiping Guo
- Sichuan Province Tobacco Company, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin Qi
- Sichuan Province Tobacco Company, Chengdu, China
| | - Bin Li
- Sichuan Province Tobacco Company, Chengdu, China
| | - Lianqiang Jiang
- Liangshanzhou Branch of Sichuan Province Tobacco Company, Xichang, China
| | - Chuantao Xu
- Luzhou Branch of Sichuan Province Tobacco Company, Luzhou, China
| | - Mengnan An
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Plant Pathology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuanhua Wu
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Plant Pathology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
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10
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Dalakouras A, Koidou V, Papadopoulou K. DsRNA-based pesticides: Considerations for efficiency and risk assessment. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141530. [PMID: 38401868 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141530] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
In view of the ongoing climate change and the ever-growing world population, novel agricultural solutions are required to ensure sustainable food supply. Microbials, natural substances, semiochemicals and double stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) are all considered potential low risk pesticides. DsRNAs function at the molecular level, targeting specific regions of specific genes of specific organisms, provided that they share a minimal sequence complementarity of approximately 20 nucleotides. Thus, dsRNAs may offer a great alternative to conventional chemicals in environmentally friendly pest control strategies. Any low-risk pesticide needs to be efficient and exhibit low toxicological potential and low environmental persistence. Having said that, in the current review, the mode of dsRNA action is explored and the parameters that need to be taken into consideration for the development of efficient dsRNA-based pesticides are highlighted. Moreover, since dsRNAs mode of action differs from those of synthetic pesticides, custom-made risk assessment schemes may be required and thus, critical issues related to the risk assessment of dsRNA pesticides are discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Venetia Koidou
- ELGO-DIMITRA, Institute of Industrial and Forage Crops, Larissa, Greece; University of Thessaly, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Larissa, Greece
| | - Kalliope Papadopoulou
- University of Thessaly, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Larissa, Greece
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11
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Ding T, Li W, Li F, Ren M, Wang W. microRNAs: Key Regulators in Plant Responses to Abiotic and Biotic Stresses via Endogenous and Cross-Kingdom Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1154. [PMID: 38256227 PMCID: PMC10816238 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021154] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Dramatic shifts in global climate have intensified abiotic and biotic stress faced by plants. Plant microRNAs (miRNAs)-20-24 nucleotide non-coding RNA molecules-form a key regulatory system of plant gene expression; playing crucial roles in plant growth; development; and defense against abiotic and biotic stress. Moreover, they participate in cross-kingdom communication. This communication encompasses interactions with other plants, microorganisms, and insect species, collectively exerting a profound influence on the agronomic traits of crops. This article comprehensively reviews the biosynthesis of plant miRNAs and explores their impact on plant growth, development, and stress resistance through endogenous, non-transboundary mechanisms. Furthermore, this review delves into the cross-kingdom regulatory effects of plant miRNAs on plants, microorganisms, and pests. It proceeds to specifically discuss the design and modification strategies for artificial miRNAs (amiRNAs), as well as the protection and transport of miRNAs by exosome-like nanovesicles (ELNVs), expanding the potential applications of plant miRNAs in crop breeding. Finally, the current limitations associated with harnessing plant miRNAs are addressed, and the utilization of synthetic biology is proposed to facilitate the heterologous expression and large-scale production of miRNAs. This novel approach suggests a plant-based solution to address future biosafety concerns in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianze Ding
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (T.D.); (W.L.); (F.L.)
- Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Wenkang Li
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (T.D.); (W.L.); (F.L.)
- Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Fuguang Li
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (T.D.); (W.L.); (F.L.)
- Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Maozhi Ren
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (T.D.); (W.L.); (F.L.)
- Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (T.D.); (W.L.); (F.L.)
- Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
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12
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Guan R, Miao X, Li H. Bacteria-Based Double-Stranded RNA Production to Develop Cost-Effective RNA Interference Application for Insect Pest Management. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2771:73-81. [PMID: 38285393 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3702-9_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Since the discovery of the RNA interference (RNAi) mechanism, it has been widely used in the fields of gene function, biomedicine, and crop pest control. In the direction of agricultural application, this technology is highly expected, especially in the field of pest control, which is called "the third revolution in the history of pesticides". Currently, RNA biopesticides are developing rapidly all over the world. A genetically modified product (MON87411) has been approved for marketing, and a large number of agricultural companies are developing products based on direct spraying RNA biopesticides and submitting them for regulatory approval. The biggest problem that has emerged for spray RNA biopesticides is the technology for large-scale and low-cost production of dsRNA. At present, the bacterial fermentation production technology can realize large-scale dsRNA production with a yield of 4.23~182 mg/L bacterial solution. This article describes the experimental protocol for dsRNA production technology based on bacterial fermentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruobing Guan
- Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control, Henan Engineering Laboratory of Pest Biological Control, College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xuexia Miao
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Haichao Li
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
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Jin BJ, Chun HJ, Choi CW, Lee SH, Cho HM, Park MS, Baek D, Park SY, Lee YH, Kim MC. Host-induced gene silencing is a promising biological tool to characterize the pathogenicity of Magnaporthe oryzae and control fungal disease in rice. PLANT, CELL & ENVIRONMENT 2024; 47:319-336. [PMID: 37700662 DOI: 10.1111/pce.14721] [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: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
The rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae is a devastating plant pathogen that threatens rice production worldwide. Host-induced gene silencing (HIGS) has been effectively applied to study pathogenic gene function during host-microbe interactions and control fungal diseases in various crops. In this study, the HIGS system of M. oryzae was established using transgenic fungus expressing green fluorescence protein (GFP), KJ201::eGFP and 35S::dsRNAi plants, which produce small interfering RNAs targeting fungal genes. Through this system, we verified the HIGS of rice blast fungus quantitatively and qualitatively in both Arabidopsis and rice. Then, we showed that the HIGS of M. oryzae's pathogenic genes, including RGS1, MgAPT2 and LHS1, significantly alter its virulence. Both 35S::dsRNAi_MgAPT2 and 35S::dsRNAi_LHS1 plants showed a considerably enhanced fungal resistance, characterized by the formation of H2 O2 -containing defensive granules and induction of rice pathogenesis-related (PR) genes. In addition, the enhanced susceptibility of 35S::dsRNAi_RGS1 plants to blast fungus suggested a novel mode of action of this gene during fungal infection. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate that HIGS is a very effective and efficient biological tool not only to accurately characterize the functions of fungal pathogenic genes during rice-M. oryzae interactions, but also to control fungal disease and ensure a successful rice production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byung Jun Jin
- Institute of Agriculture & Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
| | - Hyun Jin Chun
- Institute of Agriculture & Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
| | - Cheol Woo Choi
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Research Center, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
| | - Su Hyeon Lee
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Research Center, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
| | - Hyun Min Cho
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Research Center, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
| | - Mi Suk Park
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Research Center, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
| | - Dongwon Baek
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Research Center, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
| | - Sook-Young Park
- Department of Plant Medicine, Sunchon National University, Suncheon, Korea
| | - Yong-Hwan Lee
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min Chul Kim
- Institute of Agriculture & Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Research Center, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
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14
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Ahmad S, Jamil M, Jaworski CC, Wu Y, Palma-Onetto V, Lyu B, Luo Y. Knockdown of the ecdysone receptor disrupts development and causes mortality in the melon fly, Zeugodacus cucurbitae. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 32:738-747. [PMID: 37646607 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12867] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Cucurbits are important economic plants that are attacked by numerous pests, among which the melon fly Zeugodacus cucurbitae is extremely problematic. New sustainable pest control strategies are necessary to replace chemical insecticides that are harmful to the environment, human health and nontarget species. The RNA interference (RNAi) technology is one of the most promising tools due to high efficiency and species specificity. We developed an RNAi strategy targeting the ecdysone receptor (ECR) of Z. cucurbitae, which plays an important role in moulting and reproduction. We identified, described and isolated the ECR gene of Z. cucurbitae and measured its expression pattern across developmental stages and tissues. ZcECR knockdown via dsZcECR ingestion caused a significant larval mortality and abnormal phenotypes in pupae and adults. About 68% of larvae fed with a dsZcECR-treated diet failed to enter the pupal stage and died. In addition, ZcECR knockdown dramatically reduced pupal weight (by 3.24 mg on average) and fecundity (by about 23%). RNAi targeting the ECR gene is therefore a promising method to control Z. cucurbitae, paving the way for the development of novel sustainable and highly specific control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakil Ahmad
- School of Plant Protection, Department of Pesticide Science, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Momana Jamil
- School of Plant Protection, Department of Pesticide Science, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | | | - Yuejie Wu
- School of Plant Protection, Department of Pesticide Science, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Valeria Palma-Onetto
- Departamento de Química Ambiental, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Baoqian Lyu
- Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Tropical Crops, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Haikou, China
| | - Yanping Luo
- School of Plant Protection, Department of Pesticide Science, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, China
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15
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Rajesh V, Jangra S, Ghosh A. Effect of silencing Thrips palmi Btk29A and COL3A1 on fitness and virus acquisition. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1254246. [PMID: 37928674 PMCID: PMC10620694 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1254246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Thrips palmi (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) is a major agricultural pest infesting over 200 plant species. Along with direct injury caused by feeding, T. palmi spreads several orthotospoviruses. Groundnut bud necrosis orthotospovirus (GBNV, family Tospoviridae, genus Orthotospovirus) is the predominant orthotospovirus in Asia, vectored by T. palmi. It is responsible for almost 89 million USD losses in Asia annually. Several transcripts of T. palmi related to innate immune response, receptor binding, cell signaling, cellular trafficking, viral replication, and apoptosis are responsive to the infection of orthotospoviruses in thrips. Expression of T. palmi tyrosine kinase Btk29A isoform X1 (Btk29A) and collagen alpha-1(III) chain-like (COL3A1) are significantly regulated post-GBNV and capsicum chlorosis orthotospovirus infection. In the present study, T. palmi Btk29A and COL3A1 were silenced and the effect on virus titer and fitness was assessed. The expression of Btk29A and COL3A1 was significantly reduced by 3.62 and 3.15-fold, respectively, 24 h post-dsRNA exposure. Oral administration of Btk29A and COL3A1 dsRNAs induced 60 and 50.9% mortality in T. palmi. The GBNV concentration in T. palmi significantly dropped post-silencing Btk29A. In contrast, the silencing of COL3A1 led to an increase in GBNV concentration in T. palmi compared to the untreated control. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the effect of silencing Btk29A and COL3A1 on the fitness and GBNV titer in T. palmi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vavilapalli Rajesh
- Insect Vector Laboratory, Advanced Centre for Plant Virology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
- Division of Entomology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | - Sumit Jangra
- Insect Vector Laboratory, Advanced Centre for Plant Virology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | - Amalendu Ghosh
- Insect Vector Laboratory, Advanced Centre for Plant Virology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
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Li BJ, Wang KK, Yu Y, Wei JQ, Zhu J, Wang JL, Lin F, Xu HH. PxRdl2 dsRNA increased the insecticidal activities of GABAR-targeting compounds against Plutella xylostella. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 195:105548. [PMID: 37666591 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2023.105548] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
The utilization of RNA interference (RNAi) for pest management has garnered global interest. The bioassay results suggested the knockout of the PxRdl2 gene significantly increased the insecticidal activities of the γ-aminobutyric acid receptor (GABAR)-targeting compounds (fipronil, two pyrazoloquinazolines, and two isoxazolines), thereby presenting a viable target gene for RNAi-mediated pest control. Consequently, we suggest enhancing the insecticidal activities of GABAR-targeting compounds by knockdown the transcript level of PxRdl2. Furthermore, PxRdl2 dsRNA was expressed in HT115 Escherichia coli to reduce costs and protect dsRNA against degradation. In comparison to in vitro synthesized dsRNA, the recombinant bacteria (ds-B) exhibited superior interference efficiency and greater stability when exposed to UV irradiation. Collectively, our results provide a strategy for insecticide spray that combines synergistically with insecticidal activities by suppressing PxRdl2 using ds-B and may be beneficial for reducing the usage of insecticide and slowing pest resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben-Jie Li
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Kun-Kun Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Ye Yu
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jia-Qi Wei
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jian Zhu
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jia-Li Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Fei Lin
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Han-Hong Xu
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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17
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Yue D, Li R, Zhang J, Chen Y, Palmer-Young EC, Huang S, Huang WF. A DNA Plasmid-Based Approach for Efficient Synthesis of Sacbrood Virus Infectious Clones within Host Cells. Viruses 2023; 15:1866. [PMID: 37766273 PMCID: PMC10537335 DOI: 10.3390/v15091866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA viruses are often cited as a significant factor affecting the populations of both domestic honey bees and wild pollinators. To expedite the development of effective countermeasures against these viruses, a more comprehensive understanding of virus biology necessitates extensive collaboration among scientists from diverse research fields. While the infectious virus clone is a robust tool for studying virus diseases, the current methods for synthesizing infectious clones of bee-infecting RNA viruses entail the in vitro transcription of the viral genome RNA in 8-10 kb, presenting challenges in reproducibility and distribution. This article reports on the synthesis of an infectious clone of the Chinese variant sacbrood virus (SBV) using a DNA plasmid containing an Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) immediate-early protein (IE1) promoter to trigger transcription of the downstream viral genome within hosts. The results demonstrate that the IE1-SBV plasmid can synthesize SBV clones in a widely used lepidopteran immortal cell line (Sf9) and honey bee pupae. Furthermore, the negative strand of the clone was detected in both Sf9 cells and honey bee pupae, indicating active infection and replication. However, the transfection of Sf9 cells was observed in only a limited proportion (less than 10%) of the cells, and the infection did not appear to spread to adjacent cells or form infective virions. The injection of honey bee pupae with 2500 ng of the IE1-SBV plasmid resulted in high infection rates in Apis cerana pupae but low rates in A. mellifera pupae, although the dosage was comparatively high compared with other studies using in vitro transcribed viral RNA. Our findings suggest that the synthesis of bee-infecting RNA viruses using DNA plasmids is feasible, albeit requiring additional optimization. However, this method holds substantial potential for facilitating the production of clones with various sequence modifications, enabling the exploration of viral gene functions and biology. The ease of distributing infectious clones in DNA plasmid form may foster collaboration among scientists in applying the clone to bee biology, ecology, and behavior, ultimately offering a comprehensive approach to managing virus diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Yue
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Runlin Li
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Jikailang Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yanping Chen
- Bee Research Laboratory, Agriculture Research Service, USDA, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
| | - Evan C Palmer-Young
- Bee Research Laboratory, Agriculture Research Service, USDA, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
| | - Shaokang Huang
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
- Honeybee Biology Observation Station, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Wei-Fone Huang
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
- Bee Research Laboratory, Agriculture Research Service, USDA, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
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18
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Zhao J, Yan S, Li M, Sun L, Dong M, Yin M, Shen J, Zhao Z. NPFR regulates the synthesis and metabolism of lipids and glycogen via AMPK: Novel targets for efficient corn borer management. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 247:125816. [PMID: 37451386 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
RNA biopesticides are regarded as "the third revolution in the history of pesticides" due to their extensive advantages such as precision, high efficiency, green, pollution-free, etc. In the current study, two target genes encoding neuropeptide F receptor (NPFR) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which are essential for insect feeding, cellular energy homeostasis and nutrient availability, were selected to design RNA pesticides. We achieved high RNA interference (RNAi) efficiency of npfr via a star polycation nanocarrier-based double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) delivery system. The food consumption of Ostrinia furnacalis is largely suppressed, which leads to a good protective effect on corn leaves. We determined the mechanism of the above genes. NPFR binds to the Gα protein and activates the intracellular second messengers cAMP and Ca2+, which in turn phosphorylate AMPK to regulate the synthesis and metabolism of lipids and glycogen. We then adopted a highly efficient bacteria-based expression system for the production of large amounts of dsRNA segments targeting npfr and ampk simultaneously and subsequently complexed them with nanocarriers to develop a novel dual-target RNA pesticide. Our RNA nanopesticide dramatically inhibits larval feeding, growth and development, and its controlling effect is even better than that of the widely used anti-feedant azadirachtin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Zhao
- Department of Entomology and MARA Key Lab of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Shuo Yan
- Department of Entomology and MARA Key Lab of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Mingshan Li
- Department of Entomology and MARA Key Lab of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Lina Sun
- Department of Entomology and MARA Key Lab of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Min Dong
- Department of Entomology and MARA Key Lab of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Meizhen Yin
- State Key Lab of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing Lab of Biomedical Materials, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, PR China
| | - Jie Shen
- Department of Entomology and MARA Key Lab of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China.
| | - Zhangwu Zhao
- Department of Entomology and MARA Key Lab of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China.
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Saakre M, Jaiswal S, Rathinam M, Raman KV, Tilgam J, Paul K, Sreevathsa R, Pattanayak D. Host-Delivered RNA Interference for Durable Pest Resistance in Plants: Advanced Methods, Challenges, and Applications. Mol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s12033-023-00833-9. [PMID: 37523020 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00833-9] [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: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Insect-pests infestation greatly affects global agricultural production and is projected to become more severe in upcoming years. There is concern about pesticide application being ineffective due to insect resistance and environmental toxicity. Reduced effectiveness of Bt toxins also made the scientific community shift toward alternative strategies to control devastating agricultural pests. With the advent of host-delivered RNA interference, also known as host-induced gene silencing, targeted insect genes have been suppressed through genetic engineering tools to deliver a novel insect-pest resistance strategy for combating a number of agricultural pests. This review recapitulates the possible mechanism of host-delivered RNA interference (HD-RNAi), in particular, the silencing of target genes of insect-pests. We emphasize the development of the latest strategies against evolving insect targets including designing of artificial microRNAs, vector constructs, and the benefit of using plastid transformation to transform target RNA-interfering genes. Advantages of using HD-RNAi over other small RNA delivery modes and also the supremacy of HD-RNAi over the CRISPR-Cas system particularly for insect resistance have been described. However, the broader application of this technology is restricted due to its several limitations. Using artificial miRNA designs, the host-delivered RNAi + Bt combinatorial approach and chloroplast transformation can overcome limitations of RNAi. With careful design and delivery approaches, RNAi promises to be extremely valuable and effective plant protection strategy to attain durable insect-pest resistance in crops. Development of transgenic plant using novel strategies to achieve durable resistance against the target insect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjesh Saakre
- Division of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, ICAR-National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, IARI Pusa Campus, New Delhi, 110012, India
| | - Sandeep Jaiswal
- Division of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, ICAR-National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, IARI Pusa Campus, New Delhi, 110012, India
- ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya- 793103, India
| | - Maniraj Rathinam
- ICAR-National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, IARI Pusa Campus, New Delhi, 110012, India
| | - K Venkat Raman
- ICAR-National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, IARI Pusa Campus, New Delhi, 110012, India
| | - Jyotsana Tilgam
- Division of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, ICAR-National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, IARI Pusa Campus, New Delhi, 110012, India
| | - Krishnayan Paul
- Division of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, ICAR-National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, IARI Pusa Campus, New Delhi, 110012, India
| | - Rohini Sreevathsa
- ICAR-National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, IARI Pusa Campus, New Delhi, 110012, India
| | - Debasis Pattanayak
- ICAR-National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, IARI Pusa Campus, New Delhi, 110012, India.
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20
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Vogel E, Santos D, Huygens C, Peeters P, Van den Brande S, Wynant N, Vanden Broeck J. The Study of Cell-Penetrating Peptides to Deliver dsRNA and siRNA by Feeding in the Desert Locust, Schistocerca gregaria. INSECTS 2023; 14:597. [PMID: 37504603 PMCID: PMC10380834 DOI: 10.3390/insects14070597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
RNA(i) interference is a gene silencing mechanism triggered by double-stranded (ds)RNA, which promises to contribute to species-specific insect pest control strategies. The first step toward the application of RNAi as an insecticide is to enable efficient gene silencing upon dsRNA oral delivery. The desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria is a devastating agricultural pest. While this species is responsive to dsRNA delivered by intra-hemocoelic injection, it is refractory to orally delivered dsRNA. In this study, we evaluated the capacity of five cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) to bind long dsRNA and protect it from the locust midgut environment. We then selected the CPP EB1 for further in vivo studies. EB1:dsRNA complexes failed to induce RNAi by feeding. Interestingly, we observed that intra-hemocoelic injection of small-interfering (si)RNAs does not result in a silencing response, but that this response can be obtained by injecting EB1:siRNA complexes. EB1 also protected siRNAs from midgut degradation activity. However, EB1:siRNA complexes failed as well in triggering RNAi when fed. Our findings highlight the complexity of the dsRNA/siRNA-triggered RNAi in this species and emphasize the multifactorial nature of the RNAi response in insects. Our study also stresses the importance of in vivo studies when it comes to dsRNA/siRNA delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Vogel
- Research Group of Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dulce Santos
- Research Group of Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Cissy Huygens
- Research Group of Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Behavioral and Developmental Genetics, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Paulien Peeters
- Research Group of Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stijn Van den Brande
- Research Group of Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Niels Wynant
- Research Group of Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jozef Vanden Broeck
- Research Group of Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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21
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Singewar K, Fladung M. Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) technology to control forest insect pests and fungal pathogens: challenges and opportunities. Funct Integr Genomics 2023; 23:185. [PMID: 37243792 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-023-01107-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Climate change alters the seasonal synchronization between plants and respective pests plus pathogens. The geographical infiltration helps to shift their hosts, resulting in novel outbreaks that damage forests and ecology. Traditional management schemes are unable to control such outbreaks, therefore unconventional and competitive governance is needed to manage forest pests and pathogens. RNA interference (RNAi) mediated double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) treatment method can be implemented to protect forest trees. Exogenous dsRNA triggers the RNAi-mediated gene silencing of a vital gene, and suspends protein production, resulting in the death of targeted pathogens and pests. The dsRNA treatment method is successful for many crop insects and fungi, however, studies of dsRNA against forest pests and pathogens are depleting. Pesticides and fungicides based on dsRNA could be used to combat pathogens that caused outbreaks in different parts of the world. Although the dsRNA has proved its potential, the crucial dilemma and risks including species-specific gene selection, and dsRNA delivery methods cannot be overlooked. Here, we summarized the major fungi pathogens and insect pests that have caused outbreaks, their genomic information, and studies on dsRNA fungi-and pesticides. Current challenges and opportunities in dsRNA target decision, delivery using nanoparticles, direct applications, and a new method using mycorrhiza for forest tree protection are discussed. The importance of affordable next-generation sequencing to minimize the impact on non-target species is discussed. We suggest that collaborative research among forest genomics and pathology institutes could develop necessary dsRNA strategies to protect forest tree species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Singewar
- Thünen Institute of Forest Genetics, 22927, Großhansdorf, Germany.
| | - Matthias Fladung
- Thünen Institute of Forest Genetics, 22927, Großhansdorf, Germany.
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22
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Verdonckt TW, Bilsen A, Van Nieuwerburgh F, De Troij L, Santos D, Vanden Broeck J. Identification and Profiling of a Novel Bombyx mori latent virus Variant Acutely Infecting Helicoverpa armigera and Trichoplusia ni. Viruses 2023; 15:v15051183. [PMID: 37243270 DOI: 10.3390/v15051183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Insect cell expression systems are increasingly being used in the medical industry to develop vaccines against diseases such as COVID-19. However, viral infections are common in these systems, making it necessary to thoroughly characterize the viruses present. One such virus is Bombyx mori latent virus (BmLV), which is known to be specific to Bombyx mori and to have low pathogenicity. However, there has been little research on the tropism and virulence of BmLV. In this study, we examined the genomic diversity of BmLV and identified a variant that persistently infects Trichoplusia ni-derived High Five cells. We also assessed the pathogenicity of this variant and its effects on host responses using both in vivo and in vitro systems. Our results showed that this BmLV variant causes acute infections with strong cytopathic effects in both systems. Furthermore, we characterized the RNAi-based immune response in the T. ni cell line and in Helicoverpa armigera animals by assessing the regulation of RNAi-related genes and profiling the generated viral small RNAs. Overall, our findings shed light on the prevalence and infectious properties of BmLV. We also discuss the potential impact of virus genomic diversity on experimental outcomes, which can help interpret past and future research results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas-Wolf Verdonckt
- Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Division, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59 Box 2465, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anton Bilsen
- Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Division, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59 Box 2465, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Filip Van Nieuwerburgh
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Loes De Troij
- Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Division, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59 Box 2465, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dulce Santos
- Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Division, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59 Box 2465, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jozef Vanden Broeck
- Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Division, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59 Box 2465, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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23
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Waldman J, Klafke GM, Tirloni L, Logullo C, da Silva Vaz I. Putative target sites in synganglion for novel ixodid tick control strategies. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2023; 14:102123. [PMID: 36716581 PMCID: PMC10033424 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2023.102123] [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: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Acaricide resistance is a global problem that has impacts worldwide. Tick populations with broad resistance to all commercially available acaricides have been reported. Since resistance selection in ticks and their role in pathogen transmission to animals and humans result in important economic and public health burden, it is essential to develop new strategies for their control (i.e., novel chemical compounds, vaccines, biological control). The synganglion is the tick central nervous system and it is responsible for synthesizing and releasing signaling molecules with different physiological functions. Synganglion proteins are the targets of the majority of available acaricides. In this review we provide an overview of the mode-of-action and resistance mechanisms against neurotoxic acaricides in ticks, as well as putative target sites in synganglion, as a supporting tool to identify new target proteins and to develop new strategies for tick control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jéssica Waldman
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Marcondes Klafke
- Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor - Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Secretaria da Agricultura, Pecuária e Desenvolvimento Rural, Eldorado do Sul, RS, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia - Entomologia Molecular, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Lucas Tirloni
- Laboratory of Bacteriology, Tick-Pathogen Transmission Unit, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Carlos Logullo
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia - Entomologia Molecular, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Laboratório de Bioquímica de Artrópodes Hematófagos, IBqM, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Itabajara da Silva Vaz
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia - Entomologia Molecular, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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24
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Timani K, Bastarache P, Morin PJ. Leveraging RNA Interference to Impact Insecticide Resistance in the Colorado Potato Beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata. INSECTS 2023; 14:insects14050418. [PMID: 37233046 DOI: 10.3390/insects14050418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say, is a potato pest that can cause important economic losses to the potato industry worldwide. Diverse strategies have been deployed to target this insect such as biological control, crop rotation, and a variety of insecticides. Regarding the latter, this pest has demonstrated impressive abilities to develop resistance against the compounds used to regulate its spread. Substantial work has been conducted to better characterize the molecular signatures underlying this resistance, with the overarching objective of leveraging this information for the development of novel approaches, including RNAi-based techniques, to limit the damage associated with this insect. This review first describes the various strategies utilized to control L. decemlineata and highlights different examples of reported cases of resistances against insecticides for this insect. The molecular leads identified as potential players modulating insecticide resistance as well as the growing interest towards the use of RNAi aimed at these leads as part of novel means to control the impact of L. decemlineata are described subsequently. Finally, select advantages and limitations of RNAi are addressed to better assess the potential of this technology in the broader context of insecticide resistance for pest management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenan Timani
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Université de Moncton, 18 Antonine-Maillet Avenue, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Pierre Bastarache
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Université de Moncton, 18 Antonine-Maillet Avenue, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Pier Jr Morin
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Université de Moncton, 18 Antonine-Maillet Avenue, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
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25
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Manee MM, Alqahtani FH, Al-Shomrani BM, El-Shafie HAF, Dias GB. Omics in the Red Palm Weevil Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae): A Bridge to the Pest. INSECTS 2023; 14:255. [PMID: 36975940 PMCID: PMC10054242 DOI: 10.3390/insects14030255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The red palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), is the most devastating pest of palm trees worldwide. Mitigation of the economic and biodiversity impact it causes is an international priority that could be greatly aided by a better understanding of its biology and genetics. Despite its relevance, the biology of the RPW remains poorly understood, and research on management strategies often focuses on outdated empirical methods that produce sub-optimal results. With the development of omics approaches in genetic research, new avenues for pest control are becoming increasingly feasible. For example, genetic engineering approaches become available once a species's target genes are well characterized in terms of their sequence, but also population variability, epistatic interactions, and more. In the last few years alone, there have been major advances in omics studies of the RPW. Multiple draft genomes are currently available, along with short and long-read transcriptomes, and metagenomes, which have facilitated the identification of genes of interest to the RPW scientific community. This review describes omics approaches previously applied to RPW research, highlights findings that could be impactful for pest management, and emphasizes future opportunities and challenges in this area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manee M. Manee
- National Center for Bioinformatics, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
- Institute of Advanced Agricultural and Food Technologies, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad H. Alqahtani
- National Center for Bioinformatics, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
- Institute of Advanced Agricultural and Food Technologies, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Badr M. Al-Shomrani
- National Center for Bioinformatics, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
- Institute of Advanced Agricultural and Food Technologies, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
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26
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Lariviere PJ, Leonard SP, Horak RD, Powell JE, Barrick JE. Honey bee functional genomics using symbiont-mediated RNAi. Nat Protoc 2023; 18:902-928. [PMID: 36460809 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-022-00778-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Honey bees are indispensable pollinators and model organisms for studying social behavior, development and cognition. However, their eusociality makes it difficult to use standard forward genetic approaches to study gene function. Most functional genomics studies in bees currently utilize double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) injection or feeding to induce RNAi-mediated knockdown of a gene of interest. However, dsRNA injection is laborious and harmful, and dsRNA feeding is difficult to scale cheaply. Further, both methods require repeated dsRNA administration to ensure a continued RNAi response. To fill this gap, we engineered the bee gut bacterium Snodgrassella alvi to induce a sustained host RNA interference response that reduces expression of a targeted gene. To employ this functional genomics using engineered symbionts (FUGUES) procedure, a dsRNA expression plasmid is cloned in Escherichia coli using Golden Gate assembly and then transferred to S. alvi. Adult worker bees are then colonized with engineered S. alvi. Finally, gene knockdown is verified through qRT-PCR, and bee phenotypes of interest can be further assessed. Expression of targeted genes is reduced by as much as 50-75% throughout the entire bee body by 5 d after colonization. This protocol can be accomplished in 4 weeks by bee researchers with microbiology and molecular cloning skills. FUGUES currently offers a streamlined and scalable approach for studying the biology of honey bees. Engineering other microbial symbionts to influence their hosts in ways that are similar to those described in this protocol may prove useful for studying additional insect and animal species in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J Lariviere
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.,Department of Integrative Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Sean P Leonard
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.,Department of Integrative Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Richard D Horak
- Department of Integrative Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - J Elijah Powell
- Department of Integrative Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Jeffrey E Barrick
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
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27
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Guo H, Liu XZ, Long GJ, Gong LL, Zhang MQ, Ma YF, Hull JJ, Dewer Y, He M, He P. Functional characterization of developmentally critical genes in the white-backed planthopper: Efficacy of nanoparticle-based dsRNA sprays for pest control. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2023; 79:1048-1061. [PMID: 36325939 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), zinc finger homeodomain-2 (zfh-2), Abdominal-A (Abd-A), and Abdominal-B (Abd-B) regulate the growth and development of the insect abdomen. However, their potential roles in pest control have not been fully assessed. The development of insecticide resistance to multiple chemistries in the white-backed planthopper (WBPH), a major pest of rice, has prompted interest in novel pest control approaches that are ecologically friendly. Although pest management approaches based on double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-mediated RNA interference (RNAi) have potential, their susceptibility to degradation limits large-scale field applications. These limitations, however, can be overcome with nanoparticle-dsRNA complexes that have greater environmental stability and improved cellular uptake. RESULTS In this study, at 5 days post-injection, transcripts for the four gene targets were reduced relative to controls and all of the experimental groups exhibited significant phenotypic defects and increased mortality. To evaluate the potential of these gene targets for field applications, a nanocarrier-dsRNA spray delivery system was assessed for RNAi efficacy. At 11 days post-spray, significant phenotypic defects and increased mortality were observed in all experimental groups. CONCLUSION Taken together, the results confirm the suitability of the target genes (SfEGFR, Sfzfh-2, SfAbd-A, and SfAbd-B) for pest management and demonstrate the efficacy of the nanocarrier spray system for inducing RNAi-mediated knockdown. As such, the study lays the foundation for the further development and optimization of this technology for large-scale field applications. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Guo
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, P. R. China
| | - Xuan-Zheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, P. R. China
| | - Gui-Jun Long
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, P. R. China
| | - Lang-Lang Gong
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, P. R. China
| | - Meng-Qi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, P. R. China
| | - Yun-Feng Ma
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, P. R. China
| | - J Joe Hull
- Pest Management and Biocontrol Research Unit, US Arid Land Agricultural Research Center, USDA Agricultural Research Services, Maricopa, AZ, USA
| | - Youssef Dewer
- Phytotoxicity Research Department, Central Agricultural Pesticide Laboratory, Agricultural Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ming He
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, P. R. China
| | - Peng He
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, P. R. China
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28
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Tatineni S, Hein GL. Plant Viruses of Agricultural Importance: Current and Future Perspectives of Virus Disease Management Strategies. PHYTOPATHOLOGY 2023; 113:117-141. [PMID: 36095333 DOI: 10.1094/phyto-05-22-0167-rvw] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Plant viruses cause significant losses in agricultural crops worldwide, affecting the yield and quality of agricultural products. The emergence of novel viruses or variants through genetic evolution and spillover from reservoir host species, changes in agricultural practices, mixed infections with disease synergism, and impacts from global warming pose continuous challenges for the management of epidemics resulting from emerging plant virus diseases. This review describes some of the most devastating virus diseases plus select virus diseases with regional importance in agriculturally important crops that have caused significant yield losses. The lack of curative measures for plant virus infections prompts the use of risk-reducing measures for managing plant virus diseases. These measures include exclusion, avoidance, and eradication techniques, along with vector management practices. The use of sensitive, high throughput, and user-friendly diagnostic methods is crucial for defining preventive and management strategies against plant viruses. The advent of next-generation sequencing technologies has great potential for detecting unknown viruses in quarantine samples. The deployment of genetic resistance in crop plants is an effective and desirable method of managing virus diseases. Several dominant and recessive resistance genes have been used to manage virus diseases in crops. Recently, RNA-based technologies such as dsRNA- and siRNA-based RNA interference, microRNA, and CRISPR/Cas9 provide transgenic and nontransgenic approaches for developing virus-resistant crop plants. Importantly, the topical application of dsRNA, hairpin RNA, and artificial microRNA and trans-active siRNA molecules on plants has the potential to develop GMO-free virus disease management methods. However, the long-term efficacy and acceptance of these new technologies, especially transgenic methods, remain to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satyanarayana Tatineni
- U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service and Department of Plant Pathology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583
| | - Gary L Hein
- Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583
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29
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Finetti L, Benetti L, Leyria J, Civolani S, Bernacchia G. Topical delivery of dsRNA in two hemipteran species: Evaluation of RNAi specificity and non-target effects. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 189:105295. [PMID: 36549821 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2022.105295] [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: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Double-stranded (ds) RNA-based technologies could provide novel and potential tool for pest management with efficiency and specificity of action. However, before applying this technique in the field, it is necessary to identify effective delivery methods and evaluate the non-target effects that may occur. In this article, we evaluated the effectiveness of dsRNA by topical delivery on a species of great agricultural interest, Halyomorpha halys. The specificity of action of the dsRNA was also investigated in Rhodnius prolixus, an insect phylogenetically close to H. halys. Of the three investigated genes (putative ATPase N2B, ATPase, serine/threonine-protein phosphatase PP1-β catalytic subunit, PP1, and IAP repeat-containing protein 7-B-like, IAP), IAP and ATPase were able to induce higher mortality in H. halys nymphs compared to the control, with specific concentrations for each gene targeted. However, when the same RNAs were topically delivered to both R. prolixus 2nd and 3rd instar nymphs, no gene silencing and mortality were observed. For this reason, to assess dsRNA application-mediated non-target effects, we injected both H. halys and R. prolixus specific dsRNA in R. prolixus 5th instar nymphs. When the dsRNA targeting H. halys IAP was microinjected into R. prolixus 5th instar nymphs, no mortality was observed, suggesting a strong RNAi specificity. Together, these data suggest that the topical delivery could be suitable for the dsRNA to control H. halys population. Furthermore, its specificity of action would allow treatments towards single harmful species with limited non-target effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Finetti
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada.
| | - Lorenzo Benetti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Jimena Leyria
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Stefano Civolani
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Bernacchia
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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30
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Almeida LSD, Nishiyama-Jr MY, Pedroso A, Costa-da-Silva AL, Ioshino RS, Capurro ML, Suesdek L. Transcriptome profiling and Calreticulin expression in Zika virus -infected Aedes aegypti. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2023; 107:105390. [PMID: 36473637 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2022.105390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) may cause febrile illness and neurological damage, such as microcephaly in fetuses. ZIKV is transmitted to humans by Aedes aegypti, a nearly cosmopolitan mosquito. Understanding the virus-vector molecular interactions has been promising to enhance the knowledge towards disease mitigation. Since ZIKV infection alters gene physiology of mosquitoes, we examined the expression profile of ZIKV-infected Ae. aegypti by several approaches to identify genes altered by viral infection. Transcriptomics were performed by comparing between ZIKV-infected and uninfected Ae. aegypti females, which revealed some differentially expressed genes. Most of these genes appear to be involved with immune response as evidenced by an interactome analysis, and a prominent finding was a calreticulin-like (CRT) gene, which was upregulated during the infection. Expression of CRT was also experimentally quantified by qPCR, however, it revealed no significant differences between infected and uninfected females. Instead, expression levels were highly variable among individuals and negatively correlated to viral load. We also tested the possibility of this gene to be silenced, but the double-stranded RNA did not reduce CRT expression, and actually increased the inter-individuals' expressional variability. Present results differed from our original hypothesis of upregulation by infection. They also diverged between them (comparing qPCR to Transcriptomics) and from the literature which reported augmented CRT levels in Aedes species during viral infection. Present case probably underlies a more complex virus-host interaction system than we expected. Regulation of this gene seems not to be a linear correlation between expression and viremy. As infection takes place, a complex homeostatic mechanism may act to prevent expression and other cellular tasks from drifting. It is also possible that CRT expression is simply randomly disturbed by viral infection. Taken together, results show that CRT expression profile during ZIKV infection is complex and requires different investigative approaches to be understood. Studies focused on the biochemical function of CRT protein and on its role in the native mosquito metabolic network could unravel how it is actually influenced by ZIKV. Current work contributes more by getting incidental findings and by posing new hypotheses than by answering the original questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laísa Silva de Almeida
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo ICB/USP, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 2415, São Paulo CEP 05508-000, Brazil; Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brazil 1500, Butantã, São Paulo, SP CEP 05503-900, Brazil.
| | - Milton Yutaka Nishiyama-Jr
- Laboratório de Toxinologia Aplicada, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brazil 1500, Butantã, São Paulo, SP CEP 05503-900, Brazil.
| | - Aurélio Pedroso
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brazil 1500, Butantã, São Paulo, SP CEP 05503-900, Brazil
| | - André Luis Costa-da-Silva
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo ICB/USP, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 2415, São Paulo CEP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Rafaella Sayuri Ioshino
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo ICB/USP, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 2415, São Paulo CEP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Margareth Lara Capurro
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo ICB/USP, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 2415, São Paulo CEP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Lincoln Suesdek
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brazil 1500, Butantã, São Paulo, SP CEP 05503-900, Brazil; Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr. Enéas de Carvalho Aguiar 470, Jardim América, São Paulo, SP CEP 05403-000, Brazil.
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31
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Functional genomic tools for emerging model species. Trends Ecol Evol 2022; 37:1104-1115. [PMID: 35914975 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2022.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Most studies in the field of ecology and evolution aiming to connect genotype to phenotype rarely validate identified loci using functional tools. Recent developments in RNA interference (RNAi) and clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas genome editing have dramatically increased the feasibility of functional validation. However, these methods come with specific challenges when applied to emerging model organisms, including limited spatial control of gene silencing, low knock-in efficiencies, and low throughput of functional validation. Moreover, many functional studies to date do not recapitulate ecologically relevant variation, and this limits their scope for deeper insights into evolutionary processes. We therefore argue that increased use of gene editing by allelic replacement through homology-directed repair (HDR) would greatly benefit the field of ecology and evolution.
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32
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Das PK, Panda G, Patra K, Jena N, Dash M. The role of polyplexes in developing a green sustainable approach in agriculture. RSC Adv 2022; 12:34463-34481. [PMID: 36545618 PMCID: PMC9709925 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra06541j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Rise in global population has increased the food demands and thus the competition among farmers to produce more and more. In the race to obtain higher productivity, farmers have resorted to injudicious farming practices that include the reckless use of nitrogenous fertilizers and intensive cropping on farmlands. Such practices have paved the path for large scale infestations of crops and plants by pests thus affecting the plant productivity and crop vigour. There are several traditional techniques to control pest infestations in plants such as the use of chemical or bio-pesticides, and integrated pest management practices which face several drawbacks. Delivery of gene/nucleic acid in plants through genetic engineering approaches is a more sustainable and effective method of protection against pests. The technology of RNA interference (RNAi) provides a sustainable solution to counter pest control problems faced by other traditional techniques. The RNAi technique involves delivery of dsDNA/dsRNA or other forms of nucleic acids into target organisms thereby bringing about gene silencing. However, RNAi is also limited to its use because of their susceptibility to degradation wherein the use of cationic polymers can provide a tangible solution. Cationic polymers form stable complexes with the nucleic acids known as "polyplexes", which may be attributed to their high positive charge densities thus protecting the exogenous nucleic acids from extracellular degradation. The current paper focuses on the utility of nucleic acids as a sustainable tool for pest control in crops and the use of cationic polymers for the efficient delivery of nucleic acids in pests thus protecting the plant from infestations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nivedita Jena
- Institute of Life Sciences, DBT-ILSBhubaneswarOdishaIndia
| | - Mamoni Dash
- Institute of Life Sciences, DBT-ILSBhubaneswarOdishaIndia
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Li T, Wei Y, Zhao C, Li S, Gao S, Zhang Y, Wu Y, Lu C. Facultative symbionts are potential agents of symbiont-mediated RNAi in aphids. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1020461. [PMID: 36504780 PMCID: PMC9727308 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1020461] [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: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Aphids are major crop pests, and they can be controlled through the application of the promising RNA interference (RNAi) techniques. However, chemical synthesis yield of dsRNA for RNAi is low and costly. Another sustainable aphid pest control strategy takes advantage of symbiont-mediated RNAi (SMR), which can generate dsRNA by engineered microbes. Aphid host the obligate endosymbiont Buchnera aphidicola and various facultative symbionts that not only have a wide host range but are also vertically and horizontally transmitted. Thus, we described the potential of facultative symbionts in aphid pest control by SMR. We summarized the community and host range of these facultative symbionts, and then reviewed their probable horizontal transmitted routes and ecological functions. Moreover, recent advances in the cultivation and genetic engineering of aphid facultative symbionts were discussed. In addition, current legislation of dsRNA-based pest control strategies and their safety assessments were reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Li
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control/Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Southern Region of North China, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yongjun Wei
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chenchen Zhao
- Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control /College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shaojian Li
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control/Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Southern Region of North China, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Suxia Gao
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control/Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Southern Region of North China, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuanchen Zhang
- College of Biological and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| | - Yuqing Wu
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control/Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Southern Region of North China, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chuantao Lu
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control/Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Southern Region of North China, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, China,Chuantao Lu
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Yang X, Liu S, Lu W, Du M, Qiao Z, Liang Z, An Y, Gao J, Li X. Delta and jagged are candidate target genes of RNAi biopesticides for the control of Nilaparvata lugens. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1023729. [PMID: 36466326 PMCID: PMC9715739 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1023729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The brown planthopper (BPH; Nilaparvata lugens) is an important pest in rice cultivation, and chemical pesticide over-use and ineffectiveness of existing Bt transgenic rice against piercing-sucking insects make novel control methods necessary. RNA interference (RNAi) biopesticide is a new type of product with high efficiency and specificity and are simple to use. The Notch signaling pathway has extensive and important physiological functions and plays a key role in the development of insects. In this study, two key ligand genes of the Notch signaling pathway, delta (dl) and jagged (jag), were selected and their lethal effects and functional analysis were systematically evaluated using a stable short-winged population (Brachypterous strain) and a long-winged population (Macropterous strain) of BPHs. The full-length coding sequences of Nldl and Nljag comprised 1,863 and 3,837 base pairs, encoding 620 and 1,278 amino acids, respectively. The nucleic acid sequences of Nldl and Nljag were identical between the two strains. The expression levels of Nldl and Nljag were relatively high in the head of the nymphs, followed by those in the abdomen. Through RNAi treatment, we found that injection of BPH nymphs of both strains with dsNldl (10-50 ng/nymph) or dsNljag (100 ng/nymph) produced lethal or teratogenic effects. dsRNA treatment showed excellent inhibitory effects on the expression of target genes on days 1 and 5, suggesting that RNAi rapidly exhibits effects which persist for long periods of time in BPHs. Taken together, our results confirm the potential of Nldl and Nljag as target genes of RNAi biopesticides, and we propose optimized dosages for the control of BPHs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xifa Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shaokai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Northwestern Loess Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture/College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Wenhui Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mengfang Du
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhuangzhuang Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhen Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yiting An
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
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Similar Characteristics of siRNAs of Plant Viruses Which Replicate in Plant and Fungal Hosts. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11111672. [PMID: 36421386 PMCID: PMC9687825 DOI: 10.3390/biology11111672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary RNA silencing in fungi was shown to confer antiviral defense against plant viruses. In this study, using high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatic analyses, we showed that small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) of cucumber mosaic virus and tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) which replicated in phytopathogenic fungi Rhizoctonia solani and Fusarium graminearum had similarities with viral siRNAs produced in plant hosts in regard to the size distributions, proportion of plus and minus senses, and nucleotide preference for the 5′ termini. Additionally, our results also determined that both F. graminearum DCL1 and DCL2 were involved in the production of TMV siRNAs. Thus, the fungal RNA silencing machineries have adaptive capabilities to recognize and process the genome of invading plant viruses. Abstract RNA silencing is a host innate antiviral mechanism which acts via the synthesis of viral-derived small interfering RNAs (vsiRNAs). We have previously reported the infection of phytopathogenic fungi by plant viruses such as cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) and tobacco mosaic virus (TMV). Furthermore, fungal RNA silencing was shown to suppress plant virus accumulation, but the characteristics of plant vsiRNAs associated with the antiviral response in this nonconventional host remain unknown. Using high-throughput sequencing, we characterized vsiRNA profiles in two plant RNA virus–fungal host pathosystems: CMV infection in phytopathogenic fungus Rhizoctonia solani and TMV infection in phytopathogenic fungus Fusarium graminearum. The relative abundances of CMV and TMV siRNAs in the respective fungal hosts were much lower than those in the respective experimental plant hosts, Nicotiana benthamiana and Nicotiana tabacum. However, CMV and TMV siRNAs in fungi had similar characteristics to those in plants, particularly in their size distributions, proportion of plus and minus senses, and nucleotide preference for the 5′ termini of vsiRNAs. The abundance of TMV siRNAs largely decreased in F. graminearum mutants with a deletion in either dicer-like 1 (dcl1) or dcl2 genes which encode key proteins for the production of siRNAs and antiviral responses. However, deletion of both dcl1 and dcl2 restored TMV siRNA accumulation in F. graminearum, indicating the production of dcl-independent siRNAs with no antiviral function in the absence of the dcl1 and dcl2 genes. Our results suggest that fungal RNA silencing recognizes and processes the invading plant RNA virus genome in a similar way as in plants.
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Li HJ, Zhang HH, Lu JB, Zhang CX. Threonyl-tRNA synthetase gene, a potential target for RNAi-based control of three rice planthoppers. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2022; 78:4589-4598. [PMID: 35831262 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7078] [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: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND RNA interference (RNAi) has potential as a new strategy for pest control. However, the current overemphasis on the control of a single pest increased control costs. The aim of this study was to find a green method of controlling several pests without affecting the natural enemies with a single target gene. One possible RNAi target is the threonyl-tRNA synthetase (ThrRS), which is conserved and plays a significant role in protein biosynthesis. RESULTS In this study, one threonyl-tRNA synthetase gene (NlthrS) was identified from the brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens). Spatio-temporal expression pattern analysis showed that NlthrS was highly expressed in the ovary, late embryogenesis, nymphs and female adults. In addition, RNAi-mediated knockdown of NlthrS caused 85.6% nymph mortality, 100% female infertility, molting disorder, extended nymph duration and shortened adult longevity. Target-specific results were obtained when dsNlthrS was used to interfere with the whiteback planthopper (Sogatella furcifera), small brown planthopper (Laodelphax striatellus), zig-zag winged leafhopper (Inazuma dorsalis) and their natural enemy (green mirid bug, Cyrtorhinus lividipennis). In addition, dsNlthrS could cause high mortalities of three species of planthoppers (85.6-100%), while only dsNlthrS-1 led to the death (97.3%) of I. dorsalis that was not affected by dsNlthrS-2. Furthermore, neither dsNlthrS-1 nor dsNlthrS-2 could influence the survival of C. lividipennis. CONCLUSION The results reveal the biological functions of ThrRS in N. lugens in addtion to its protein synthesis, deepening our understanding of tRNA synthase in insects and providing a new method for the control of several rice pests via one dsRNA design. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Jing Li
- Institute of Insect Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hou-Hong Zhang
- Institute of Insect Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Bao Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Plant Virology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Chuan-Xi Zhang
- Institute of Insect Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Plant Virology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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37
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Mondal M, Carver M, Brown JK. Characteristics of environmental RNAi in potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli (Sulc) (Hemiptera: Psylloidea: Triozidae). Front Physiol 2022; 13:931951. [PMID: 36330211 PMCID: PMC9623324 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.931951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) has potential to become a major tool for integrated management of insect pests of agricultural crops based on sequence-specificity and low doses of rapidly biodegradable dsRNA. Deploying ‘environmental RNAi’ for control of insect vectors of plant pathogens is of increasing interest for combatting emerging plant diseases. Hemipteran insect vectors, including psyllids, are vascular feeders, making their development difficult to control specifically by targeting with pesticidal chemistries. Psyllids transmit “Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum” the causal organism of potato zebra chip and tomato vein greening diseases, transmitted, respectively, by the potato or tomato psyllid (PoP). Until now, the optimal effective concentration(s) of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) required for significant gene knockdown and RNAi persistence in PoP have not been determined. The objective of this study was to optimize RNAi in young PoP adults and 3rd instars for screening by oral delivery of dsRNAs. The minimal effective dsRNA concentrations required for robust knockdown and persistence were evaluated by delivering seven concentrations spanning 0.1 ng/μL to 500 ng/μL over post ingestion-access periods (IAP) ranging from 48 h to 12 days. The PoP gene candidates evaluated as targets were vacuolar ATPase subunit A, clathrin heavy chain, and non-fermenting protein 7, which were evaluated for knockdown by qPCR amplification. The minimum and/or the second most effective dsRNA concentration resulting in effective levels of gene knockdown was 100 ng/μL for all three targets. Higher concentrations did not yield further knockdown, indicating potential RISC saturation at the higher doses. Gene silencing post-IAP of 100 ng/μL dsRNA persisted for 3–5 days in adults and nymphs, with the PoP 3rd instar, followed by teneral and mature adults, respectively, exhibiting the most robust RNAi-response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mosharrof Mondal
- School of Plant Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- RNAissance Ag LLC, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Megan Carver
- School of Plant Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Judith K. Brown
- School of Plant Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- *Correspondence: Judith K. Brown,
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Hough J, Howard JD, Brown S, Portwood DE, Kilby PM, Dickman MJ. Strategies for the production of dsRNA biocontrols as alternatives to chemical pesticides. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:980592. [PMID: 36299286 PMCID: PMC9588923 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.980592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Current crop pest control strategies rely on insecticidal and fungicidal sprays, plant genetic resistance, transgenes and agricultural practices. However, many insects, plant viruses, and fungi have no current means of control or have developed resistance against traditional pesticides. dsRNA is emerging as a novel sustainable method of plant protection as an alternative to traditional chemical pesticides. The successful commercialisation of dsRNA based biocontrols for effective pest management strategies requires the economical production of large quantities of dsRNA combined with suitable delivery methods to ensure RNAi efficacy against the target pest. A number of methods exist for the production and delivery of dsRNA based biocontrols and here we review alternative methods currently employed and emerging new approaches for their production. Additionally, we highlight potential challenges that will need to be addressed prior to widespread adoption of dsRNA biocontrols as novel sustainable alternatives to traditional chemical pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Hough
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingtom
| | - John D Howard
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingtom
| | - Stephen Brown
- Sheffield RNAi Screening Facility, School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingtom
| | - David E Portwood
- Syngenta, Jealott's Hill International Research Centre, Bracknell, United Kingdom
| | - Peter M Kilby
- Syngenta, Jealott's Hill International Research Centre, Bracknell, United Kingdom
| | - Mark J Dickman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingtom
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Niu L, Yan H, Sun Y, Zhang D, Ma W, Lin Y. Nanoparticle facilitated stacked-dsRNA improves suppression of the Lepidoperan pest Chilo suppresallis. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 187:105183. [PMID: 36127045 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2022.105183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, gene knockdown technology using double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) has been widely used as an environment-friendly pest control strategy, but its instability and limited cellular uptake have limited its overall effect. Studies have shown that the efficiency of single dsRNA can be improved by using various nanomaterials. However, the effect of stacked-dsRNA wrapped by nanomaterial on pests remains unclear. In the present study, both CYP15C1 and C-factor genes were cloned from the midgut of C. suppressalis, and the transcript of C-factor is most highly expressed in heads. Feeding a dsCYP15C1 or dsC-factor - nanomaterial mixture can downregulate the gene expression and significantly increase larval mortality. More importantly, feeding the stacked-dsRNA wrapped by nanomaterial can significantly increase the mortality of C. suppressalis, compared with feeding dsCYP15C1 or dsC-factor - nanomaterial mixture alone. These results showed that CYP15C1 and C-factor could be potential targets for an effective management of C. suppressalis, and we developed a nanoparticle-facilitated stacked-dsRNA strategy in the control of C. suppresallis. Our research provides a theoretical basis for gene function analysis and field pest control, and will promote the application of RNAi technology in the stacked style of pest control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Niu
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, National Centre of Plant Gene Research, Wuhan, China; State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Haixia Yan
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, National Centre of Plant Gene Research, Wuhan, China
| | - Yajie Sun
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Delin Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, National Centre of Plant Gene Research, Wuhan, China
| | - Weihua Ma
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, National Centre of Plant Gene Research, Wuhan, China; College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Yongjun Lin
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, National Centre of Plant Gene Research, Wuhan, China
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Wang Q, Fang K, Qi L, Wang X, Pan Y, Li Y, Xi J, Zhang J. Purification and Functional Characterization of a Soluble Trehalase in Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13100867. [PMID: 36292815 PMCID: PMC9604388 DOI: 10.3390/insects13100867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Trehalase is the only enzyme known for the irreversible splitting of trehalose and plays a major role in insect growth and development. In this report, we describe a basic study of the trehalase gene fragment encoding a soluble trehalase from Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus (LoTRE1). Sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis suggested that LoTRE1 was similar to some known insect trehalases and belongs to the Coleoptera trehalase group. Additionally, LoTRE1 was expressed mainly in the fat body. Purified protein was obtained using heterologous expression of LoTRE1 in Escherichia coli, and the recombinant protein exhibited the ability to decompose trehalose. Enzyme-substrate docking indicated the potential involvement of other residues in the catalytic activity, in addition to Asp 333. Moreover, feeding of adults on LoTRE1 dsRNA silenced the transcription of LoTRE1 and thereby reduced the activity of trehalase and increased the trehalose content; it also led to a 12% death rate. This study reveals essential molecular features of trehalase and offers insights into the structural aspects of this enzyme, which might be related to its function. Taken together, the findings demonstrate that LoTRE1 is indispensable for adults of this pest and provide a new target for the control of L. oryzophilus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingtai Wang
- College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Kui Fang
- Technical Center of Kunming Customs, Kunming 650228, China
| | - Lizhong Qi
- College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Yu Pan
- College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Yunshuo Li
- College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Jinghui Xi
- College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
- Correspondence: (J.X.); (J.Z.)
| | - Juhong Zhang
- College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
- Correspondence: (J.X.); (J.Z.)
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Hoang T, Foquet B, Rana S, Little DW, Woller DA, Sword GA, Song H. Development of RNAi Methods for the Mormon Cricket, Anabrus simplex (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae). INSECTS 2022; 13:739. [PMID: 36005364 PMCID: PMC9409436 DOI: 10.3390/insects13080739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Mormon crickets are a major rangeland pest in the western United States and are currently managed by targeted applications of non-specific chemical insecticides, which can potentially have negative effects on the environment. In this study, we took the first steps toward developing RNAi methods for Mormon crickets as a potential alternative to traditional broad-spectrum insecticides. To design an effective RNAi-based insecticide, we first generated a de novo transcriptome for the Mormon cricket and developed dsRNAs that could silence the expression of seven housekeeping genes. We then characterized the RNAi efficiencies and time-course of knockdown using these dsRNAs, and assessed their ability to induce mortality. We have demonstrated that it is possible to elicit RNAi responses in the Mormon cricket by injection, but knockdown efficiencies and the time course of RNAi response varied according to target genes and tissue types. We also show that one of the reasons for the poor knockdown efficiencies could be the presence of dsRNA-degrading enzymes in the hemolymph. RNAi silencing is possible in Mormon cricket, but more work needs to be done before it can be effectively used as a population management method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toan Hoang
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Bert Foquet
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61790, USA
| | - Seema Rana
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Drew W. Little
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA
| | - Derek A. Woller
- USDA-APHIS-PPQ-Science & Technology-Insect Management and Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory (Phoenix Station), Phoenix, AZ 85040, USA
| | - Gregory A. Sword
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Hojun Song
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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Spatial Distribution and Retention in Loblolly Pine Seedlings of Exogenous dsRNAs Applied through Roots. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169167. [PMID: 36012434 PMCID: PMC9409306 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Exogenously applied double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) can induce potent host specific gene knockdown and mortality in insects. The deployment of RNA-interference (RNAi) technologies for pest suppression is gaining traction in both agriculture and horticulture, but its implementation in forest systems is lagging. While numerous forest pests have demonstrated susceptibility to RNAi mediated gene silencing, including the southern pine beetle (SPB), Dendroctonus frontalis, multiple barriers stand between laboratory screening and real-world deployment. One such barrier is dsRNA delivery. One possible delivery method is through host plants, but an understanding of exogenous dsRNA movement through plant tissues is essential. Therefore, we sought to understand the translocation and persistence of dsRNAs designed for SPB throughout woody plant tissues after hydroponic exposure. Loblolly pine, Pinus taeda, seedlings were exposed to dsRNAs as a root soak, followed by destructive sampling. Total RNA was extracted from different tissue types including root, stem, crown, needle, and meristem, after which gel electrophoresis confirmed the recovery of the exogenous dsRNAs, which were further verified using Sanger sequencing. Both techniques confirmed the presence of the exogenously applied target dsRNAs in each tissue type after 1, 3, 5, and 7 d of dsRNA exposure. These findings suggest that root drench applications of exogenous dsRNAs could provide a viable delivery route for RNAi technology designed to combat tree feeding pests.
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Li X, Liu X, Lu W, Yin X, An S. Application progress of plant-mediated RNAi in pest control. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:963026. [PMID: 36003536 PMCID: PMC9393288 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.963026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi)-based biopesticides are novel biologic products, developed using RNAi principles. They are engineered to target genes of agricultural diseases, insects, and weeds, interfering with their target gene expression so as to hinder their growth and alleviate their damaging effects on crops. RNAi-based biopesticides are broadly classified into resistant plant-based plant-incorporated protectants (PIPs) and non-plant-incorporated protectants. PIP RNAi-based biopesticides are novel biopesticides that combine the advantages of RNAi and resistant transgenic crops. Such RNAi-based biopesticides are developed through nuclear or plastid transformation to breed resistant plants, i.e., dsRNA-expressing transgenic plants. The dsRNA of target genes is expressed in the plant cell, with pest and disease control being achieved through plant-target organism interactions. Here, we review the action mechanism and strategies of RNAi for pest management, the development of RNAi-based transgenic plant, and the current status and advantages of deploying these products for pest control, as well as the future research directions and problems in production and commercialization. Overall, this study aims to elucidate the current development status of RNAi-based biopesticides and provide guidelines for future research.
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Sterkel M, Volonté M, Albornoz MG, Wulff JP, Del Huerto Sánchez M, Terán PM, Ajmat MT, Ons S. The role of neuropeptides in regulating ecdysis and reproduction in the hemimetabolous insect Rhodnius prolixus. J Exp Biol 2022; 225:276563. [PMID: 35929492 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.244696] [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: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In ecdysozoan animals, moulting entails the production of a new exoskeleton and shedding the old one during ecdysis. It is induced by a pulse of ecdysone that regulates the expression of different hormonal receptors and activates a peptide-mediated signalling cascade. In Holometabola, the peptidergic cascade regulating ecdysis has been well described. However, very little functional information regarding the neuroendocrine regulation of ecdysis is available for Hemimetabola, which displays an incomplete metamorphosis. We use Rhodnius prolixus as a convenient experimental model to test two hypotheses: (a) the role of neuropeptides that regulate ecdysis in Holometabola is conserved in hemimetabolous insects; (b) the neuropeptides regulating ecdysis play a role in the regulation of female reproduction during the adult stage. The RNA interference-mediated reduction of ETH expression in fourth-instar nymphs resulted in lethality at the expected time of ecdysis. Unlike in holometabolous insects, the knockdown of ETH and OKA did not affect oviposition in adult females, pointing to a different endocrine regulation of ovary maturation. However, ETH knockdown prevented egg hatching. The blockage of egg hatching appears to be a consequence of embryonic ecdysis failure. Most of the first-instar nymphs hatched from the eggs laid by females injected with dsEH, dsCCAP and dsOKA died at the expected time of ecdysis, indicating the crucial involvement of these genes in post-embryonic development. No phenotypes were observed upon CZ knockdown in nymphs or adult females. The results are relevant for evolutionary entomology and could reveal targets for neuropeptide-based pest control tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Sterkel
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología de Insectos (LNI), Centro Regional de Estudios Genómicos, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, CENEXA, CONICET, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mariano Volonté
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología de Insectos (LNI), Centro Regional de Estudios Genómicos, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, CENEXA, CONICET, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Maximiliano G Albornoz
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología de Insectos (LNI), Centro Regional de Estudios Genómicos, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, CENEXA, CONICET, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Pedro Wulff
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología de Insectos (LNI), Centro Regional de Estudios Genómicos, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, CENEXA, CONICET, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mariana Del Huerto Sánchez
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO). Universidad Nacional de Tucumán. Chacabuco 461, T4000, S. M. de Tucumán, Tucumán
| | - Paula María Terán
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO). Universidad Nacional de Tucumán. Chacabuco 461, T4000, S. M. de Tucumán, Tucumán
| | - María Teresa Ajmat
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO). Universidad Nacional de Tucumán. Chacabuco 461, T4000, S. M. de Tucumán, Tucumán
| | - Sheila Ons
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología de Insectos (LNI), Centro Regional de Estudios Genómicos, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, CENEXA, CONICET, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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45
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Castellanos NL, Smagghe G, Taning CNT, Oliveira EE, Christiaens O. Risk assessment of RNAi-based pesticides to non-target organisms: Evaluating the effects of sequence similarity in the parasitoid wasp Telenomus podisi. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 832:154746. [PMID: 35337872 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi)-based pesticides are promising novel pest management products that might reduce environmental impacts compared to other pesticides. Their sequence-guided mode of action facilitates a high species-selectivity, preventing harm on non-target organisms. However, there is currently no consensus on the minimum needed sequence similarity for efficient RNAi in insects and studies have shown that adverse effects in non-targets cannot always be ruled out a priori. This study investigates the effects of exposing the parasitoid wasp Telenomus podisi to double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) which is lethal to its host, the Neotropical brown stink bug Euschistus heros. Feeding T. podisi with wasp-specific dsRNA targeting the vATPase A and actin-2 genes led to 76.4 ± 9.9% and 76.7 ± 8.8% mortality respectively, demonstrating that dietary RNAi is functional in T. podisi. When feeding T. podisi with E. heros-specific dsRNA targeting the same genes, no lethal or sublethal effects were observed. To link sequence similarity to potential gene silencing effects in the parasitoids, the expression of genes showing the highest degree of similarity (17-21 nucleotide matches) with these two target genes was monitored and was found unaffected by the E. heros-specific dsRNA. Our study confirms that RNAi was in this case highly specific and that for E. heros, RNAi-based pesticides can be used complementary to biological control in an integrated pest management context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaly L Castellanos
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium; Departamento de Entomologia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG 36570-900, Brazil.
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Clauvis Nji Tizi Taning
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Eugênio E Oliveira
- Departamento de Entomologia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG 36570-900, Brazil.
| | - Olivier Christiaens
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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Dalaisón-Fuentes LI, Pascual A, Gazza E, Welchen E, Rivera-Pomar R, Catalano MI. Development of efficient RNAi methods in the corn leafhopper Dalbulus maidis, a promising application for pest control. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2022; 78:3108-3116. [PMID: 35442515 DOI: 10.1002/ps.6937] [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: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The corn leafhopper Dalbulus maidis is the main vector of important stunting pathogens that affect maize production. Currently, there are no effective methods available to manage this pest without adverse impact on the environment. In this context, genomic-based technologies such as RNA interference (RNAi) provide a more environmentally friendly pest control strategy. Therefore, we aimed to assess the application of RNAi in D. maidis and determine the function of a candidate gene related to insect reproduction and propagation. RESULTS We have characterized the core RNAi genes and evaluated the functionality of the RNAi machinery. We assessed the potential of RNAi technology in D. maidis via injection or ingestion of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) to adult females. We chose Bicaudal C (BicC) as a target gene due to its important role during insect oogenesis. Administration of dsRNABicC caused significant reductions in the transcript levels (fold changes up to 170 times) and ovipositions. Phenotypic analysis of the ovaries revealed alterations in oocyte development, providing additional confirmation for our results and supporting the idea that Dmai-BicC is a key player of D. maidis oogenesis. CONCLUSION This is, to our knowledge, the first report of efficient RNAi in D. maidis. We believe our findings provide a starting point for future control strategies against one of the most important maize pests in the Americas. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Inés Dalaisón-Fuentes
- Centro de BioInvestigaciones (Universidad Nacional del Noroeste de la Provincia de Buenos Aires-CICBA), Pergamino, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones y Transferencias del Noroeste de la provincia de Buenos Aires (CITNOBA-CONICET), Pergamino, Argentina
| | - Agustina Pascual
- Centro de BioInvestigaciones (Universidad Nacional del Noroeste de la Provincia de Buenos Aires-CICBA), Pergamino, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones y Transferencias del Noroeste de la provincia de Buenos Aires (CITNOBA-CONICET), Pergamino, Argentina
| | - Elías Gazza
- Centro de BioInvestigaciones (Universidad Nacional del Noroeste de la Provincia de Buenos Aires-CICBA), Pergamino, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones y Transferencias del Noroeste de la provincia de Buenos Aires (CITNOBA-CONICET), Pergamino, Argentina
| | - Elina Welchen
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología del Litoral (CONICET-UNL), Cátedra de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Rolando Rivera-Pomar
- Centro de BioInvestigaciones (Universidad Nacional del Noroeste de la Provincia de Buenos Aires-CICBA), Pergamino, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones y Transferencias del Noroeste de la provincia de Buenos Aires (CITNOBA-CONICET), Pergamino, Argentina
- Centro Regional de Estudios Genómicos (Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata), La Plata, Argentina
| | - María Inés Catalano
- Centro de BioInvestigaciones (Universidad Nacional del Noroeste de la Provincia de Buenos Aires-CICBA), Pergamino, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones y Transferencias del Noroeste de la provincia de Buenos Aires (CITNOBA-CONICET), Pergamino, Argentina
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Howard JD, Beghyn M, Dewulf N, De Vos Y, Philips A, Portwood D, Kilby PM, Oliver D, Maddelein W, Brown S, Dickman MJ. Chemically-modified dsRNA induces RNAi effects in insects in vitro and in vivo: A potential new tool for improving RNA-based plant protection. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102311. [PMID: 35921898 PMCID: PMC9478931 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Global agriculture loses over $100 billion of produce annually to crop pests such as insects. Many of these crop pests either are not currently controlled by artificial means or have developed resistance against chemical pesticides. Long dsRNAs are capable of inducing RNAi in insects and are emerging as novel, highly selective alternatives for sustainable insect management strategies. However, there are significant challenges associated with RNAi efficacy in insects. In this study, we synthesized a range of chemically modified long dsRNAs in an approach to improve nuclease resistance and RNAi efficacy in insects. Our results showed that dsRNAs containing phosphorothioate modifications demonstrated increased resistance to southern green stink bug saliva nucleases. Phosphorothioate-modified and 2′-fluoro-modified dsRNA also demonstrated increased resistance to degradation by soil nucleases and increased RNAi efficacy in Drosophila melanogaster cell cultures. In live insects, we found chemically modified long dsRNAs successfully resulted in mortality in both stink bug and corn rootworm. These results provide further mechanistic insight into the dependence of RNAi efficacy on nucleotide modifications in the sense or antisense strand of the dsRNA in insects and demonstrate for the first time that RNAi can successfully be triggered by chemically modified long dsRNAs in insect cells or live insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Howard
- Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Yves De Vos
- Syngenta, Ghent Innovation Center, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - David Portwood
- Syngenta, Jealott's Hill International Research Centre, Bracknell, United Kingdom
| | - Peter M Kilby
- Syngenta, Jealott's Hill International Research Centre, Bracknell, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Stephen Brown
- Sheffield RNAi Screening Facility, School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Mark J Dickman
- Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
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Vasconcellos AF, Melo RM, Mandacaru SC, de Oliveira LS, de Oliveira AS, Moraes ECDS, Trugilho MRDO, Ricart CAO, Báo SN, Resende RO, Charneau S. Aedes aegypti Aag-2 Cell Proteome Modulation in Response to Chikungunya Virus Infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:920425. [PMID: 35782121 PMCID: PMC9240781 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.920425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a single-stranded positive RNA virus that belongs to the genus Alphavirus and is transmitted to humans by infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus bites. In humans, CHIKV usually causes painful symptoms during acute and chronic stages of infection. Conversely, virus–vector interaction does not disturb the mosquito’s fitness, allowing a persistent infection. Herein, we studied CHIKV infection of Ae. aegypti Aag-2 cells (multiplicity of infection (MOI) of 0.1) for 48 h through label-free quantitative proteomic analysis and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TEM images showed a high load of intracellular viral cargo at 48 h postinfection (hpi), as well as an unusual elongated mitochondria morphology that might indicate a mitochondrial imbalance. Proteome analysis revealed 196 regulated protein groups upon infection, which are related to protein synthesis, energy metabolism, signaling pathways, and apoptosis. These Aag-2 proteins regulated during CHIKV infection might have roles in antiviral and/or proviral mechanisms and the balance between viral propagation and the survival of host cells, possibly leading to the persistent infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Fernanda Vasconcellos
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Protein Chemistry, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
- Laboratory of Virology, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Reynaldo Magalhães Melo
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Protein Chemistry, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Samuel Coelho Mandacaru
- Laboratory of Toxinology and Center for Technological Development in Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lucas Silva de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Protein Chemistry, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Athos Silva de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Virology, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | | | | | - Carlos André Ornelas Ricart
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Protein Chemistry, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Sônia Nair Báo
- Laboratory of Microscopy and Microanalysis, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Renato Oliveira Resende
- Laboratory of Virology, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Sébastien Charneau, ; Renato Oliveira Resende,
| | - Sébastien Charneau
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Protein Chemistry, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Sébastien Charneau, ; Renato Oliveira Resende,
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Filipović I, Rašić G, Hereward J, Gharuka M, Devine GJ, Furlong MJ, Etebari K. A high-quality de novo genome assembly based on nanopore sequencing of a wild-caught coconut rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros). BMC Genomics 2022; 23:426. [PMID: 35672676 PMCID: PMC9172067 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-08628-z] [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: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background An optimal starting point for relating genome function to organismal biology is a high-quality nuclear genome assembly, and long-read sequencing is revolutionizing the production of this genomic resource in insects. Despite this, nuclear genome assemblies have been under-represented for agricultural insect pests, particularly from the order Coleoptera. Here we present a de novo genome assembly and structural annotation for the coconut rhinoceros beetle, Oryctes rhinoceros (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), based on Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) long-read data generated from a wild-caught female, as well as the assembly process that also led to the recovery of the complete circular genome assemblies of the beetle’s mitochondrial genome and that of the biocontrol agent, Oryctes rhinoceros nudivirus (OrNV). As an invasive pest of palm trees, O. rhinoceros is undergoing an expansion in its range across the Pacific Islands, requiring new approaches to management that may include strategies facilitated by genome assembly and annotation. Results High-quality DNA isolated from an adult female was used to create four ONT libraries that were sequenced using four MinION flow cells, producing a total of 27.2 Gb of high-quality long-read sequences. We employed an iterative assembly process and polishing with one lane of high-accuracy Illumina reads, obtaining a final size of the assembly of 377.36 Mb that had high contiguity (fragment N50 length = 12 Mb) and accuracy, as evidenced by the exceptionally high completeness of the benchmarked set of conserved single-copy orthologous genes (BUSCO completeness = 99.1%). These quality metrics place our assembly ahead of the published Coleopteran genomes, including that of an insect model, the red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum). The structural annotation of the nuclear genome assembly contained a highly-accurate set of 16,371 protein-coding genes, with only 2.8% missing BUSCOs, and the expected number of non-coding RNAs. The number and structure of paralogous genes in a gene family like Sigma GST is lower than in another scarab beetle (Onthophagus taurus), but higher than in the red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum), which suggests expansion of this GST class in Scarabaeidae. The quality of our gene models was also confirmed with the correct placement of O. rhinoceros among other members of the rhinoceros beetles (subfamily Dynastinae) in a phylogeny based on the sequences of 95 protein-coding genes in 373 beetle species from all major lineages of Coleoptera. Finally, we provide a list of 30 candidate dsRNA targets whose orthologs have been experimentally validated as highly effective targets for RNAi-based control of several beetles. Conclusions The genomic resources produced in this study form a foundation for further functional genetic research and management programs that may inform the control and surveillance of O. rhinoceros populations, and we demonstrate the efficacy of de novo genome assembly using long-read ONT data from a single field-caught insect. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-022-08628-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Filipović
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia. .,Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Gordana Rašić
- Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - James Hereward
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Maria Gharuka
- Research Division, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Gregor J Devine
- Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Michael J Furlong
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Kayvan Etebari
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
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50
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Paredes-Montero JR, Arif U, Brown JK. Knockdown of ecdysteroid synthesis genes results in impaired molting and high mortality in Bactericera cockerelli (Hemiptera: Triozidae). PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2022; 78:2204-2214. [PMID: 35191190 DOI: 10.1002/ps.6848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND RNA-mediated interference (RNAi) has become a promising biopesticide technology with which to direct sequence-specific gene knockdown of key targets in the potato psyllid (PoP) Bactericera cockerelli, resulting in significant mortality. In this study, three strategically selected target genes, ATF4, C7 and D24, essential for the biosynthesis and regulation of ecdysteroids, were evaluated for knockdown and mortality using oral delivery of individual, paired and all three double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs), in five replicated experiments. Knockdown was determined as the fold-change in gene expression using a quantitative polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Knockdown of the D24 target, at 39%-45%, resulted in 51% PoP mortality by 10 days post-ingestion (dpi) of dsRNA. Knockdown of C7, at 38%-61%, resulted in 53% mortality by 10 dpi, whereas dsD24 ingestion resulted in 65% mortality by 10 dpi when dsD24 and dsC7 were co-delivered. Three phenotypes, INCOMEC, PREMEC and SWOLLEN, were observed at a frequency of 4%-12%, and are consistent with incomplete ecdysis in immature and/or adult PoP. Adult PoP exhibiting INCOMEC survived for several days but were unable to mate or fly, whereas SWOLLEN and PREMEC were lethal to the immature instars. Knockdown of ATF4 did not result in the mortality or malformations in immature and adult PoP. CONCLUSIONS Compared with knockdown of individual D24 and C7 targets, significantly greater RNAi penetrance was achieved following delivery of combined dsRNAs. The highest knockdown that resulted in incomplete ecdysis and/or mortality was obtained for targets with predicted involvement in the same or interacting pathway(s). Knockdown of ATF4 was apparently "rescued" by uncharacterized compensatory gene(s) or effects. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge R Paredes-Montero
- School of Plant Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, ESPOL, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Usman Arif
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Judith K Brown
- School of Plant Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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