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Silva JRDA, de Oliveira AA, França LP, da Cruz JD, Amaral ACF. Exploring the Larvicidal and Adulticidal Activity against Aedes aegypti of Essential Oil from Bocageopsis multiflora. Molecules 2024; 29:2240. [PMID: 38792102 PMCID: PMC11124082 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29102240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the chemical composition of the essential oil obtained from the leaves of Bocageopsis multiflora (Mart.) R.E.Fr (Annonaceae), examining its effectiveness in combating both the larvae and adult forms of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Additionally, for a deeper understanding of the insecticidal activity, toxicity properties and molecular docking calculations were conducted using the main compounds of this essential oil. GC/MS analysis revealed the presence of 26 constituents, representing 95.2% of the essential oil, with the major components identified as the sesquiterpenes α-selinene, β-selinene, and β-elemene. Larvicidal assays demonstrated potent activity of this essential oil with significant LC50 values of 40.8 and 39.4 μg/mL at 24 and 48 h, respectively. Adulticidal assessments highlighted strong efficacy with LC50 of 12.5 µg/mL. Molecular docking analysis identified optimal interaction activities of α-selinene and β-selinene with key Aedes proteins. The in silico studies comparing synthetic insecticides with the major sesquiterpenes of the essential oil revealed that β-selinene exhibited a significantly higher binding affinity compared to the other two sesquiterpenes. Also, ADMET studies of the three main sesquiterpenes indicated acceptable drug-like properties. In these findings, safety evaluations showed low toxicity and skin sensitization for the main sesquiterpenes, contrasting with commercial synthetic insecticides. Therefore, in silico analyses suggest promising interactions with Aedes proteins, indicating its potential as an effective alternative to conventional insecticides These results show the larvicidal and adulticidal potential of the essential oil from Bocageopsis multiflora against Aedes aegypti, supported by its predominant constituents, α-selinene, β-selinene and β-elemene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jefferson Rocha de Andrade Silva
- Laboratório de Cromatografia, Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus 69077-000, Brazil; (A.A.d.O.); (L.P.F.)
| | - Aimêe Almeida de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Cromatografia, Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus 69077-000, Brazil; (A.A.d.O.); (L.P.F.)
| | - Leandro Pereira França
- Laboratório de Cromatografia, Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus 69077-000, Brazil; (A.A.d.O.); (L.P.F.)
| | - Jefferson Diocesano da Cruz
- Laboratório de Plantas Medicinais e Derivados, Farmanguinhos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21041-250, Brazil;
| | - Ana Claudia Fernandes Amaral
- Laboratório de Plantas Medicinais e Derivados, Farmanguinhos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21041-250, Brazil;
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Croce AC, Garbelli A, Moyano A, Soldano S, Tejeda-Guzmán C, Missirlis F, Scolari F. Developmental and Nutritional Dynamics of Malpighian Tubule Autofluorescence in the Asian Tiger Mosquito Aedes albopictus. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:245. [PMID: 38203417 PMCID: PMC10778832 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Malpighian tubules (MTs) are arthropod excretory organs crucial for the osmoregulation, detoxification and excretion of xenobiotics and metabolic wastes, which include tryptophan degradation products along the kynurenine (KYN) pathway. Specifically, the toxic intermediate 3-hydroxy kynurenine (3-HK) is metabolized through transamination to xanthurenic acid or in the synthesis of ommochrome pigments. Early investigations in Drosophila larval fat bodies revealed an intracellular autofluorescence (AF) that depended on tryptophan administration. Subsequent observations documented AF changes in the MTs of Drosophila eye-color mutants genetically affecting the conversion of tryptophan to KYN or 3-HK and the intracellular availability of zinc ions. In the present study, the AF properties of the MTs in the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, were characterized in different stages of the insect's life cycle, tryptophan-administered larvae and blood-fed adult females. Confocal imaging and microspectroscopy showed AF changes in the distribution of intracellular, brilliant granules and in the emission spectral shape and amplitude between the proximal and distal segments of MTs across the different samples. The findings suggest AF can serve as a promising marker for investigating the functional status of MTs in response to metabolic alterations, contributing to the use of MTs as a potential research model in biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Cleta Croce
- Institute of Molecular Genetics IGM CNR “Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza”, Via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.G.); (A.M.); (S.S.)
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Garbelli
- Institute of Molecular Genetics IGM CNR “Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza”, Via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.G.); (A.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Andrea Moyano
- Institute of Molecular Genetics IGM CNR “Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza”, Via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.G.); (A.M.); (S.S.)
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Sara Soldano
- Institute of Molecular Genetics IGM CNR “Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza”, Via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.G.); (A.M.); (S.S.)
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Carlos Tejeda-Guzmán
- Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Neuroscience, Cinvestav, Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (C.T.-G.); (F.M.)
| | - Fanis Missirlis
- Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Neuroscience, Cinvestav, Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (C.T.-G.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesca Scolari
- Institute of Molecular Genetics IGM CNR “Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza”, Via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.G.); (A.M.); (S.S.)
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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Maciel L, Ferraz MVF, Oliveira AA, Lins RD, dos Anjos J, Guido RVC, Soares TA. Inhibition of 3-Hydroxykynurenine Transaminase from Aedes aegypti and Anopheles gambiae: A Mosquito-Specific Target to Combat the Transmission of Arboviruses. ACS BIO & MED CHEM AU 2023; 3:211-222. [PMID: 37101811 PMCID: PMC10125267 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomedchemau.2c00080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Arboviral infections such as Zika, chikungunya, dengue, and yellow fever pose significant health problems globally. The population at risk is expanding with the geographical distribution of the main transmission vector of these viruses, the Aedes aegypti mosquito. The global spreading of this mosquito is driven by human migration, urbanization, climate change, and the ecological plasticity of the species. Currently, there are no specific treatments for Aedes-borne infections. One strategy to combat different mosquito-borne arboviruses is to design molecules that can specifically inhibit a critical host protein. We obtained the crystal structure of 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase (AeHKT) from A. aegypti, an essential detoxification enzyme of the tryptophan metabolism pathway. Since AeHKT is found exclusively in mosquitoes, it provides the ideal molecular target for the development of inhibitors. Therefore, we determined and compared the free binding energy of the inhibitors 4-(2-aminophenyl)-4-oxobutyric acid (4OB) and sodium 4-(3-phenyl-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-yl)butanoate (OXA) to AeHKT and AgHKT from Anopheles gambiae, the only crystal structure of this enzyme previously known. The cocrystallized inhibitor 4OB binds to AgHKT with K i of 300 μM. We showed that OXA binds to both AeHKT and AgHKT enzymes with binding energies 2-fold more favorable than the crystallographic inhibitor 4OB and displayed a 2-fold greater residence time τ upon binding to AeHKT than 4OB. These findings indicate that the 1,2,4-oxadiazole derivatives are inhibitors of the HKT enzyme not only from A. aegypti but also from A. gambiae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa
G. Maciel
- Department
of Fundamental Chemistry, Federal University
of Pernambuco, 50740-560 Recife, Brazil
| | - Matheus V. F. Ferraz
- Department
of Fundamental Chemistry, Federal University
of Pernambuco, 50740-560 Recife, Brazil
- Aggeu
Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz
Foundation, 50740-465 Recife, Brazil
| | - Andrew A. Oliveira
- São
Carlos Institute of Physics, University
of São Paulo, 13563-120 São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Roberto D. Lins
- Aggeu
Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz
Foundation, 50740-465 Recife, Brazil
| | - Janaína
V. dos Anjos
- Department
of Fundamental Chemistry, Federal University
of Pernambuco, 50740-560 Recife, Brazil
| | - Rafael V. C. Guido
- São
Carlos Institute of Physics, University
of São Paulo, 13563-120 São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Thereza A. Soares
- Department
of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, 055508-090 Ribeirão
Preto, Brazil
- Hylleraas
Centre for Quantum Molecular Sciences, University
of Oslo, 0315 Oslo, Norway
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Mazumdar T, Hänniger S, Shukla SP, Murali A, Bartram S, Heckel DG, Boland W. 8-HQA adjusts the number and diversity of bacteria in the gut microbiome of Spodoptera littoralis. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1075557. [PMID: 36744087 PMCID: PMC9891463 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1075557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Quinolinic carboxylic acids are known for their metal ion chelating properties in insects, plants and bacteria. The larval stages of the lepidopteran pest, Spodoptera littoralis, produce 8-hydroxyquinoline-2-carboxylic acid (8-HQA) in high concentrations from tryptophan in the diet. At the same time, the larval midgut is known to harbor a bacterial population. The motivation behind the work was to investigate whether 8-HQA is controlling the bacterial community in the gut by regulating the concentration of metal ions. Knocking out the gene for kynurenine 3-monooxygenase (KMO) in the insect using CRISPR/Cas9 eliminated production of 8-HQA and significantly increased bacterial numbers and diversity in the larval midgut. Adding 8-HQA to the diet of knockout larvae caused a dose-dependent reduction of bacterial numbers with minimal effects on diversity. Enterococcus mundtii dominates the community in all treatments, probably due to its highly efficient iron uptake system and production of the colicin, mundticin. Thus host factors and bacterial properties interact to determine patterns of diversity and abundance in the insect midgut.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tilottama Mazumdar
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Zoology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sabine Hänniger
- Department of Entomology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
| | - Shantanu P. Shukla
- Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| | - Aishwarya Murali
- Department of Experimental Toxicology & Ecology, BASF SE, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany
| | - Stefan Bartram
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
| | - David G. Heckel
- Department of Entomology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany,*Correspondence: David G. Heckel, ✉
| | - Wilhelm Boland
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
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5
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Fei X, Huang X, Li Z, Li X, He C, Xiao S, Li Y, Zhang X, Deng X. Effect of marker-free transgenic Chlamydomonas on the control of Aedes mosquito population and on plankton. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:18. [PMID: 36653886 PMCID: PMC9847121 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05647-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than half of the world's population suffers from epidemic diseases that are spread by mosquitoes. The primary strategy used to stop the spread of mosquito-borne diseases is vector control. Interference RNA (RNAi) is a powerful tool for controlling insect populations and may be less susceptible to insect resistance than other strategies. However, public concerns have been raised because of the transfer of antibiotic resistance marker genes to environmental microorganisms after integration into the recipient genome, thus allowing the pathogen to acquire resistance. Therefore, in the present study, we modified the 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase (3hkt) and hormone receptor 3 (hr3) RNAi vectors to remove antibiotic resistance marker genes and retain the expression cassette of the inverse repeat sequence of the 3hkt/hr3 target gene. This recombinant microalgal marker-free RNAi insecticide was subsequently added to the suburban water in a simulated-field trial to test its ability to control mosquito population. METHODS The expression cassette of the 3hkt/hr3 inverted repeat sequence and a DNA fragment of the argininosuccinate lyase gene without the ampicillin resistance gene were obtained using restriction enzyme digestion and recovery. After the cotransformation of Chlamydomonas, the recombinant algae was then employed to feed Aedes albopictus larvae. Ten and 300 larvae were used in small- and large-scale laboratory Ae.albopictus feeding trials, respectively. Simulated field trials were conducted using Meishe River water that was complemented with recombinant Chlamydomonas. Moreover, the impact of recombinant microalgae on phytoplankton and zooplankton in the released water was explored via high-throughput sequencing. RESULTS The marker-free RNAi-recombinant Chlamydomonas effectively silenced the 3hkt/hr3 target gene, resulting in the inhibition of Ae. albopictus development and also in the high rate of Ae. albopictus larvae mortality in the laboratory and simulated field trials. In addition, the results confirmed that the effect of recombinant Chlamydomonas on plankton in the released water was similar to that of the nontransgenic Chlamydomonas, which could reduce the abundance and species of plankton. CONCLUSIONS The marker-free RNAi-recombinant Chlamydomonas are highly lethal to the Ae. albopictus mosquito, and their effect on plankton in released water is similar to that of the nontransgenic algal strains, which reduces the abundance and species of plankton. Thus, marker-free recombinant Chlamydomonas can be used for mosquito biorational control and mosquito-borne disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowen Fei
- grid.443397.e0000 0004 0368 7493Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Xiaodan Huang
- grid.443397.e0000 0004 0368 7493Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Zhijie Li
- grid.443397.e0000 0004 0368 7493Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Xinghan Li
- grid.509158.0Institute of Tropical Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Science and Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Resources of Tropical Crops of Hainan Province, Hainan Institute for Tropical Agricultural Resources, Haikou, China
| | - Changhao He
- grid.443397.e0000 0004 0368 7493Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Sha Xiao
- grid.443397.e0000 0004 0368 7493Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Yajun Li
- grid.509158.0Institute of Tropical Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Science and Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Resources of Tropical Crops of Hainan Province, Hainan Institute for Tropical Agricultural Resources, Haikou, China ,Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Functional Components Research and Utilization of Marine Bio-Resources, Haikou, China
| | - Xiuxia Zhang
- grid.509158.0Institute of Tropical Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Science and Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Resources of Tropical Crops of Hainan Province, Hainan Institute for Tropical Agricultural Resources, Haikou, China ,Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Functional Components Research and Utilization of Marine Bio-Resources, Haikou, China
| | - Xiaodong Deng
- grid.509158.0Institute of Tropical Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Science and Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Resources of Tropical Crops of Hainan Province, Hainan Institute for Tropical Agricultural Resources, Haikou, China ,Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Functional Components Research and Utilization of Marine Bio-Resources, Haikou, China ,grid.453499.60000 0000 9835 1415Zhanjiang Experimental Station, CATAS, Zhanjiang, China
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6
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Badawy AAB, Guillemin GJ. Species Differences in Tryptophan Metabolism and Disposition. Int J Tryptophan Res 2022; 15:11786469221122511. [PMID: 36325027 PMCID: PMC9620070 DOI: 10.1177/11786469221122511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Major species differences in tryptophan (Trp) metabolism and disposition exist
with important physiological, functional and toxicity implications. Unlike
mammalian and other species in which plasma Trp exists largely bound to albumin,
teleosts and other aquatic species possess little or no albumin, such that Trp
entry into their tissues is not hampered, neither is that of environmental
chemicals and toxins, hence the need for strict measures to safeguard their
aquatic environments. In species sensitive to toxicity of excess Trp, hepatic
Trp 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) lacks the free apoenzyme and its glucocorticoid
induction mechanism. These species, which are largely herbivorous, however,
dispose of Trp more rapidly and their TDO is activated by smaller doses of Trp
than Trp-tolerant species. In general, sensitive species may possess a higher
indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) activity which equips them to resist immune
insults up to a point. Of the enzymes of the kynurenine pathway beyond TDO and
IDO, 2-amino-3-carboxymuconic acid-6-semialdehyde decarboxylase (ACMSD)
determines the extent of progress of the pathway towards NAD+
synthesis and its activity varies across species, with the domestic cat
(Felis catus) being the leading species possessing the
highest activity, hence its inability to utilise Trp for NAD+
synthesis. The paucity of current knowledge of Trp metabolism and disposition in
wild carnivores, invertebrates and many other animal species described here
underscores the need for further studies of the physiology of these species and
its interaction with Trp metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulla A-B Badawy
- Formerly School of Health Sciences,
Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, Wales, UK,Abdulla A-B Badawy, Formerly School of
Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Western Avenue, Cardiff,
Wales, CF5 2YB, UK.
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Neuroinflammation Group, MND Research
Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, NSW, Australia
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Chen H, Bhowmick B, Tang Y, Lozano-Fernandez J, Han Q. Biochemical Evolution of a Potent Target of Mosquito Larvicide, 3-Hydroxykynurenine Transaminase. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27154929. [PMID: 35956879 PMCID: PMC9369995 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27154929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A specific mosquito enzyme, 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase (HKT), is involved in the processing of toxic metabolic intermediates of the tryptophan metabolic pathway. The HKT enzymatic product, xanthurenic acid, is required for Plasmodium spp. development in the mosquito vectors. Therefore, an inhibitor of HKT may not only be a mosquitocide but also a malaria-transmission blocker. In this work, we present a study investigating the evolution of HKT, which is a lineage-specific duplication of an alanine glyoxylate aminotransferases (AGT) in mosquitoes. Synteny analyses, together with the phylogenetic history of the AGT family, suggests that HKT and the mosquito AGTs are paralogous that were formed via a duplication event in their common ancestor. Furthermore, 41 amino acid sites with significant evidence of positive selection were identified, which could be responsible for biochemical and functional evolution and the stability of conformational stabilization. To get a deeper understanding of the evolution of ligands’ capacity and the ligand-binding mechanism of HKT, the sequence and the 3D homology model of the common ancestor of HKT and AGT in mosquitoes, ancestral mosquito AGT (AncMosqAGT), were inferred and built. The homology model along with 3-hydroxykynurenine, kynurenine, and alanine were used in docking experiments to predict the binding capacity and ligand-binding mode of the new substrates related to toxic metabolites detoxification. Our study provides evidence for the dramatic biochemical evolution of the key detoxifying enzyme and provides potential sites that could hinder the detoxification function, which may be used in mosquito larvicide and design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaqing Chen
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (H.C.); (B.B.); (Y.T.)
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Biswajit Bhowmick
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (H.C.); (B.B.); (Y.T.)
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Yu Tang
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (H.C.); (B.B.); (Y.T.)
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Jesus Lozano-Fernandez
- Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics, Biodiversity Research Institute (IRBio), University of Barcelona, Avd. Diagonal 643, 08028 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Qian Han
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (H.C.); (B.B.); (Y.T.)
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
- Correspondence:
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8
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Liang X, He J, Zhang N, Muhammad A, Lu X, Shao Y. Probiotic potentials of the silkworm gut symbiont Enterococcus casseliflavus ECB140, a promising L-tryptophan producer living inside the host. J Appl Microbiol 2022; 133:1620-1635. [PMID: 35717576 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AIMS L-tryptophan is an essential aromatic amino acid for the growth and development of animals. Studies about enteric L-tryptophan-producing bacteria are scarce. In this report, we characterized the probiotic potential of Enterococcus casseliflavus ECB140, focusing on its L-tryptophan production abilities. METHODS AND RESULTS ECB140 strain was isolated from the silkworm gut and can survive under strong alkaline environmental conditions. Bacterial colonization traits (motility and biofilm) were examined and showed that only ECB140 produced flagellum and strong biofilms compared with other Enterococcus strains. Comparative genome sequence analyses showed that only ECB140 possessed a complete route for L-tryptophan synthesis among all 15 strains. High-performance liquid chromatography and qRT-PCR confirmed the capability of ECB140 to produce L-tryptophan. Besides, the genome also contains the biosynthesis pathways of several other essential amino acids, such as phenylalanine, threonine, valine, leucine, isoleucine and lysine. These results indicate that ECB140 has the ability to survive passage through the gut and could act as a candidate probiotic. CONCLUSIONS The study describes a novel, natural silkworm gut symbiont capable of producing L-tryptophan. Enterococcus casseliflavus ECB140 physical and genomic attributes offer possibilities for its colonization and provide L-tryptophan for lepidopteran insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xili Liang
- Max Planck Partner Group, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jintao He
- Max Planck Partner Group, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Max Planck Partner Group, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Abrar Muhammad
- Max Planck Partner Group, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xingmeng Lu
- Max Planck Partner Group, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yongqi Shao
- Max Planck Partner Group, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
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9
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Berni M, Lima L, Bressan D, Julio A, Bonfim L, Simão Y, Pane A, Ramos I, Oliveira PL, Araujo H. Atypical strategies for cuticle pigmentation in the blood-feeding hemipteran Rhodnius prolixus. Genetics 2022; 221:6571811. [PMID: 35445704 PMCID: PMC9157140 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyac064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pigmentation in insects has been linked to mate selection and predator evasion, thus representing an important aspect for natural selection. Insect body color is classically associated to the activity of tyrosine pathway enzymes, and eye color to pigment synthesis through the tryptophan and guanine pathways, and their transport by ABC proteins. Among the hemiptera, the genetic basis for pigmentation in kissing bugs such as Rhodnius prolixus, that transmit Chagas disease to humans, has not been addressed. Here we report the functional analysis of R. prolixus eye and cuticle pigmentation genes. Consistent with data for most insect clades, we show that knockdown for yellow results in a yellow cuticle, while scarlet and cinnabar knockdowns display red eyes as well as cuticle phenotypes. In addition, tyrosine pathway aaNATpreto knockdown resulted in a striking dark cuticle that displays no color pattern or UV reflectance. In contrast, knockdown of ebony and tan, that encode NBAD branch tyrosine pathway enzymes, did not generate the expected dark and light brown phenotypes, respectively, as reported for other insects. We hypothesize that R. prolixus, which requires tyrosine pathway enzymes for detoxification from the blood diet, evolved an unusual strategy for cuticle pigmentation based on the preferential use of a color erasing function of the aaNATpreto tyrosine pathway branch. We also show that genes classically involved in the generation and transport of eye pigments regulate red body color in R. prolixus. This is the first systematic approach to identify the genes responsible for the generation of color in a blood-feeding hemiptera, providing potential visible markers for future transgenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Berni
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil.,Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Entomologia Molecular, Brasil (INCT-EM), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil.,Post-graduate Program in Morphological Sciences (PCM), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-901, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Lima
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil.,Post-graduate Program in Morphological Sciences (PCM), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-901, Brazil
| | - Daniel Bressan
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil.,Post-graduate Program in Morphological Sciences (PCM), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-901, Brazil
| | - Alison Julio
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil.,Post-graduate Program in Morphological Sciences (PCM), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-901, Brazil
| | - Larissa Bonfim
- Institute for Medical Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
| | - Yasmin Simão
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
| | - Attilio Pane
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
| | - Isabela Ramos
- Institute for Medical Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil.,Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Entomologia Molecular, Brasil (INCT-EM), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Pedro L Oliveira
- Institute for Medical Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil.,Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Entomologia Molecular, Brasil (INCT-EM), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Helena Araujo
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil.,Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Entomologia Molecular, Brasil (INCT-EM), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
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10
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Anopheline mosquitoes are protected against parasite infection by tryptophan catabolism in gut microbiota. Nat Microbiol 2022; 7:707-715. [PMID: 35437328 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-022-01099-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The mosquito microbiota can influence host physiology and vector competence, but a detailed understanding of these processes is lacking. Here we found that the gut microbiota of Anopheles stephensi, a competent malaria vector, is involved in tryptophan metabolism and is responsible for the catabolism of the peritrophic matrix impairing tryptophan metabolites. Antibiotic elimination of the microbiota led to the accumulation of tryptophan and its metabolites-kynurenine, 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK) and xanthurenic acid. Of these metabolites, 3-HK impaired the structure of the peritrophic matrix and promoted Plasmodium berghei infection. Among the major gut microbiota members in A. stephensi, Pseudomonas alcaligenes catabolized 3-HK as revealed by whole-genome sequencing and LC-MS metabolic analysis. The genome of P. alcaligenes encodes kynureninase (KynU) that is responsible for the conversion of 3-HK to 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid. Mutation of KynU resulted in a P. alcaligenes strain that was unable to metabolize 3-HK and unable to protect the peritrophic matrix. Colonization of A. stephensi with KynU-mutated P. alcaligenes failed to protect mosquitoes against parasite infection as compared with mosquitoes colonized with wild-type P. alcaligenes. In summary, this study identifies an unexpected function of mosquito gut microbiota in controlling mosquito tryptophan metabolism, with important implications for vector competence.
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11
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Bottino-Rojas V, Ferreira-Almeida I, Nunes RD, Feng X, Pham TB, Kelsey A, Carballar-Lejarazú R, Gantz V, Oliveira PL, James AA. Beyond the eye: Kynurenine pathway impairment causes midgut homeostasis dysfunction and survival and reproductive costs in blood-feeding mosquitoes. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 142:103720. [PMID: 34999199 PMCID: PMC11055609 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2022.103720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Insect ommochrome biosynthesis pathways metabolize tryptophan to generate eye-color pigments and wild-type alleles of pathway genes are useful phenotypic markers in transgenesis studies. Pleiotropic effects of mutations in some genes exert a load on both survival and reproductive success in blood-feeding species. Here, we investigated the challenges imposed on mosquitoes by the increase of tryptophan metabolites resulting from blood meal digestion and the impact of disruptions of the ommochrome biosynthesis pathway. Female mosquitoes with spontaneous and induced mutations in the orthologs of the genes encoding kynurenine hydroxylase in Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus exhibited impaired survival and reproductive phenotypes that varied in type and severity among the species. A compromised midgut permeability barrier function was also observed in An. stephensi. Surprisingly, mutant mosquitoes displayed an increase in microbiota compared to controls that was not accompanied by a general induction of immune genes. Antibiotic treatment rescued some deleterious traits implicating a role for the kynurenine pathway (KP) in midgut homeostasis. Supplemental xanthurenic acid, a KP end-product, rescued lethality and limited microbiota proliferation in Ae. aegypti. These data implicate the KP in the regulation of the host/microbiota interface. These pleiotropic effects on mosquito physiology are important in the development of genetic strategies targeting vector mosquitoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Bottino-Rojas
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Igor Ferreira-Almeida
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo D Nunes
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Xuechun Feng
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Thai Binh Pham
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Adam Kelsey
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | | | - Valentino Gantz
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Pedro L Oliveira
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Entomologia Molecular, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Anthony A James
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
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12
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Esposito Verza A, Miggiano R, Lombardo F, Fiorillo C, Arcà B, Purghé B, Del Grosso E, Galli U, Rizzi M, Rossi F. Biochemical and structural analysis of a cytosolic sulfotransferase of the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae overexpressed in the reproductive tissues. Curr Res Struct Biol 2022; 4:246-255. [PMID: 35941867 PMCID: PMC9356239 DOI: 10.1016/j.crstbi.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The temporary or permanent chemical modification of biomolecules is a crucial aspect in the physiology of all living species. However, while some modules are well characterised also in insects, others did not receive the same attention. This holds true for sulfo-conjugation that is catalysed by cytosolic sulfotransferases (SULT), a central component of the metabolism of endogenous low molecular weight molecules and xenobiotics. In particular, limited information is available about the functional roles of the mosquito predicted enzymes annotated as SULTs in genomic databases. The herein described research is the first example of a biochemical and structural study of a SULT of a mosquito species, in general, and of the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae in particular. We confirmed that the AGAP001425 transcript displays a peculiar expression pattern that is suggestive of a possible involvement in modulating the mosquito reproductive tissues physiology, a fact that could raise attention on the enzyme as a potential target for insect-containment strategies. The crystal structures of the enzyme in alternative ligand-bound states revealed elements distinguishing AgSULT-001425 from other characterized SULTs, including a peculiar conformational plasticity of a discrete region that shields the catalytic cleft and that could play a main role in the dynamics of the reaction and in the substrate selectivity of the enzyme. Along with further in vitro biochemical studies, our structural investigations could provide a framework for the discovery of small-molecule inhibitors to assess the effect of interfering with AgSULT-001425-mediated catalysis at the organismal level. Mosquito cytosolic sulfotransferases (SULT) are poorly characterized. A SULT-encoding gene is highly transcribed in Anopheles male reproductive system. The corresponding enzyme is a genuine SULT acting on small phenolic molecules. We solved the AgSULT crystal structure in its substrate-free and ligand-bound states. The peculiar features of AgSULT could drive the design of isozyme-specific inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Esposito Verza
- University of Piemonte Orientale, DSF Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Largo Donegani, 2, Novara, Italy
| | - Riccardo Miggiano
- University of Piemonte Orientale, DSF Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Largo Donegani, 2, Novara, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Lombardo
- Sapienza University of Rome, Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases – Division of Parasitology, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, Rome, Italy
| | - Carmine Fiorillo
- Sapienza University of Rome, Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases – Division of Parasitology, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, Rome, Italy
| | - Bruno Arcà
- Sapienza University of Rome, Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases – Division of Parasitology, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, Rome, Italy
| | - Beatrice Purghé
- University of Piemonte Orientale, DSF Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Largo Donegani, 2, Novara, Italy
| | - Erika Del Grosso
- University of Piemonte Orientale, DSF Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Largo Donegani, 2, Novara, Italy
| | - Ubaldina Galli
- University of Piemonte Orientale, DSF Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Largo Donegani, 2, Novara, Italy
| | - Menico Rizzi
- University of Piemonte Orientale, DSF Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Largo Donegani, 2, Novara, Italy
| | - Franca Rossi
- University of Piemonte Orientale, DSF Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Largo Donegani, 2, Novara, Italy
- Corresponding author. University of Piemonte Orientale DSF - Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Largo Donegani, 2 - 28100, Novara, Italy.
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13
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Fei X, Zhang Y, Ding L, Xiao S, Xie X, Li Y, Deng X. Development of an RNAi-based microalgal larvicide for the control of Aedes aegypti. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:387. [PMID: 34362429 PMCID: PMC8344188 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04885-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mosquito-borne diseases affect over half of the human population globally. Multiple studies have shown that chemical insecticides are ineffective because of resistance. Therefore, environmentally safe mosquito population control tools need to be developed. Ribonucleic acid interference (RNAi) is a reverse genetic mechanism recently introduced as a new pest control tool. This technique represents a new class of biorational technology that could combat the increased global incidence of insecticide resistance. The technique has the potential of becoming a critical component of integrated vector control programs. METHODS A 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase (3-HKT) RNAi expression plasmid was constructed, generated and transformed into Chlamydomonas and Chlorella algae. The transgenic algae were then used to feed Ae. aegypti mosquito larvae. The feeding experiments were conducted on a small and large scale with 10 and about 300 larvae, respectively. The mortality rate of the larvae was calculated over 30 days. In addition, histological examination of the insect tissues was performed to examine the extent of tissue damage. RESULTS The integumentary system and midguts of larvae fed with transgenic Chlamydomonas were severely damaged. The mortality rate of the larvae fed with transgenic Chlamydomonas ranged from 60 to 100% in small-scale tests. The survival rate of adult mosquitoes was 0.0% in a large-scale feeding experiment when the larvae were fed with transgenic Chlamydomonas. Moreover, when the larvae were fed with transgenic Chlorella, the mortality rate ranged from 6.7% to 43% compared to that fed wild-type Chlorella. CONCLUSIONS 3HKT RNAi transgenic algae are in some scales lethal to Ae. aegypti. The findings of this study indicate that technology based on microalgae RNAi may provide a new way to control mosquito populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowen Fei
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, 571101, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, 571101, China
| | - Lili Ding
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, 571101, China
| | - Sha Xiao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, 571101, China
| | - Xiaoqing Xie
- Institute of Tropical Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Science, Haikou, 571101, China
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Functional Components Research and Utilization of Marine Bio-Resources, Haikou, 571101, China
| | - Yajun Li
- Institute of Tropical Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Science, Haikou, 571101, China
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Functional Components Research and Utilization of Marine Bio-Resources, Haikou, 571101, China
| | - Xiaodong Deng
- Institute of Tropical Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Science, Haikou, 571101, China.
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Functional Components Research and Utilization of Marine Bio-Resources, Haikou, 571101, China.
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14
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Fujiwara M, Kono N, Hirayama A, Malay AD, Nakamura H, Ohtoshi R, Numata K, Tomita M, Arakawa K. Xanthurenic Acid Is the Main Pigment of Trichonephila clavata Gold Dragline Silk. Biomolecules 2021; 11:563. [PMID: 33921320 PMCID: PMC8070366 DOI: 10.3390/biom11040563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Spider silk is a natural fiber with remarkable strength, toughness, and elasticity that is attracting attention as a biomaterial of the future. Golden orb-weaving spiders (Trichonephila clavata) construct large, strong webs using golden threads. To characterize the pigment of golden T. clavata dragline silk, we used liquid chromatography and mass spectrometric analysis. We found that the major pigment in the golden dragline silk of T. clavata was xanthurenic acid. To investigate the possible function of the pigment, we tested the effect of xanthurenic acid on bacterial growth using gram-negative Escherichia coli and gram-positive Bacillus subtilis. We found that xanthurenic acid had a slight antibacterial effect. Furthermore, to investigate the UV tolerance of the T. clavata threads bleached of their golden color, we conducted tensile deformation tests and scanning electron microscope observations. However, in these experiments, no significant effect was observed. We therefore speculate that golden orb-weaving spiders use the pigment for other purposes, such as to attract their prey in the sunlight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masayuki Fujiwara
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Nihonkoku 403-1, Daihoji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-0013, Japan; (M.F.); (N.K.); (A.H.); (M.T.)
- Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, Endo 5322, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 252-0882, Japan
| | - Nobuaki Kono
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Nihonkoku 403-1, Daihoji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-0013, Japan; (M.F.); (N.K.); (A.H.); (M.T.)
- Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, Endo 5322, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 252-0882, Japan
| | - Akiyoshi Hirayama
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Nihonkoku 403-1, Daihoji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-0013, Japan; (M.F.); (N.K.); (A.H.); (M.T.)
- Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, Endo 5322, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 252-0882, Japan
| | - Ali D. Malay
- Biomacromolecules Research Team: RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan; (A.D.M.); (K.N.)
| | - Hiroyuki Nakamura
- Spiber Inc.: Mizukami 234-1, Kakuganji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-0052, Japan; (H.N.); (R.O.)
| | - Rintaro Ohtoshi
- Spiber Inc.: Mizukami 234-1, Kakuganji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-0052, Japan; (H.N.); (R.O.)
| | - Keiji Numata
- Biomacromolecules Research Team: RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan; (A.D.M.); (K.N.)
| | - Masaru Tomita
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Nihonkoku 403-1, Daihoji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-0013, Japan; (M.F.); (N.K.); (A.H.); (M.T.)
- Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, Endo 5322, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 252-0882, Japan
- Faculty of Environment and Information Studies, Keio University, Endo 5322, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 252-0882, Japan
| | - Kazuharu Arakawa
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Nihonkoku 403-1, Daihoji, Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-0013, Japan; (M.F.); (N.K.); (A.H.); (M.T.)
- Systems Biology Program, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, Endo 5322, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 252-0882, Japan
- Faculty of Environment and Information Studies, Keio University, Endo 5322, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 252-0882, Japan
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15
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Attygalle AB, Hearth KB, Iyengar VK, Morgan RC. Biosynthesis of Quinoline by a Stick Insect. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2021; 84:527-530. [PMID: 33497223 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.0c00945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The Peruvian stick insect Oreophoetes peruana is the only known animal source for unsubstituted quinoline in nature. When disturbed, these insects discharge a defensive secretion containing quinoline. Analysis of samples obtained from l-[2',4',5',6,'7'-2H5]tryptophan-fed stick insects demonstrated that the insects convert it to [5,6,7,8-2H4]quinoline by removing the 2'-CH moiety in the indole ring of tryptophan. Analogous experiments using l-[1'-15N]tryptophan and l-[1'-15N,15NH2]tryptophan showed that the indole-N atom is retained while the α-amino group is eliminated during the biosynthesis. Mass spectra recorded from quinoline derived from [2-13C1]tryptophan-fed insects indicated that the α-carbon atom of tryptophan is incorporated as the C-2 atom of the quinoline ring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athula B Attygalle
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, New Jersey 07030, United States
| | - Kithsiri B Hearth
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, New Jersey 07030, United States
| | - Vikram K Iyengar
- Department of Biology, Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania 19085, United States
| | - Randy C Morgan
- Insectarium, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, Ohio 45220, United States
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16
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Maciel LG, Barbosa ADS, de Alencar-Filho EB, Soares TA, Dos Anjos JV. A second generation of 1,2,4-oxadiazole derivatives with enhanced solubility for inhibition of 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase (HKT) from Aedes aegypti. RSC Med Chem 2020; 12:222-236. [PMID: 34046611 DOI: 10.1039/d0md00305k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The most widely used method for the control of the Aedes aegypti mosquito population is the chemical control method. It represents a time- and cost-effective way to curb several diseases (e.g. dengue, Zika, chikungunya, yellow fever) through vector control. For this reason, the discovery of new compounds with a distinct mode of action from the available ones is essential in order to minimize the rise of insecticide resistance. Detoxification enzymes are an attractive target for the discovery of new insecticides. The kynurenine pathway is an important metabolic pathway, and it leads to the chemically stable xanthurenic acid, biosynthesized from 3-hydroxykynurenine, a precursor of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, by the enzyme 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase (HKT). Previously, we have reported the effectiveness of 1,2,4-oxadiazole derivatives acting as larvicides for A. aegypti and AeHKT inhibitors from in vitro and in silico studies. Here, we report the synthesis of new sodium 4-[3-(aryl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-yl] propanoates and the cognate HKT-inhibitory activity. These new derivatives act as competitive inhibitors with IC50 values in the range of 42 to 339 μM. We further performed molecular docking simulations and QSAR analysis for the previously synthesized sodium 4-[3-(aryl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-yl] butanoates reported earlier by our group and the data produced herein. Most of the 1,2,4-oxadiazole derivatives, including the canonical compounds for both series, showed a similar binding mode with HKT. The binding occurs similarly to the co-crystallized inhibitor via anchoring to Arg356 and positioning of the aromatic ring and its substituents outwards at the entry of the active site. QSAR analysis was performed in search of more than 770 molecular descriptors to establish a relationship between the lowest energy conformations and the IC50 values. The five best descriptors were selected to create and validate the model, which exhibited parameters that attested to its robustness and predictability. In summary, we observed that compounds with a para substitution and heavier groups (i.e. CF3 and NO2 substituents) had an enhanced HKT-inhibition profile. These compounds comprise a series described as AeHKT inhibitors via enzymatic inhibition experiments, opening the way to further the development of new substances with higher potency against HKT from Aedes aegypti.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa G Maciel
- Department of Fundamental Chemistry, Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE) Recife - PE Brazil
| | - Andrey da S Barbosa
- Department of Fundamental Chemistry, Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE) Recife - PE Brazil
| | | | - Thereza A Soares
- Department of Fundamental Chemistry, Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE) Recife - PE Brazil
| | - Janaína V Dos Anjos
- Department of Fundamental Chemistry, Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE) Recife - PE Brazil
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17
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Adedeji EO, Ogunlana OO, Fatumo S, Beder T, Ajamma Y, Koenig R, Adebiyi E. Anopheles metabolic proteins in malaria transmission, prevention and control: a review. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:465. [PMID: 32912275 PMCID: PMC7488410 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04342-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The increasing resistance to currently available insecticides in the malaria vector, Anopheles mosquitoes, hampers their use as an effective vector control strategy for the prevention of malaria transmission. Therefore, there is need for new insecticides and/or alternative vector control strategies, the development of which relies on the identification of possible targets in Anopheles. Some known and promising targets for the prevention or control of malaria transmission exist among Anopheles metabolic proteins. This review aims to elucidate the current and potential contribution of Anopheles metabolic proteins to malaria transmission and control. Highlighted are the roles of metabolic proteins as insecticide targets, in blood digestion and immune response as well as their contribution to insecticide resistance and Plasmodium parasite development. Furthermore, strategies by which these metabolic proteins can be utilized for vector control are described. Inhibitors of Anopheles metabolic proteins that are designed based on target specificity can yield insecticides with no significant toxicity to non-target species. These metabolic modulators combined with each other or with synergists, sterilants, and transmission-blocking agents in a single product, can yield potent malaria intervention strategies. These combinations can provide multiple means of controlling the vector. Also, they can help to slow down the development of insecticide resistance. Moreover, some metabolic proteins can be modulated for mosquito population replacement or suppression strategies, which will significantly help to curb malaria transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunice Oluwatobiloba Adedeji
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
| | - Olubanke Olujoke Ogunlana
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
| | - Segun Fatumo
- Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, Bloomsbury, London, UK
| | - Thomas Beder
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center, Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Yvonne Ajamma
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
| | - Rainer Koenig
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center, Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Ezekiel Adebiyi
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
- Computer and Information Sciences, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
- Division of Applied Bioinformatics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), G200, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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18
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Figon F, Munsch T, Croix C, Viaud-Massuard MC, Lanoue A, Casas J. Uncyclized xanthommatin is a key ommochrome intermediate in invertebrate coloration. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 124:103403. [PMID: 32574597 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2020.103403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Ommochromes are widespread pigments that mediate multiple functions in invertebrates. The two main families of ommochromes are ommatins and ommins, which both originate from the kynurenine pathway but differ in their backbone, thereby in their coloration and function. Despite its broad significance, how the structural diversity of ommochromes arises in vivo has remained an open question since their first description. In this study, we combined organic synthesis, analytical chemistry and organelle purification to address this issue. From a set of synthesized ommatins, we derived a fragmentation pattern that helped elucidating the structure of new ommochromes. We identified uncyclized xanthommatin as the elusive biological intermediate that links the kynurenine pathway to the ommatin pathway within ommochromasomes, the ommochrome-producing organelles. Due to its unique structure, we propose that uncyclized xanthommatin functions as a key branching metabolite in the biosynthesis and structural diversification of ommatins and ommins, from insects to cephalopods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florent Figon
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte, UMR CNRS 7261, Université de Tours, 37200, Tours, France.
| | - Thibaut Munsch
- Biomolécules et Biotechnologies Végétales, EA 2106, Université de Tours, 37200, Tours, France
| | - Cécile Croix
- Génétique, Immunothérapie, Chimie et Cancer, UMR CNRS 7292, Université de Tours, 37200, Tours, France
| | | | - Arnaud Lanoue
- Biomolécules et Biotechnologies Végétales, EA 2106, Université de Tours, 37200, Tours, France
| | - Jérôme Casas
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte, UMR CNRS 7261, Université de Tours, 37200, Tours, France
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Next-generation gene drive for population modification of the malaria vector mosquito, Anopheles gambiae. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:22805-22814. [PMID: 32839345 PMCID: PMC7502704 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2010214117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic systems for controlling transmission of vector-borne diseases are moving from discovery-stage demonstrations of proofs-of-principle to the next phases of development. A successful transition requires meeting safety and efficacy criteria defined in target product profiles. We show here that the Cas9/guide RNA-based gene-drive components of a genetically-engineered malaria mosquito vector, Anopheles gambiae, achieve key target product profile requirements for efficacy and performance. This system is designed to achieve mosquito population modification when coupled with genes encoding antiparasite effector molecules and result in stable and sustainable blocking of malaria parasite transmission. A Cas9/guide RNA-based gene drive strain, AgNosCd-1, was developed to deliver antiparasite effector molecules to the malaria vector mosquito, Anopheles gambiae. The drive system targets the cardinal gene ortholog producing a red-eye phenotype. Drive can achieve 98 to 100% in both sexes and full introduction was observed in small cage trials within 6 to 10 generations following a single release of gene-drive males. No genetic load resulting from the integrated transgenes impaired drive performance in the trials. Potential drive-resistant target-site alleles arise at a frequency <0.1, and five of the most prevalent polymorphisms in the guide RNA target site in collections of colonized and wild-derived African mosquitoes do not prevent cleavage in vitro by the Cas9/guide RNA complex. Only one predicted off-target site is cleavable in vitro, with negligible deletions observed in vivo. AgNosCd-1 meets key performance criteria of a target product profile and can be a valuable component of a field-ready strain for mosquito population modification to control malaria transmission.
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20
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Combined metabolome and transcriptome analysis reveals key components of complete desiccation tolerance in an anhydrobiotic insect. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:19209-19220. [PMID: 32723826 PMCID: PMC7431039 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2003650117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Anhydrobiosis is a reversible ametabolic state that occurs in response to severe desiccation. The largest anhydrobiotic animal known is the larva of the African chironomid Polypedilum vanderplanki. Here, we investigated how the metabolism of larvae changes during the desiccation–rehydration cycle and how simple biochemical processes determine viability of the chironomid. Major findings suggest that, in addition to its known anhydroprotectant role, trehalose acts as a major source of energy for rehydration. Citrate and adenosine monophosphate, accumulated in the dry state, allow rapid resumption of metabolism during the recovery phase. Finally, metabolic waste is stored as stable or nontoxic compounds such as allantoin, xanthurenic acid, or ophthalmic acid that may also act as antioxidants. Some organisms have evolved a survival strategy to withstand severe dehydration in an ametabolic state, called anhydrobiosis. The only known example of anhydrobiosis among insects is observed in larvae of the chironomid Polypedilum vanderplanki. Recent studies have led to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying anhydrobiosis and the action of specific protective proteins. However, gene regulation alone cannot explain the rapid biochemical reactions and independent metabolic changes that are expected to sustain anhydrobiosis. For this reason, we conducted a comprehensive comparative metabolome–transcriptome analysis in the larvae. We showed that anhydrobiotic larvae adopt a unique metabolic strategy to cope with complete desiccation and, in particular, to allow recovery after rehydration. We argue that trehalose, previously known for its anhydroprotective properties, plays additional vital roles, providing both the principal source of energy and also the restoration of antioxidant potential via the pentose phosphate pathway during the early stages of rehydration. Thus, larval viability might be directly dependent on the total amount of carbohydrate (glycogen and trehalose). Furthermore, in the anhydrobiotic state, energy is stored as accumulated citrate and adenosine monophosphate, allowing rapid reactivation of the citric acid cycle and mitochondrial activity immediately after rehydration, before glycolysis is fully functional. Other specific adaptations to desiccation include potential antioxidants (e.g., ophthalmic acid) and measures to avoid the accumulation of toxic waste metabolites by converting these to stable and inert counterparts (e.g., xanthurenic acid and allantoin). Finally, we confirmed that these metabolic adaptations correlate with unique organization and expression of the corresponding enzyme genes.
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21
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Dahmani M, Anderson JF, Sultana H, Neelakanta G. Rickettsial pathogen uses arthropod tryptophan pathway metabolites to evade reactive oxygen species in tick cells. Cell Microbiol 2020; 22:e13237. [PMID: 32562372 DOI: 10.1111/cmi.13237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are induced upon pathogen infection plays an important role in host defence. The rickettsial pathogen Anaplasma phagocytophilum, which is primarily transmitted by Ixodes scapularis ticks in the United States, has evolved many strategies to escape ROS and survive in mammalian cells. However, little is known on the role of ROS in A. phagocytophilum infection in ticks. Our results show that A. phagocytophilum and hemin induce activation of l-tryptophan pathway in tick cells. Xanthurenic acid (XA), a tryptophan metabolite, supports A. phagocytophilum growth in tick cells through inhibition of tryptophan dioxygenase (TDO) activity leading to reduced l-kynurenine levels that subsequently affects build-up of ROS. However, hemin supports A. phagocytophilum growth in tick cells by inducing TDO activity leading to increased l-kynurenine levels and ROS production. Our data reveal that XA and kynurenic acid (KA) chelate hemin. Furthermore, treatment of tick cells with 3-hydroxyl l-kynurenine limits A. phagocytophilum growth in tick cells. RNAi-mediated knockdown of kynurenine aminotransferase expression results in increased ROS production and reduced A. phagocytophilum burden in tick cells. Collectively, these results suggest that l-tryptophan pathway metabolites influence A. phagocytophilum survival by affecting build up of ROS levels in tick cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustapha Dahmani
- Department of Biological Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, USA.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - John F Anderson
- Department of Entomology, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Hameeda Sultana
- Department of Biological Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, USA.,Center for Molecular Medicine, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Girish Neelakanta
- Department of Biological Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, USA.,Center for Molecular Medicine, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
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22
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Abstract
The enzyme 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase (HKT) acts as an important enzyme in tryptophan catabolism of disease-carrier insects, e.g. Aedes aegypti and Anopheles gambiae. HKT is a detoxification enzyme that converts 3-hydroxykynurenine (a precursor for reactive nitrogen and oxygen species) into xanthurenic acid (stable and nontoxic compound). We have previously synthesized eleven new oxadiazole derivatives and demonstrated their noncompetitive inhibitory activity towards HKT from A. aegypti (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bmc.2019.115252). These findings are presented in a research paper accompanying the present technical report on a new assay to overcome the fact that the substrate and product of the HKT-catalyzed reaction exhibit maximum absorption at very near wavelength (370 and 369 nm, respectively). The methods previously described in the literature rely on chromatographic separation prior to absorbance quantification, which limits their use for inhibitor screening. Due to HKT attractive features as a molecular target for larvicidal compounds, we report herein a new, faster and affordable methodology to evaluate the enzymatic activity of recombinant HKT, and therefore allow for the fast screening of potential HKT inhibitors via absorbance spectrophotometer. The advantages of the proposed methodology to previously described ones are:It is faster and cheaper than HPLC-based assays because it does not require the use of chromatography columns and solvents to separate reaction components; It uses of 96-well plates, enabling the simultaneous quantification of samples; It can be applied to all transaminases that have xanthurenic acid as a product.
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Maciel LG, Oliveira AA, Romão TP, Leal LLL, Guido RVC, Silva-Filha MHNL, Dos Anjos JV, Soares TA. Discovery of 1,2,4-oxadiazole derivatives as a novel class of noncompetitive inhibitors of 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase (HKT) from Aedes aegypti. Bioorg Med Chem 2019; 28:115252. [PMID: 31864777 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2019.115252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The mosquito Aedes aegypti is the vector of arboviruses such as Zika, Chikungunya, dengue and yellow fever. These infectious diseases have a major impact on public health. The unavailability of effective vaccines or drugs to prevent or treat most of these diseases makes vector control the main form of prevention. One strategy to promote mosquito population control is the use of synthetic insecticides to inhibit key enzymes in the metabolic pathway of these insects, particularly during larval stages. One of the main targets of the kynurenine detoxification pathway in mosquitoes is the enzyme 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase (HKT), which catalyzes the conversion of 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK) into xanthurenic acid (XA). In this work, we report eleven newly synthesized oxadiazole derivatives and demonstrate that these compounds are potent noncompetitive inhibitors of HKT from Ae. aegypti. The present data provide direct evidence that HKT can be explored as a molecular target for the discovery of novel larvicides against Ae. aegypti. More importantly, it ensures that structural information derived from the HKT 3D-structure can be used to guide the development of more potent inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa G Maciel
- Department of Fundamental Chemistry - Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. Jornalista Aníbal Fernandes, s/n°Cidade Universitária - Recife, PE 50740-560, Brazil
| | - Andrew A Oliveira
- Sao Carlos Institute of Physics - University of São Paulo, Av. Joao Dagnone, 1100 Jardim Santa Angelina, São Carlos, SP 13563-120, Brazil
| | - Tatiany P Romão
- Institute Aggeu Magalhães (IAM) - FIOCRUZ, Av. Professor Moraes Rego s/n°, Recife, PE 50740-560 Brazil
| | - Laylla L L Leal
- Department of Fundamental Chemistry - Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. Jornalista Aníbal Fernandes, s/n°Cidade Universitária - Recife, PE 50740-560, Brazil
| | - Rafael V C Guido
- Sao Carlos Institute of Physics - University of São Paulo, Av. Joao Dagnone, 1100 Jardim Santa Angelina, São Carlos, SP 13563-120, Brazil
| | | | - Janaína V Dos Anjos
- Department of Fundamental Chemistry - Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. Jornalista Aníbal Fernandes, s/n°Cidade Universitária - Recife, PE 50740-560, Brazil.
| | - Thereza A Soares
- Department of Fundamental Chemistry - Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. Jornalista Aníbal Fernandes, s/n°Cidade Universitária - Recife, PE 50740-560, Brazil.
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24
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Costa ÂCF, Cavalcanti SCH, Santana AS, Lima APS, Brito TB, Oliveira RRB, Macêdo NA, Cristaldo PF, Araújo APA, Bacci L. Insecticidal activity of indole derivatives against Plutella xylostella and selectivity to four non-target organisms. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2019; 28:973-982. [PMID: 31420785 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-019-02095-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The diamondback moth Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus, 1758) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) is a destructive pest of brassica crops of economic importance that have resistance to a range of insecticides. Indole derivates can exert diverse biological activities, and different effects may be obtained from small differences in their molecular structures. Indole is the parent substance of a large number of synthetic and natural compounds, such as plant and animal hormones. In the present study, we evaluate the insecticidal activity of 20 new synthesized indole derivatives against P. xylostella, and the selectivity of these derivatives against non-target hymenopteran beneficial arthropods: the pollinator Apis mellifera (Linnaeus, 1758) (Hymenoptera: Apidae), and the predators Polybia scutellaris (White, 1841), Polybia sericea (Olivier, 1791) and Polybia rejecta (Fabricius, 1798) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae). Bioassays were performed in the laboratory to determine the lethal and sublethal effects of the compounds on P. xylostella and to examine their selectivity to non-target organisms by topical application and foliar contact. The treatments consisted of two synthesized derivatives (most and least toxic), the positive control (deltamethrin) and the negative control (solvent). The synthesized compound 4e [1-(1H-indol-3-yl)hexan-1-one] showed high toxicity (via topical application and ingestion) and decreased the leaf consumption by P. xylostella, displaying a higher efficiency than the pyrethroid deltamethrin, widely used to control this pest. In addition, the synthesized indole derivatives were selective to the pollinator A. mellifera and the predators P. scutellaris, P. sericea and P. rejecta, none of which were affected by deltamethrin. Our results highlight the promising potential of the synthesized indole derivatives for the generation of new chemical compounds for P. xylostella management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ângela C F Costa
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Agricultura e Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | | | - Alisson S Santana
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Agricultura e Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - Ana P S Lima
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Agricultura e Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - Thaysnara B Brito
- Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - Rafael R B Oliveira
- Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - Nathália A Macêdo
- Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - Paulo F Cristaldo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Entomologia Agrícola, Departamento de Agronomia, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula A Araújo
- Departamento de Ecologia, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - Leandro Bacci
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Agricultura e Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil.
- Departamento de Engenharia Agronômica, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil.
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25
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Study of Anopheles gambiae 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase activity and inhibition by LC-MS/MS method. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2019; 173:154-161. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2019.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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26
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Rossi F, Miggiano R, Ferraris DM, Rizzi M. The Synthesis of Kynurenic Acid in Mammals: An Updated Kynurenine Aminotransferase Structural KATalogue. Front Mol Biosci 2019; 6:7. [PMID: 30873412 PMCID: PMC6400995 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2019.00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is a bioactive compound that is produced along the kynurenine pathway (KP) during tryptophan degradation. In a few decades, KYNA shifted from being regarded a poorly characterized by-product of the KP to being considered a main player in many aspects of mammalian physiology, including the control of glutamatergic and cholinergic synaptic transmission, and the coordination of immunomodulation. The renewed attention being paid to the study of KYNA homeostasis is justified by the discovery of selective and potent inhibitors of kynurenine aminotransferase II, which is considered the main enzyme responsible for KYNA synthesis in the mammalian brain. Since abnormally high KYNA levels in the central nervous system have been associated with schizophrenia and cognitive impairment, these inhibitors promise the development of novel anti-psychotic and pro-cognitive drugs. Here, we summarize the currently available structural information on human and rodent kynurenine aminotransferases (KATs) as the result of global efforts aimed at describing the full complement of mammalian isozymes. These studies highlight peculiar features of KATs that can be exploited for the development of isozyme-specific inhibitors. Together with the optimization of biochemical assays to measure individual KAT activities in complex samples, this wealth of knowledge will continue to foster the identification and rational design of brain penetrant small molecules to attenuate KYNA synthesis, i.e., molecules capable of lowering KYNA levels without exposing the brain to the harmful withdrawal of KYNA-dependent neuroprotective actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franca Rossi
- Biochemistry and Biocrystallography Unit, DSF-Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Riccardo Miggiano
- Biochemistry and Biocrystallography Unit, DSF-Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Davide M Ferraris
- Biochemistry and Biocrystallography Unit, DSF-Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Menico Rizzi
- Biochemistry and Biocrystallography Unit, DSF-Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
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27
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Brent CS, Hull JJ. RNA interference-mediated knockdown of eye coloration genes in the western tarnished plant bug (Lygus hesperus Knight). ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 100:e21527. [PMID: 30588650 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Insect eye coloration arises from the accumulation of various pigments. A number of genes that function in the biosynthesis (vermilion, cinnabar, and cardinal) and importation (karmoisin, white, scarlet, and brown) of these pigments, and their precursors, have been identified in diverse species and used as markers for transgenesis and gene editing. To examine their suitability as visible markers in Lygus hesperus Knight (western tarnished plant bug), transcriptomic data were screened for sequences exhibiting homology with the Drosophila melanogaster proteins. Complete open reading frames encoding putative homologs for all seven genes were identified. Bioinformatic-based sequence and phylogenetic analyses supported initial annotations as eye coloration genes. Consistent with their proposed role, each of the genes was expressed in adult heads as well as throughout nymphal and adult development. Adult eyes of those injected with double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) for karmoisin, vermilion, cinnabar, cardinal, and scarlet were characterized by a red band along the medial margin extending from the rostral terminus to the antenna. In contrast, eyes of insects injected with dsRNAs for both white and brown were a uniform light brown. White knockdown also produced cuticular and behavioral defects. Based on its expression profile and robust visible phenotype, cardinal would likely prove to be the most suitable marker for developing gene editing methods in Lygus species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin S Brent
- USDA-ARS Arid Land Agricultural Center, Maricopa, Arizona
| | - J Joe Hull
- USDA-ARS Arid Land Agricultural Center, Maricopa, Arizona
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28
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Silva JR, Amaral DT, Viviani VR. Comparison of the Malpighian tubules and fat body transcriptional profiles of Zophobas morio larvae (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY D-GENOMICS & PROTEOMICS 2018; 29:95-105. [PMID: 30463043 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2018.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The Malpighian tubules in insects play an essential role in osmoregulation, through the transport of ions during excretion, whereas the fat body is usually associated with the intermediary metabolism. The tubules also are involved in excretion of organic solutes and xenobiotics. However, with the exception of a preliminary transcriptional survey of the Zophobas morio (Tenebrionidae) larval tubules, there are no detailed transcriptional analysis of this organ in Coleoptera. A luciferase-like enzyme that displays weak luminescence activity in the presence of firefly D-luciferin and ATP was cloned from the tubules of Z. morio larvae. In order to better understand the molecular physiology of Malpighian tubules and fat body in Coleoptera larvae, and to investigate the occurrence and functions of AMP-CoA ligases in these tissues, we performed a comparative transcriptional analysis of these tissues using Z. morio giant-mealworms. As expected, the tubules displayed organic and inorganic transporters, xenobiotic metabolism enzymes, V-ATPases, channels, and pumps. The fat body showed proteins that are synthesized in this tissue and secreted to the hemolymph, as well as enzymes involved in lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. These tissues are also involved in common pathways, such as nitrogen metabolism to degradation/excretion, eye pigments biosynthesis, immunity, and detoxification. The presence of coumarate-CoA ligase-like enzymes in these tissues suggest their involvement in the degradation of coumaric acid derivatives obtained from the diet, or alternatively, in the biosynthesis of compounds structurally related to coumaric acids such as eye pigments. Our results confirm to the physiological versatility of tubules and fat body in larval Coleoptera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaqueline R Silva
- Graduate School of Biotechnology and Environmental Monitoring (UFSCar), Sorocaba, SP, Brazil; Graduate School of Evolutive Genetics and Molecular Biology, (UFSCar), São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Danilo T Amaral
- Graduate School of Biotechnology and Environmental Monitoring (UFSCar), Sorocaba, SP, Brazil
| | - Vadim R Viviani
- Graduate School of Biotechnology and Environmental Monitoring (UFSCar), Sorocaba, SP, Brazil; Graduate School of Evolutive Genetics and Molecular Biology, (UFSCar), São Carlos, SP, Brazil.
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29
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Functional analysis of the ABCs of eye color in Helicoverpa armigera with CRISPR/Cas9-induced mutations. Sci Rep 2017; 7:40025. [PMID: 28053351 PMCID: PMC5214861 DOI: 10.1038/srep40025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Many insect pigments are localized in subcellular pigment granules, and transport of pigment precursors from the cytoplasm is accomplished by ABC proteins. Drosophila melanogaster has three half-transporter genes (white, scarlet, and brown, all affecting eye pigments) and Bombyx mori has a fourth (ok). The White, Brown, Scarlet and Ok proteins each have one transmembrane and one cytoplasmic domain and they heterodimerize to form functional transporters with different substrate specificities. We used CRISPR/Cas9 to create somatic and germ-line knockout mutations of these four genes in the noctuid moth Helicoverpa armigera. Somatic knockouts of white block pigmentation of the egg, first instar larva and adult eye, but germ-line knockouts of white are recessive lethal in the embryo. Knockouts of scarlet are viable and produce pigmentless first instar larvae and yellow adult eyes lacking xanthommatin. Knockouts of brown show no phenotypic effects on viability or pigmentation. Knockouts of ok are viable and produce translucent larval cuticle and black eyes. CRISPR/Cas9-induced mutations are a useful tool for analyzing how essential and non-essential genes interact to produce the diversity of insect pigmentation patterns found in nature.
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30
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Haruki H, Hovius R, Pedersen MG, Johnsson K. Tetrahydrobiopterin Biosynthesis as a Potential Target of the Kynurenine Pathway Metabolite Xanthurenic Acid. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:652-7. [PMID: 26565027 PMCID: PMC4705385 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.c115.680488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Revised: 11/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Tryptophan metabolites in the kynurenine pathway are up-regulated by pro-inflammatory cytokines or glucocorticoids, and are linked to anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activities. In addition, they are up-regulated in pathologies such as cancer, autoimmune diseases, and psychiatric disorders. The molecular mechanisms of how kynurenine pathway metabolites cause these effects are incompletely understood. On the other hand, pro-inflammatory cytokines also up-regulate the amounts of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), an enzyme cofactor essential for the synthesis of several neurotransmitter and nitric oxide species. Here we show that xanthurenic acid is a potent inhibitor of sepiapterin reductase (SPR), the final enzyme in de novo BH4 synthesis. The crystal structure of xanthurenic acid bound to the active site of SPR reveals why among all kynurenine pathway metabolites xanthurenic acid is the most potent SPR inhibitor. Our findings suggest that increased xanthurenic acid levels resulting from up-regulation of the kynurenine pathway could attenuate BH4 biosynthesis and BH4-dependent enzymatic reactions, linking two major metabolic pathways known to be highly up-regulated in inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirohito Haruki
- From the Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Institute of Bioengineering, National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) in Chemical Biology, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ruud Hovius
- From the Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Institute of Bioengineering, National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) in Chemical Biology, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Miriam Grønlund Pedersen
- From the Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Institute of Bioengineering, National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) in Chemical Biology, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Kai Johnsson
- From the Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Institute of Bioengineering, National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) in Chemical Biology, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
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Pesek J, Svoboda J, Sattler M, Bartram S, Boland W. Biosynthesis of 8-hydroxyquinoline-2-carboxylic acid, an iron chelator from the gut of the lepidopteran Spodoptera littoralis. Org Biomol Chem 2015; 13:178-84. [PMID: 25356857 DOI: 10.1039/c4ob01857e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In the regurgitate (foregut content) of Spodoptera larvae we found high concentrations (0.5-5 mM) of 8-hydroxyquinoline-2-carboxylic acid (8-HQA). In a survey of different lepidopteran species, this compound was only detected in species belonging to the family of Noctuidae. 8-HQA was shown to derive from tryptophan metabolism. The amount of 8-HQA in the regurgitate was strongly dependent on the tryptophan content of the diet. In the insect 8-HQA is generated from tryptophan via kynurenine and 3-hydroxykynurenine. 8-HQA is produced by the larvae and not by their commensal gut bacteria. Analysis of different life stages of Spodoptera larvae revealed that 8-HQA is formed during the larval stage, probably acting as an iron chelator to control the gut microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Pesek
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Max-Planck-Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll-Straße 8, 07745 Jena, Germany.
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Mrinalini, Siebert AL, Wright J, Martinson E, Wheeler D, Werren JH. PARASITOID VENOM INDUCES METABOLIC CASCADES IN FLY HOSTS. Metabolomics 2015; 11:350-366. [PMID: 27867325 PMCID: PMC5113827 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-014-0697-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Parasitoid wasps inject insect hosts with a cocktail of venoms to manipulate the physiology, development, and immunity of the hosts and to promote development of the parasitoid offspring. The jewel wasp Nasonia vitripennis is a model parasitoid with at least 79 venom proteins. We conducted a high-throughput analysis of Nasonia venom effects on temporal changes of 249 metabolites in pupae of the flesh fly host (Sarcophaga bullata), over a five-day time course. Our results show that venom does not simply arrest the metabolism of the fly host. Rather, it targets specific metabolic processes while keeping hosts alive for at least five days post venom injection by the wasp. We found that venom: (a) Activates the sorbitol biosynthetic pathway while maintaining stable glucose levels, (b) Causes a shift in intermediary metabolism by switching to anaerobic metabolism and blocking the tricarboxylic acid cycle, (c) Arrests chitin biosynthesis that likely reflects developmental arrest of adult fly structures, (d) Elevates the majority of free amino acids, and (e) May be increasing phospholipid degradation. Despite sharing some metabolic effects with cold treatment, diapause, and hypoxia, the venom response is distinct from these conditions. Because Nasonia venom dramatically increases sorbitol levels without changing glucose levels, it could be a useful model for studying the regulation of the sorbitol pathway, which is relevant to diabetes research. Our findings generally support the view that parasitoid venoms are a rich source of bioactive molecules with potential biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mrinalini
- Biology Department, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627 USA
| | - Aisha L. Siebert
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Translational Biomedical Science Department, Rochester, NY 14627 USA
| | - Jeremy Wright
- Research and Collections Division, New York State Museum, Albany, NY 12230 USA
| | - Ellen Martinson
- Biology Department, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627 USA
| | - David Wheeler
- Institute of Fundamental Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - John H. Werren
- Biology Department, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627 USA
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Esquivel CJ, Cassone BJ, Piermarini PM. Transcriptomic evidence for a dramatic functional transition of the malpighian tubules after a blood meal in the Asian tiger mosquito Aedes albopictus. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2014; 8:e2929. [PMID: 24901705 PMCID: PMC4046972 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The consumption of a vertebrate blood meal by adult female mosquitoes is necessary for their reproduction, but it also presents significant physiological challenges to mosquito osmoregulation and metabolism. The renal (Malpighian) tubules of mosquitoes play critical roles in the initial processing of the blood meal by excreting excess water and salts that are ingested. However, it is unclear how the tubules contribute to the metabolism and excretion of wastes (e.g., heme, ammonia) produced during the digestion of blood. Methodology/Principal Findings Here we used RNA-Seq to examine global changes in transcript expression in the Malpighian tubules of the highly-invasive Asian tiger mosquito Aedes albopictus during the first 24 h after consuming a blood meal. We found progressive, global changes in the transcriptome of the Malpighian tubules isolated from mosquitoes at 3 h, 12 h, and 24 h after a blood meal. Notably, a DAVID functional cluster analysis of the differentially-expressed transcripts revealed 1) a down-regulation of transcripts associated with oxidative metabolism, active transport, and mRNA translation, and 2) an up-regulation of transcripts associated with antioxidants and detoxification, proteolytic activity, amino-acid metabolism, and cytoskeletal dynamics. Conclusions/Significance The results suggest that blood feeding elicits a functional transition of the epithelium from one specializing in active transepithelial fluid secretion (e.g., diuresis) to one specializing in detoxification and metabolic waste excretion. Our findings provide the first insights into the putative roles of mosquito Malpighian tubules in the chronic processing of blood meals. The Asian tiger mosquito Aedes albopictus is a vector of several medically-important arboviruses and one of the most invasive mosquito species in the world. Existing control measures for mosquitoes are presently being challenged by the emergence of resistance to insecticides that target the nervous system. Thus, it is necessary to identify novel physiological targets to guide the development of new insecticides. We recently demonstrated that the ‘kidneys’ (Malpighian tubules) of mosquitoes offer a valuable, new physiological target for insecticides. However, our understanding of how this tissue contributes to the chronic metabolic processing of blood meals by mosquitoes is limited. Here we characterize the changes in transcript expression that occur in the Malpighian tubules of adult female A. albopictus with the goal of identifying key molecular pathways that may reveal valuable targets for insecticide development. We find dramatic changes in transcript accumulation in Malpighian tubules, which 1) provide new insights into the potential functional roles of Malpighian tubules after a blood meal, and 2) reveal new potential molecular pathways and targets to guide the development of new insecticides that would disrupt the renal functions of mosquitoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos J. Esquivel
- Department of Entomology, Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, The Ohio State University, Wooster, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Bryan J. Cassone
- Department of Plant Pathology, Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, The Ohio State University, Wooster, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Peter M. Piermarini
- Department of Entomology, Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, The Ohio State University, Wooster, Ohio, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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The enzyme 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase as potential target for 1,2,4-oxadiazoles with larvicide activity against the dengue vector Aedes aegypti. Bioorg Med Chem 2013; 21:6996-7003. [PMID: 24095017 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2013.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2013] [Revised: 08/30/2013] [Accepted: 09/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The mosquito Aedes aegypti is the vector agent responsible for the transmission of yellow fever and dengue fever viruses to over 80 million people in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Exhaustive efforts have lead to a vaccine candidate with only 30% effectiveness against the dengue virus and failure to protect patients against the serotype 2. Hence, vector control remains the most viable route to dengue fever control programs. We have synthesized a class of 1,2,4-oxadiazole derivatives whose most biologically active compounds exhibit potent activity against Aedes aegypti larvae (ca. of 15 ppm) and low toxicity in mammals. Exposure to these larvicides results in larvae pigmentation in a manner correlated with the LC50 measurements. Structural comparisons of the 1,2,4-oxadiazole nucleus against known inhibitors of insect enzymes allowed the identification of 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase as a potential target for these synthetic larvicides. Molecular docking calculations indicate that 1,2,4-oxadiazole compounds can bind to 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase with similar conformation and binding energies as its crystallographic inhibitor 4-(2-aminophenyl)-4-oxobutanoic acid.
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35
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Kumar A, Wang S, Ou R, Samrakandi M, Beerntsen BT, Sayre RT. Development of an RNAi based microalgal larvicide to control mosquitoes. MALARIAWORLD JOURNAL 2013; 4:6. [PMID: 38860035 PMCID: PMC11164250 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.10894766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Anil Kumar
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center 975 N. Warson Rd, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA
- Department of Plant Cellular and Molecular Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Current address, Logos Procyte, 1005 N. Warson Rd., Suite B01, St Louis, MO 63132, USA
| | - Songjie Wang
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Ruguang Ou
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Mustapha Samrakandi
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center 975 N. Warson Rd, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA
- New Mexico Consortium, Los Alamos National Laboratory, 4200 W Jemez Rd., Los Alamos, NM 87544, USA
| | - Brenda T. Beerntsen
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Richard T. Sayre
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center 975 N. Warson Rd, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA
- New Mexico Consortium, Los Alamos National Laboratory, 4200 W Jemez Rd., Los Alamos, NM 87544, USA
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da Silva-Alves DCB, dos Anjos JV, Cavalcante NNM, Santos GKN, Navarro DMDAF, Srivastava RM. Larvicidal isoxazoles: Synthesis and their effective susceptibility towards Aedes aegypti larvae. Bioorg Med Chem 2012; 21:940-7. [PMID: 23321014 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2012.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2012] [Revised: 11/30/2012] [Accepted: 12/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Twenty 3,5-disubstituted isoxazoles have been synthesized and tested against fourth instar Aedes aegypti larvae. In the synthesis of title compounds, modifications have been made in the C-5 side-chain with a view to test their larvicidal activity. These isoxazoles have been obtained by 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of arylnitrile oxides to terminal alkynes which furnished the desired products in 20% to 79% yields. A comparative study of the larvicidal activity between 3-(3-aryl-isoxazol-5-yl)-propan-1-ols and 3-(3-aryl-isoxazol-5-yl)-propionic acids clearly demonstrated that the latter compounds possess much better larvicidal activity than the former. We also tested two esters, viz., methyl 3-[3-(phenyl)-isoxazole-5-yl] propionate and methyl 3-[3-(4-chlorophenyl)-isoxazole-5-yl] propionate, where the latter presented an excellent larvicidal profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana C B da Silva-Alves
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Cidade Universitária, 50740-560 Recife, PE, Brazil
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37
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Colín-González AL, Maldonado PD, Santamaría A. 3-Hydroxykynurenine: an intriguing molecule exerting dual actions in the central nervous system. Neurotoxicology 2012; 34:189-204. [PMID: 23219925 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2012.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2012] [Revised: 11/23/2012] [Accepted: 11/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Kynurenine pathway is gaining attention due to the many metabolic processes in which it has been involved. The tryptophan conversion into several other metabolites through this pathway provides neuronal and redox modulators useful for maintenance of major functions in the brain. However, when physiopathological conditions prevail - i.e. oxidative stress, excitotoxicity, and inflammation - preferential formation and accumulation of toxic metabolites could trigger factors for degeneration in neurological disorders. 3-Hydroxykynurenine has been largely described as one of these toxic metabolites capable of inducing oxidative damage and cell death; consequently, this metabolite has been hypothesized to play a pivotal role in different neurological and psychiatric disorders. Supporting evidence has shown altered 3-hydroxykynurenine levels in samples of patients from several disorders. In contrast, some experimental studies have provided evidence of antioxidant and scavenging properties inherent to this molecule. In this review, we explored most of literature favoring one or the other concept, in order to provide an accurate vision on the real participation of this tryptophan metabolite in both experimental paradigms and human brain pathologies. Through this collected evidence, we provide an integrative hypothesis on how 3-hydroxykynurenine is exerting its dual actions in the central nervous system and what will be the course of investigations in this field for the next years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Laura Colín-González
- Laboratorio de Aminoácidos Excitadores, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Insurgentes Sur 3877, Mexico City 14269, Mexico
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38
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Biochemical identification and crystal structure of kynurenine formamidase from Drosophila melanogaster. Biochem J 2012; 446:253-60. [PMID: 22690733 DOI: 10.1042/bj20120416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
KFase (kynurenine formamidase), also known as arylformamidase and formylkynurenine formamidase, efficiently catalyses the hydrolysis of NFK (N-formyl-L-kynurenine) to kynurenine. KFase is the second enzyme in the kynurenine pathway of tryptophan metabolism. A number of intermediates formed in the kynurenine pathway are biologically active and implicated in an assortment of medical conditions, including cancer, schizophrenia and neurodegenerative diseases. Consequently, enzymes involved in the kynurenine pathway have been considered potential regulatory targets. In the present study, we report, for the first time, the biochemical characterization and crystal structures of Drosophila melanogaster KFase conjugated with an inhibitor, PMSF. The protein architecture of KFase reveals that it belongs to the α/β hydrolase fold family. The PMSF-binding information of the solved conjugated crystal structure was used to obtain a KFase and NFK complex using molecular docking. The complex is useful for understanding the catalytic mechanism of KFase. The present study provides a molecular basis for future efforts in maintaining or regulating kynurenine metabolism through the molecular and biochemical regulation of KFase.
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40
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Sheipouri D, Braidy N, Guillemin GJ. Kynurenine Pathway in Skin Cells: Implications for UV-Induced Skin Damage. Int J Tryptophan Res 2012; 5:15-25. [PMID: 22837645 PMCID: PMC3399400 DOI: 10.4137/ijtr.s9835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The kynurenine pathway (KP) is the principle route of catabolism of the essential amino acid tryptophan, leading to the production of several neuroactive and immunoregulatory metabolites. Alterations in the KP have been implicated in various neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases, immunological disorders, and many other diseased states. Although the role of the KP in the skin has been evaluated in small niche fields, limited studies are available regarding the effect of acute ultra violet exposure and the induction of the KP in human skin-derived fibroblasts and keratinocytes. Since UV exposure can illicit an inflammatory component in skin cells, it is highly likely that the KP may be induced in these cells in response to UV exposure. It is also possible that some KP metabolites may act as pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators, since the KP is important in immunomodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diba Sheipouri
- University of New South Wales, School of Medical Sciences, Dept of Pharmacology, Sydney, Australia
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41
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Lima VLA, Dias F, Nunes RD, Pereira LO, Santos TSR, Chiarini LB, Ramos TD, Silva-Mendes BJ, Perales J, Valente RH, Oliveira PL. The antioxidant role of xanthurenic acid in the Aedes aegypti midgut during digestion of a blood meal. PLoS One 2012; 7:e38349. [PMID: 22701629 PMCID: PMC3372515 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0038349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2012] [Accepted: 05/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In the midgut of the mosquito Aedes aegypti, a vector of dengue and yellow fever, an intense release of heme and iron takes place during the digestion of a blood meal. Here, we demonstrated via chromatography, light absorption and mass spectrometry that xanthurenic acid (XA), a product of the oxidative metabolism of tryptophan, is produced in the digestive apparatus after the ingestion of a blood meal and reaches milimolar levels after 24 h, the period of maximal digestive activity. XA formation does not occur in the White Eye (WE) strain, which lacks kynurenine hydroxylase and accumulates kynurenic acid. The formation of XA can be diminished by feeding the insect with 3,4-dimethoxy-N-[4-(3-nitrophenyl)thiazol-2-yl] benzenesulfonamide (Ro-61-8048), an inhibitor of XA biosynthesis. Moreover, XA inhibits the phospholipid oxidation induced by heme or iron. A major fraction of this antioxidant activity is due to the capacity of XA to bind both heme and iron, which occurs at a slightly alkaline pH (7.5-8.0), a condition found in the insect midgut. The midgut epithelial cells of the WE mosquito has a marked increase in occurrence of cell death, which is reversed to levels similar to the wild type mosquitoes by feeding the insects with blood supplemented with XA, confirming the protective role of this molecule. Collectively, these results suggest a new role for XA as a heme and iron chelator that provides protection as an antioxidant and may help these animals adapt to a blood feeding habit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vitor L. A. Lima
- Instituto de Química e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal de Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Felipe Dias
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, Programa de Biologia Molecular e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo D. Nunes
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, Programa de Biologia Molecular e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Luiza O. Pereira
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Pesquisas Médicas - Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Tiago S. R. Santos
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, Programa de Biologia Molecular e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Luciana B. Chiarini
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Tadeu D. Ramos
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, Programa de Biologia Molecular e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Bernardo J. Silva-Mendes
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, Programa de Biologia Molecular e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jonas Perales
- Laboratório de Toxinologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Richard H. Valente
- Laboratório de Toxinologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Pedro L. Oliveira
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, Programa de Biologia Molecular e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Entomologia Molecular, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Malik A, Gäde G, Lange AB. Sequencing and biological effects of an adipokinetic/hypertrehalosemic peptide in the stick insect, Baculum extradentatum. Peptides 2012; 34:51-6. [PMID: 21864604 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2011.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2011] [Revised: 08/04/2011] [Accepted: 08/04/2011] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The corpora cardiaca of the Vietnamese stick insect, Baculum extradentatum, contain a member of the adipokinetic hormone/red pigment-concentrating hormone/hypertrehalosemic hormone (AKH/RPCH/HrTH) family of peptides whose sequence is identical to that originally described for the Indian stick insect, Carausius morosus. This decapeptide, Carmo-HrTH-II (pELTFTPNWGTa), has both hypertrehalosemic and cardioacceleratory activity in B. extradentatum, and hyperlipaemic activity in locusts. Reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) of corpora cardiaca extract followed by MALDI-TOF MS/MS also revealed a novel modification of a second peptide in B. extradentatum: the tryptophan residue at position 8 is post-translationally modified to kynurenine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Malik
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
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43
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Cryptic color change in a crab spider (Misumena vatia): identification and quantification of precursors and ommochrome pigments by HPLC. J Chem Ecol 2010; 36:412-23. [PMID: 20224921 DOI: 10.1007/s10886-010-9765-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2009] [Revised: 01/13/2010] [Accepted: 02/11/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Mimicry is used widely by arthropods to survive in a hostile environment. Often mimicry is associated with the production of chemical compounds such as pigments. In crab spiders, the change of color is based on a complex physiological process that still is not understood. The aim of this study was to identify and quantify the ommochrome pigments and precursors responsible for the color change in the mimetic crab spider Misumena vatia (Thomisidae). A modified high performance reverse phase ion-pair chromatography technique enabled us to separate and quantify the ommochrome pigments, their precursors, and related metabolites in individual spiders. Compounds such as tryptophan, kynurenine, and kynurenic acid occurred only or mainly in white crab spiders. In contrast, compounds such as 3-hydroxy-kynurenine, xanthommatin, and ommatin D occurred only or mainly in yellow crab spiders. Factor analysis ranked the different color forms in accordance with their metabolites. The biochemical results enabled us to associate the different phases of formation of pigment granules with specific metabolites. Yellow crab spiders contain many unknown ommochrome-like compounds not present in white crab spiders. We also found large quantities of decarboxylated xanthommatin, whose role as precursor of new pathways in ommochrome synthesis needs to be assessed. The catabolism of ommochromes, a process occurring when spiders revert from yellow to white, warrants further study.
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44
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Varma SD, Hegde KR. Kynurenine-induced photo oxidative damage to lens in vitro: protective effect of caffeine. Mol Cell Biochem 2010; 340:49-54. [PMID: 20204679 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-010-0399-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2009] [Accepted: 02/03/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Photochemical generation of reactive species of oxygen in the lens and aqueous and consequent physiological damage to the tissue has been implicated in the genesis of human cataracts. The present studies were undertaken to examine the feasibility of possible prevention of such damage to the lens initiated by UV activation of kynurenine, a well-known photosensitizer in the human lens. The studies were done by organ culturing intact mouse lenses in medium containing kynurenine and exposed to UVA. Tissue damage was assessed by the inhibition of its ability to carry active transport of rubidium ions and the associated decrements in the levels of GSH and ATP. These deleterious effects were significantly prevented by caffeine, an alkaloid present in many common beverages and known to chemically deactivate the said oxygen derivatives. Further studies on the pharmacological significance of the findings are hence in progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shambhu D Varma
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
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45
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Meng Y, Katsuma S, Mita K, Shimada T. Abnormal red body coloration of the silkworm,Bombyx mori, is caused by a mutation in a novel kynureninase. Genes Cells 2009; 14:129-40. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2443.2008.01257.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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46
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Metabolomic signatures of inbreeding at benign and stressful temperatures in Drosophila melanogaster. Genetics 2008; 180:1233-43. [PMID: 18791253 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.108.089144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
While the population genetics of inbreeding is fairly well understood, the effects of inbreeding on the physiological and biochemical levels are not. Here we have investigated the effects of inbreeding on the Drosophila melanogaster metabolome. Metabolite fingerprints in males from five outbred and five inbred lines were studied by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy after exposure to benign temperature, heat stress, or cold stress. In both the absence and the presence of temperature stress, metabolite levels were significantly different among inbred and outbred lines. The major effect of inbreeding was increased levels of maltose and decreased levels of 3-hydroxykynurenine and a galactoside [1-O-(4-O-(2-aminoethyl phosphate)-beta-d-galactopyranosyl)-x-glycerol] synthesized exclusively in the paragonial glands of Drosophila species, including D. melanogaster. The metabolomic effect of inbreeding at the benign temperature was related to gene expression data from the same inbred and outbred lines. Both gene expression and metabolite data indicate that fundamental metabolic processes are changed or modified by inbreeding. Apart from affecting mean metabolite levels, inbreeding led to an increased between-line variation in metabolite profiles compared to outbred lines. In contrast to previous observations revealing interactions between inbreeding and environmental stress on gene expression patterns and life-history traits, the effect of inbreeding on the metabolite profile was similar across the different temperature treatments.
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47
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Paglino A, Lombardo F, Arcà B, Rizzi M, Rossi F. Purification and biochemical characterization of a recombinant Anopheles gambiae tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase expressed in Escherichia coli. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2008; 38:871-876. [PMID: 18687401 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2008.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2008] [Revised: 05/26/2008] [Accepted: 05/29/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
In the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae, tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) is the only enzyme able to initiate l-tryptophan degradation through the kynurenine pathway. TDO converts l-tryptophan to N-formylkynurenine by catalyzing the heme-dependent oxidative opening of the substrate indole ring. Despite the central role exerted by kynurenines in the physiology of living organisms, only a few insect TDOs have been subjected to biochemical characterization in vitro. We performed a RT-PCR-based analysis of the tissue distribution of TDO mRNA in A. gambiae that revealed a ubiquitous expression of the gene, thus further underlining the importance of the enzyme in the mosquito biology. We developed an expression/purification procedure yielding pure and active recombinant A. gambiae TDO. Spectral analyses showed that the enzyme was purified in its heme-ferric form that was subsequently used to determining the Michaelis-Menten constants of the TDO catalyzed reaction in the presence of reducing agents. The screening of a number of compounds as potential TDO modulators showed that several kynurenines and other Tryptophan-derived molecules interfere with the enzyme activity in vitro. Our study could contribute to understanding TDO regulation in vivo and to the identification of inhibitors to be used to alter Tryptophan homeostasis in the malaria vector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Paglino
- DiSCAFF, University of Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro", Via Bovio, 6, 28100 Novara, Italy
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Insausti TC, Casas J. The functional morphology of color changing in a spider: development of ommochrome pigment granules. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 211:780-9. [PMID: 18281341 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.014043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Studies on the formation of ommochrome pigment granules are very few, despite their generalized occurrence as screening pigments in insect eyes. This is particularly true for ommochrome granules responsible for epidermal coloration. The aims of this study were to characterize the localization of major body pigments in a color changing mimetic spider, Misumena vatia (Thomisidae), and to describe the formation and location of ommochrome pigment granules responsible for the spider's color change from white to yellow. The unpigmented cuticula of this spider is transparent. Both the guanine localized in guanine cells in the opisthosoma and the uric acid localized in epidermis cells in the prosoma are responsible for the white coloration. The bright yellow color is due to the combination of ommochrome pigment granules and the white reflectance from coincident guanine and/or uric acid. The formation of ommochrome pigment granules in epidermis cells proceeds via three distinctive steps. Translucent, UV fluorescent, progranules (type I) are produced by a dense network of endoplasmic reticulum associated with numerous mitochondria and glycogen rosettes. These progranules are present in white spiders only, and regularly distributed in the cytoplasm. The merging of several progranules of type I into a transient state (progranule type II) leads to the formation of granules (type III) characterized by their lack of fluorescence, their spherical sections and their osmophilic-electron-dense contents. They are found in yellow spiders and in the red stripes on the body sides. Their color varies from yellow to red. Thus, white spiders contain only type I granules, yellow tinted spiders contain type II and III granules and bright yellow spiders contain only type III granules. We present a synthetic view of the ontogeny of ommochrome granules. We discuss the physiology of color changing and the nature of the chemical compounds in the different types of granules. Extended studies on the ultrastructural modification and physiological processes associated with color change are required before any statement about the adaptiveness of the color change can be made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresita C Insausti
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte, UMR CNRS 6035, Université de Tours, Avenue Monge, Parc Grandmont, Tours, France.
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