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Zhang X, Ferree PM. PSRs: Selfish chromosomes that manipulate reproductive development. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2024; 159-160:66-73. [PMID: 38394822 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2024.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
B chromosomes are intriguing "selfish" genetic elements, many of which exhibit higher-than-Mendelian transmission. This perspective highlights a group of B chromosomes known as Paternal Sex Ratio chromosomes (PSRs), which are found in several insects with haplo-diploid reproduction. PSRs harshly alter the organism's reproduction to facilitate their own inheritance. A manifestation of this effect is the conversion of female destined individuals into males. Key to this conversion is the mysterious ability of PSRs to cause elimination of the sperm-inherited half of the genome during zygote formation. Here we discuss how PSRs were discovered, what is known about how they alter paternal chromatin dynamics to cause sex conversion, and how PSR-induced genome elimination is different from other forms of programmed genome elimination in different insects. PSRs also stand out because their DNA sequence compositions differ in remarkable ways from their insect's essential chromosomes, a characteristic suggestive of interspecies origins. Broadly, we also highlight poorly understood aspects of PSR dynamics that need to be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinmi Zhang
- W. M. Keck Science Department, Pitzer and Scripps Colleges, Claremont, CA 91711, USA
| | - Patrick M Ferree
- W. M. Keck Science Department, Pitzer and Scripps Colleges, Claremont, CA 91711, USA.
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2
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Garrido-Bautista J, Norte AC, Moreno-Rueda G, Nadal-Jiménez P. Ecological determinants of prevalence of the male-killing bacterium Arsenophonus nasoniae. J Invertebr Pathol 2024; 203:108073. [PMID: 38346575 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2024.108073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Male-killing bacteria are found in a broad range of arthropods. Arsenophonus nasoniae is a male-killing bacterium, causing a 80% reduction of the male progeny in infected Nasonia vitripennis wasps. Although the discovery of A. nasoniae dates from the early 80's, knowledge about the biology and ecology of this endosymbiont is still scarce. One of these poorly studied features is the ecological factors underlying A. nasoniae incidence on its Nasonia spp. hosts in different geographical locations. Here, we studied the prevalence of A. nasoniae in Iberian wild populations of its host N. vitripennis. This wasp species is a common parasitoid of the blowfly Protocalliphora azurea pupae, which in turn is a parasite of hole-nesting birds, such as the blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus). We also examined the effects of bird rearing conditions on the prevalence of A. nasoniae through a brood size manipulation experiment (creating enlarged, control and reduced broods). Both the wasp and bacterium presence were tested through PCR assays in blowfly pupae. We found A. nasoniae in almost half (47%) of nests containing blowflies parasitized by N. vitripennis. The prevalence of A. nasoniae was similar in the two geographical areas examined (central Portugal and southeastern Spain) and the probability of infection by A. nasoniae was independent of the number of blowfly pupae in the nest. Experimental manipulation of brood size did not affect the prevalence of A. nasoniae nor the prevalence of its host, N. vitripennis. These results suggest that the incidence of A. nasoniae in natural populations of N. vitripennis is high in the Iberian Peninsula, and the infestation frequency of nests by N. vitripennis carrying A. nasoniae is spatially stable in this geographical region independently of bird rearing conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Garrido-Bautista
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain.
| | - Ana Cláudia Norte
- University of Coimbra, MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Gregorio Moreno-Rueda
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain.
| | - Pol Nadal-Jiménez
- Institute for Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, L69 7ZB Liverpool, United Kingdom; Departments of Vector Biology, Tropical Disease Biology, and Centre for Neglected Topical Diseases, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom.
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3
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Zhu Z, Wu R, Wang GH. Genome sequence of Staphylococcus nepalensis ZZ-2023a, isolated from Nasonia vitripennis. Microbiol Resour Announc 2024; 13:e0080223. [PMID: 38084995 DOI: 10.1128/mra.00802-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
We isolated a strain of Staphylococcus nepalensis from Nasonia vitripennis and presented the draft genome sequence of this strain. This research was conducted at the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (Beijing, China). The genome spans 2,910,033 bp, distributed over 144 contigs, with a G+C content of 33.33%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengyu Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei University , Baoding, China
| | - Runbiao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing, China
| | - Guan-Hong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing, China
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4
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Sun W, Lange MI, Gadau J, Buellesbach J. Decoding the genetic and chemical basis of sexual attractiveness in parasitic wasps. eLife 2023; 12:e86182. [PMID: 37431891 PMCID: PMC10435230 DOI: 10.7554/elife.86182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Attracting and securing potential mating partners is of fundamental importance for reproduction. Therefore, signaling sexual attractiveness is expected to be tightly coordinated in communication systems synchronizing senders and receivers. Chemical signaling has permeated through all taxa of life as the earliest and most widespread form of communication and is particularly prevalent in insects. However, it has been notoriously difficult to decipher how exactly information related to sexual signaling is encoded in complex chemical profiles. Similarly, our knowledge of the genetic basis of sexual signaling is very limited and usually restricted to a few case studies with comparably simple pheromonal communication mechanisms. The present study jointly addresses these two knowledge gaps by characterizing two fatty acid synthase genes that most likely evolved by tandem gene duplication and that simultaneously impact sexual attractiveness and complex chemical surface profiles in parasitic wasps. Gene knockdown in female wasps dramatically reduces their sexual attractiveness coinciding with a drastic decrease in male courtship and copulation behavior. Concordantly, we found a striking shift of methyl-branching patterns in the female surface pheromonal compounds, which we subsequently demonstrate to be the main cause for the greatly reduced male mating response. Intriguingly, this suggests a potential coding mechanism for sexual attractiveness mediated by specific methyl-branching patterns in complex cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profiles. So far, the genetic underpinnings of methyl-branched CHCs are not well understood despite their high potential for encoding information. Our study sheds light on how biologically relevant information can be encoded in complex chemical profiles and on the genetic basis of sexual attractiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weizhao Sun
- Institute for Evolution & Biodiversity, University of Münster, HüfferstrMünsterGermany
| | - Michelle Ina Lange
- Institute for Evolution & Biodiversity, University of Münster, HüfferstrMünsterGermany
| | - Jürgen Gadau
- Institute for Evolution & Biodiversity, University of Münster, HüfferstrMünsterGermany
| | - Jan Buellesbach
- Institute for Evolution & Biodiversity, University of Münster, HüfferstrMünsterGermany
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Nadal-Jimenez P, Frost CL, Cláudia Norte A, Garrido-Bautista J, Wilkes TE, Connell R, Rice A, Krams I, Eeva T, Christe P, Moreno-Rueda G, Hurst GDD. The son-killer microbe Arsenophonus nasoniae is a widespread associate of the parasitic wasp Nasonia vitripennis in Europe. J Invertebr Pathol 2023:107947. [PMID: 37285901 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2023.107947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Heritable microbes that exhibit reproductive parasitism are common in insects. One class of these are the male-killing bacteria, which are found in a broad range of insect hosts. Commonly, our knowledge of the incidence of these microbes is based on one or a few sampling sites, and the degree and causes of spatial variation are unclear. In this paper, we examine the incidence of the son-killer microbe Arsenophonus nasoniae across European populations of its wasp host, Nasonia vitripennis. In preliminary work, we noticed two female N. vitripennis producing highly female biased sex ratios in a field study from the Netherlands and Germany. When tested, the brood from Germany was revealed to be infected with A. nasoniae. We then completed a broad survey in 2012, in which fly pupal hosts of N. vitripennis were collected from vacated birds' nests from four European populations, N. vitripennis wasps allowed to emerge and then tested for A. nasoniae presence through PCR assay. We then developed a new screening methodology based on direct PCR assays of fly pupae and applied this to ethanol-preserved material collected from great tit (Parus major) nests in Portugal. These data show A. nasoniae is found widely in European N. vitripennis, being present in Germany, the UK, Finland, Switzerland and Portugal. Samples varied in the frequency with which they carry A. nasoniae, from being rare to being present in 50% of the pupae parasitised by N. vitripennis. Direct screening of ethanol-preserved fly pupae was an effective method for revealing both wasp and A. nasoniae infection, and will facilitate sample transport across national boundaries. Future research should examine the causes of variation in frequency, in particular testing the hypothesis that N. vitripennis superparasitism rates drive the variation in A. nasoniae frequency through providing opportunities for infectious transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pol Nadal-Jimenez
- Institute for Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, United Kingdom
| | - Crystal L Frost
- Institute for Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, United Kingdom
| | - Ana Cláudia Norte
- University of Coimbra, Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Timothy E Wilkes
- Institute for Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, United Kingdom
| | - Rowan Connell
- Institute for Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, United Kingdom
| | - Annabel Rice
- Institute for Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, United Kingdom
| | - Indrikis Krams
- Department of Biotechnology, Daugavpils University, Daugavpils 5404, Latvia; Department of Zoology and Animal Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Latvia, Riga 1004, Latvia; Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu 50409, Estonia; Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Riga 1067, Latvia
| | - Tapio Eeva
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, FI-20014 Turku, Finland
| | - Phillipe Christe
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Biophore - CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gregorio Moreno-Rueda
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Gregory D D Hurst
- Institute for Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, United Kingdom.
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Mukai A, Mano G, Des Marteaux L, Shinada T, Goto SG. Juvenile hormone as a causal factor for maternal regulation of diapause in a wasp. Insect Biochem Mol Biol 2022; 144:103758. [PMID: 35276333 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2022.103758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Most temperate multivoltine insects enter diapause, a hormonally controlled developmental suspension, in response to seasonal photoperiodic and/or thermal cues. Some insect species exhibit maternal regulation of diapause in which developmental trajectories of the offspring are determined by mothers in response to environmental cues that the mother received. Although maternally regulated diapause is common among insects, the maternal endocrinological mechanisms are largely veiled. To approach this issue, we used the jewel wasp Nasonia vitripennis, which produces non-diapause-destined offspring under long days and diapause-destined offspring under short days or low temperatures. Comparative transcriptomics of these wasps revealed possible involvement of the juvenile hormone (JH) biosynthetic cascade in maternal diapause regulation. The expression of juvenile hormone acid O-methyltransferase (jhamt) was typically downregulated in short-day wasps, and this was reflected by a reduction in haemolymph JH concentrations. RNAi targeted at jhamt reduced haemolymph JH concentration and induced wasps to produce diapause-destined offspring even under long days. In addition, topical application of JH suppressed the production of diapause-destined offspring under short days or low temperatures. These results indicate that diapause in N. vitripennis is determined by maternal jhamt expression and haemolymph JH concentration in response to day length. We therefore report a novel role for JH in insect seasonality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayumu Mukai
- Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Setsunan University, 17-8 Ikeda-Nakamachi, Neyagawa, Osaka, 572-8508, Japan; Department of Biology and Geosciences, Graduate School of Science, Osaka City University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto-Cho, Sumiyoshi-Ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan
| | - Genyu Mano
- Department of Biology and Geosciences, Graduate School of Science, Osaka City University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto-Cho, Sumiyoshi-Ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan
| | - Lauren Des Marteaux
- Harrow Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2585 Essex County Rd 20, Harrow, Ontario, N0R 1G0, Canada
| | - Tetsuro Shinada
- Department of Material Science, Graduate School of Science, Osaka City University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto-Cho, Sumiyoshi-Ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan
| | - Shin G Goto
- Department of Biology and Geosciences, Graduate School of Science, Osaka City University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto-Cho, Sumiyoshi-Ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan.
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7
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Multerer MT, Wendler M, Ruther J. The biological significance of lipogenesis in Nasonia vitripennis. Proc Biol Sci 2022; 289:20220208. [PMID: 35414234 PMCID: PMC9006012 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2022.0208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasitic wasps have long been thought to be unable to synthesize fatty acids de novo, but recent 13C-labelling studies have challenged this view. It remained unclear, however, whether the reported biosynthesis rates are of biological relevance. Here, we show in Nasonia vitripennis that ageing females with partly depleted lipid reserves produce biologically relevant amounts of fatty acids de novo. Females with varying oviposition history (0-48 h) prior to feeding 20% 13C-labelled glucose solution showed 13C-incorporation rates of (mean ± SEM) 30 ± 2%, 50 ± 2%, 49 ± 3% and 21 ± 2% in palmitic, stearic, oleic and linoleic acid, respectively. The absolute amounts of fatty acids synthesized de novo across treatments corresponded to 28 ± 3 egg lipid equivalents. Females incorporated de novo synthesized fatty acids into their eggs, and glucose-fed females laid more eggs than water-fed control females. The number of eggs laid prior to glucose feeding did not correlate with the degree of lipogenesis, but the amounts of de novo synthesized fatty acids correlated with constitutive (not synthesized de novo) fatty acids. Hence, glucose feeding has a twofold effect on the fatty acid status of N. vitripennis females by decelerating the catabolism of existing fat reserves and partially replenishing ebbing fat reserves by lipogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Theres Multerer
- Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Martina Wendler
- Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Joachim Ruther
- Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
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8
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Chaverra-Rodriguez D, Dalla Benetta E, Heu CC, Rasgon JL, Ferree PM, Akbari OS. Germline mutagenesis of Nasonia vitripennis through ovarian delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoprotein. Insect Mol Biol 2020; 29:569-577. [PMID: 32715554 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing is a powerful technology to study the genetics of rising model organisms, such as the jewel wasp Nasonia vitripennis. However, current methods involving embryonic microinjection of CRISPR reagents are challenging. Delivery of Cas9 ribonucleoprotein into female ovaries is an alternative that has only been explored in a small handful of insects, such as mosquitoes, whiteflies and beetles. Here, we developed a simple protocol for germline gene editing by injecting Cas9 ribonucleoprotein in adult N. vitripennis females using either ReMOT control (Receptor-Mediated Ovary Transduction of Cargo) or BAPC (Branched Amphiphilic Peptide Capsules) as ovary delivery methods. For ReMOT Control we used the Drosophila melanogaster-derived peptide 'P2C' fused to EGFP to visualize the ovary delivery, and fused to Cas9 protein for gene editing of the cinnabar gene using saponin as an endosomal escape reagent. For BAPC we optimized the concentrations of protein, sgRNA and the transfection reagent. We demonstrate delivery of protein cargo such as EGFP and Cas9 into developing oocytes via P2C peptide and BAPC. Additionally, somatic and germline gene editing were demonstrated. This approach will greatly facilitate CRISPR-applied genetic manipulation in this and other rising model organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Chaverra-Rodriguez
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - E Dalla Benetta
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
- W. M. Keck Science Department, Claremont McKenna, Pitzer, and Scripps Colleges, Claremont, CA, USA
| | - C C Heu
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- The Center for Infectious Disease Dynamics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - J L Rasgon
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- The Center for Infectious Disease Dynamics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - P M Ferree
- W. M. Keck Science Department, Claremont McKenna, Pitzer, and Scripps Colleges, Claremont, CA, USA
| | - O S Akbari
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
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Duan R, Xu H, Gao S, Gao Z, Wang N. Effects of Different Hosts on Bacterial Communities of Parasitic Wasp Nasonia vitripennis. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:1435. [PMID: 32774328 PMCID: PMC7381354 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Parasitism is a special interspecific relationship in insects. Unlike most other ectoparasites, Nasonia vitripennis spend most of its life cycle (egg, larvae, pupae, and early adult stage) inside the pupae of flies, which is covered with hard puparium. Microbes play important roles in host development and help insect hosts to adapt to various environments. How the microbes of parasitic wasp respond to different fly hosts living in such close relationships motivated this investigation. In this study, we used N. vitripennis and three different fly pupa hosts (Lucilia sericata, Sarcophaga marshalli, and Musca domestica) to address this question, as well as to illustrate the potential transfer of bacteria through the trophic food chains. We found that N. vitripennis from different fly pupa hosts showed distinct microbiota, which means that the different fly hosts could affect the bacterial communities of their parasitic wasps. Some bacteria showed potential horizontal transfer through the trophic food chains, from the food through the fly to the parasitic wasp. We also found that the heritable endosymbiont Wolbachia could transferred from the fly host to the parasite and correlated with the bacterial communities of the corresponding parasitic wasps. Our findings provide new insight to the microbial interactions between parasite and host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruxin Duan
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology of Vegetable Diseases and Insect Pests, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Heng Xu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology of Vegetable Diseases and Insect Pests, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Shanshan Gao
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology of Vegetable Diseases and Insect Pests, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Zheng Gao
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Ningxin Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology of Vegetable Diseases and Insect Pests, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
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Garrido-Bautista J, Moreno-Rueda G, Baz A, Canal D, Camacho C, Cifrián B, Nieves-Aldrey JL, Carles-Tolrá M, Potti J. Variation in parasitoidism of Protocalliphora azurea (Diptera: Calliphoridae) by Nasonia vitripennis (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) in Spain. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:559-66. [PMID: 31786698 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06553-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Parasitoid wasps may act as hyperparasites and sometimes regulate the populations of their hosts by a top-down dynamic. Nasonia vitripennis (Walker, 1836) is a generalist gregarious parasitoid that parasitizes several host flies, including the blowfly Protocalliphora Hough, 1899 (Diptera, Calliphoridae), which in turn parasitizes bird nestlings. Nonetheless, the ecological factors underlying N. vitripennis prevalence and parasitoidism intensity on its hosts in natural populations are poorly understood. We have studied the prevalence of N. vitripennis in Protocalliphora azurea (Fallén, 1817) puparia parasitizing wild populations of pied flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca) and blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus) birds in two Mediterranean areas in central and southern Spain. We found some evidence that the prevalence of N. vitripennis was higher in moist habitats in southern Spain. A host-dependent effect was found, since the greater the number of P. azurea puparia, the greater the probability and rate of parasitoidism by the wasp. Our results also suggest that N. vitripennis parasitizes more P. azurea puparia in blue tit nests than in pied flycatcher nests as a consequence of a higher load of these flies in the former. Based on the high prevalence of N. vitripennis in P. azurea puparia in nature, we propose that this wasp may regulate blowfly populations, with possible positive effects on the reproduction of both bird species.
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Paolucci S, Dalla Benetta E, Salis L, Doležel D, van de Zande L, Beukeboom LW. Latitudinal Variation in Circadian Rhythmicity in Nasonia vitripennis. Behav Sci (Basel) 2019; 9:E115. [PMID: 31731741 DOI: 10.3390/bs9110115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Many physiological processes of living organisms show circadian rhythms, governed by an endogenous clock. This clock has a genetic basis and is entrained by external cues, such as light and temperature. Other physiological processes exhibit seasonal rhythms, that are also responsive to light and temperature. We previously reported a natural latitudinal cline of photoperiodic diapause induction in the parasitic wasp Nasonia vitripennis in Europe and a correlated haplotype frequency for the circadian clock gene period (per). To evaluate if this correlation is reflected in circadian behaviour, we investigated the circadian locomotor activity of seven populations from the cline. We found that the proportion of rhythmic males was higher than females in constant darkness, and that mating decreased rhythmicity of both sexes. Only for virgin females, the free running period (τ) increased weakly with latitude. Wasps from the most southern locality had an overall shorter free running rhythm and earlier onset, peak, and offset of activity during the 24 h period, than wasps from the northernmost locality. We evaluated this variation in rhythmicity as a function of period haplotype frequencies in the populations and discussed its functional significance in the context of local adaptation.
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12
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Cook N, Parker DJ, Tauber E, Pannebakker BA, Shuker DM. Validating the Demethylating Effects of 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine in Insects Requires a Whole-Genome Approach. Am Nat 2019; 194:432-438. [PMID: 31553206 DOI: 10.1086/704248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
We previously demonstrated that treatment with the demethylating agent 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-aza-dC) alters the offspring sex ratios produced by females of the parasitoid wasp Nasonia vitripennis. Females allocate offspring sex ratio in line with local mate competition theory, producing more or less female-biased sex ratios as the number of other females laying eggs on a patch varies, thereby reducing competition among their sons for mates. Interestingly, treatment with 5-aza-dC did not ablate the facultative sex allocation response. Instead, sex ratios became less female biased, a shift in the direction of the optimum sex ratio for paternally inherited alleles according to genomic conflict theory. This was the first (albeit indirect) experimental evidence for genomic conflict over sex allocation. In their comment, Ellers and colleagues assayed the effects of 5-aza-dC on DNA methylation in 10 Nasonia genes, finding no evidence of demethylation in these 10 genes, from which they conclude that 5-aza-dC has no demethylating capability in N. vitripennis. Quantifying the efficacy of 5-aza-dC in terms of demethylation is indeed crucial to in-depth interpretation of studies using 5-aza-dC to link phenotypes to epigenetic regulation. Here we outline the mode of action of 5-aza-dC and demonstrate that determining the efficacy of 5-aza-dC in insect systems requires a whole-genome approach.
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Ellers J, Visser M, Mariën J, Kraaijeveld K, Lammers M. The Importance of Validating the Demethylating Effect of 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine in Model Species (A Comment on Cook et al., "DNA Methylation and Sex Allocation in the Parasitoid Wasp Nasonia vitripennis"). Am Nat 2019; 194:422-431. [PMID: 31553212 DOI: 10.1086/704247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The use of DNA demethylating agents has been popular in epigenetic studies. Recently, Cook and colleagues, in a 2015 American Naturalist article, claimed an effect of 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-aza-dC) on the sex ratio of a parasitoid wasp without verifying its effect on DNA methylation. We repeated the 5-aza-dC feeding treatment to test its effectiveness. We used bisulfite amplicon sequencing of 10 genes that either were heavily methylated, previously showed a response to 5-aza-dC, or were suggested to regulate fatty acid synthesis epigenetically, and we demonstrate that wasps fed 5-aza-dC did not show reduced DNA methylation at these loci. Therefore, the conclusion that demethylation shifts sex ratios upward needs reconsideration.
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14
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Groothuis J, Pfeiffer K, El Jundi B, Smid HM. The Jewel Wasp Standard Brain: Average shape atlas and morphology of the female Nasonia vitripennis brain. Arthropod Struct Dev 2019; 51:41-51. [PMID: 31357033 DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2019.100878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Nasonia, a genus of parasitoid wasps, is a promising model system in the study of developmental and evolutionary genetics, as well as complex traits such as learning. Of these "jewel wasps", the species Nasonia vitripennis is widely spread and widely studied. To accelerate neuroscientific research in this model species, fundamental knowledge of its nervous system is needed. To this end, we present an average standard brain of recently eclosed naïve female N. vitripennis wasps obtained by the iterative shape averaging method. This "Jewel Wasp Standard Brain" includes the optic lobe (excluding the lamina), the anterior optic tubercle, the antennal lobe, the lateral horn, the mushroom body, the central complex, and the remaining unclassified neuropils in the central brain. Furthermore, we briefly describe these well-defined neuropils and their subregions in the N. vitripennis brain. A volumetric analysis of these neuropils is discussed in the context of brains of other insect species. The Jewel Wasp Standard Brain will provide a framework to integrate and consolidate the results of future neurobiological studies in N. vitripennis. In addition, the volumetric analysis provides a baseline for future work on age- and experience-dependent brain plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitte Groothuis
- Laboratory of Entomology, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708 PB, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Keram Pfeiffer
- Behavioral Physiology and Sociobiology (Zoology II), University of Würzburg, Biocenter, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Basil El Jundi
- Behavioral Physiology and Sociobiology (Zoology II), University of Würzburg, Biocenter, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Hans M Smid
- Laboratory of Entomology, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708 PB, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
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15
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Semmelmann F, Kabeya N, Malcicka M, Bruckmann A, Broschwitz B, Straub K, Merkl R, Monroig O, Sterner R, Ruther J, Ellers J. Functional characterisation of two Δ12-desaturases demonstrates targeted production of linoleic acid as pheromone precursor in Nasonia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 222:jeb.201038. [PMID: 31019064 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.201038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Insect pheromones are often derived from fatty acid metabolism. Fatty acid desaturases, enzymes introducing double bonds into fatty acids, are crucial for the biosynthesis of these chemical signals. Δ12-desaturases catalyse the biosynthesis of linoleic acid by introducing a second double bond into oleic acid, but have been identified in only a few animal species. Here, we report the functional characterisation of two Δ12-desaturases, Nvit_D12a and Nvit_D12b, from the parasitic wasp Nasonia vitripennis. We demonstrate that Nvit_D12a is expressed in the rectal vesicle of males where they produce a linoleic acid-derived sex pheromone to attract virgin females. 13C-labelling experiments with Urolepis rufipes, a closely related species belonging to the 'Nasonia group', revealed that females, but not males, are able to synthesise linoleic acid. U. rufipes males produce an isoprenoid sex pheromone in the same gland and do not depend on linoleic acid for pheromone production. This suggests that Δ12-desaturases are common in the 'Nasonia group', but acquired a specialised function in chemical communication of those species that use linoleic acid as a pheromone precursor. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that insect Δ12-desaturases have evolved repeatedly from Δ9-desaturases in different insect taxa. Hence, insects have developed a way to produce linoleic acid independent of the omega desaturase subfamily which harbours all of the eukaryotic Δ12-desaturases known so far.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Semmelmann
- Institute of Biophysics and Physical Biochemistry, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Naoki Kabeya
- Department of Aquatic Bioscience, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, 113-8657 Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miriama Malcicka
- Department of Ecological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Astrid Bruckmann
- Institute of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Bastian Broschwitz
- Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Kristina Straub
- Institute of Biophysics and Physical Biochemistry, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Rainer Merkl
- Institute of Biophysics and Physical Biochemistry, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Oscar Monroig
- Instituto de Acuicultura Torre de la Sal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IATS-CSIC), Ribera de Cabanes 12595, Spain
| | - Reinhard Sterner
- Institute of Biophysics and Physical Biochemistry, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Joachim Ruther
- Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Jacintha Ellers
- Department of Ecological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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16
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van der Woude E, Groothuis J, Smid HM. No gains for bigger brains: Functional and neuroanatomical consequences of relative brain size in a parasitic wasp. J Evol Biol 2019; 32:694-705. [PMID: 30929291 PMCID: PMC6850633 DOI: 10.1111/jeb.13450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Heritable genetic variation in relative brain size can underlie the relationship between brain performance and the relative size of the brain. We used bidirectional artificial selection to study the consequences of genetic variation in relative brain size on brain morphology, cognition and longevity in Nasonia vitripennis parasitoid wasps. Our results show a robust change in relative brain size after 26 generations of selection and six generations of relaxation. Total average neuropil volume of the brain was 16% larger in wasps selected for relatively large brains than in wasps selected for relatively small brains, whereas the body length of the large‐brained wasps was smaller. Furthermore, the relative volume of the antennal lobes was larger in wasps with relatively large brains. Relative brain size did not influence olfactory memory retention, whereas wasps that were selected for larger relative brain size had a shorter longevity, which was even further reduced after a learning experience. These effects of genetic variation on neuropil composition and memory retention are different from previously described effects of phenotypic plasticity in absolute brain size. In conclusion, having relatively large brains may be costly for N. vitripennis, whereas no cognitive benefits were recorded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma van der Woude
- Laboratory of Entomology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jitte Groothuis
- Laboratory of Entomology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Hans M Smid
- Laboratory of Entomology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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17
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Kraaijeveld K, Oostra V, Liefting M, Wertheim B, de Meijer E, Ellers J. Regulatory and sequence evolution in response to selection for improved associative learning ability in Nasonia vitripennis. BMC Genomics 2018; 19:892. [PMID: 30526508 PMCID: PMC6288879 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-018-5310-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Selection acts on the phenotype, yet only the genotype is inherited. While both the phenotypic and genotypic response to short-term selection can be measured, the link between these is a major unsolved problem in evolutionary biology, in particular for complex behavioural phenotypes. Results Here we characterize the genomic and the transcriptomic basis of associative learning ability in the parasitic wasp Nasonia vitripennis and use gene network analysis to link the two. We artificially selected for improved associative learning ability in four independent pairs of lines and identified signatures of selection across the genome. Allele frequency diverged consistently between the selected and control lines in 118 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), clustering in 51 distinct genomic regions containing 128 genes. The majority of SNPs were found in regulatory regions, suggesting a potential role for gene expression evolution. We therefore sequenced the transcriptomes of selected and control lines and identified 36 consistently differentially expressed transcripts with large changes in expression. None of the differentially expressed genes also showed sequence divergence as a result of selection. Instead, gene network analysis showed many of the genes with consistent allele frequency differences and all of the differentially expressed genes to cluster in a single co-expression network. At a functional level, both genomic and transcriptomic analyses implicated members of gene networks known to be involved in neural plasticity and cognitive processes. Conclusions Taken together, our results reveal how specific cognitive abilities can readily respond to selection via a complex interplay between regulatory and sequence evolution. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-018-5310-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Kraaijeveld
- Department of Ecological Science, Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081, HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Vicencio Oostra
- Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, Darwin Building, Gower Street, WC1E 6BT, London, UK
| | - Maartje Liefting
- Department of Ecological Science, Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081, HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bregje Wertheim
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Emile de Meijer
- Leiden Genome Technology Center, Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jacintha Ellers
- Department of Ecological Science, Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081, HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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18
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de Bruijn JAC, Vet LEM, Jongsma MA, Smid HM. Automated high-throughput individual tracking system for insect behavior: Applications on memory retention in parasitic wasps. J Neurosci Methods 2018; 309:208-217. [PMID: 30227145 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2018.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Insects are important models to study learning and memory formation in both an ecological and neuroscience context due to their small size, behavioral flexibility and ecological diversity. Measuring memory retention is often done through simple time-consuming set-ups, producing only a single parameter for conditioned behavior. We wished to obtain higher sample sizes with fewer individuals to measure olfactory memory retention more efficiently. NEW METHOD The high-throughput individual T-maze uses commercially available tracking software, Ethovision XT®, in combination with a Perspex stack of plates as small as 18 × 18 cm, which accommodates 36 olfactory T-mazes, where each individual wasp could choose between two artificial odors. Various behavioral parameters, relevant to memory retention, were acquired in this set-up; first choice, residence time, giving up time and zone entries. From these parameters a performance index was calculated as a measure of memory retention. Groups of 36 wasps were simultaneously tested within minutes, resulting in efficient acquisition of sufficiently high sample sizes. RESULTS This system was tested with two very different parasitic wasp species, the larval parasitoid Cotesia glomerata and the pupal parasitoid Nasonia vitripennis, and has proven to be highly suitable for testing memory retention in both these species. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS Unlike other bioassays, this system allows for both high-throughput and recording of detailed individual behavior. CONCLUSIONS The high-throughput individual T-maze provides us with a standardized high-throughput, labor-efficient and cost-effective method to test various kinds of behavior, offering excellent opportunities for comparative studies of various aspects of insect behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A C de Bruijn
- Laboratory of Entomology, Plant Sciences Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Louise E M Vet
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Maarten A Jongsma
- Plant Research International, Wageningen University, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Hans M Smid
- Laboratory of Entomology, Plant Sciences Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, the Netherlands
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19
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Li J, Wang N, Liu Y, Qiu S. Proteomics of Nasonia vitripennis and the effects of native Wolbachia infection on N. vitripennis. PeerJ 2018; 6:e4905. [PMID: 29868291 PMCID: PMC5978391 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.4905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Nasonia vitripennis, a parasitic wasp, is a good model organism to study developmental and evolutionary genetics and to evaluate the interactions between insect hosts and their symbionts. Wolbachia may be the most prevalent endosymbiont among insect species due to their special ability to improve the fitness of the infected hosts. Transinfection of bacteria or fungi could substantially alter the expression of host immune system components. However, few studies have focused on the effects of native Wolbachia infection. Accordingly, in this study, we evaluated the proteomics of N. vitripennis following Wolbachia infection. Methods We studied the proteomics of N. vitripennis following native Wolbachia infection and in antibiotic-treated Wolbachia-free samples using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification-liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, accompanying with some ecological experiments. Results In total, 3,096 proteins were found to be associated with a wide range of biological processes, molecular functions, and cellular components. Interestingly, there were few significant changes in immune or reproductive proteins between samples with and without Wolbachia infection. Differentially expressed proteins were involved in the binding process, catalytic activity, and the metabolic process, as confirmed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Discussion Invasion of any pathogen or bacterium within a short time can cause an immunoreaction in the host. Our results implied that during the long process of coexistence, the immune system of the host was not as sensitive as when the symbiont initially infected the host, implying that the organisms had gradually adjusted to cohabitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Li
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University; Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology of Vegetable Diseases and Insect Pests, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong, China
| | - Ningxin Wang
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University; Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology of Vegetable Diseases and Insect Pests, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University; Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology of Vegetable Diseases and Insect Pests, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong, China
| | - Shiqi Qiu
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University; Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology of Vegetable Diseases and Insect Pests, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong, China
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20
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Liefting M, Hoedjes KM, Le Lann C, Smid HM, Ellers J. Selection for associative learning of color stimuli reveals correlated evolution of this learning ability across multiple stimuli and rewards. Evolution 2018; 72:1449-1459. [PMID: 29768649 PMCID: PMC6099215 DOI: 10.1111/evo.13498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
We are only starting to understand how variation in cognitive ability can result from local adaptations to environmental conditions. A major question in this regard is to what extent selection on cognitive ability in a specific context affects that ability in general through correlated evolution. To address this question, we performed artificial selection on visual associative learning in female Nasonia vitripennis wasps. Using appetitive conditioning in which a visual stimulus was offered in association with a host reward, the ability to learn visual associations was enhanced within 10 generations of selection. To test for correlated evolution affecting this form of learning, the ability to readily form learned associations in females was also tested using an olfactory instead of a visual stimulus in the appetitive conditioning. Additionally, we assessed whether the improved associative learning ability was expressed across sexes by color-conditioning males with a mating reward. Both females and males from the selected lines consistently demonstrated an increased associative learning ability compared to the control lines, independent of learning context or conditioned stimulus. No difference in relative volume of brain neuropils was detected between the selected and control lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maartje Liefting
- Animal EcologyVrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdam1081 HVthe Netherlands
- Applied Zoology/Animal EcologyFreie Universität BerlinBerlinD‐12163Germany
| | - Katja M. Hoedjes
- Laboratory of EntomologyWageningen UniversityWageningen6700 AAthe Netherlands
- Department of Ecology and EvolutionUniversity of LausanneLausanneCH‐1015Switzerland
| | - Cécile Le Lann
- Animal EcologyVrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdam1081 HVthe Netherlands
- CNRS, ECOBIO (Ecosystèmes, Biodiversité, Evolution)UMR 6553, Université de RennesRennesF‐35000France
| | - Hans M. Smid
- Laboratory of EntomologyWageningen UniversityWageningen6700 AAthe Netherlands
| | - Jacintha Ellers
- Animal EcologyVrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdam1081 HVthe Netherlands
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21
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Geuverink E, Rensink AH, Rondeel I, Beukeboom LW, van de Zande L, Verhulst EC. Maternal provision of transformer-2 is required for female development and embryo viability in the wasp Nasonia vitripennis. Insect Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 90:23-33. [PMID: 28927841 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
In insect sex determination a primary signal starts the genetic sex determination cascade that, in most insect orders, is subsequently transduced down the cascade by a transformer (tra) ortholog. Only a female-specifically spliced tra mRNA yields a functional TRA-protein that forms a complex with TRA2, encoded by a transformer-2 (tra2) ortholog, to act as a sex specific splicing regulator of the downstream transcription factors doublesex (dsx) and fruitless (fru). Here, we identify the tra2 ortholog of the haplodiploid parasitoid wasp N. vitripennis (Nv-tra2) and confirm its function in N. vitripennis sex determination. Knock down of Nv-tra2 by parental RNA interference (pRNAi) results in complete sex reversal of diploid offspring from female to male, indicating the requirement of Nv-tra2 for female sex determination. As Nv-tra2 pRNAi leads to frequent lethality in early developmental stages, maternal provision of Nv-tra2 transcripts is apparently also required for another, non-sex determining function during embryogenesis. In addition, lethality following Nv-tra2 pRNAi appears more pronounced in diploid than in haploid offspring. This diploid lethal effect was also observed following Nv-tra pRNAi, which served as a positive control in our experiments. As diploid embryos from fertilized eggs have a paternal chromosome set in addition to the maternal one, this suggests that either the presence of this paternal chromosome set or the dosage effect resulting from the diploid state is incompatible with the induced male development in N. vitripennis caused by either Nv-tra2 or Nv-tra pRNAi. The role of Nv-tra2 in activating the female sex determination pathway yields more insight into the sex determination mechanism of Nasonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elzemiek Geuverink
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, 9700 CC Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anna H Rensink
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, 9700 CC Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Inge Rondeel
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, 9700 CC Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Leo W Beukeboom
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, 9700 CC Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Louis van de Zande
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, 9700 CC Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Eveline C Verhulst
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, 9700 CC Groningen, The Netherlands; Laboratory of Genetics, Wageningen University, P.O. Box 16, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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22
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Groothuis J, Smid HM. Nasonia Parasitic Wasps Escape from Haller's Rule by Diphasic, Partially Isometric Brain-Body Size Scaling and Selective Neuropil Adaptations. Brain Behav Evol 2017; 90:243-254. [PMID: 29059675 DOI: 10.1159/000480421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Haller's rule states that brains scale allometrically with body size in all animals, meaning that relative brain size increases with decreasing body size. This rule applies both on inter- and intraspecific comparisons. Only 1 species, the extremely small parasitic wasp Trichogramma evanescens, is known as an exception and shows an isometric brain-body size relation in an intraspecific comparison between differently sized individuals. Here, we investigated if such an isometric brain-body size relationship also occurs in an intraspecific comparison with a slightly larger parasitic wasp, Nasonia vitripennis, a species that may vary 10-fold in body weight upon differences in levels of scramble competition during larval development. We show that Nasonia exhibits diphasic brain-body size scaling: larger wasps scale allometrically, following Haller's rule, whereas the smallest wasps show isometric scaling. Brains of smaller wasps are, therefore, smaller than expected and we hypothesized that this may lead to adaptations in brain architecture. Volumetric analysis of neuropil composition revealed that wasps of different sizes differed in relative volume of multiple neuropils. The optic lobes and mushroom bodies in particular were smaller in the smallest wasps. Furthermore, smaller brains had a relatively smaller total neuropil volume and larger cellular rind than large brains. These changes in relative brain size and brain architecture suggest that the energetic constraints on brain tissue outweigh specific cognitive requirements in small Nasonia wasps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitte Groothuis
- Laboratory of Entomology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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23
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Li Y, Jing XA, Aldrich JC, Clifford C, Chen J, Akbari OS, Ferree PM. Unique sequence organization and small RNA expression of a "selfish" B chromosome. Chromosoma 2017; 126:753-68. [PMID: 28780664 DOI: 10.1007/s00412-017-0641-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Revised: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
B chromosomes are found in numerous plants and animals. These nonessential, supernumerary chromosomes are often composed primarily of noncoding DNA repeats similar to those found within transcriptionally "silenced" heterochromatin. In order to persist within their resident genomes, many B chromosomes exhibit exceptional cellular behaviors, including asymmetric segregation into gametes and induction of genome elimination during early development. An important goal in understanding these behaviors is to identify unique B chromosome sequences and characterize their transcriptional contributions. We investigated these properties by examining a paternally transmitted B chromosome known as paternal sex ratio (PSR), which is present in natural populations of the jewel wasp Nasonia vitripennis. To facilitate its own transmission, PSR severely biases the sex ratio by disrupting early chromatin remodeling processes. Through cytological mapping and other approaches, we identified multiple DNA repeats unique to PSR, as well as those found on the A chromosomes, suggesting that PSR arose through a merger of sequences from both within and outside the N. vitripennis genome. The majority of PSR-specific repeats are interspersed among each other across PSR's long arm, in contrast with the distinct "blocks" observed in other organisms' heterochromatin. Through transcriptional profiling, we identified a subset of repeat-associated, small RNAs expressed by PSR, most of which map to a single PSR-specific repeat. These RNAs are expressed at much higher levels than those arising from A chromosome-linked repeats, suggesting that in addition to its sequence organization, PSR's transcriptional properties differ substantially from the pericentromeric regions of the normal chromosomes.
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Abstract
B chromosomes are non-essential components of numerous plant and animal genomes. Because many of these "extra" chromosomes enhance their own transmission in ways that are detrimental to the rest of the genome, they can be thought of as genome parasites. An extreme example is a paternally inherited B chromosome known as paternal sex ratio (PSR), which is found in natural populations of the jewel wasp Nasonia vitripennis. In order to ensure its own propagation, PSR severely biases the wasp sex ratio by converting diploid female-destined embryos into transmitting haploid males. This action occurs at the expense of the other paternally inherited chromosomes, which fail to resolve during the first round of division and are thus eliminated. Recent work has revealed that paternal genome elimination by PSR occurs through the disruption of a number of specific histone post-translational modifications, suggesting a central role for chromatin regulation in this phenomenon. In this review, we describe these recent advances in the light of older ones and in the context of what is currently understood about the molecular mechanisms of targeted genome silencing and elimination in other systems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick M. Ferree
- W.M. Keck Science Department, Claremont McKenna College, Pitzer College and Scripps College, ClaremontCA, USA
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25
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Abstract
Multiparasitism (females of multiple species parasitizing the same host) is a ubiquitous phenomenon in parasitoids, yet the role of within-host competition has been mostly ignored in multiparasitoid-host models. Here we study the effect of varying the degree of competition at different life stages: competition over oviposition sites (between-adult competition) and larval competition over resources within the host (within-host competition). We adapt a Nicholson-Bailey model to allow for varying levels of between-adult competition (varying the overlap in species distributions) and within-host competition (varying the number of offspring that can successfully emerge from a host). Surprisingly, while stronger between-adult competition reduces coexistence, stronger within-host competition promotes it. Asymmetric between-adult competition (a fecundity difference between the two species) reduces coexistence when compared to symmetric competition; this can be counteracted by asymmetric within-host competition (within-host competitive advantage of the lower-fecundity species), but only when within-host competition is strong and the correlation between the parasitoids' distributions is intermediate. We discuss our results in the context of the interaction between two parasitoid species, Nasonia vitripennis and Nasonia giraulti, which have strongly correlated distributions and high levels of multiparasitism in the field. We conclude that either low or asymmetric within-host competition is unlikely to explain their coexistence.
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Qian C, Fang Q, Wang L, Ye GY. Molecular Cloning and Functional Studies of Two Kazal-Type Serine Protease Inhibitors Specifically Expressed by Nasonia vitripennis Venom Apparatus. Toxins (Basel) 2015; 7:2888-905. [PMID: 26248077 PMCID: PMC4549731 DOI: 10.3390/toxins7082888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2015] [Revised: 06/29/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Two cDNA sequences of Kazal-type serine protease inhibitors (KSPIs) in Nasonia vitripennis, NvKSPI-1 and NvKSPI-2, were characterized and their open reading frames (ORFs) were 198 and 264 bp, respectively. Both NvKSPI-1 and NvKSPI-2 contained a typical Kazal-type domain. Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) results revealed that NvKSPI-1 and NvKSPI-2 mRNAs were mostly detected specifically in the venom apparatus, while they were expressed at lower levels in the ovary and much lower levels in other tissues tested. In the venom apparatus, both NvKSPI-1 and NvKSPI-2 transcripts were highly expressed on the fourth day post eclosion and then declined gradually. The NvKSPI-1 and NvKSPI-2 genes were recombinantly expressed utilizing a pGEX-4T-2 vector, and the recombinant products fused with glutathione S-transferase were purified. Inhibition of recombinant GST-NvKSPI-1 and GST-NvKSPI-2 to three serine protease inhibitors (trypsin, chymotrypsin, and proteinase K) were tested and results showed that only NvKSPI-1 could inhibit the activity of trypsin. Meanwhile, we evaluated the influence of the recombinant GST-NvKSPI-1 and GST-NvKSPI-2 on the phenoloxidase (PO) activity and prophenoloxidase (PPO) activation of hemolymph from a host pupa, Musca domestica. Results showed PPO activation in host hemolymph was inhibited by both recombinant proteins; however, there was no significant inhibition on the PO activity. Our results suggested that NvKSPI-1 and NvKSPI-2 could inhibit PPO activation in host hemolymph and trypsin activity in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cen Qian
- College of Life Science, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Entomology, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Qi Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Entomology, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Lei Wang
- College of Life Science, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Entomology, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Gong-Yin Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Entomology, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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Bertossa RC, van de Zande L, Beukeboom LW, Beersma DGM. Phylogeny and oscillating expression of period and cryptochrome in short and long photoperiods suggest a conserved function in Nasonia vitripennis. Chronobiol Int 2014; 31:749-60. [PMID: 24758403 PMCID: PMC4059186 DOI: 10.3109/07420528.2014.880451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Photoperiodism, the ability to respond to seasonal varying day length with suitable life history changes, is a common trait in organisms that live in temperate regions. In most studied organisms, the circadian system appears to be the basis for photoperiodic time measurement. In insects this is still controversial: while some data indicate that the circadian system is causally involved in photoperiodism, others suggest that it may have a marginal or indirect role. Resonance experiments in the parasitic wasp Nasonia vitripennis have revealed a circadian component in photoperiodic time measurement compatible with a mechanism of internal coincidence where a two components oscillator system obtains information from dawn and dusk, respectively. The identity of this oscillator (or oscillators) is still unclear but possible candidates are the oscillating molecules of the auto-regulatory feedback loops in the heart of the circadian system. Here, we show for the first time the circadian oscillation of period and cryptochrome mRNAs in the heads of Nasonia females kept under short and long photoperiods. Period and cryptochrome mRNA levels display a synchronous oscillation in all conditions tested and persist, albeit with reduced amplitude, during the first day in constant light as well as constant darkness. More importantly, the signal for the period and cryptochrome oscillations is set by the light-on signal. These results, together with phylogenetic analyses, indicate that Nasonia’s period and cryptochrome display characteristics of homologous genes in other hymenopteran species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinaldo C Bertossa
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Centre for Behaviour and Neurosciences, University of Groningen , Groningen , The Netherlands
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28
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Abstract
Embryonic anterior-posterior patterning is well understood in Drosophila, which uses 'long germ' embryogenesis, in which all segments are patterned before cellularization. In contrast, most insects use 'short germ' embryogenesis, wherein only head and thorax are patterned in a syncytial environment while the remainder of the embryo is generated after cellularization. We use the wasp Nasonia (Nv) to address how the transition from short to long germ embryogenesis occurred. Maternal and gap gene expression in Nasonia suggest long germ embryogenesis. However, the Nasonia pair-rule genes even-skipped, odd-skipped, runt and hairy are all expressed as early blastoderm pair-rule stripes and late-forming posterior stripes. Knockdown of Nv eve, odd or h causes loss of alternate segments at the anterior and complete loss of abdominal segments. We propose that Nasonia uses a mixed mode of segmentation wherein pair-rule genes pattern the embryo in a manner resembling Drosophila at the anterior and ancestral Tribolium at the posterior. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.01440.001.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam I Rosenberg
- Center for Developmental Genetics, Department of Biology, New York University, New York, United States
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29
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Danneels EL, Formesyn EM, Hahn DA, Denlinger DL, Cardoen D, Wenseleers T, Schoofs L, de Graaf DC. Early changes in the pupal transcriptome of the flesh fly Sarcophagha crassipalpis to parasitization by the ectoparasitic wasp, Nasonia vitripennis. Insect Biochem Mol Biol 2013; 43:1189-200. [PMID: 24161520 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2013.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Revised: 10/03/2013] [Accepted: 10/08/2013] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
We investigated changes in the pupal transcriptome of the flesh fly Sarcophaga crassipalpis, 3 and 25 h after parasitization by the ectoparasitoid wasp, Nasonia vitripennis. These time points are prior to hatching of the wasp eggs, thus the results document host responses to venom injection, rather than feeding by the wasp larvae. Only a single gene appeared to be differentially expressed 3 h after parasitization. However, by 25 h, 128 genes were differentially expressed and expression patterns of a subsample of these genes were verified using RT-qPCR. Among the responsive genes were clusters of genes that altered the fly's metabolism, development, induced immune responses, elicited detoxification responses, and promoted programmed cell death. Envenomation thus clearly alters the metabolic landscape and developmental fate of the fly host prior to subsequent penetration of the pupal cuticle by the wasp larva. Overall, this study provides new insights into the specific action of ectoparasitoid venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen L Danneels
- Laboratory of Zoophysiology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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30
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Formesyn EM, Heyninck K, de Graaf DC. The role of serine- and metalloproteases in Nasonia vitripennis venom in cell death related processes towards a Spodoptera frugiperda Sf21 cell line. J Insect Physiol 2013; 59:795-803. [PMID: 23684740 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2013.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2013] [Revised: 05/08/2013] [Accepted: 05/09/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Proteases are predominant venom components of the ectoparasitoid Nasonia vitripennis. Two protease families, serine proteases and metalloproteases were examined for their possible cytotoxic functions in the Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf21) cell line using protease inhibitors that inactivate one or both protease families. Viability assays on adherent cells indicated that both protease families are among the main cytotoxic compounds of N. vitripennis venom. However, viability assays and flow cytometry performed on suspension cells 24h after envenomation revealed that inactivation of metalloproteases did not improve cell survival. These results indicate that both protease families may have tissue specific functions. Time course experiments indicate that serine proteases of N. vitripennis venom are responsible for inducing apoptosis in the Sf21 cell line. However, other venom compounds could also be involved in this process and different cell death pathways may take over when a specific type of cell death is inhibited. During parasitation of their natural hosts, both protease families may possibly function in immune related processes and tissue destruction, enabling venom distribution. Overall, this study provides important insights into the functions of serine and metalloproteases in the venom of N. vitripennis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen M Formesyn
- Laboratory of Zoophysiology, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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31
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Shuker DM, Reece SE, Lee A, Graham A, Duncan AB, West SA. Information use in space and time: sex allocation behaviour in the parasitoid wasp Nasonia vitripennis.. Anim Behav 2007; 73. [PMID: 24273327 DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2006.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Behavioural decisions require the appropriate use of relevant information about the environment. However, individuals may have imperfect information, imposing a constraint on adaptive behaviour. We explored how information use influences the sex allocation behaviour of the parasitoid wasp Nasonia vitripennis in response to local mate competition. Optimal sex ratios under local mate competition require females to estimate the number of other females that contribute eggs to a patch. Females rapidly changed their sex allocation in response to changes in the number of females in the environment, suggesting that they are not constrained by how quickly they can respond to new information. Furthermore, females also showed some response to olfactory cues that indicated oviposition by other females, suggesting that such indirect cues may be part of their information repertoire. Both the absolute and the relative size of the patch were important for sex ratio decisions, with sex ratios declining on larger patches in a way that suggests that large patches in effect become more than one patch, with females on larger patches allocating sex increasingly independently of other females. We conclude by highlighting variation among species in whether particular cues are used for sex allocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Shuker
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh
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