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Davis J, Da Silva Santos C, Zavala NC, Gans N, Patracuolla D, Fehrenbach M, Babcock DT. Characterizing dopaminergic neuron vulnerability using Genome-wide analysis. Genetics 2021; 218:6284964. [PMID: 34038543 PMCID: PMC8864742 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyab081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is primarily characterized by the loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the brain. However, little is known about why DA neurons are selectively vulnerable to PD. To identify genes that are associated with DA neuron loss, we screened through 201 wild-caught populations of Drosophila melanogaster as part of the Drosophila Genetic Reference Panel. Here, we identify the top-associated genes containing single-nucleotide polymorphisms that render DA neurons vulnerable. These genes were further analyzed by using mutant analysis and tissue-specific knockdown for functional validation. We found that this loss of DA neurons caused progressive locomotor dysfunction in mutants and gene knockdown analysis. The identification of genes associated with the progressive loss of DA neurons should help to uncover factors that render these neurons vulnerable in PD, and possibly develop strategies to make these neurons more resilient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacinta Davis
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
| | | | | | - Nicholas Gans
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
| | - Daniel Patracuolla
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
| | - Monica Fehrenbach
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
| | - Daniel T Babcock
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
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Chen J, Lu HR, Zhang L, Liao CH, Han Q. RNA interference-mediated knockdown of 3, 4-dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde synthase affects larval development and adult survival in the mosquito Aedes aegypti. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:311. [PMID: 31234914 PMCID: PMC6591897 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3568-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cuticle is an indispensable structure that protects the mosquito against adverse environmental conditions and prevents pathogen entry. While most cuticles are hard and rigid, some parts of cuticle are soft and flexible to allow movement and blood-feeding. It has been reported that 3, 4-dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde (DOPAL) synthase is associated with flexible cuticle formation in Aedes aegypti. However, the molecular function of DOPAL synthase in the ontogenesis of mosquito remains largely unknown. In this study, we characterized gene expression profiles of DOPAL synthase and investigated its functions in larvae and female adults of Aedes agypti by RNAi. RESULTS Our results suggest that the expression of DOPAL synthase is different during development and the transcriptional level reached its peak at the female white pupal stage, and DOPAL synthase was more highly expressed in the cuticle and midgut than other tissues in the adult. The development process from larva to pupa was slowed down strikingly by feeding the first-instar larvae with chitosan/DOPAL synthase dsRNA nanoparticles. A qRT-PCR analysis confirmed that the dsRNA-mediated transcription of the DOPAL synthase was reduced > 50% in fourth-instar larvae. Meanwhile, larval molt was abnormal during development. Transmission electron microscopy results indicated that the formation of endocuticle and exocuticle was blocked. In addition, we detected that the dsDOPAL synthase RNA caused significant mortality when injected into the female adult mosquitoes. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that DOPAL synthase plays a critical role in mosquito larval development and adult survival and suggest that DOPAL synthase could be a good candidate gene in RNAi intervention strategies in mosquito control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Chen
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China.,Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Hao-Ran Lu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China.,Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China.,Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Cheng-Hong Liao
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China. .,Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China.
| | - Qian Han
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China. .,Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China.
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Liao C, Upadhyay A, Liang J, Han Q, Li J. 3,4-Dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde synthase and cuticle formation in insects. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2018; 83:44-50. [PMID: 29155013 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2017.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 10/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Cuticle is the most important structure that protects mosquitoes and other insect species from adverse environmental conditions and infections of microorganism. The physiology and biochemistry of insect cuticle formation have been studied for many years and our understanding of cuticle formation and hardening has increased considerably. This is especially true for flexible cuticle. The recent discovery of a novel enzyme that catalyzes the production of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde (DOPAL) in insects provides intriguing insights concerning the flexible cuticle formation in insects. For convenience, the enzyme that catalyzes the production DOPAL from l-dopa is named DOPAL synthase. In this mini-review, we summarize the biochemical pathways of cuticle formation and hardening in general and discuss DOPAL synthase-mediated protein crosslinking in insect flexible cuticle in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenghong Liao
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan 570228, China; Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, Hainan Key Laboratory of Sustainable Utilization of Tropical Bioresources, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan 570228, China
| | - Archana Upadhyay
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan 570228, China; Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, Hainan Key Laboratory of Sustainable Utilization of Tropical Bioresources, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan 570228, China
| | - Jing Liang
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Qian Han
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan 570228, China; Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, Hainan Key Laboratory of Sustainable Utilization of Tropical Bioresources, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan 570228, China.
| | - Jianyong Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA.
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Liang J, Han Q, Ding H, Li J. Biochemical identification of residues that discriminate between 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine decarboxylase and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde synthase-mediated reactions. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 91:34-43. [PMID: 29037755 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2017.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
In available insect genomes, there are several L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-dopa) decarboxylase (DDC)-like or aromatic amino acid decarboxylase (AAAD) sequences. This contrasts to those of mammals whose genomes contain only one DDC. Our previous experiments established that two DDC-like proteins from Drosophila actually mediate a complicated decarboxylation-oxidative deamination process of dopa in the presence of oxygen, leading to the formation of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde (DHPA), CO2, NH3, and H2O2. This contrasts to the typical DDC-catalyzed reaction, which produces CO2 and dopamine. These DDC-like proteins were arbitrarily named DHPA synthases based on their critical role in insect soft cuticle formation. Establishment of reactions catalyzed by these AAAD-like proteins solved a puzzle that perplexed researchers for years, but to tell a true DHPA synthase from a DDC in the insect AAAD family remains problematic due to high sequence similarity. In this study, we performed extensive structural and biochemical comparisons between DHPA synthase and DDC. These comparisons identified several target residues potentially dictating DDC-catalyzed and DHPA synthase-catalyzed reactions, respectively. Comparison of DHPA synthase homology models with crystal structures of typical DDC proteins, particularly residues in the active sites, provided further insights for the roles these identified target residues play. Subsequent site-directed mutagenesis of the tentative target residues and activity evaluations of their corresponding mutants determined that active site His192 and Asn192 are essential signature residues for DDC- and DHPA synthase-catalyzed reactions, respectively. Oxygen is required in DHPA synthase-mediated process and this oxidizing agent is reduced to H2O2 in the process. Biochemical assessment established that H2O2, formed in DHPA synthase-mediated process, can be reused as oxidizing agent and this active oxygen species is reduced to H2O; thereby avoiding oxidative stress by H2O2. Results of our structural and functional analyses provide a reasonable explanation of mechanisms involved in DHPA synthase-mediated reactions. Based on the key active site residue Asn192, identified in Drosophila DHPA synthase, we were able to distinguish all available insect DHPA synthases from DDC sequences primarily.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Liang
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA24060, United States
| | - Qian Han
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, Hainan Key Laboratory of Sustainable Utilization of Tropical Bioresources, Institute of Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Haizhen Ding
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA24060, United States
| | - Jianyong Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA24060, United States.
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Critical Analysis of the Melanogenic Pathway in Insects and Higher Animals. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17101753. [PMID: 27775611 PMCID: PMC5085778 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17101753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Animals synthesize melanin pigments for the coloration of their skin and use it for their protection from harmful solar radiation. Insects use melanins even more ingeniously than mammals and employ them for exoskeletal pigmentation, cuticular hardening, wound healing and innate immune responses. In this review, we discuss the biochemistry of melanogenesis process occurring in higher animals and insects. A special attention is given to number of aspects that are not previously brought to light: (1) the molecular mechanism of dopachrome conversion that leads to the production of two different dihydroxyindoles; (2) the role of catecholamine derivatives other than dopa in melanin production in animals; (3) the critical parts played by various biosynthetic enzymes associated with insect melanogenesis; and (4) the presence of a number of important gaps in both melanogenic and sclerotinogenic pathways. Additionally, importance of the melanogenic process in insect physiology especially in the sclerotization of their exoskeleton, wound healing reactions and innate immune responses is highlighted. The comparative biochemistry of melanization with sclerotization is also discussed.
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Vavricka C, Han Q, Huang Y, Erickson SM, Harich K, Christensen BM, Li J. From L-dopa to dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde: a toxic biochemical pathway plays a vital physiological function in insects. PLoS One 2011; 6:e16124. [PMID: 21283636 PMCID: PMC3026038 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0016124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2010] [Accepted: 12/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
One protein in Aedes aegypti, classified into the aromatic amino acid decarboxylase (AAAD) family based on extremely high sequence homology (∼70%) with dopa decarboxylase (Ddc), was biochemically investigated. Our data revealed that this predicted AAAD protein use L-dopa as a substrate, as does Ddc, but it catalyzes the production of 3,4-dihydroxylphenylacetaldehyde (DHPAA) directly from L-dopa and apparently has nothing to do with the production of any aromatic amine. The protein is therefore named DHPAA synthase. This subsequently led to the identification of the same enzyme in Drosophila melanogaster, Anopheles gambiae and Culex quinquefasciatus by an initial prediction of putative DHPAA synthase based on sequence homology and subsequent verification of DHPAA synthase identity through protein expression and activity assays. DHPAA is highly toxic because its aldehyde group readily reacts with the primary amino groups of proteins, leading to protein crosslinking and inactivation. It has previously been demonstrated by several research groups that Drosophila DHPAA synthase was expressed in tissues that produce cuticle materials and apparent defects in regions of colorless, flexible cuticular structures have been observed in its gene mutants. The presence of free amino groups in proteins, the high reactivity of DHPAA with the free amino groups, and the genetically ascertained function of the Drosophila DHPAA synthase in the formation of colorless, flexible cuticle, when taken together, suggest that mosquito and Drosophila DHPAA synthases are involved in the formation of flexible cuticle through their reactive DHPAA-mediated protein crosslinking reactions. Our data illustrate how a seemingly highly toxic pathway can serve for an important physiological function in insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Vavricka
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Qian Han
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Yongping Huang
- Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Sara M. Erickson
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Kim Harich
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Bruce M. Christensen
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Jianyong Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Alekseyenko OV, Lee C, Kravitz EA. Targeted manipulation of serotonergic neurotransmission affects the escalation of aggression in adult male Drosophila melanogaster. PLoS One 2010; 5:e10806. [PMID: 20520823 PMCID: PMC2875409 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0010806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2010] [Accepted: 05/02/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5HT) are reported to serve important roles in aggression in a wide variety of animals. Previous investigations of 5HT function in adult Drosophila behavior have relied on pharmacological manipulations, or on combinations of genetic tools that simultaneously target both DA and 5HT neurons. Here, we generated a transgenic line that allows selective, direct manipulation of serotonergic neurons and asked whether DA and 5HT have separable effects on aggression. Quantitative morphological examination demonstrated that our newly generated tryptophan hydroxylase (TRH)-Gal4 driver line was highly selective for 5HT-containing neurons. This line was used in conjunction with already available Gal4 driver lines that target DA or both DA and 5HT neurons to acutely alter the function of aminergic systems. First, we showed that acute impairment of DA and 5HT neurotransmission using expression of a temperature sensitive form of dynamin completely abolished mid- and high-level aggression. These flies did not escalate fights beyond brief low-intensity interactions and therefore did not yield dominance relationships. We showed next that manipulation of either 5HT or DA neurotransmission failed to duplicate this phenotype. Selective disruption of 5HT neurotransmission yielded flies that fought, but with reduced ability to escalate fights, leading to fewer dominance relationships. Acute activation of 5HT neurons using temperature sensitive dTrpA1 channel expression, in contrast, resulted in flies that escalated fights faster and that fought at higher intensities. Finally, acute disruption of DA neurotransmission produced hyperactive flies that moved faster than controls, and rarely engaged in any social interactions. By separately manipulating 5HT- and DA- neuron systems, we collected evidence demonstrating a direct role for 5HT in the escalation of aggression in Drosophila.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga V Alekseyenko
- Neurobiology Department, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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8
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Han Q, Ding H, Robinson H, Christensen BM, Li J. Crystal structure and substrate specificity of Drosophila 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine decarboxylase. PLoS One 2010; 5:e8826. [PMID: 20098687 PMCID: PMC2809104 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0008826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2009] [Accepted: 12/31/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background 3,4-Dihydroxyphenylalanine decarboxylase (DDC), also known as aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase, catalyzes the decarboxylation of a number of aromatic L-amino acids. Physiologically, DDC is responsible for the production of dopamine and serotonin through the decarboxylation of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine and 5-hydroxytryptophan, respectively. In insects, both dopamine and serotonin serve as classical neurotransmitters, neuromodulators, or neurohormones, and dopamine is also involved in insect cuticle formation, eggshell hardening, and immune responses. Principal Findings In this study, we expressed a typical DDC enzyme from Drosophila melanogaster, critically analyzed its substrate specificity and biochemical properties, determined its crystal structure at 1.75 Angstrom resolution, and evaluated the roles residues T82 and H192 play in substrate binding and enzyme catalysis through site-directed mutagenesis of the enzyme. Our results establish that this DDC functions exclusively on the production of dopamine and serotonin, with no activity to tyrosine or tryptophan and catalyzes the formation of serotonin more efficiently than dopamine. Conclusions The crystal structure of Drosophila DDC and the site-directed mutagenesis study of the enzyme demonstrate that T82 is involved in substrate binding and that H192 is used not only for substrate interaction, but for cofactor binding of drDDC as well. Through comparative analysis, the results also provide insight into the structure-function relationship of other insect DDC-like proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Han
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Haizhen Ding
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Howard Robinson
- Biology Department, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York, United States of America
| | - Bruce M. Christensen
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Jianyong Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Arakane Y, Lomakin J, Beeman RW, Muthukrishnan S, Gehrke SH, Kanost MR, Kramer KJ. Molecular and functional analyses of amino acid decarboxylases involved in cuticle tanning in Tribolium castaneum. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:16584-16594. [PMID: 19366687 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m901629200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspartate 1-decarboxylase (ADC) and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine decarboxylase (DDC) provide beta-alanine and dopamine used in insect cuticle tanning. beta-Alanine is conjugated with dopamine to yield N-beta-alanyldopamine (NBAD), a substrate for the phenol oxidase laccase that catalyzes the synthesis of cuticle protein cross-linking agents and pigment precursors. We identified ADC and DDC genes in the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Tc), and investigated their functions. TcADC mRNA was most abundant prior to the pupal-adult molt. Injection of TcADC double-stranded (ds) RNA (dsTcADC) into mature larvae resulted in depletion of NBAD in pharate adults, accumulation of dopamine, and abnormally dark pigmentation of the adult cuticle. Injection of beta-alanine, the expected product of ADC, into dsTcADC-treated pupae rescued the pigmentation phenotype, resulting in normal rust-red color. A similar pattern of catechol content consisting of elevated dopamine and depressed NBAD was observed in the genetic black mutants of Tribolium, in which levels of TcADC mRNA were drastically reduced. Furthermore, from the Tribolium black mutant and dsTcADC-injected insects both exhibited similar changes in material properties. Dynamic mechanical analysis of elytral cuticle from beetles with depleted TcADC transcripts revealed diminished cross-linking of cuticular components, further confirming the important role of oxidation products of NBAD as cross-linking agents during cuticle tanning. Injection of dsTcDDC into larvae produced a lethal pupal phenotype, and the resulting grayish pupal cuticle exhibited many small patches of black pigmentation. When dsTcDDC was injected into young pupae, the resulting adults had abnormally dark brown body color, but there was little mortality. Injection of dsTcDDC resulted in more than a 5-fold increase in levels of DOPA, indicating that lack of TcDDC led to accumulation of its substrate, DOPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuyuki Arakane
- From the Department of Biochemistry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506
| | - Joseph Lomakin
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66045
| | - Richard W Beeman
- Grain Marketing and Production Research Center, Agricultural Research Service-United States Department of Agriculture, Manhattan, Kansas 66502
| | | | - Stevin H Gehrke
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66045
| | - Michael R Kanost
- From the Department of Biochemistry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506.
| | - Karl J Kramer
- From the Department of Biochemistry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506; Grain Marketing and Production Research Center, Agricultural Research Service-United States Department of Agriculture, Manhattan, Kansas 66502
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Li J, Zhang L, Feng M, Zhang Z, Pan Y. Identification of the proteome composition occurring during the course of embryonic development of bees (Apis mellifera). INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2009; 18:1-9. [PMID: 19040427 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2583.2008.00849.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the proteome during embryonic development of honeybees, Apis mellifera, proteins were identified by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, mass spectrometry and protein engine identification tools that were applied to MASCOT and Xproteo search engines. 312, 320, 315 proteins were detected in 24, 48 and 72 h embryos. Thirty-eight highly abundant proteins were identified at the three time points by MS fingerprinting. All 21 proteins could be identified as products of annotated genes of the honeybee. Identified proteins included six proteins related to the metabolism of carbohydrates and energy production, six proteins belonging to the heat shock protein family, three cytoskeletal proteins, four proteins related to the antioxidant system of the embryo and two proteins related to growth regulation of the embryo. Quantitative proteomics was applied to analyze differences in amounts of these proteins during the three above mentioned developmental stages. Our data present an initial molecular picture of honeybee embryos, and will hopefully pave the way for future research on this animal.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Li
- Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Beijing 100093, China
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11
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Stathakis DG, Burton DY, McIvor WE, Krishnakumar S, Wright TR, O'Donnell JM. The catecholamines up (Catsup) protein of Drosophila melanogaster functions as a negative regulator of tyrosine hydroxylase activity. Genetics 1999; 153:361-82. [PMID: 10471719 PMCID: PMC1460756 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/153.1.361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We report the genetic, phenotypic, and biochemical analyses of Catecholamines up (Catsup), a gene that encodes a negative regulator of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) activity. Mutations within this locus are semidominant lethals of variable penetrance that result in three broad, overlapping effective lethal phases (ELPs), indicating that the Catsup gene product is essential throughout development. Mutants from each ELP exhibit either cuticle defects or catecholamine-related abnormalities, such as melanotic salivary glands or pseudotumors. Additionally, Catsup mutants have significantly elevated TH activity that may arise from a post-translational modification of the enzyme. The hyperactivation of TH in Catsup mutants results in abnormally high levels of catecholamines, which can account for the lethality, visible phenotypes, and female sterility observed in these mutants. We propose that Catsup is a component of a novel system that downregulates TH activity, making Catsup the fourth locus found within the Dopa decarboxylase (Ddc) gene cluster that functions in catecholamine metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G Stathakis
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903-2477, USA.
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12
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Affiliation(s)
- I F Zhimulev
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Division of Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
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13
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Wang D, Marsh JL, Ayala FJ. Evolutionary changes in the expression pattern of a developmentally essential gene in three Drosophila species. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 1996; 93:7103-7. [PMID: 8692952 PMCID: PMC38943 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.93.14.7103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The hypothesis that morphological evolution may largely result from changes in gene regulation rather than gene structure has been difficult to test. Morphological differences among insects are often apparent in the cuticle structures produced. The dopa decarboxylase (Ddc) and alpha-methyldopa hypersensitive (amd) genes arose from an ancient gene duplication. In Drosophila, they have evolved nonoverlapping functions, including the production of distinct types of cuticle, and for Ddc, the production of the neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin. The amd gene is particularly active in the production of specialized flexible cuticles in the developing embryo. We have compared the pattern of amd expression in three Drosophila species. Several regions of expression conserved in all three species but, surprisingly, a unique domain of expression is found in Drosophila simulans that does occur in the closely related (2-5 million years) Drosophila melanogaster or in the more remote (40-50 million years) Drosophila virilis. The "sudden" appearance of a completely new and robust domain of expression provides a glimpse of evolutionary variation resulting from changes in regulation of structural gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Wang
- Developmental Biology Center, University of California, Irvine, CA 92717, USA
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14
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McCrady E, Tolin DJ. Effects of Ddc cluster lethal alleles on ovary growth, attachment, and egg production in Drosophila. THE JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY 1994; 268:469-76. [PMID: 8176361 DOI: 10.1002/jez.1402680607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The Ddc cluster of genes on the left arm of chromosome 2 in Drosophila has been extensively characterized by Wright and coworkers (Wright, '87b). Many of the genes in the cluster are associated with the pigmentation and sclerotization of the cuticle, and at least 12 have been shown to play a role in female fertility. To characterize further the actions of genes in the cluster, we have investigated the effect on fertility of a total of five of the previously untested genes (l(2)37Be, Bb, Bg, Bd, and Cg), and three of the partially characterized genes (l(2)37Ce, Ddc, and amd). Each allele was crossed to Df(2L)TW130 or49h flies in order to make it hemizygous over the 8-12 band deficiency covering the Ddc region, 37B9-C1,2;37D1-2. Ovaries taken from larvae produced by this cross were transplanted into female larval hosts of y f mal genotype, that were then mated to v f mal males. The wild type allele of mal in implanted tissue allowed identification and study of surviving implants by staining for the presence of aldehyde oxidase. Of the 18 alleles available, amdH149, l(2)37Bb1, Bb9, Bb11, Bd6, Be1, Bd7, Be2, Be3, Ce4, and Cg1 did not allow enough growth to form transplantable ovaries; l(2)37Bg1, Bg2, and Cgts1 prevented development of transplanted ovaries in their hosts; l(2)37Ce5 allowed implanted ovaries to attach to oviducts and grow, but insufficiently for production of eggs; and DdcN27, amd29, and l(2)37Bd4 appeared not to restrict ovary development. Heteroallelic heterozygotes of Bd7 x Bd4 also produced fully fertile ovaries, but no other heteroallelic combinations did so.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
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Affiliation(s)
- E McCrady
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro 27412
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15
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Konrad KD, Wang D, Marsh JL. Vitelline membrane biogenesis in Drosophila requires the activity of the alpha-methyl dopa hypersensitive gene (I(2)amd) in both the germline and follicle cells. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 1993; 1:179-187. [PMID: 8269096 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2583.1993.tb00090.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The vitelline membrane of Drosophila eggs is composed of a family of proteins which are cross linked into an insoluble matrix with an overlying waxy layer that prevents desiccation. We present here three sets of experiments which show that integrity of the vitelline membrane requires the activity of the alpha methyl dopa hypersensitive (I(2)amdH or amd) gene in both egg chambers and follicle cells. We show that loss of amd activity either by dietary administration of inhibitors or in genetic mosaics of either the germ line or follicle cells leads to production of defective vitelline membranes and by in situ hybridization, that amd is expressed in both nurse cells and follicle cells. The amd gene product is the first non-structural protein gene described whose activity is required for vitelline membrane biosynthesis. Given its unique role in insects and its demonstrated sensitivity to dietary inhibitors, the amd gene product poses an attractive target for insect control.
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Affiliation(s)
- K D Konrad
- Developmental Biology Center, University of California, Irvine 92717
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Buchner E. Genes expressed in the adult brain of Drosophila and effects of their mutations on behavior: a survey of transmitter- and second messenger-related genes. J Neurogenet 1991; 7:153-92. [PMID: 1679453 DOI: 10.3109/01677069109167432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E Buchner
- Institut für Genetik und Mikrobiologie, Universität Würzburg, Germany
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17
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Pentz ES, Black BC, Wright TR. Mutations affecting phenol oxidase activity in Drosophila: quicksilver and tyrosinase-1. Biochem Genet 1990; 28:151-71. [PMID: 2116788 DOI: 10.1007/bf00561334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The complex enzyme phenol oxidase plays a major role in sclerotization and melanization of cuticle in insects. Production of active enzyme from the inactive proenzyme involves at least six protein components in Drosophila. We examine here the biochemical phenotype of two loci that affect phenol oxidase activity--quicksilver (qs; 1-39.5) and tyrosinase-1 (tyr-1; 2-54.5). Three mutations isolated by different procedures in three different laboratories are alleles at the quicksilver locus. The effects of these mutations have been monitored by means of enzyme assays in vitro and in polyacrylamide gels and by measurement of catecholamine pool sizes. The activity of all three active enzyme components (A1, A2, and A3) is reduced in qs mutants. The activated enzyme of one qs allele is thermolabile, while its activator is normal. Deletion and genetic mapping place tyr-1 near purple (pr; 2-54.5). Enzyme activity is reduced to 10% of normal but is not thermolabile and the activator is normal. The activity of all three A components is reduced. The diphenol oxidase activity in double mutant combinations shows that these mutations and Dox-A2 (Pentz et al., 1986) affect this enzyme in different ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- E S Pentz
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville 22901
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Homyk T, McIvor W. A mutation that causes muscle defects also affects catecholamine metabolism in Drosophila. J Neurogenet 1989; 6:57-73. [PMID: 2625649 DOI: 10.3109/01677068909107101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Biochemical analyses, employing HPLC and electrochemical detection, have shown that the mutation adl-1, which causes muscle defects, also induces a temperature-sensitive defect in catecholamine metabolism. The pool sizes of N-acetyldopamine (NADA) and N-beta-alanyldopamine (NBAD) in mutant adults incubated at 29 degrees attain only a fraction, dependent on the length of incubation, of those in mutants incubated at 22 degrees or in controls. The differences are more striking in relevant hemizygotes. Notably, dopamine is unaffected. Concomitant examination of behavior revealed a correlation between decreases in NADA and NBAD and decreases in locomotor function. That these observations suggest a requirement for catecholamine metabolism in muscle function is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Homyk
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville 22901
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Bishop CP, Sherald AF, Wright TR. Characterization of third chromosome dominant alpha-methyl dopa resistant mutants (Tcr) and their interactions with l(2)amd alpha-methyl dopa hypersensitive alleles in Drosophila melanogaster. Genet Res (Camb) 1989; 54:93-9. [PMID: 2515113 DOI: 10.1017/s0016672300028469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In Drosophila melanogaster two alleles at the Third chromosome resistance locus (Tcr; 3-39-6) were isolated in a screen of EMS mutagenized third chromosomes for dominant resistance to dietary alpha-methyl dopa, alpha-MD, a structural analogue of DOPA. Both alleles of Tcr are recessive lethals exhibiting partial complementation. Almost half (48.3%) of the Tcr40/Tcr45 heterozygotes die as embryos but some survive past adult eclosion. Both the embryonic lethal phenotype and the adult phenotype suggest that Tcr is involved in cuticle synthesis. Tcr mutants suppress the lethality of partially complementing alleles at the alpha-MD hypersensitive locus, l(2)amd. The viability of Tcr40/Tcr45, however, is not increased by the presence of a l(2)amd allele. The possibility that the Tcr and l(2)amd mutations reveal a catecholamine metabolic pathway involved in cuticle structure is discussed.
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Ritossa F. Serial polymers in the epidermis of Drosophila melanogaster larvae. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 1988; 966:297-309. [PMID: 3137976 DOI: 10.1016/0304-4165(88)90079-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The paper reports the existence of peculiar polymers (e-polymers) obtained from the epidermis of Drosophila melanogaster larvae. E-polymers result from the assembly of two components held together by alkali-labile bonds. Such components can be separated by CsCl density gradients and by DEAE-cellulose chromatography after controlled alkaline hydrolysis. One of the components contains predominantly neutral sugars and a phenolic substance (S-fraction). The other contains predominantly amino acids, aminosugars and a phenolic substance. This fraction can be visualized as serial multimers of a monomer subunit. It is suggested that e-polymers are continuous tridimensional structures which might have morphogenetic significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Ritossa
- Istituto di Genetica, Università di Bari, Italy
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Wright TR. The genetic and molecular organization of the dense cluster of functionally related, vital genes in the DOPA decarboxylase region of the Drosophila melanogaster genome. Results Probl Cell Differ 1987; 14:95-120. [PMID: 3112881 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-540-47783-9_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Wright TR. The Genetics Of Biogenic Amine Metabolism, Sclerotization, And Melanization In Drosophila Melanogaster. MOLECULAR GENETICS OF DEVELOPMENT 1987. [DOI: 10.1016/s0065-2660(08)60008-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 344] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
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