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Wei Q, Zhu XH, Wan PJ, He JC, Wang WX, Lai FX, Fu Q. Knockdown of the chromatin remodeling ATPase gene Brahma impairs the reproductive potential of the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 184:105106. [PMID: 35715045 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2022.105106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens (Stål), is one of the most destructive pests in rice-growing regions of Asia. Extensive studies have suggested that SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling ATPase Brahma (BRM) plays multiple roles in the insect model Drosophila. Yet much less is known about the physiological properties for NlBRM. In the present study, the cloned full-length cDNA of NlBRM was 5637 bp and contained an ORF of 5292 bp encoding a 194.53 kD protein. The spatiotemporal dynamics of NlBRM was investigated by qPCR, which showed that it was abundantly expressed in the egg and ovary. Then significant downregulation of NlBRM by dsRNA injection had a relatively greater impact on female survival than male. Moreover, the number of oviposition marks of the NlBRM-RNAi females were declined by 61.11% - 73.33% compared with the controls during the subsequent 5 days after dsRNA injection. Meanwhile, the number of newly hatched BPH nymphs also decreased correspondingly by 93.56% - 100%. Phenotypic analysis revealed that none of normally banana-shaped eggs were discernable in the ovaries of NlBRM-deficient females, where mRNA expression of N. lugens vitellogenin gene was also reduced. Our results demonstrated that NlBRM played a crucial role in ovarian development and fecundity of BPH, likely by regulating the vitellogenin gene in vivo, which could be as a promising target for parental RNAi-based control of this serious rice pest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xu-Hui Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, China
| | - Pin-Jun Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Chun He
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Xia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, China
| | - Feng-Xiang Lai
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiang Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, China.
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Glucosamine-6-phosphate N-acetyltransferase gene silencing by parental RNA interference in rice leaf folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). Sci Rep 2022; 12:2141. [PMID: 35136178 PMCID: PMC8825807 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06193-9] [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: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Parental RNAi (pRNAi) is a response of RNA interference in which treated insect pests progenies showed a gene silencing phenotypes. pRNAi of CmGNA gene has been studied in Cnaphalocrocis medinalis via injection. Our results showed significant reduction in ovulation per female that was 26% and 35.26% in G1 and G2 generations, respectively. Significant reduction of hatched eggs per female were observed 23.53% and 45.26% as compared to control in G1–G2 generations, respectively. We also observed the significant variation in the sex ratio between female (40% and 53%) in G1–G2 generations, and in male (65%) in G1 generation as compared to control. Our results also demonstrated the significant larval mortality (63% and 55%) and pupal mortality (55% and 41%), and significant reduction of mRNA expression level in G1 and G2 generations. Our findings have confirmed that effectiveness of pRNAi induced silencing on the CmGNA target gene in G1–G2 generations of C. medinalis. These results suggested the potential role of pRNAi in insect pest resistance management strategies.
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Darlington M, Reinders JD, Sethi A, Lu AL, Ramaseshadri P, Fischer JR, Boeckman CJ, Petrick JS, Roper JM, Narva KE, Vélez AM. RNAi for Western Corn Rootworm Management: Lessons Learned, Challenges, and Future Directions. INSECTS 2022; 13:57. [PMID: 35055900 PMCID: PMC8779393 DOI: 10.3390/insects13010057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The western corn rootworm (WCR), Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte, is considered one of the most economically important pests of maize (Zea mays L.) in the United States (U.S.) Corn Belt with costs of management and yield losses exceeding USD ~1-2 billion annually. WCR management has proven challenging given the ability of this insect to evolve resistance to multiple management strategies including synthetic insecticides, cultural practices, and plant-incorporated protectants, generating a constant need to develop new management tools. One of the most recent developments is maize expressing double-stranded hairpin RNA structures targeting housekeeping genes, which triggers an RNA interference (RNAi) response and eventually leads to insect death. Following the first description of in planta RNAi in 2007, traits targeting multiple genes have been explored. In June 2017, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approved the first in planta RNAi product against insects for commercial use. This product expresses a dsRNA targeting the WCR snf7 gene in combination with Bt proteins (Cry3Bb1 and Cry34Ab1/Cry35Ab1) to improve trait durability and will be introduced for commercial use in 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Darlington
- Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA; (M.D.); (J.D.R.)
| | - Jordan D. Reinders
- Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA; (M.D.); (J.D.R.)
| | - Amit Sethi
- Corteva Agriscience, Johnston, IA 50131, USA; (A.S.); (A.L.L.); (C.J.B.); (J.M.R.)
| | - Albert L. Lu
- Corteva Agriscience, Johnston, IA 50131, USA; (A.S.); (A.L.L.); (C.J.B.); (J.M.R.)
| | | | - Joshua R. Fischer
- Bayer Crop Science, Chesterfield, MO 63017, USA; (P.R.); (J.R.F.); (J.S.P.)
| | - Chad J. Boeckman
- Corteva Agriscience, Johnston, IA 50131, USA; (A.S.); (A.L.L.); (C.J.B.); (J.M.R.)
| | - Jay S. Petrick
- Bayer Crop Science, Chesterfield, MO 63017, USA; (P.R.); (J.R.F.); (J.S.P.)
| | - Jason M. Roper
- Corteva Agriscience, Johnston, IA 50131, USA; (A.S.); (A.L.L.); (C.J.B.); (J.M.R.)
| | | | - Ana M. Vélez
- Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA; (M.D.); (J.D.R.)
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Nitnavare RB, Bhattacharya J, Singh S, Kour A, Hawkesford MJ, Arora N. Next Generation dsRNA-Based Insect Control: Success So Far and Challenges. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:673576. [PMID: 34733295 PMCID: PMC8558349 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.673576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a method of gene silencing where dsRNA is digested into small interfering RNA (siRNA) in the presence of enzymes. These siRNAs then target homologous mRNA sequences aided by the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). The mechanism of dsRNA uptake has been well studied and established across many living organisms including insects. In insects, RNAi is a novel and potential tool to develop future pest management means targeting various classes of insects including dipterans, coleopterans, hemipterans, lepidopterans, hymenopterans and isopterans. However, the extent of RNAi in individual class varies due to underlying mechanisms. The present review focuses on three major insect classes viz hemipterans, lepidopterans and coleopterans and the rationale behind this lies in the fact that studies pertaining to RNAi has been extensively performed in these groups. Additionally, these classes harbour major agriculturally important pest species which require due attention. Interestingly, all the three classes exhibit varying levels of RNAi efficiencies with the coleopterans exhibiting maximum response, while hemipterans are relatively inefficient. Lepidopterans on the other hand, show minimum response to RNAi. This has been attributed to many facts and few important being endosomal escape, high activity dsRNA-specific nucleases, and highly alkaline gut environment which renders the dsRNA unstable. Various methods have been established to ensure safe delivery of dsRNA into the biological system of the insect. The most common method for dsRNA administration is supplementing the diet of insects via spraying onto leaves and other commonly eaten parts of the plant. This method is environment-friendly and superior to the hazardous effects of pesticides. Another method involves submergence of root systems in dsRNA solutions and subsequent uptake by the phloem. Additionally, more recent techniques are nanoparticle- and Agrobacterium-mediated delivery systems. However, due to the novelty of these biotechnological methods and recalcitrant nature of certain crops, further optimization is required. This review emphasizes on RNAi developments in agriculturally important insect species and the major hurdles for efficient RNAi in these groups. The review also discusses in detail the development of new techniques to enhance RNAi efficiency using liposomes and nanoparticles, transplastomics, microbial-mediated delivery and chemical methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul B. Nitnavare
- Division of Plant and Crop Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Department of Plant Science, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, United Kingdom
| | - Joorie Bhattacharya
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad, India
- Department of Genetics, Osmania University, Hyderabad, India
| | - Satnam Singh
- Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Regional Research Station, Faridkot, India
- Department of Biointeractions and Crop Protection, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, United Kingdom
| | - Amardeep Kour
- Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Regional Research Station, Bathinda, India
| | | | - Naveen Arora
- Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, India
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Paddock KJ, Robert CAM, Erb M, Hibbard BE. Western Corn Rootworm, Plant and Microbe Interactions: A Review and Prospects for New Management Tools. INSECTS 2021; 12:171. [PMID: 33671118 PMCID: PMC7922318 DOI: 10.3390/insects12020171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte, is resistant to four separate classes of traditional insecticides, all Bacillius thuringiensis (Bt) toxins currently registered for commercial use, crop rotation, innate plant resistance factors, and even double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) targeting essential genes via environmental RNA interference (RNAi), which has not been sold commercially to date. Clearly, additional tools are needed as management options. In this review, we discuss the state-of-the-art knowledge about biotic factors influencing herbivore success, including host location and recognition, plant defensive traits, plant-microbe interactions, and herbivore-pathogens/predator interactions. We then translate this knowledge into potential new management tools and improved biological control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle J. Paddock
- Division of Plant Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA;
| | - Christelle A. M. Robert
- Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern, 3013 Bern, Switzerland; (C.A.M.R.); (M.E.)
- Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research, University of Bern, 3013 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Erb
- Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern, 3013 Bern, Switzerland; (C.A.M.R.); (M.E.)
- Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research, University of Bern, 3013 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Bruce E. Hibbard
- Plant Genetics Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
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Jain RG, Robinson KE, Fletcher SJ, Mitter N. RNAi-Based Functional Genomics in Hemiptera. INSECTS 2020; 11:E557. [PMID: 32825516 PMCID: PMC7564473 DOI: 10.3390/insects11090557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a powerful approach for sequence-specific gene silencing, displaying tremendous potential for functional genomics studies in hemipteran insects. Exploiting RNAi allows the biological roles of critical genes to be defined and aids the development of RNAi-based biopesticides. In this review, we provide context to the rapidly expanding field of RNAi-based functional genomics studies in hemipteran insects. We highlight the most widely used RNAi delivery strategies, including microinjection, oral ingestion and topical application. Additionally, we discuss the key variables affecting RNAi efficacy in hemipteran insects, including insect life-stage, gene selection, the presence of nucleases, and the role of core RNAi machinery. In conclusion, we summarise the application of RNAi in functional genomics studies in Hemiptera, focusing on genes involved in reproduction, behaviour, metabolism, immunity and chemical resistance across 33 species belonging to 14 families.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karl E. Robinson
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, Centre for Horticultural Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Queensland, Australia; (R.G.J.); (S.J.F.); (N.M.)
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Ding BY, Niu J, Shang F, Yang L, Zhang W, Smagghe G, Wang JJ. Parental silencing of a horizontally transferred carotenoid desaturase gene causes a reduction of red pigment and fitness in the pea aphid. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2020; 76:2423-2433. [PMID: 32056367 DOI: 10.1002/ps.5783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aphids obtained carotenoid biosynthesis genes via horizontal gene transfers from fungi. However, the roles of these genes in the contributions of in aphids'adaptation and whether these genes could be used as RNAi-based pest control targets are not yet clear. Thus, in this study we used parental RNAi to analyze the potential function of a carotenoid desaturase gene (CdeB) by combined molecular and chemical approaches in the pea aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum). RESULTS Transcriptional analyses showed that CdeB was significantly more highly expressed in the red morphs compared to the green ones and was associated with the production of red carotenoid. Co-transferring of pET28a-CdeB (the CdeB gene was cloned into pET28a) and pACCRT-EIB (produced lycopene) showed a deep red color in the bacterial precipitate and produced more of a red pigment, lycopene, in vitro. Parental gene-silencing of CdeB resulted in a lower body color intensity in the treated aphids and following generations in vivo. Interestingly, the dsCdeB treatment also reduced aphid performance as reflected by a delay in nymphal developmental duration, lower weight, smaller number, and altered age structure of the population. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that CdeB is involved in red color formation and the silencing of this gene by parental RNAi reduced fitness in the pea aphid. The results enhance our understanding of the biosynthesis of carotenoid in aphids and provide insights into the potential ecological significance of carotenoids in the adaptation of the aphid's biology to the environment and developing environmentally friendly control strategies for this pest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bi-Yue Ding
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jinzhi Niu
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Feng Shang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Yang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jin-Jun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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Liu S, Jaouannet M, Dempsey DA, Imani J, Coustau C, Kogel KH. RNA-based technologies for insect control in plant production. Biotechnol Adv 2020; 39:107463. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2019.107463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Shang F, Ding BY, Ye C, Yang L, Chang TY, Xie J, Tang LD, Niu J, Wang JJ. Evaluation of a cuticle protein gene as a potential RNAi target in aphids. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2020; 76:134-140. [PMID: 31461217 DOI: 10.1002/ps.5599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND RNA interference (RNAi) has potential as a pest insect control technique. One possible RNAi target is the cuticle protein, which is important in insect molting and development. As an example, here we evaluate the possibility of designing double-stranded RNA (RNA) that is effective for silencing the cuticle protein 19 gene (CP19) in aphids but is harmless to non-target predator insects. RESULTS The sequences of CP19s were similar (86.6-94.4%) among the tested aphid species (Aphis citricidus, Acyrthosiphon pisum, and Myzus persicae) but different in the predator Propylaea japonica. Ingestion of species-specific dsRNAs of CP19 by the three aphids produced 39.3-64.2% gene silencing and 45.8-55.8% mortality. Ingestion of non-species-specific dsRNA (dsAcCP19) by Ac. pisum and M. persicae gave gene silencing levels ranging from 40.4% to 50.3% and 43.3-50.8% mortality. The dsApCP19 did not affect PjCP19 expression or developmental duration in P. japonica. CONCLUSION The results demonstrate that CP19 is a promising RNAi target for aphid control via one dsRNA design. The targeting of genes that are conserved in insect pests but not present in beneficial insects is a useful RNAi-based pest control strategy. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Shang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, State Cultivation Base of Crop Stress Biology for Southern Mountainous Land, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bi-Yue Ding
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, State Cultivation Base of Crop Stress Biology for Southern Mountainous Land, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chao Ye
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, State Cultivation Base of Crop Stress Biology for Southern Mountainous Land, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Yang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, State Cultivation Base of Crop Stress Biology for Southern Mountainous Land, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Teng-Yu Chang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, State Cultivation Base of Crop Stress Biology for Southern Mountainous Land, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiaqin Xie
- Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Fungal Insecticide, Genetic Engineering Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Liang-De Tang
- Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Haikou, China
| | - Jinzhi Niu
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, State Cultivation Base of Crop Stress Biology for Southern Mountainous Land, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jin-Jun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, State Cultivation Base of Crop Stress Biology for Southern Mountainous Land, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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Basu S, Pereira AE, Pinheiro DH, Wang H, Valencia-Jiménez A, Siegfried BD, Louis J, Zhou X'J, Vélez AM. Evaluation of reference genes for real-time quantitative PCR analysis in southern corn rootworm, Diabrotica undecimpunctata howardi (Barber). Sci Rep 2019; 9:10703. [PMID: 31341190 PMCID: PMC6656754 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-47020-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) is one of the most efficient, reliable and widely used techniques to quantify gene expression. In this study, we evaluated the performance of six southern corn rootworm, Diabrotica undecimpunctata howardi (Barber), housekeeping genes (HKG), β-actin (Actin), β-tubulin (Tubulin), elongation factor 1 alpha (EF1α), glyceraldehyde-3 phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), 40 S ribosomal protein S9 (RpS9) and ubiquitin-conjugating protein (Ubi), under different experimental conditions such as developmental stage, exposure of neonate and adults to dsRNA, exposure of adults to different temperatures, different 3rd instar larva tissues, and neonate starvation. The HKGs were analyzed with four algorithms, including geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and delta-CT. Although the six HKGs showed a relatively stable expression pattern among different treatments, some variability was observed. Among the six genes, EF1α exhibited the lowest Ct values for all treatments while Ubi exhibited the highest. Among life stages and across treatments, Ubi exhibited the least stable expression pattern. GAPDH, Actin, and EF1α were among the most stable HKGs in the majority of the treatments. This research provides HKG for accurate normalization of RT-qPCR data in the southern corn rootworm. Furthermore, this information can contribute to future genomic and functional genomic research in Diabrotica species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saumik Basu
- Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA.,Department of Entomology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Adriano E Pereira
- Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA. .,Plant Genetics Research Unit, USDA/ARS, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, MO, 65211-7020, USA.
| | | | - Haichuan Wang
- Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583-0915, USA
| | | | - Blair D Siegfried
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611-0620, USA
| | - Joe Louis
- Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Xuguo 'Joe' Zhou
- Department of Entomology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40546-0091, USA
| | - Ana Maria Vélez
- Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
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Wu K, Taylor CE, Fishilevich E, Narva KE, Siegfried BD. Rapid and persistent RNAi response in western corn rootworm adults. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2018; 150:66-70. [PMID: 30195389 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2018.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/08/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) has proven effective for controlling pest insects such as western corn rootworm (WCR), Diabrotica virgifera virgifera (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). Previous studies have shown that WCR adults display a robust RNAi response to orally-administered double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). However, it is unclear how quickly the response occurs after ingestion or how long RNAi effect lasts after WCR stop ingesting diet containing dsRNA. In the current study, WCR adult females were provided with diet treated with dsRNAs of Laccase 2 and Argonaute 2, two nonessential genes, for 8 days. RNAi response in WCR females commenced as early as 10 h after exposure to dsRNA and lasted up to 40 days after exposure to dsRNA ended. Our results show that dsRNA-mediated RNAi response in WCR females is rapid and long-lasting. These findings suggest that even a short-term ingestion of transgenic plants expressing dsRNA by WCR may have a sustained impact on this insect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Wu
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, PO Box 11620, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
| | - Caitlin E Taylor
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, PO Box 11620, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Elane Fishilevich
- Dow AgroSciences LLC, 9330 Zionsville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46268, USA
| | - Kenneth E Narva
- Dow AgroSciences LLC, 9330 Zionsville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46268, USA
| | - Blair D Siegfried
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, PO Box 11620, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
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Chu FC, Wu PS, Pinzi S, Grubbs N, Lorenzen MD. Microinjection of Western Corn Rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera, Embryos for Germline Transformation, or CRISPR/Cas9 Genome Editing. J Vis Exp 2018. [PMID: 29757280 DOI: 10.3791/57497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The western corn rootworm (WCR) is an important pest of corn and is well known for its ability to rapidly adapt to pest management strategies. Although RNA interference (RNAi) has proved to be a powerful tool for studying WCR biology, it has its limitations. Specifically, RNAi itself is transient (i.e. does not result in long-term Mendelian inheritance of the associated phenotype), and it requires knowing the DNA sequence of the target gene. The latter can be limiting if the phenotype of interest is controlled by poorly conserved, or even novel genes, because identifying useful targets would be challenging, if not impossible. Therefore, the number of tools in WCR's genomic toolbox should be expanded by the development of methods that could be used to create stable mutant strains and enable sequence-independent surveys of the WCR genome. Herein, we detail the methods used to collect and microinject precellular WCR embryos with nucleic acids. While the protocols described herein are aimed at the creation of transgenic WCR, CRISPR/Cas9-genome editing could also be performed using the same protocols, with the only difference being the composition of the solution injected into the embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Chyun Chu
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University
| | - Pei-Shan Wu
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University
| | - Sofia Pinzi
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University
| | - Nathaniel Grubbs
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University
| | - Marcé D Lorenzen
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University;
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Distinct fitness costs associated with the knockdown of RNAi pathway genes in western corn rootworm adults. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0190208. [PMID: 29267401 PMCID: PMC5739497 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) based approaches can potentially be used to control insect pests. These approaches may depend on the usage of microRNA (miRNA) or double stranded RNA (dsRNA) mediated gene knockdown, which likely involves proteins that regulate these pathways, such as Argonaute 1 (Ago1), Argonaute 2 (Ago2), Dicer 1 (Dcr1), Dicer 2 (Dcr2), and Drosha in insects. We previously performed functional characterization of Ago2 and Dcr2 of western corn rootworm (WCR), Diabrotica virgifera virgifera (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) and observed that knockdown of Ago2 and Dcr2 ameliorated the lethal effect induced by the dsRNA-mediated knockdown of an essential gene in WCR, thereby confirming the involvement of Ago2 and Dcr2 in the dsRNA pathway. In the current study, we identified and characterized additional members of the Argonaute and Dicer gene families, namely Ago1, Ago3, Aubergine, and Dcr1, in a previously developed WCR transcriptome. We also identified a Drosha homolog in the same transcriptome. We evaluated the impacts on WCR adult fitness associated with the dsRNA-mediated knockdown of Ago1, Ago2, Dcr1, Dcr2, and Drosha genes. Among these putative RNAi pathway genes, only the knockdown of Ago1 incurred significant fitness costs such as reduced survival and oviposition rate, as well as decreased egg viability. The present study, to our knowledge, represents the first report showing that Ago1 is critical to the survival of insect adults. Our findings suggest that Ago1 plays an essential role in broader life stages of an insect than previously thought. Importantly, since fitness costs were not observed, downregulation or loss of function of RNAi pathway genes such as Ago2 or Dcr2 may confer resistance to pest control measures that rely on the normal functions of these genes. However, the precise roles of these genes under field conditions (i.e., in the presence of possible viral pathogens) requires further investigation.
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Kumar D, Gong C. Insect RNAi: Integrating a New Tool in the Crop Protection Toolkit. TRENDS IN INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2017. [PMCID: PMC7121382 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-61343-7_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Protecting crops against insect pests is a major focus area in crop protection. Over the past two decades, biotechnological interventions, especially Bt proteins, have been successfully implemented across the world and have had major impacts on reducing chemical pesticide applications. As insects continue to adapt to insecticides, both chemical and protein-based, new methods, molecules, and modes of action are necessary to provide sustainable solutions. RNA interference (RNAi) has emerged as a significant tool to knock down or alter gene expression profiles in a species-specific manner. In the past decade, there has been intense research on RNAi applications in crop protection. This chapter looks at the current state of knowledge in the field and outlines the methodology, delivery methods, and precautions required in designing targets. Assessing the targeting of specific gene expression is also an important part of a successful RNAi strategy. The current literature on the use of RNAi in major orders of insect pests is reviewed, along with a perspective on the regulatory aspects of the approach. Risk assessment of RNAi would focus on molecular characterization, food/feed risk assessment, and environmental risk assessment. As more RNAi-based products come through regulatory systems, either via direct application or plant expression based, the impact of this approach on crop protection will become clearer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhiraj Kumar
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chengliang Gong
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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