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Sultana MS, Mazarei M, Jurat-Fuentes JL, Hewezi T, Millwood RJ, Stewart CN. Overexpression of soybean trypsin inhibitor genes decreases defoliation by corn earworm ( Helicoverpa zea) in soybean ( Glycine max) and Arabidopsis thaliana. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1129454. [PMID: 36875574 PMCID: PMC9982021 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1129454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Trypsin inhibitors (TIs) are widely distributed in plants and are known to play a protective role against herbivores. TIs reduce the biological activity of trypsin, an enzyme involved in the breakdown of many different proteins, by inhibiting the activation and catalytic reactions of proteins. Soybean (Glycine max) contains two major TI classes: Kunitz trypsin inhibitor (KTI) and Bowman-Birk inhibitor (BBI). Both genes encoding TI inactivate trypsin and chymotrypsin enzymes, which are the main digestive enzymes in the gut fluids of Lepidopteran larvae feeding on soybean. In this study, the possible role of soybean TIs in plant defense against insects and nematodes was investigated. A total of six TIs were tested, including three known soybean trypsin inhibitors (KTI1, KTI2 and KTI3) and three genes encoding novel inhibitors identified in soybean (KTI5, KTI7, and BBI5). Their functional role was further examined by overexpression of the individual TI genes in soybean and Arabidopsis. The endogenous expression patterns of these TI genes varied among soybean tissues, including leaf, stem, seed, and root. In vitro enzyme inhibitory assays showed significant increase in trypsin and chymotrypsin inhibitory activities in both transgenic soybean and Arabidopsis. Detached leaf-punch feeding bioassays detected significant reduction in corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea) larval weight when larvae fed on transgenic soybean and Arabidopsis lines, with the greatest reduction observed in KTI7 and BBI5 overexpressing lines. Whole soybean plant greenhouse feeding bioassays with H. zea on KTI7 and BBI5 overexpressing lines resulted in significantly reduced leaf defoliation compared to non-transgenic plants. However, bioassays of KTI7 and BBI5 overexpressing lines with soybean cyst nematode (SCN, Heterodera glycines) showed no differences in SCN female index between transgenic and non-transgenic control plants. There were no significant differences in growth and productivity between transgenic and non-transgenic plants grown in the absence of herbivores to full maturity under greenhouse conditions. The present study provides further insight into the potential applications of TI genes for insect resistance improvement in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mst Shamira Sultana
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
- Center for Agricultural Synthetic Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Mitra Mazarei
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
- Center for Agricultural Synthetic Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Juan Luis Jurat-Fuentes
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Tarek Hewezi
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Reginald J. Millwood
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - C. Neal Stewart
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
- Center for Agricultural Synthetic Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
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Singh S, Singh A, Kumar S, Mittal P, Singh IK. Protease inhibitors: recent advancement in its usage as a potential biocontrol agent for insect pest management. INSECT SCIENCE 2020; 27:186-201. [PMID: 30230264 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Plant-derived protease inhibitors (PIs) are a promising defensin for crop improvement and insect pest management. Although agronomist made significant efforts in utilizing PIs for managing insect pests, the potentials of PIs are still obscured. Insect ability to compensate nutrient starvation induced by dietary PI feeding using different strategies, that is, overexpression of PI-sensitive protease, expression of PI-insensitive proteases, degradation of PI, has made this innumerable collection of PIs worthless. A practical challenge for agronomist is to identify potent PI candidates, to limit insect compensatory responses and to elucidate insect compensatory and resistance mechanisms activated upon herbivory. This knowledge could be further efficiently utilized to identify potential targets for RNAi-mediated pest control. These vital genes of insects could be functionally annotated using the advanced gene-editing technique, CRISPR/Cas9. Contemporary research is exploiting different in silico and modern molecular biology techniques to utilize PIs in controlling insect pests efficiently. This review is structured to update recent advancements in this field, along with its chronological background.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujata Singh
- Molecular Biology Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi, Kalkaji, New Delhi, India
| | - Archana Singh
- Department of Botany, Hans Raj College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Sumit Kumar
- Molecular Biology Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi, Kalkaji, New Delhi, India
| | - Pooja Mittal
- Molecular Biology Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi, Kalkaji, New Delhi, India
| | - Indrakant K Singh
- Molecular Biology Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi, Kalkaji, New Delhi, India
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Recombinant expression, characterization and phylogenetic studies of novels cystatins-like proteins of sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) and clementine (Citrus clementina). Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 152:546-553. [PMID: 32109474 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.02.280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Phytocystatins are plant cystatins that are related to several physiological processes regulating endogenous cysteine proteases involved in seed development and germination, programmed cell death and response to stress conditions. In addition, phytocystatins can act in plant defense against exogenous peptidases from herbivorous insects, pathogens and nematodes. Considering that Citrus fruits are important to human nutrition and represent a high value crop in worldwide agriculture, in the present work, we performed the identification of putative cystatins from Citrus sinensis and from Citrus clementine and submitted them to phylogenetic analysis. Six cystatins from each species were identified as orthologous and classified into three well supported phylogenetic groups. Five cystatins representative of the phylogenetic groups were recombinantly expressed and the in vitro studies revealed them to be potent inhibitors against the cysteine peptidases papain, legumain, human cathepsins (B, L, S, K) and a cathepsin B-like from Diaphorina citri (the Asian Citrus psyllid). Our findings provide the C. clementina and C. sinensis cystatins classification and an enzyme-inhibitor interactions profile, which may reflect an evolutionary process of Citrus cystatins related to gene functions as initial germination rates and seedlings development as well associated to plant defense against pathogens, as insects and nematodes.
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Abstract
Dozens of studies have assessed the practical value of plant cystatins as ectopic inhibitors of Cys proteases in biological systems. The potential of these proteins in crop protection to control herbivorous pests and pathogens has been documented extensively over the past 25 years. Their usefulness to regulate endogenous Cys proteases in planta has also been considered recently, notably to implement novel traits of agronomic relevance in crops or to generate protease activity-depleted environments in plants or plant cells used as bioreactors for recombinant proteins. After a brief update on the basic structural characteristics of plant cystatins, we summarize recent advances on the use of these proteins in plant biotechnology. Attention is also paid to the molecular improvement of their structural properties for the improvement of their protease inhibitory effects or the fine-tuning of their biological target range.
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Velasco-Arroyo B, Martinez M, Diaz I, Diaz-Mendoza M. Differential response of silencing HvIcy2 barley plants against Magnaporthe oryzae infection and light deprivation. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2018; 18:337. [PMID: 30522452 PMCID: PMC6282322 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-018-1560-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phytocystatins (PhyCys) act as endogenous regulators of cysteine proteases (CysProt) involved in various physiological processes. Besides, PhyCys are involved in plant reactions to abiotic stresses like drought or darkness and have been used as effective molecules against different pests and pathogens. The barley PhyCys-CysProt system is considered a model of protease-inhibitor regulation of protein turnover. Thirteen barley cystatins (HvCPI-1 to HvCPI-13) have been previously identified and characterized. Among them HvCPI-2 has been shown to have a relevant role in plant responses to pathogens and pests, as well as in the plant response to drought. RESULTS The present work explores the multiple role of this barley PhyCys in response to both, biotic and abiotic stresses, focusing on the impact of silencing this gene. HvIcy-2 silencing lines behave differentially against the phytopathogenic fungus Magnaporthe oryzae and a light deprivation treatment. The induced expression of HvIcy-2 by the fungal stress correlated to a higher susceptibility of silencing HvIcy-2 plants. In contrast, a reduction in the expression of HvIcy-2 and in the cathepsin-L and -B like activities in the silencing HvIcy-2 plants was not accompanied by apparent phenotypical differences with control plants in response to light deprivation. CONCLUSION These results highlight the specificity of PhyCys in the responses to diverse external prompts as well as the complexity of the regulatory events leading to the response to a particular stress. The mechanism of regulation of these stress responses seems to be focused in maintaining the balance of CysProt and PhyCys levels, which is crucial for the modulation of physiological processes induced by biotic or abiotic stresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca Velasco-Arroyo
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas (CBGP, UPM-INIA), Universidad Politecnica de Madrid (UPM) - Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnologia Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Campus Montegancedo UPM, 28223 Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcon Spain
| | - Manuel Martinez
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas (CBGP, UPM-INIA), Universidad Politecnica de Madrid (UPM) - Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnologia Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Campus Montegancedo UPM, 28223 Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcon Spain
- Departamento de Biotecnologia-Biologia Vegetal, Escuela Tecnica Superior de Ingenieria Agronomica, Alimentaria y de Biosistemas, UPM, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Diaz
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas (CBGP, UPM-INIA), Universidad Politecnica de Madrid (UPM) - Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnologia Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Campus Montegancedo UPM, 28223 Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcon Spain
- Departamento de Biotecnologia-Biologia Vegetal, Escuela Tecnica Superior de Ingenieria Agronomica, Alimentaria y de Biosistemas, UPM, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Diaz-Mendoza
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas (CBGP, UPM-INIA), Universidad Politecnica de Madrid (UPM) - Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnologia Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Campus Montegancedo UPM, 28223 Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcon Spain
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Overexpression of HvIcy6 in Barley Enhances Resistance against Tetranychus urticae and Entails Partial Transcriptomic Reprogramming. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19030697. [PMID: 29494488 PMCID: PMC5877558 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19030697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 02/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystatins have been largely used for pest control against phytophagous species. However, cystatins have not been commonly overexpressed in its cognate plant species to test their pesticide capacity. Since the inhibitory role of barley HvCPI-6 cystatin against the phytophagous mite Tetranychus urticae has been previously demonstrated, the purpose of our study was to determine if barley transgenic lines overexpressing its own HvIcy6 gene were more resistant against this phytophagous infestation. Besides, a transcriptomic analysis was done to find differential expressed genes among wild-type and transformed barley plants. Barley plants overexpressing HvIcy6 cystatin gene remained less susceptible to T. urticae attack when compared to wild-type plants, with a significant lesser foliar damaged area and a lower presence of the mite. Transcriptomic analysis revealed a certain reprogramming of cellular metabolism and a lower expression of several genes related to photosynthetic activity. Therefore, although caution should be taken to discard potential deleterious pleiotropic effects, cystatins may be used as transgenes with impact on agricultural crops by conferring enhanced levels of resistance to phytophagous pests.
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Tan Y, Li M, Yang Y, Sun X, Wang N, Liang B, Ma F. Overexpression of MpCYS4, A Phytocystatin Gene from Malus prunifolia (Willd.) Borkh., Enhances Stomatal Closure to Confer Drought Tolerance in Transgenic Arabidopsis and Apple. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2017; 8:33. [PMID: 28174579 PMCID: PMC5258747 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2017.00033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Phytocystatins (PhyCys) comprise a group of inhibitors for cysteine proteinases in plants. They play a wide range of important roles in regulating endogenous processes and protecting plants against various environmental stresses, but the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we detailed the biological functions of MpCYS4, a member of cystatin genes isolated from Malus prunifolia. This gene was activated under water deficit, heat (40°C), exogenous abscisic acid (ABA), or methyl viologen (MV) (Tan et al., 2014a). At cellular level, MpCYS4 protein was found to be localized in the nucleus, cytoplasm, and plasma membrane of onion epidermal cells. Recombinant MpCYS4 cystatin expressed in Escherichia coli was purified and it exhibited cysteine protease inhibitor activity. Transgenic overexpression of MpCYS4 in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) and apple (Malus domestica) led to ABA hypersensitivity and series of ABA-associated phenotypes, such as enhanced ABA-induced stomatal closing, altered expression of many ABA/stress-responsive genes, and enhanced drought tolerance. Taken together, our results demonstrate that MpCYS4 is involved in ABA-mediated stress signal transduction and confers drought tolerance at least in part by enhancing stomatal closure and up-regulating the transcriptional levels of ABA- and drought-related genes. These findings provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms by which phytocystatins influence plant growth, development, and tolerance to stress.
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Schneider VK, Soares-Costa A, Chakravarthi M, Ribeiro C, Chabregas SM, Falco MC, Henrique-Silva F. Transgenic sugarcane overexpressing CaneCPI-1 negatively affects the growth and development of the sugarcane weevil Sphenophorus levis. PLANT CELL REPORTS 2017; 36:193-201. [PMID: 27837261 DOI: 10.1007/s00299-016-2071-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/03/2016] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Transgenic sugarcane expressing CaneCPI-1 exhibits resistance to Sphenophorus levis larvae. Transgenic plants have widely been used to improve resistance against insect attack. Sugarcane is an economically important crop; however, great losses are caused by insect attack. Sphenophorus levis is a sugarcane weevil that digs tunnels in the stem base, leading to the destruction of the crop. This insect is controlled inefficiently by chemical insecticides. Transgenic plants expressing peptidase inhibitors represent an important strategy for impairing insect growth and development. Knowledge of the major peptidase group present in the insect gut is critical when choosing the most effective inhibitor. S. levis larvae use cysteine peptidases as their major digestive enzymes, primarily cathepsin L-like activity. In this study, we developed transgenic sugarcane plants that overexpress sugarcane cysteine peptidase inhibitor 1 (CaneCPI-1) and assessed their potential through feeding bioassays with S. levis larvae. Cystatin overexpression in the transgenic plants was evaluated using semi-quantitative RT-PCR, RT-qPCR, and immunoblot assays. A 50% reduction of the average weight was observed in larvae that fed on transgenic plants in comparison to larvae that fed on non-transgenic plants. In addition, transgenic sugarcane exhibited less damage caused by larval attack than the controls. Our results suggest that the overexpression of CaneCPI-1 in sugarcane is a promising strategy for improving resistance against this insect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Karine Schneider
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Genetics and Evolution, Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washigton Luis, Km 235, São Carlos, SP, 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Andrea Soares-Costa
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Genetics and Evolution, Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washigton Luis, Km 235, São Carlos, SP, 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Mohan Chakravarthi
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Genetics and Evolution, Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washigton Luis, Km 235, São Carlos, SP, 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Carolina Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Genetics and Evolution, Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washigton Luis, Km 235, São Carlos, SP, 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Sabrina Moutinho Chabregas
- Centro de Tecnologia Canavieira, Fazenda Santo Antônio, s/n, cp. 162, Piracicaba, SP, CEP 13400-970, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina Falco
- Centro de Tecnologia Canavieira, Fazenda Santo Antônio, s/n, cp. 162, Piracicaba, SP, CEP 13400-970, Brazil
| | - Flavio Henrique-Silva
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Genetics and Evolution, Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washigton Luis, Km 235, São Carlos, SP, 13565-905, Brazil.
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Szewińska J, Simińska J, Bielawski W. The roles of cysteine proteases and phytocystatins in development and germination of cereal seeds. JOURNAL OF PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2016; 207:10-21. [PMID: 27771502 DOI: 10.1016/j.jplph.2016.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Proteolysis is an important process for development and germination of cereal seeds. Among the many types of proteases identified in plants are the cysteine proteases (CPs) of the papain and legumain families, which play a crucial role in hydrolysing storage proteins during seed germination as well as in processing the precursors of these proteins and the inactive forms of other proteases. Moreover, all of the tissues of cereal seeds undergo progressive degradation via programed cell death, which is integral to their growth. In view of the important roles played by proteases, their uncontrolled activity could be harmful to the development of seeds and young seedlings. Thus, the activities of these enzymes are regulated by intracellular inhibitors called phytocystatins (PhyCys). The phytocystatins inhibit the activity of proteases of the papain family, and the presence of an additional motif in their C-termini allows them to also regulate the activity of members of the legumain family. A balance between the levels of cysteine proteases and phytocystatins is necessary for proper cereal seed development, and this is maintained through the antagonistic activities of gibberellins (GAs) and abscisic acid (ABA), which regulate the expression of the corresponding genes. Transcriptional regulation of cysteine proteases and phytocystatins is determined by cis-acting elements located in the promoters of these genes and by the expression of their corresponding transcription factors (TFs) and the interactions between different TFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Szewińska
- Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Faculty of Agriculture and Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Nowoursynowska 159 street, Warsaw 02-776, Poland.
| | - Joanna Simińska
- Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Faculty of Agriculture and Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Nowoursynowska 159 street, Warsaw 02-776, Poland
| | - Wiesław Bielawski
- Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Faculty of Agriculture and Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Nowoursynowska 159 street, Warsaw 02-776, Poland
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Martinez M, Santamaria ME, Diaz-Mendoza M, Arnaiz A, Carrillo L, Ortego F, Diaz I. Phytocystatins: Defense Proteins against Phytophagous Insects and Acari. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:E1747. [PMID: 27775606 PMCID: PMC5085774 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17101747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Revised: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
This review deals with phytocystatins, focussing on their potential role as defence proteins against phytophagous arthropods. Information about the evolutionary, molecular and biochemical features and inhibitory properties of phytocystatins are presented. Cystatin ability to inhibit heterologous cysteine protease activities is commented on as well as some approaches of tailoring cystatin specificity to enhance their defence function towards pests. A general landscape on the digestive proteases of phytophagous insects and acari and the remarkable plasticity of their digestive physiology after feeding on cystatins are highlighted. Biotechnological approaches to produce recombinant cystatins to be added to artificial diets or to be sprayed as insecticide-acaricide compounds and the of use cystatins as transgenes are discussed. Multiple examples and applications are included to end with some conclusions and future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Martinez
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid (UPM), Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Campus Montegancedo, Pozuelo de Alarcon, Madrid 28223, Spain.
| | - Maria Estrella Santamaria
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid (UPM), Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Campus Montegancedo, Pozuelo de Alarcon, Madrid 28223, Spain.
| | - Mercedes Diaz-Mendoza
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid (UPM), Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Campus Montegancedo, Pozuelo de Alarcon, Madrid 28223, Spain.
| | - Ana Arnaiz
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid (UPM), Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Campus Montegancedo, Pozuelo de Alarcon, Madrid 28223, Spain.
| | - Laura Carrillo
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid (UPM), Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Campus Montegancedo, Pozuelo de Alarcon, Madrid 28223, Spain.
| | - Felix Ortego
- Departamento de Biologia Medioambiental, Centro de Investigaciones Biologicas, CSIC, Ramiro de Maeztu, 9, Madrid 28040, Spain.
| | - Isabel Diaz
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid (UPM), Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Campus Montegancedo, Pozuelo de Alarcon, Madrid 28223, Spain.
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Cingel A, Savić J, Lazarević J, Ćosić T, Raspor M, Smigocki A, Ninković S. Extraordinary Adaptive Plasticity of Colorado Potato Beetle: "Ten-Striped Spearman" in the Era of Biotechnological Warfare. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17091538. [PMID: 27649141 PMCID: PMC5037813 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17091538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Revised: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Expanding from remote areas of Mexico to a worldwide scale, the ten-striped insect, the Colorado potato beetle (CPB, Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say), has risen from being an innocuous beetle to a prominent global pest. A diverse life cycle, phenotypic plasticity, adaptation to adverse conditions, and capability to detoxify or tolerate toxins make this insect appear to be virtually “indestructible”. With increasing advances in molecular biology, tools of biotechnological warfare were deployed to combat CPB. In the last three decades, genetically modified potato has created a new challenge for the beetle. After reviewing hundreds of scientific papers dealing with CPB control, it became clear that even biotechnological means of control, if used alone, would not defeat the Colorado potato beetle. This control measure once again appears to be provoking the potato beetle to exhibit its remarkable adaptability. Nonetheless, the potential for adaptation to these techniques has increased our knowledge of this pest and thus opened possibilities for devising more sustainable CPB management programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandar Cingel
- Plant Physiology Department, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Jelena Savić
- Plant Physiology Department, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Jelica Lazarević
- Insect Physiology and Biochemistry Department, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Tatjana Ćosić
- Plant Physiology Department, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Martin Raspor
- Plant Physiology Department, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Ann Smigocki
- Molecular Plant Pathology Laboratory, USDA-ARS, 10300 Baltimore Avenue, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA.
| | - Slavica Ninković
- Plant Physiology Department, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia.
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Khan S, Ahmad S, Siddiqi MI, Bano B. Physico-chemical and in-silico analysis of a phytocystatin purified from Brassica juncea cultivar RoAgro 5444. Biochem Cell Biol 2016; 94:584-596. [PMID: 27845561 DOI: 10.1139/bcb-2016-0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
This study describes the isolation and purification of a phytocystatin from seeds of Brassica juncea (Indian mustard; cultivar RoAgro 5444), which is an important oilseed crop both agriculturally and economically. The protein was purified by gel filtration chromatography with 24.3% yield and 204-fold purification, and visualised by 2D gel electrophoresis. The 18.1 kDa mustard cystatin was highly specific for cysteine proteinases. The plant cystatin inhibited cathepsin B, confirming its role in conferring pest resistance. The inhibitor was highly stable over a pH range of 3-10 and retained significant inhibitory potential up to 70 °C. The stoichiometry of its interaction with papain, determined by isothermal calorimetry, suggests a 1:1 complex. Secondary structural elements calculated by far-UV circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy show an 18.8% α-helical and 21% β-sheet structure. The protein was a non-competitive inhibitor of thiol proteinases. The Stokes radius and frictional co-efficient were used to describe the shape and size of the protein. Homology modelling and docking studies proposed a prototype illustrating the Brassica phytocystatin mediated papain inhibition. Molecular dynamics (MD) study revealed the excellent stability of the papain-phytocystatin complex during a simulation for 100 ns. Detailed results identify the mustard cystatin as an important member of the phytocystatin family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shumaila Khan
- a Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Science, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India
| | - Sabahuddin Ahmad
- b Molecular and Structural Biology Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Drug Research Institute (CSIR-CDRI), Lucknow 226031, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mohammad Imran Siddiqi
- b Molecular and Structural Biology Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Drug Research Institute (CSIR-CDRI), Lucknow 226031, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Bilqees Bano
- a Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Science, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India
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13
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Borzoui E, Naseri B, Mohammadzadeh-Bidarani M. Adaptation of Habrobracon hebetor (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) to Rearing on Ephestia kuehniella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) and Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2016; 16:iew001. [PMID: 26839317 PMCID: PMC4738603 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/iew001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 01/02/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Food characteristics strongly regulate digestive enzymatic activity of insects through direct influences on their midgut mechanisms. Insect performance is better on diets that contain nutrients in proportions that fit its digestive enzymes. Little is known about the influences of rearing history on parasitism success of Habrobracon hebetor Say. This research focused on the effect of nutrient regulation on survival, development, and parasitism of H. hebetor. Life history and digestive enzyme activity of fourth-stage larvae of H. hebetor were studied when reared on Ephestia kuehniella Zeller. This parasitoid was then introduced to Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner), and above-mentioned parameters were also studied in the first and fourth generations after transfer. In term of parasitism success, H. hebetor preferred E. kuehniella over He. armigera. When the first and fourth generations of He. armigera-reared H. hebetor were compared, the rearing history affected the life history and enzymatic activity of the parasitoid. A better performance of H. hebetor was achieved after it was reared on He. armigera for the four generations. Because, digestive α-amylase and general protease of the parasitoid were matched with the new host, it used reserve energy for a better performance. Thus, a better performance of H. hebetor could be obtained when the parasitoid was reared on its original host for at least four generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Borzoui
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, 56199-11367, Iran (; ),
| | - Bahram Naseri
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, 56199-11367, Iran (; ),
| | - Mozhgan Mohammadzadeh-Bidarani
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Vali-e-Asr Rafsanjan, Kerman, 7614666935, Iran
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Islam A, Leung S, Burgess EPJ, Laing WA, Richardson KA, Hofmann RW, Dijkwel PP, McManus MT. Knock-down of transcript abundance of a family of Kunitz proteinase inhibitor genes in white clover (Trifolium repens) reveals a redundancy and diversity of gene function. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2015; 208:1188-201. [PMID: 26377591 DOI: 10.1111/nph.13543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2014] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The transcriptional regulation of four phylogenetically distinct members of a family of Kunitz proteinase inhibitor (KPI) genes isolated from white clover (Trifolium repens; designated Tr-KPI1, Tr-KPI2, Tr-KPI4 and Tr-KPI5) has been investigated to determine their wider functional role. The four genes displayed differential transcription during seed germination, and in different tissues of the mature plant, and transcription was also ontogenetically regulated. Heterologous over-expression of Tr-KPI1, Tr-KPI2, Tr-KPI4 and Tr-KPI5 in Nicotiana tabacum retarded larval growth of the herbivore Spodoptera litura, and an increase in the transcription of the pathogenesis-related genes PR1 and PR4 was observed in the Tr-KPI1 and Tr-KPI4 over-expressing lines. RNA interference (RNAi) knock-down lines in white clover displayed significantly altered vegetative growth phenotypes with inhibition of shoot growth and a stimulation of root growth, while knock-down of Tr-KPI1, Tr-KPI2 and Tr-KPI5 transcript abundance also retarded larval growth of S. litura. Examination of these RNAi lines revealed constitutive stress-associated phenotypes as well as altered transcription of cellular signalling genes. These results reveal a functional redundancy across members of the KPI gene family. Further, the regulation of transcription of at least one member of the family, Tr-KPI2, may occupy a central role in the maintenance of a cellular homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsana Islam
- Institute of Fundamental Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Susanna Leung
- Institute of Fundamental Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | | | - William A Laing
- Plant & Food Research, Private Bag 92169, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Kim A Richardson
- AgResearch Grasslands, Private Bag 11-008, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Rainer W Hofmann
- Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Lincoln University, PO Box 85084, Lincoln, 7647, New Zealand
| | - Paul P Dijkwel
- Institute of Fundamental Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Michael T McManus
- Institute of Fundamental Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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15
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Šmid I, Rotter A, Gruden K, Brzin J, Buh Gašparič M, Kos J, Žel J, Sabotič J. Clitocypin, a fungal cysteine protease inhibitor, exerts its insecticidal effect on Colorado potato beetle larvae by inhibiting their digestive cysteine proteases. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2015; 122:59-66. [PMID: 26071808 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2014.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2014] [Revised: 11/07/2014] [Accepted: 12/18/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say, CPB) is a major potato pest that adapts readily to insecticides. Several types of protease inhibitors have previously been investigated as potential control agents, but with limited success. Recently, cysteine protease inhibitors from parasol mushroom, the macrocypins, were reported to inhibit growth of CPB larvae. To further investigate the insecticidal potential and mode of action of cysteine protease inhibitors of fungal origin, clitocypin, a cysteine protease inhibitor from clouded agaric (Clitocybe nebularis), was evaluated for its lethal effects on CPB larvae. Clitocypin isolated from fruiting bodies and recombinant clitocypin produced in Escherichia coli slowed growth and reduced survival of CPB larvae in a concentration dependent manner. Clitocypin was also expressed by transgenic potato, but only at low levels. Nevertheless, it reduced larval weight gain and delayed development. We have additionally shown that younger larvae are more susceptible to the action of clitocypin. The inhibition of digestive cysteine proteases, intestains, by clitocypin was shown to be the underlying mode of action. Protease inhibitors from mushrooms are confirmed as promising candidates for biopesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Šmid
- Department of Biotechnology and Systems Biology, National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, Ljubljana 1000, Slovenia
| | - Ana Rotter
- Department of Biotechnology and Systems Biology, National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, Ljubljana 1000, Slovenia
| | - Kristina Gruden
- Department of Biotechnology and Systems Biology, National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, Ljubljana 1000, Slovenia; Department of Biotechnology, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, Ljubljana 1000, Slovenia
| | - Jože Brzin
- Department of Biotechnology, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, Ljubljana 1000, Slovenia
| | - Meti Buh Gašparič
- Department of Biotechnology and Systems Biology, National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, Ljubljana 1000, Slovenia
| | - Janko Kos
- Department of Biotechnology, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, Ljubljana 1000, Slovenia; Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva cesta 7, Ljubljana 1000, Slovenia
| | - Jana Žel
- Department of Biotechnology and Systems Biology, National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, Ljubljana 1000, Slovenia
| | - Jerica Sabotič
- Department of Biotechnology, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, Ljubljana 1000, Slovenia.
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16
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Santamaria ME, Arnaiz A, Diaz-Mendoza M, Martinez M, Diaz I. Inhibitory properties of cysteine protease pro-peptides from barley confer resistance to spider mite feeding. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0128323. [PMID: 26039069 PMCID: PMC4454591 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 04/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
C1A plant cysteine proteases are synthesized as pre-pro-enzymes that need to be processed to become active by the pro-peptide claves off from its cognate enzyme. These pro-sequences play multifunctional roles including the capacity to specifically inhibit their own as well as other C1A protease activities from diverse origin. In this study, it is analysed the potential role of C1A pro-regions from barley as regulators of cysteine proteases in target phytophagous arthropods (coleopteran and acari). The in vitro inhibitory action of these pro-sequences, purified as recombinant proteins, is demonstrated. Moreover, transgenic Arabidopsis plants expressing different fragments of HvPap-1 barley gene containing the pro-peptide sequence were generated and the acaricide function was confirmed by bioassays conducted with the two-spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae. Feeding trials resulted in a significant reduction of leaf damage in the transgenic lines expressing the pro-peptide in comparison to non-transformed control and strongly correlated with an increase in mite mortality. Additionally, the analysis of the expression levels of a selection of potential mite targets (proteases and protease inhibitors) revealed a mite strategy to counteract the inhibitory activity produced by the C1A barley pro-prodomain. These findings demonstrate that pro-peptides can control mite pests and could be applied as defence proteins in biotechnological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Estrella Santamaria
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, Autovia M40 (km 38), Pozuelo de Alarcon, 28223 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Arnaiz
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, Autovia M40 (km 38), Pozuelo de Alarcon, 28223 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Diaz-Mendoza
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, Autovia M40 (km 38), Pozuelo de Alarcon, 28223 Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Martinez
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, Autovia M40 (km 38), Pozuelo de Alarcon, 28223 Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Diaz
- Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, Autovia M40 (km 38), Pozuelo de Alarcon, 28223 Madrid, Spain
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17
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Cingel A, Savić J, Vinterhalter B, Vinterhalter D, Kostić M, Šešlija Jovanović D, Smigocki A, Ninković S. Growth and development of Colorado potato beetle larvae, Leptinotarsa decemlineata, on potato plants expressing the oryzacystatin II proteinase inhibitor. Transgenic Res 2015; 24:729-40. [DOI: 10.1007/s11248-015-9873-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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18
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Ahmad R, Zuily-Fodil Y, Passaquet C, Ali Khan S, Repellin A. Molecular cloning, characterization and differential expression of novel phytocystatin gene during tropospheric ozone stress in maize (Zea mays) leaves. C R Biol 2015; 338:141-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.crvi.2014.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Revised: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/29/2014] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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19
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Valdés-Rodríguez S, Galván-Ramírez JP, Guerrero-Rangel A, Cedro-Tanda A. Multifunctional amaranth cystatin inhibits endogenous and digestive insect cysteine endopeptidases: A potential tool to prevent proteolysis and for the control of insect pests. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2015; 62:634-41. [DOI: 10.1002/bab.1313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Valdés-Rodríguez
- Cinvestav-Unidad Irapuato; Km 9.6 Libramiento Norte Carretera Irapuato León; Irapuato Guanajuato México
| | - Juan Pablo Galván-Ramírez
- Cinvestav-Unidad Irapuato; Km 9.6 Libramiento Norte Carretera Irapuato León; Irapuato Guanajuato México
| | - Armando Guerrero-Rangel
- Cinvestav-Unidad Irapuato; Km 9.6 Libramiento Norte Carretera Irapuato León; Irapuato Guanajuato México
| | - Alberto Cedro-Tanda
- Cinvestav-Unidad Irapuato; Km 9.6 Libramiento Norte Carretera Irapuato León; Irapuato Guanajuato México
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20
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Tan Y, Wang S, Liang D, Li M, Ma F. Genome-wide identification and expression profiling of the cystatin gene family in apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.). PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2014; 79:88-97. [PMID: 24704986 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2014.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Accepted: 03/11/2014] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Cystatins or phytocystatins (PhyCys) comprise a family of plant-specific inhibitors of cysteine proteinases. Such inhibitors are thought to be involved in the regulation of several endogenous processes as well as defense against biotic or abiotic stresses. However, information about this family is limited in apple. We identified 26 PhyCys genes within the entire apple genome. They were clustered into three distinct groups distributed across several chromosomes. All of their putative proteins contained one or two typical cystatin domains, which shared the characteristic motifs of PhyCys. Eight selected genes displayed differential expression patterns in various tissues. Moreover, their transcript levels were also up-regulated significantly in leaves during maturation, senescence or in response to treatment with one or more abiotic stresses. Our results indicated that members of this family may function in tissue development, leaf senescence, and adaptation to adverse environments in apple.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanxiao Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology in Arid Areas, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Suncai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology in Arid Areas, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China; College of Life Science and Chemistry, Tianshui Normal University, Tianshui, Gansu 748100, PR China
| | - Dong Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology in Arid Areas, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Mingjun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology in Arid Areas, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Fengwang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology in Arid Areas, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China.
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21
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Smid I, Gruden K, Buh Gašparič M, Koruza K, Petek M, Pohleven J, Brzin J, Kos J, Zel J, Sabotič J. Inhibition of the growth of colorado potato beetle larvae by macrocypins, protease inhibitors from the parasol mushroom. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2013; 61:12499-12509. [PMID: 24295324 DOI: 10.1021/jf403615f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Proteins from higher fungi have attracted interest because of their exceptional characteristics. Macrocypins, cysteine protease inhibitors from the parasol mushroom Macrolepiota procera , were evaluated for their adverse effects and their mode of action on the major potato pest Colorado potato beetle (CPB, Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say). They were shown to reduce larval growth when expressed in potato or when their recombinant analogues were added to the diet. Macrocypins target a specific set of digestive cysteine proteases, intestains. Additionally, protein-protein interaction analysis revealed potential targets among other digestive enzymes and proteins related to development and primary metabolism. No effect of dietary macrocypins on gene expression of known adaptation-related digestive enzymes was observed in CPB guts. Macrocypins are the first fungal protease inhibitors to be reported as having a negative effect on growth and development of CPB larvae and could also be evaluated as control agents for other pests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Smid
- Department of Biotechnology and Systems Biology, National Institute of Biology , Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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22
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Guo K, Bu Y, Takano T, Liu S, Zhang X. Arabidopsis cysteine proteinase inhibitor AtCYSb interacts with a Ca(2+)-dependent nuclease, AtCaN2. FEBS Lett 2013; 587:3417-21. [PMID: 24076026 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2013.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2013] [Revised: 08/31/2013] [Accepted: 09/10/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Plant cysteine proteinase inhibitors (cystatins) play important roles in plant defense mechanisms. Some proteins that interact with cystatins may defend against abiotic stresses. Here, we showed that AtCaN2, a Ca(2+)-dependent nuclease in Arabidopsis, is transcribed in senescent leaves and stems and interacts with an Arabidopsis cystatin (AtCYSb) in a yeast two-hybrid screen. The interaction between AtCYSb and AtCaN2 was confirmed by in vitro pull-down assay and bimolecular fluorescence complementation. Agarose gel electrophoresis showed that the nuclease activity of AtCaN2 against λDNA was inhibited by AtCYSb, which suggests that AtCYSb regulates nucleic acid degradation in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunyuan Guo
- Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration in Oil Field (SAVER), Ministry of Education, Alkali Soil Natural Environmental Science Center (ASNESC), Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
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23
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Santamaria ME, Cambra I, Martinez M, Pozancos C, González-Melendi P, Grbic V, Castañera P, Ortego F, Diaz I. Gene pyramiding of peptidase inhibitors enhances plant resistance to the spider mite Tetranychus urticae. PLoS One 2012; 7:e43011. [PMID: 22900081 PMCID: PMC3416837 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0043011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2012] [Accepted: 07/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The two-spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae is a damaging pest worldwide with a wide range of host plants and an extreme record of pesticide resistance. Recently, the complete T. urticae genome has been published and showed a proliferation of gene families associated with digestion and detoxification of plant secondary compounds which supports its polyphagous behaviour. To overcome spider mite adaptability a gene pyramiding approach has been developed by co-expressing two barley proteases inhibitors, the cystatin Icy6 and the trypsin inhibitor Itr1 genes in Arabidopsis plants by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. The presence and expression of both transgenes was studied by conventional and quantitative real time RT-PCR assays and by indirect ELISA assays. The inhibitory activity of cystatin and trypsin inhibitor was in vitro analysed using specific substrates. Single and double transformants were used to assess the effects of spider mite infestation. Double transformed lines showed the lowest damaged leaf area in comparison to single transformants and non-transformed controls and different accumulation of H(2)O(2) as defence response in the leaf feeding site, detected by diaminobenzidine staining. Additionally, an impact on endogenous mite cathepsin B- and L-like activities was observed after feeding on Arabidopsis lines, which correlates with a significant increase in the mortality of mites fed on transformed plants. These effects were analysed in view of the expression levels of the target mite protease genes, C1A cysteine peptidase and S1 serine peptidase, identified in the four developmental mite stages (embryo, larvae, nymphs and adults) performed using the RNA-seq information available at the BOGAS T. urticae database. The potential of pyramiding different classes of plant protease inhibitors to prevent plant damage caused by mites as a new tool to prevent pest resistance and to improve pest control is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Estrella Santamaria
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas (UPM-INIA). Campus Montegancedo Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Autopista M40 (km 38), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Biology Western University, Ontario, Canada
- Dpto. Biologia Medioambiental, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Manuel Martinez
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas (UPM-INIA). Campus Montegancedo Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Autopista M40 (km 38), Madrid, Spain
| | - Clara Pozancos
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas (UPM-INIA). Campus Montegancedo Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Autopista M40 (km 38), Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo González-Melendi
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas (UPM-INIA). Campus Montegancedo Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Autopista M40 (km 38), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Pedro Castañera
- Dpto. Biologia Medioambiental, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Felix Ortego
- Dpto. Biologia Medioambiental, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Diaz
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas (UPM-INIA). Campus Montegancedo Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Autopista M40 (km 38), Madrid, Spain
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Characterization of digestive enzymes of bruchid parasitoids-initial steps for environmental risk assessment of genetically modified legumes. PLoS One 2012; 7:e36862. [PMID: 22615826 PMCID: PMC3353970 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0036862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2012] [Accepted: 04/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetically modified (GM) legumes expressing the α-amylase inhibitor 1 (αAI-1) from Phaseolus vulgaris L. or cysteine protease inhibitors are resistant to several bruchid pests (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). In addition, the combination of plant resistance factors together with hymenopteran parasitoids can substantially increase the bruchid control provided by the resistance alone. If the strategy of combining a bruchid-resistant GM legume and biological control is to be effective, the insecticidal trait must not adversely affect bruchid antagonists. The environmental risk assessment of such GM legumes includes the characterization of the targeted enzymes in the beneficial species and the assessment of the in vitro susceptibility to the resistance factor. The digestive physiology of bruchid parasitoids remain relatively unknown, and their susceptibility to αAI-1 has never been investigated. We have detected α-amylase and serine protease activities in all five bruchid parasitoid species tested. Thus, the deployment of GM legumes expressing cysteine protease inhibitors to control bruchids should be compatible with the use of parasitoids. In vitro inhibition studies showed that sensitivity of α-amylase activity to αAI-1 in the parasitoids was comparable to that in the target species. Direct feeding assays revealed that harmful effects of α-amylase inhibitors on bruchid parasitoids cannot be discounted and need further evaluation.
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Martínez M, Cambra I, González-Melendi P, Santamaría ME, Díaz I. C1A cysteine-proteases and their inhibitors in plants. PHYSIOLOGIA PLANTARUM 2012; 145:85-94. [PMID: 22221156 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3054.2012.01569.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Plant cysteine-proteases (CysProt) represent a well-characterized type of proteolytic enzymes that fulfill tightly regulated physiological functions (senescence and seed germination among others) and defense roles. This article is focused on the group of papain-proteases C1A (family C1, clan CA) and their inhibitors, phytocystatins (PhyCys). In particular, the protease-inhibitor interaction and their mutual participation in specific pathways throughout the plant's life are reviewed. C1A CysProt and PhyCys have been molecularly characterized, and comparative sequence analyses have identified consensus functional motifs. A correlation can be established between the number of identified CysProt and PhyCys in angiosperms. Thus, evolutionary forces may have determined a control role of cystatins on both endogenous and pest-exogenous proteases in these species. Tagging the proteases and inhibitors with fluorescence proteins revealed common patterns of subcellular localization in the endoplasmic reticulum-Golgi network in transiently transformed onion epidermal cells. Further in vivo interactions were demonstrated by bimolecular fluorescent complementation, suggesting their participation in the same physiological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Martínez
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas (UPM-INIA), Campus Montegancedo, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain
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26
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Zibaee A, Hoda H, Mahmoud FD. Role of proteases in extra-oral digestion of a predatory bug, Andrallus spinidens. JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2012; 12:51. [PMID: 22954419 PMCID: PMC3476955 DOI: 10.1673/031.012.5101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2011] [Accepted: 09/09/2011] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Roles of salivary proteases in the extra-oral digestion of the predatory bug, Andrallus spinidens Fabricius (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) were studied by using 2% azocasein as a general substrate and specific protease substrates, as well as synthetic and endogenous inhibitors. It was found that salivary glands of A. spinidens have two anterior, two lateral, and two posterior lobes. Azocasein was used to measure the activity of general proteases in the salivary glands using different buffer solutions. The enzyme had the highest activity at pH 8. General protease activity was highest at 40 °C and was stable for 6-16 hours. The use of specific substrates showed that trypsin-like, chymotrypsin-like, aminopeptidase, and carboxypeptidase are the active proteases present in salivary glands, by the maximum activity of trypsin-like protease in addition to their optimal pH between 8-9. Ca(2+) and Mg(2+) increased proteolytic activity about 216%, while other ions decreased it. Specific inhibitors including SBTI, PMSF, TLCK, and TPCK significantly decreased enzyme activity, as well as the specific inhibitors of methalloproteases including phenanthroline, EGTA, and TTHA. Extracted endogenous trypsin inhibitors extracted from potential prey, Chilo suppressalis, Naranga aenescens, Pieris brassicae, Hyphantria cunea, and Ephestia kuhniella, had different effects on trypsin-like protease activity of A. spinidens salivary glands. With the exception of C. suppressalis, the endogenous inhibitors significantly decreased enzyme activity in A. spinidens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Zibaee
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Agriculture, University of Guilan-Rasht, 41635-1314, Iran
| | - Hassan Hoda
- Biological Control Department, National Institite of Plant Protection, Amol, Iran
| | - Fazeli-Dinan Mahmoud
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj 31584, Iran
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Fonseca FPP, Soares-Costa A, Ribeiro AF, Rosa JC, Terra WR, Henrique-Silva F. Recombinant expression, localization and in vitro inhibition of midgut cysteine peptidase (Sl-CathL) from sugarcane weevil, Sphenophorus levis. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2012; 42:58-69. [PMID: 22100428 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2011.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2011] [Revised: 10/10/2011] [Accepted: 10/18/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
A cDNA coding for a digestive cathepsin L, denominated Sl-CathL, was isolated from a cDNA library of Sphenophorus levis larvae, representing the most abundant EST (10.49%) responsible for proteolysis in the midgut. The open reading frame of 972 bp encodes a preproenzyme similar to midgut cathepsin L-like enzymes in other coleopterans. Recombinant Sl-CathL was expressed in Pichia pastoris, with molecular mass of about 42 kDa. The recombinant protein was catalytically activated at low pH and the mature enzyme of 39 kDa displayed thermal instability and maximal activity at 37°C and pH 6.0. Immunocytochemical analysis revealed Sl-CathL production in the midgut epithelium and secretion from vesicles containing the enzyme into the gut lumen, confirming an important role for this enzyme in the digestion of the insect larvae. The expression profile identified by RT-PCR through the biological cycle indicates that Sl-CathL is mainly produced in larval stages, with peak expression in 30-day-old larvae. At this stage, the enzyme is 1250-fold more expressed than in the pupal fase, in which the lowest expression level is detected. This enzyme is also produced in the adult stage, albeit in lesser abundance, assuming the presence of a different array of enzymes in the digestive system of adults. Tissue-specific analysis revealed that Sl-CathL mRNA synthesis occurs fundamentally in the larval midgut, thereby confirming its function as a digestive enzyme, as detected in immunolocalization assays. The catalytic efficiency of the purified recombinant enzyme was calculated using different substrates (Z-Leu-Arg-AMC, Z-Arg-Arg-AMC and Z-Phe-Arg-AMC) and rSl-CathL exhibited hydrolysis preference for Z-Leu-Arg-AMC (k(cat)/K(m)=37.53 mMS(-1)), which is similar to other insect cathepsin L-like enzymes. rSl-CathL activity inhibition assays were performed using four recombinant sugarcane cystatins. rSl-CathL was strongly inhibited by recombinant cystatin CaneCPI-4 (K(i)=0.196 nM), indicating that this protease is a potential target for pest control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando P P Fonseca
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Federal University of São Carlos, 13565-905 São Carlos, Brazil
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Carrillo L, Herrero I, Cambra I, Sánchez-Monge R, Diaz I, Martinez M. Differential in vitro and in vivo effect of barley cysteine and serine protease inhibitors on phytopathogenic microorganisms. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2011; 49:1191-200. [PMID: 21482127 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2011.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2011] [Accepted: 03/16/2011] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Protease inhibitors from plants have been involved in defence mechanisms against pests and pathogens. Phytocystatins and trypsin/α-amylase inhibitors are two of the best characterized protease inhibitor families in plants. In barley, thirteen cystatins (HvCPI-1 to 13) and the BTI-CMe trypsin inhibitor have been previously studied. Their capacity to inhibit pest digestive proteases, and the negative in vivo effect caused by plants expressing these inhibitors on pests support the defence function of these proteins. Barley cystatins are also able to inhibit in vitro fungal growth. However, the antifungal effect of these inhibitors in vivo had not been previously tested. Moreover, their in vitro and in vivo effect on plant pathogenous bacteria is still unknown. In order to obtain new insights on this feature, in vitro assays were made against different bacterial and fungal pathogens of plants using the trypsin inhibitor BTI-CMe and the thirteen barley cystatins. Most barley cystatins and the BTI-CMe inhibitor were able to inhibit mycelial growth but no bacterial growth. Transgenic Arabidopsis plants independently expressing the BTI-CMe inhibitor and the cystatin HvCPI-6 were tested against the same bacterial and fungal pathogens. Neither the HvCPI-6 expressing transgenic plants nor the BTI-CMe ones were more resistant to plant pathogen fungi and bacteria than control Arabidopsis plants. The differences observed between the in vitro and in planta assays against phytopathogenic fungi are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Carrillo
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas, Campus Montegancedo, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Autovía M40 (Km 38), 28223-Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain
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Citadin CT, Ibrahim AB, Aragão FJL. Genetic engineering in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata): history, status and prospects. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 2:144-9. [PMID: 22179190 DOI: 10.4161/gmcr.2.3.18069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In the last three decades, a number of attempts have been made to develop reproducible protocols for generating transgenic cowpea that permit the expression of genes of agronomic importance. Pioneer works focused on the development of such systems vis-à-vis an in vitro culture system that would guarantee de novo regeneration of transgenic cowpea arising from cells amenable to one form of gene delivery system or another, but any such system has eluded researchers over the years. Despite this apparent failure, significant progress has been made in generating transgenic cowpea, bringing researchers much nearer to their goal than thirty years ago. Now, various researchers have successfully established transgenic procedures for cowpea with evidence of inherent transgenes of interest, effected by progenies in a Mendelian fashion. New opportunities have thus emerged to optimize existing protocols and devise new strategies to ensure the development of transgenic cowpea with desirable agronomic traits. This review chronicles the important milestones in the last thirty years that have marked the evolution of genetic engineering of cowpea. It also highlights the progress made and describes new strategies that have arisen, culminating in the current status of transgenic technologies for cowpea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiane T Citadin
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biologia Molecular; Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasilia, Brasília, Brazil
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Alvarez-Alfageme F, Maharramov J, Carrillo L, Vandenabeele S, Vercammen D, Van Breusegem F, Smagghe G. Potential use of a serpin from Arabidopsis for pest control. PLoS One 2011; 6:e20278. [PMID: 21655276 PMCID: PMC3104999 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0020278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2011] [Accepted: 04/25/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although genetically modified (GM) plants expressing toxins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) protect agricultural crops against lepidopteran and coleopteran pests, field-evolved resistance to Bt toxins has been reported for populations of several lepidopteran species. Moreover, some important agricultural pests, like phloem-feeding insects, are not susceptible to Bt crops. Complementary pest control strategies are therefore necessary to assure that the benefits provided by those insect-resistant transgenic plants are not compromised and to target those pests that are not susceptible. Experimental GM plants producing plant protease inhibitors have been shown to confer resistance against a wide range of agricultural pests. In this study we assessed the potential of AtSerpin1, a serpin from Arabidopsis thaliana (L). Heynh., for pest control. In vitro assays were conducted with a wide range of pests that rely mainly on either serine or cysteine proteases for digestion and also with three non-target organisms occurring in agricultural crops. AtSerpin1 inhibited proteases from all pest and non-target species assayed. Subsequently, the cotton leafworm Spodoptera littoralis Boisduval and the pea aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) were fed on artificial diets containing AtSerpin1, and S. littoralis was also fed on transgenic Arabidopsis plants overproducing AtSerpin1. AtSerpin1 supplied in the artificial diet or by transgenic plants reduced the growth of S. littoralis larvae by 65% and 38%, respectively, relative to controls. Nymphs of A. pisum exposed to diets containing AtSerpin1 suffered high mortality levels (LC50 = 637 µg ml−1). The results indicate that AtSerpin1 is a good candidate for exploitation in pest control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Alvarez-Alfageme
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
- * E-mail: (F-AA); (GS)
| | - Jafar Maharramov
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Laura Carrillo
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Steven Vandenabeele
- VIB Department of Plant Systems Biology, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Genetics, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Dominique Vercammen
- VIB Department of Plant Systems Biology, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Genetics, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Frank Van Breusegem
- VIB Department of Plant Systems Biology, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Genetics, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
- * E-mail: (F-AA); (GS)
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Gatehouse AMR, Ferry N, Edwards MG, Bell HA. Insect-resistant biotech crops and their impacts on beneficial arthropods. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2011; 366:1438-52. [PMID: 21444317 PMCID: PMC3081576 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2010.0330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
With a projected population of 10 billion by 2050, an immediate priority for agriculture is to achieve increased crop yields in a sustainable and cost-effective way. The concept of using a transgenic approach was realized in the mid-1990s with the commercial introduction of genetically modified (GM) crops. By 2010, the global value of the seed alone was US $11.2 billion, with commercial biotech maize, soya bean grain and cotton valued at approximately US $150 billion. In recent years, it has become evident that insect-resistant crops expressing δ-endotoxin genes from Bacillus thuringiensis have made a significant beneficial impact on global agriculture, not least in terms of pest reduction and improved quality. However, because of the potential for pest populations to evolve resistance, and owing to lack of effective control of homopteran pests, alternative strategies are being developed. Some of these are based on Bacillus spp. or other insect pathogens, while others are based on the use of plant- and animal-derived genes. However, if such approaches are to play a useful role in crop protection, it is desirable that they do not have a negative impact on beneficial organisms at higher trophic levels thus affecting the functioning of the agro-ecosystem. This widely held concern over the ecological impacts of GM crops has led to the extensive examination of the potential effects of a range of transgene proteins on non-target and beneficial insects. The findings to date with respect to both commercial and experimental GM crops expressing anti-insect genes are discussed here, with particular emphasis on insect predators and parasitoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M R Gatehouse
- School of Biology, Institute for Research on Environment and Sustainability, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK.
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Carrillo L, Martinez M, Ramessar K, Cambra I, Castañera P, Ortego F, Díaz I. Expression of a barley cystatin gene in maize enhances resistance against phytophagous mites by altering their cysteine-proteases. PLANT CELL REPORTS 2011; 30:101-12. [PMID: 21082183 DOI: 10.1007/s00299-010-0948-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2010] [Accepted: 10/28/2010] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Phytocystatins are inhibitors of cysteine-proteases from plants putatively involved in plant defence based on their capability of inhibit heterologous enzymes. We have previously characterised the whole cystatin gene family members from barley (HvCPI-1 to HvCPI-13). The aim of this study was to assess the effects of barley cystatins on two phytophagous spider mites, Tetranychus urticae and Brevipalpus chilensis. The determination of proteolytic activity profile in both mite species showed the presence of the cysteine-proteases, putative targets of cystatins, among other enzymatic activities. All barley cystatins, except HvCPI-1 and HvCPI-7, inhibited in vitro mite cathepsin L- and/or cathepsin B-like activities, HvCPI-6 being the strongest inhibitor for both mite species. Transgenic maize plants expressing HvCPI-6 protein were generated and the functional integrity of the cystatin transgene was confirmed by in vitro inhibitory effect observed against T. urticae and B. chilensis protein extracts. Feeding experiments impaired on transgenic lines performed with T. urticae impaired mite development and reproductive performance. Besides, a significant reduction of cathepsin L-like and/or cathepsin B-like activities was observed when the spider mite fed on maize plants expressing HvCPI-6 cystatin. These findings reveal the potential of barley cystatins as acaricide proteins to protect plants against two important mite pests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Carrillo
- Dpto. Biología Medioambiental, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Ramiro de Maéztu 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Schlüter U, Benchabane M, Munger A, Kiggundu A, Vorster J, Goulet MC, Cloutier C, Michaud D. Recombinant protease inhibitors for herbivore pest control: a multitrophic perspective. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2010; 61:4169-83. [PMID: 20581122 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erq166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Protease inhibitors are a promising complement to Bt toxins for the development of insect-resistant transgenic crops, but their limited specificity against proteolytic enzymes and the ubiquity of protease-dependent processes in living organisms raise questions about their eventual non-target effects in agroecosystems. After a brief overview of the main factors driving the impacts of insect-resistant transgenic crops on non-target organisms, the possible effects of protease inhibitors are discussed from a multitrophic perspective, taking into account not only the target herbivore proteases but also the proteases of other organisms found along the trophic chain, including the plant itself. Major progress has been achieved in recent years towards the design of highly potent broad-spectrum inhibitors and the field deployment of protease inhibitor-expressing transgenic plants resistant to major herbivore pests. A thorough assessment of the current literature suggests that, whereas the non-specific inhibitory effects of recombinant protease inhibitors in plant food webs could often be negligible and their 'unintended' pleiotropic effects in planta of potential agronomic value, the innocuity of these proteins might always remain an issue to be assessed empirically, on a case-by-case basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urte Schlüter
- Plant Science Department, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Carrillo L, Martinez M, Álvarez-Alfageme F, Castañera P, Smagghe G, Diaz I, Ortego F. A barley cysteine-proteinase inhibitor reduces the performance of two aphid species in artificial diets and transgenic Arabidopsis plants. Transgenic Res 2010; 20:305-19. [DOI: 10.1007/s11248-010-9417-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2010] [Accepted: 06/04/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Benchabane M, Schlüter U, Vorster J, Goulet MC, Michaud D. Plant cystatins. Biochimie 2010; 92:1657-66. [PMID: 20558232 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2010.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2010] [Accepted: 06/08/2010] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Plant cystatins have been the object of intense research since the publication of a first paper reporting their existence more than 20 years ago. These ubiquitous inhibitors of Cys proteases play several important roles in plants, from the control of various physiological and cellular processes in planta to the inhibition of exogenous Cys proteases secreted by herbivorous arthropods and pathogens to digest or colonize plant tissues. After an overview of current knowledge about the evolution, structure and inhibitory mechanism of plant cystatins, we review the different roles attributed to these proteins in plants. The potential of recombinant plant cystatins as effective pesticidal proteins in crop protection is also considered, as well as protein engineering approaches adopted over the years to improve their inhibitory potency and specificity towards Cys proteases of biotechnological interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meriem Benchabane
- Département de phytologie, CRH/INAF, Université Laval, Québec (QC), Canada G1V 0A6
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Kiggundu A, Muchwezi J, Van der Vyver C, Viljoen A, Vorster J, Schlüter U, Kunert K, Michaud D. Deleterious effects of plant cystatins against the banana weevil Cosmopolites sordidus. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2010; 73:87-105. [PMID: 20035549 DOI: 10.1002/arch.20342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The general potential of plant cystatins for the development of insect-resistant transgenic plants still remains to be established given the natural ability of several insects to compensate for the loss of digestive cysteine protease activities. Here we assessed the potential of cystatins for the development of banana lines resistant to the banana weevil Cosmopolites sordidus, a major pest of banana and plantain in Africa. Protease inhibitory assays were conducted with protein and methylcoumarin (MCA) peptide substrates to measure the inhibitory efficiency of different cystatins in vitro, followed by a diet assay with cystatin-infiltrated banana stem disks to monitor the impact of two plant cystatins, oryzacystatin I (OC-I, or OsCYS1) and papaya cystatin (CpCYS1), on the overall growth rate of weevil larvae. As observed earlier for other Coleoptera, banana weevils produce a variety of proteases for dietary protein digestion, including in particular Z-Phe-Arg-MCA-hydrolyzing (cathepsin L-like) and Z-Arg-Arg-MCA-hydrolyzing (cathepsin B-like) proteases active in mildly acidic conditions. Both enzyme populations were sensitive to the cysteine protease inhibitor E-64 and to different plant cystatins including OsCYS1. In line with the broad inhibitory effects of cystatins, OsCYS1 and CpCYS1 caused an important growth delay in young larvae developing for 10 days in cystatin-infiltrated banana stem disks. These promising results, which illustrate the susceptibility of C. sordidus to plant cystatins, are discussed in the light of recent hypotheses suggesting a key role for cathepsin B-like enzymes as a determinant for resistance or susceptibility to plant cystatins in Coleoptera.
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Martinez M, Cambra I, Carrillo L, Diaz-Mendoza M, Diaz I. Characterization of the entire cystatin gene family in barley and their target cathepsin L-like cysteine-proteases, partners in the hordein mobilization during seed germination. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2009; 151:1531-45. [PMID: 19759340 PMCID: PMC2773090 DOI: 10.1104/pp.109.146019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2009] [Accepted: 09/07/2009] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Plant cystatins are inhibitors of cysteine-proteases of the papain C1A and legumain C13 families. Cystatin data from multiple plant species have suggested that these inhibitors act as defense proteins against pests and pathogens and as regulators of protein turnover. In this study, we characterize the entire cystatin gene family from barley (Hordeum vulgare), which contain 13 nonredundant genes, and identify and characterize their target enzymes, the barley cathepsin L-like proteases. Cystatins and proteases were expressed and purified from Escherichia coli cultures. Each cystatin was found to have different inhibitory capability against barley cysteine-proteases in in vitro inhibitory assays using specific substrates. Real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction revealed that inhibitors and enzymes present a wide variation in their messenger RNA expression patterns. Their transcripts were mainly detected in developing and germinating seeds, and some of them were also expressed in leaves and roots. Subcellular localization of cystatins and cathepsin L-like proteases fused to green fluorescent protein demonstrated the presence of both protein families throughout the endoplasmic reticulum and the Golgi complex. Proteases and cystatins not only colocalized but also interacted in vivo in the plant cell, as revealed by bimolecular fluorescence complementation. The functional relationship between cystatins and cathepsin L-like proteases was inferred from their common implication as counterparts of mobilization of storage proteins upon barley seed germination. The opposite pattern of transcription expression in gibberellin-treated aleurones presented by inhibitors and enzymes allowed proteases to specifically degrade B, C, and D hordeins stored in the endosperm of barley seeds.
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Pascual-Ruiz S, Carrillo L, Alvarez-Alfageme F, Ruíz M, Castañera P, Ortego F. The effects of different prey regimes on the proteolytic digestion of nymphs of the spined soldier bug, Podisus maculiventris (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). BULLETIN OF ENTOMOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2009; 99:487-491. [PMID: 19203402 DOI: 10.1017/s0007485308006561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The effects of different prey regimes on the performance and digestive physiology of the spined soldier bug, Podisus maculiventris (Say) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), were assessed. Specifically, P. maculiventris nymphs were fed on Colorado potato beetle (CPB), Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), larvae; Egyptian cotton leafworm (ECW); Spodoptera littoralis (Boisduval) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae); larvae; Calliphora spp. (CAL) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) pupae or a mixture of the three prey. No differences in development and weight gain were observed when P. maculiventris nymphs were fed different prey species (CPB, ECW or CAL). However, an increase in weight gain and a reduction in the duration of the stadia were observed for nymphs fed with a mixture of the three prey. To investigate the physiological background, biochemical analysis were carried out on insects dissected at the end of the feeding assay. We have found that the proteolytic activity in the salivary glands of P. maculiventris nymphs was not affected by prey species, whereas the relative activity of these proteases in the midgut depends on the prey. Moreover, gel assays proved that the proteolytic profiles of midguts from P. maculiventris nymphs feeding on CPB, ECW and CPB closely resembled those of their prey. All together, these results suggest that P. maculiventris may utilize enzymes from the prey they consume that may facilitate the process of digestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Pascual-Ruiz
- Departamento de Biología de Plantas, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
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Lövei GL, Andow DA, Arpaia S. Transgenic insecticidal crops and natural enemies: a detailed review of laboratory studies. ENVIRONMENTAL ENTOMOLOGY 2009; 38:293-306. [PMID: 19389277 DOI: 10.1603/022.038.0201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
This review uses a data-driven, quantitative method to summarize the published, peer-reviewed literature about the impact of genetically modified (GM) plants on arthropod natural enemies in laboratory experiments. The method is similar to meta-analysis, and, in contrast to a simple author-vote counting method used by several earlier reviews, gives an objective, data-driven summary of existing knowledge about these effects. Significantly more non-neutral responses were observed than expected at random in 75% of the comparisons of natural enemy groups and response classes. These observations indicate that Cry toxins and proteinase inhibitors often have non-neutral effects on natural enemies. This synthesis identifies a continued bias toward studies on a few predator species, especially the green lacewing, Chrysoperla carnea Stephens, which may be more sensitive to GM insecticidal plants (16.8% of the quantified parameter responses were significantly negative) than predators in general (10.9% significantly negative effects without C. carnea). Parasitoids were more susceptible than predators to the effects of both Cry toxins and proteinase inhibitors, with fewer positive effects (18.0%, significant and nonsignificant positive effects combined) than negative ones (66.1%, significant and nonsignificant negative effects combined). GM plants can have a positive effect on natural enemies (4.8% of responses were significantly positive), although significant negative (21.2%) effects were more common. Although there are data on 48 natural enemy species, the database is still far from adequate to predict the effect of a Bt toxin or proteinase inhibitor on natural enemies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabor L Lövei
- Department of Integrated Pest Management, Aarhus University, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Flakkebjerg Research Centre, DK-4200 Slagelse, Denmark.
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Martinez M, Diaz I. The origin and evolution of plant cystatins and their target cysteine proteinases indicate a complex functional relationship. BMC Evol Biol 2008; 8:198. [PMID: 18616807 PMCID: PMC2474614 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2148-8-198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2008] [Accepted: 07/10/2008] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cystatins and their putative targets, the families of cysteine proteinases C1A and C13 play key roles in plants. Comparative genomic analyses are powerful tools to obtain valuable insights into the conservation and evolution of the proteinases and their proteinaceous inhibitors, and could aid to elucidate issues concerning the function of these proteins. RESULTS We have performed an evolutionary comparative analysis of cysteine proteinases C1A and C13 and their putative inhibitors in representative species of different taxonomic groups that appeared during the evolution of the Viridiplantae. The results indicate that whereas C1A cysteine proteinases are present in all taxonomic groups, cystatins and C13 cysteine proteinases are absent in some basal groups. Moreover, gene duplication events have been associated to the increasing structural and functional complexities acquired in land plants. CONCLUSION Comparative genomic analyses have provided us valuable insights into the conservation and evolution of the cystatin inhibitory family and their putative targets, the cysteine proteinases from families C1A and C13. Functionality of both families of proteins in plants must be the result of a coevolutionary process that might have occurred during the evolution of basal and land plants leading to a complex functional relationship among them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Martinez
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Dpto. de Biotecnología-Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas-Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, ETS Ingenieros Agrónomos, Ciudad Universitaria s/n. 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Diaz
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Dpto. de Biotecnología-Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas-Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, ETS Ingenieros Agrónomos, Ciudad Universitaria s/n. 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Benchabane M, Goulet MC, Dallaire C, Côté PL, Michaud D. Hybrid protease inhibitors for pest and pathogen control--a functional cost for the fusion partners? PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2008; 46:701-708. [PMID: 18550379 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2008.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2007] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Fusion proteins integrating dual pesticidal functions have been devised over the last 10 years to improve the effectiveness and potential durability of pest-resistant transgenic crops, but little attention has been paid to the impact of the fusion partners on the actual activity of the resulting hybrids. Here we assessed the ability of the rice cysteine protease inhibitor, oryzacystatin I (OCI), to retain its protease inhibitory potency when used as a template to devise hybrid inhibitors with dual activity against papain-like proteases and carboxypeptidase A (CPA). C-terminal variants of OCI were generated by fusing to its C-terminal end: (i) the primary inhibitory site of the small CPA inhibitor potato carboxypeptidase inhibitor (PCI, amino acids 35-39); or (ii) the complete sequence of PCI (a.a. 1-39). The hybrid inhibitors were expressed in E. coli and tested for their inhibitory activity against papain, CPA and digestive cysteine proteases of herbivorous and predatory arthropods. In contrast with the primary inhibitory site of PCI, the entire PCI attached to OCI was as active against CPA as free, purified PCI. The OCI-PCI hybrids also showed activity against papain, but the presence of extra amino acids at the C terminus of OCI negatively altered its inhibitory potency against cysteine proteases. This negative effect, although not preventing dual binding to papain and CPA, was correlated with an increased binding affinity for papain presumably due to non-specific interactions with the PCI domain. These results confirm the potential of OCI and PCI for the design of fusion inhibitors with dual protease inhibitory activity, but also point out the possible functional costs associated with protein domain grafting to recipient pesticidal proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meriem Benchabane
- CRH/INAF, Pavillon des Services (INAF), Université Laval, Québec, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada
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Goulet MC, Dallaire C, Vaillancourt LP, Khalf M, Badri AM, Preradov A, Duceppe MO, Goulet C, Cloutier C, Michaud D. Tailoring the specificity of a plant cystatin toward herbivorous insect digestive cysteine proteases by single mutations at positively selected amino acid sites. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2008; 146:1010-9. [PMID: 18192440 PMCID: PMC2259044 DOI: 10.1104/pp.108.115741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2008] [Accepted: 01/08/2008] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Plant cystatins, similar to other defense proteins, include hypervariable, positively selected amino acid sites presumably impacting their biological activity. Using 29 single mutants of the eighth domain of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) multicystatin, SlCYS8, we assessed here the potential of site-directed mutagenesis at positively selected amino acid sites to generate cystatin variants with improved inhibitory potency and specificity toward herbivorous insect digestive cysteine (Cys) proteases. Compared to SlCYS8, several mutants (22 out of 29) exhibited either improved or lowered potency against different model Cys proteases, strongly suggesting the potential of positively selected amino acids as target sites to modulate the inhibitory specificity of the cystatin toward Cys proteases of agronomic significance. Accordingly, mutations at positively selected sites strongly influenced the inhibitory potency of SlCYS8 against digestive Cys proteases of the insect herbivore Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata). In particular, several variants exhibited improved potency against both cystatin-sensitive and cystatin-insensitive digestive Cys proteases of this insect. Of these, some variants also showed weaker activity against leaf Cys proteases of the host plant (potato [Solanum tuberosum]) and against a major digestive Cys protease of the two-spotted stinkbug Perillus bioculatus, an insect predator of Colorado potato beetle showing potential for biological control. Overall, these observations suggest the usefulness of site-directed mutagenesis at positively selected amino acid sites for the engineering of recombinant cystatins with both improved inhibitory potency toward the digestive proteases of target herbivores and weaker potency against nontarget Cys proteases in the host plant or the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Claire Goulet
- Département de Phytologie, Pavillon des Services, Centre de Recherche en Horticulture, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
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