1
|
Gu Y, Yang X, Liu S, Chen X, Liu R, Gao J, Zhong Y, Li X, Han W. RNAi-mediated knockdown of juvenile hormone acid methyltransferase depresses reproductive performance in female Aethina tumida. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2025; 211:106420. [PMID: 40350233 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2025.106420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2025] [Accepted: 04/14/2025] [Indexed: 05/14/2025]
Abstract
Small hive beetles, Aethina tumide, are free-flying parasites of social bee colonies where they feed and reproduce. In case of mass infestation, A. tumida can cause significant economic losses. There is an urgent need to explore novel green molecular approaches for sustainable control of A. tumida. It has been confirmed that juvenile hormone acid methyl transferase (JHAMT) plays a crucial role in regulating the synthesis of juvenile hormone (JH). However, its impact on female reproduction of A. tumida remains unclear. In the present study, a novel JHAMT gene was identified from A. tumida with an open reading frame of 978 bp, encoding a polypeptide of 325 amino acids containing a Methyltransferase domain. The deduced amino acid sequence of AtJHAMT shared 60 % and 33 % identity with homologs from Brassicogethes aeneus and Apis mellifera, respectively. The expression profile indicates that the transcription level of AtJHAMT increases in the adult stages, reaching its peak in 5-day-old female adults. AtJHAMT exhibits the highest expression levels in the ovaries, and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) demonstrates that this gene shows a significant number of positive signals in the ovarian ducts and the head region. Furthermore, we investigated the function of AtJHAMT through RNA interference and methoprene rescue experiments. We also investigeted the off-target effects of the dsJHAMT. The results showed that silencing AtJHAMT through oral dsRNA delivery (feeding dsRNA-SPc mix) affected ovarian development and significantly reduced JH titers, female fecundity, female fertility, and egg hatchability. The application of methoprene partially rescued the negative effect of silencing AtJHAMT on reproduction. Several genes associated with ovarian development were significantly downregulated following interference with AtJHAMT, but their expression levels were restored after complementation experiments. Additionally, the off-target effects experiment showed that dsJHAMT from A. tumida had no adverse effects on ovaries development in honey bee queens. Overall, this study illustrates the functions of the JHAMT in A. tumida, which can serve as a potential target for controlling the reproduction of the most deleterious bee parasites, A. tumida.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Gu
- Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Haikou 571101, China; Sanya Institute of China Agricultural University, Sanya 572025, China; Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Xinyu Yang
- Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Haikou 571101, China; School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Senhao Liu
- Sanya Institute of China Agricultural University, Sanya 572025, China
| | - Xiaowei Chen
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory and School of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Ran Liu
- Beijing Tianbaokang High-Tech Development Co., Ltd., Beijing 10084, China
| | - Jinglin Gao
- Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Haikou 571101, China; Bee Industry Technology Research Center, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Haikou 571101, China
| | - Yihai Zhong
- Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Haikou 571101, China; Bee Industry Technology Research Center, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Haikou 571101, China
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China.
| | - Wensu Han
- Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Haikou 571101, China; Bee Industry Technology Research Center, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Haikou 571101, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Luo J, Ouyang H, Wu H, Xiong F, Yang T, Li H, Li X. UDP-glycosyltransferases-mediated vitellogenin protein biogenesis reveals juvenile hormone I-specific dominance in Spodoptera frugiperda reproductive programming. Int J Biol Macromol 2025; 313:144215. [PMID: 40373930 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.144215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2025] [Revised: 05/06/2025] [Accepted: 05/12/2025] [Indexed: 05/17/2025]
Abstract
Juvenile hormone (JH) critically regulates reproduction in Spodoptera frugiperda (FAW) via its signaling cascade. We dissected isoform-specific roles of JH I, II, and III by using hormone injection, RNAi, and RNA-seq. Systematic modulation of JH variants revealed distinct roles in ovarian development, egg production, and vitellogenin (Vg) dynamics. Transcriptomic profiling identified JH I as the most potent inducer of reproductive pathways, specifically enriching the steroid hormone biosynthesis pathway. Within this pathway, two UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGT), SfUGT2 and SfUGT2-like, were identified as key regulators of Vg synthesis through RNAi knockdown and functional validation (qPCR, Western blot). Silencing either gene reduced Vg levels and impaired ovarian maturation. JH I exhibited the strongest induction of SfUGT2/SfUGT2-like expression, correlating with its superior reproductive activation. Notably, JH III synergistically amplified JH I/II-induced Vg accumulation and egg production, as evidenced by co-treatment assays. This cooperative interplay highlights a tiered regulatory network among JH isoforms, and provide novel insights into the endocrine regulation of reproduction in FAW, also highlight the potential for targeted manipulation of JH signaling for pest control strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Luo
- College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Huili Ouyang
- College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Haiyan Wu
- College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Faqian Xiong
- Sugarcane Research Institute, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi 530007, China
| | - Taiyi Yang
- College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China; Sugarcane Research Institute, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi 530007, China
| | - Honghong Li
- College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Xuesheng Li
- College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mejías S, Jiménez NE, Conca C, Salgado JC, Gerdtzen ZP. Unveiling Wolbachia transcriptomic signature in the arboviral vector Aedes aegypti. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2025; 15:1538459. [PMID: 40357403 PMCID: PMC12066770 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2025.1538459] [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: 12/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2025] [Indexed: 05/15/2025] Open
Abstract
Introduction The mosquito Aedes aegypti is the main vector of arboviral diseases such as dengue and imposes a global health burden. A promising control strategy is to infect A. aegypti populations with Wolbachia, a genus of intracellular bacteria capable of blocking arboviral infections. Enhancing and preserving the efficacy of this method will depend on a solid mechanistic knowledge of the A. aegypti-Wolbachia symbiosis. By identifying differences between Wolbachia-infected and uninfected A. aegypti, previous transcriptomic studies proposed a wide range of symbiotic interactions, but a systematic identification of consistent effects across datasets is still missing. Methods To identify A. aegypti genes and functions consistently affected by Wolbachia, we performed differential expression and functional enrichment analysis on published transcriptomic datasets, followed by a meta-analysis of the obtained p-values using the maxP method. Six datasets were retrieved from Gene Expression Omnibus, Sequence Read Archive and ArrayExpress (last searched in July 2024, considering lack of replication as the exclusion criteria). After discarding one dataset from wAlbB-infected cell line due to poor mapping to the A. aegypti genome, the data comprised adult female A. aegypti heads, muscles, carcasses, midguts and bodies, and Wolbachia strains wMel and wMelPop. Results and Discussion Meta-analysis revealed 10 and 21 consistently down- and upregulated host genes, some of which have escaped the focus of previous research, including the consistently downregulated exonuclease AAEL009650 which has a pro-dengue virus homolog in Drosophila. At the function level, we found consistent upregulation of electron transport chain (ETC), carbohydrate transport and serine-type peptidase activity and inhibition, and downregulation of DNA replication. ETC upregulation suggests an alternative mechanism for Wolbachia's induction of antiviral oxidative stress, previously attributed to dual- and NADPH-oxidases which here showed downregulation or no regulation. Through analysis of previously published datasets, this work identifies promising molecular and functional targets for future studies aimed at elucidating the most fundamental mechanisms of the A. aegypti-Wolbachia symbiosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastián Mejías
- Center for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (CeBiB), University of Chile, Santiago, Santiago, Chile
- Millennium Nucleus Marine Agronomy of Seaweed Holobionts (MASH), Puerto Montt, Chile
| | - Natalia E. Jiménez
- Millennium Nucleus Marine Agronomy of Seaweed Holobionts (MASH), Puerto Montt, Chile
- Institute for Biological and Medical Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Santiago Metropolitan Region (RM), Chile
- Department of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Santiago Metropolitan Region (RM), Chile
| | - Carlos Conca
- Center for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (CeBiB), University of Chile, Santiago, Santiago, Chile
- Center for Mathematical Modeling, (CMM) (UMI CNRS 2807), Department of Mathematical Engineering, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - J. Cristian Salgado
- Center for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (CeBiB), University of Chile, Santiago, Santiago, Chile
- Laboratory of Process Modeling and Distributed Computing, Department of Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology and Materials, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ziomara P. Gerdtzen
- Center for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (CeBiB), University of Chile, Santiago, Santiago, Chile
- Department of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Santiago Metropolitan Region (RM), Chile
- Mammalian Cell Culture Laboratory, Department of Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology and Materials, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Center of Interventional Medicine for Precision and Advanced Cellular Therapy (IMPACT), Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Li H, Kong X, Yang D, Fang Y, Yang H, Zhang W, Wei J, Li X. Differential regulation of reproduction and molting by juvenile hormone in aphids. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2025; 162:104791. [PMID: 40043901 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2025.104791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2024] [Revised: 02/24/2025] [Accepted: 02/25/2025] [Indexed: 03/10/2025]
Abstract
Insects rely on juvenile hormones to regulate various physiological processes, including reproduction and molting; currently eight forms of this hormone are known. In most insects, only JH Ⅲ is synthesized. Meanwhile, aphids produce JH Ⅲ and JH Ⅲ skipped bisepoxide (JHSB3). However, it remains unclear whether these compounds play distinct roles in functional regulation. In this study, we demonstrated that the tested concentrations of JH Ⅲ effectively increased the number of aphid offspring, whereas high concentrations of JHSB3 affected the molting process. Drip experiments showed that 10 mg/L JH Ⅲ increased the number of offspring from 39.38 ± 8.03 to 56.50 ± 13.17, whereas 10 mg/L JHSB3 resulted in a 60.00 %± 5.77 % failure rate in molting before adulthood. Transcriptomic analysis also revealed that in the JH Ⅲ treatment group, 9 genes and 7 pathways associated with reproduction were expressed, but not genes or pathways associated with molting. In addition, 16 genes and 9 pathways associated with molting as well as 5 genes and 4 pathways associated with reproduction were identified in the JHSB3 treatment group. JH Ⅲ promotes reproduction in aphids by enhancing Vg expression, whereas JHSB3 affects molting by inhibiting the synthesis of molting hormone-related enzymes. The results indicate that JH Ⅲ and JHSB3 exhibit diverse functions in Aphis craccivora. The findings have significant implications for further studies on the physiological functions of different JHs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haolin Li
- College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agric-Environment and Agric-products Safety, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Kong
- Department of Entomology and MOA Key Lab of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100000, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongyu Yang
- College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agric-Environment and Agric-products Safety, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Fang
- College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agric-Environment and Agric-products Safety, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Yang
- College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agric-Environment and Agric-products Safety, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenjie Zhang
- College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agric-Environment and Agric-products Safety, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiguang Wei
- College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agric-Environment and Agric-products Safety, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuesheng Li
- College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agric-Environment and Agric-products Safety, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Li T, Liu F, Brown DJ, Liu N. Genome-Wide Profiling of P450 Gene Expression Reveals Caste-Specific and Developmental Patterns in Solenopsis invicta. Int J Mol Sci 2025; 26:3212. [PMID: 40244058 PMCID: PMC11989672 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26073212] [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: 01/30/2025] [Revised: 03/13/2025] [Accepted: 03/25/2025] [Indexed: 04/18/2025] Open
Abstract
P450 enzymes are integral to insect physiology, metabolism, hormone regulation, and adaptation to environmental challenges. By leveraging transcriptomic and genomic data, this study characterized the expression of 68 unique P450 genes across developmental stages and castes in the red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta), uncovering stage- and caste-specific differential expression patterns. Genes from the CYP4, CYP6, and CYP9 families, known for metabolizing exogenous and endogenous compounds, were highly expressed in early larval stages and minim workers, underscoring their roles in supporting rapid growth, hormone metabolism, colony maintenance, and brood care. The overexpression of CYP4AA1-linked to pheromone production-in queens, female alates, and female alate pupae highlights its critical functions in reproductive dominance, social structure maintenance, and colony dynamics. Here, juvenile hormone biosynthesis genes, including CYP305A1 and CYP315A1, exhibited significant overexpression in later instar larvae and larger workers, emphasizing their roles in development and in fulfilling colony-wide physiological demands. The "Halloween genes" (CYP302A1, CYP306A1, CYP315A1, CYP307A1, and CYP314A1) and CYP18A1 demonstrated dynamic regulation across developmental stages and castes, reflecting their essential contributions to hormonal production and balance throughout S. invicta's lifecycle. These findings offer valuable insights into the molecular and biological mechanisms driving S. invicta's social organization, developmental transitions, physiological adaptations, and evolutionary success. They also provide a foundation for future research into the regulatory pathways governing P450 gene expression and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nannan Liu
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (T.L.); (F.L.); (D.J.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Li YX, Kang XL, Li YL, Wang XP, Yan Q, Wang JX, Zhao XF. Receptor tyrosine kinases CAD96CA and FGFR1 function as the cell membrane receptors of insect juvenile hormone. eLife 2025; 13:RP97189. [PMID: 40085503 PMCID: PMC11908783 DOI: 10.7554/elife.97189] [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] [Indexed: 03/16/2025] Open
Abstract
Juvenile hormone (JH) is important to maintain insect larval status; however, its cell membrane receptor has not been identified. Using the lepidopteran insect Helicoverpa armigera (cotton bollworm), a serious agricultural pest, as a model, we determined that receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) cadherin 96ca (CAD96CA) and fibroblast growth factor receptor homologue (FGFR1) function as JH cell membrane receptors by their roles in JH-regulated gene expression, larval status maintaining, rapid intracellular calcium increase, phosphorylation of JH intracellular receptor MET1 and cofactor Taiman, and high affinity to JH III. Gene knockout of Cad96ca and Fgfr1 by CRISPR/Cas9 in embryo and knockdown in various insect cells, and overexpression of CAD96CA and FGFR1 in mammalian HEK-293T cells all supported CAD96CA and FGFR1 transmitting JH signal as JH cell membrane receptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Xue Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong UniversityShandongChina
| | - Xin-Le Kang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong UniversityShandongChina
| | - Yan-Li Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong UniversityShandongChina
| | - Xiao-Pei Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong UniversityShandongChina
| | - Qiao Yan
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong UniversityShandongChina
| | - Jin-Xing Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong UniversityShandongChina
| | - Xiao-Fan Zhao
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong UniversityShandongChina
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhu S, Liu F, Chen X, Xia S, Wu Y, Tang W, Ren C, Wang J, Li S. Inter-organelle communication dynamically orchestrates juvenile hormone biosynthesis and female reproduction. Natl Sci Rev 2025; 12:nwaf022. [PMID: 40041027 PMCID: PMC11879407 DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwaf022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2024] [Revised: 01/02/2025] [Accepted: 01/14/2025] [Indexed: 03/06/2025] Open
Abstract
Inter-organelle communication coordinates cellular homeostasis and function. Juvenile hormone (JH) is produced in the corpora allata (CA) and acts as a gonadotrophic hormone in most insects. Using transcriptomic, biochemical, molecular, and genetic analyses, here we investigated the underlying mechanism of how inter-organelle communication dynamically orchestrates JH biosynthesis and female reproduction in the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana. The extracellular stimuli insulin and allatostatin act through their membrane receptors and antagonistically regulate RyR-mediated Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum in CA cells. Ca2+-activated CaMKII stimulates energy metabolism in the mitochondria partially via SLC25A6, and induces the expression of JH biosynthetic genes HMGR, Jhamt, and Cyp15a1 through activating transcription factor CREB, which recruits CBP for histone acetylation in the nucleus. Additionally, mitochondria interact with CREB-CBP through mitonuclear communication to regulate JH biosynthesis. From the perspective of inter-organelle communication, this comprehensive study significantly advanced our understanding of hormone biosynthesis and reproductive biology in insects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiming Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou 514779, China
| | - Fangfang Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou 514779, China
| | - Xiaoyi Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Sishi Xia
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Yingting Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Wei Tang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Chonghua Ren
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Sheng Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou 514779, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Stathaki A, Alam RM, Köllner TG, O'Connor SE. Engineering of insect juvenile hormone III biosynthesis in the plant Nicotiana benthamiana. Metab Eng 2025; 88:77-84. [PMID: 39701408 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymben.2024.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2024] [Revised: 11/25/2024] [Accepted: 12/16/2024] [Indexed: 12/21/2024]
Abstract
Juvenile hormones (JHs) are farnesoic acid-derived sesquiterpenoids that play a crucial role in regulating various developmental processes in insects. Based on these reported biological activities, JHs and their synthetic analogs have been utilized as insecticides with significant commercial success over the past years. Here we describe the engineering of the JH pathway of the yellow fever mosquito (Aedes aegypti) by transient gene expression in the plant Nicotiana benthamiana. This approach led to the successful production of JH III in N. benthamiana leaves at a concentration of ca. 10 μg/g fresh weight. The co-expression of a feedback-insensitive version of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase from Arabidopsis thaliana further increased the titer eight-fold from 10 to 80 μg/g fresh weight. Our efforts also revealed that the rich endogenous metabolic background of N. benthamiana can generate farnesoic acid, a key precursor to JH III, and thus, only 3 genes need to be expressed to provide high titers of this compound. Our study demonstrates the production of high titers of JH III in N. benthamina via heterologous expression of insect JH biosynthetic genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angeliki Stathaki
- Department of Natural Product Biosynthesis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll-Str. 8, 07745, Jena, Germany.
| | - Ryan M Alam
- Department of Natural Product Biosynthesis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll-Str. 8, 07745, Jena, Germany.
| | - Tobias G Köllner
- Department of Natural Product Biosynthesis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll-Str. 8, 07745, Jena, Germany.
| | - Sarah E O'Connor
- Department of Natural Product Biosynthesis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll-Str. 8, 07745, Jena, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Niu Y, Zhang S, Shi F, Zhao Y, Li M, Zong S, Tao J. Transcriptome analysis identifies key genes in juvenile hormone and ecdysteroid signaling pathways and their roles in regulating reproductive system development of adult Monochamus saltuarius. Int J Biol Macromol 2025; 295:139634. [PMID: 39788234 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.139634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2024] [Revised: 12/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/06/2025] [Indexed: 01/12/2025]
Abstract
Monochamus saltuarius is an important vector of pinewood nematode in Eurasia with a high reproductive capacity. Endocrine hormones play a key role in insect reproduction. Understanding the mechanism of internal regulation can provide targets for pest control. However, this type of research on M. saltuarius remain limited. Our study constructed transcriptome of the internal reproductive systems in male and female M. saltuarius across three development stages. Interference experiments targeting the MSALMet1 and exploring its critical role in reproduction. Transcriptome results revealed that 42 genes related to the juvenile hormone and ecdysteroid pathways were identified. Among them, 12 genes were significantly enriched in reproduction-related pathways, and the expression patterns of 14 genes aligned with the developmental trend of the internal reproductive system, suggesting that they may play a regulatory role in reproductive processes. Furthermore, protein-protein interaction networks elucidated the complex interactions among these genes, shedding light on their diverse functions. Notably, bioinformatics analysis and interference experiments revealed that MSALMet1 having the profound effect on reproductive system development in both sexes. These findings highlight the critical role of endocrine-related genes in regulating reproductive development and provide a theoretical foundation for regulating reproduction at molecular level, potentially contributing to M. saltuarius population control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Niu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Forest Pest Control, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Sainan Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Forest Pest Control, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Fengming Shi
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Forest Pest Control, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yuxuan Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Forest Pest Control, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Meng Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Forest Pest Control, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Shixiang Zong
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Forest Pest Control, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Jing Tao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Forest Pest Control, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zhang Y, Ding KT, Yang NW, Lv ZC, Wang ZY, Zhang YJ, Liu WX, Guo JY. Juvenile Hormone and Ecdysteroids Facilitate the Adult Reproduction Through the Methoprene-Tolerant Gene and Ecdysone Receptor Gene in the Female Spodoptera frugiperda. Int J Mol Sci 2025; 26:1914. [PMID: 40076541 PMCID: PMC11900537 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26051914] [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: 01/16/2025] [Revised: 02/17/2025] [Accepted: 02/20/2025] [Indexed: 03/14/2025] Open
Abstract
Insects, as the most diverse and numerous group in the animal kingdom, are at least partly dependent on the reproduction process, which is strictly regulated by the 'classic' insect hormones: juvenile hormone (JH), and 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E). However, the regulatory mechanism governing the reproduction of JH and 20E in Spodoptera frugiperda remains unclear. In this study, ovarian development and ovulation in female S. frugiperda were assessed through dissection of the ovaries following treatment with JH analog (JHA) and 20E. Moreover, the expression patterns of the JH-signal and 20E-signal-related genes were determined by quantitative PCR (qPCR), and RNA interference (RNAi) was used to investigate the role of JH and 20E-induced genes. Ovarian development was observed by microdissection, and JH and 20E titers were determined by ELISA. Kr-h1, Vg, and USP expression were determined by qPCR. Dissection and qPCR results showed that JHA and 20E promoted ovarian development, egg maturation, and egg laying by upregulating Methoprene-Tolerant (Met) and Ecdysone Receptor (EcR)expression. Additionally, the RNAi results showed that the injection of dsMet and dsEcR markedly delayed ovarian development, inhibited egg maturation, and halted egg production. Knockdown of Met and EcR significantly reduced JH and 20E content and inhibited the transcription of Kr-h1 and USP. These results indicate that JH and 20E facilitate adult reproduction through the methoprene-tolerant gene and ecdysone receptor gene in female S. frugiperda.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (Y.Z.); (K.-T.D.); (N.-W.Y.); (Z.-C.L.); (Z.-Y.W.); (Y.-J.Z.)
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Kui-Ting Ding
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (Y.Z.); (K.-T.D.); (N.-W.Y.); (Z.-C.L.); (Z.-Y.W.); (Y.-J.Z.)
| | - Nian-Wan Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (Y.Z.); (K.-T.D.); (N.-W.Y.); (Z.-C.L.); (Z.-Y.W.); (Y.-J.Z.)
| | - Zhi-Chuang Lv
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (Y.Z.); (K.-T.D.); (N.-W.Y.); (Z.-C.L.); (Z.-Y.W.); (Y.-J.Z.)
| | - Zhen-Ying Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (Y.Z.); (K.-T.D.); (N.-W.Y.); (Z.-C.L.); (Z.-Y.W.); (Y.-J.Z.)
| | - Yong-Jun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (Y.Z.); (K.-T.D.); (N.-W.Y.); (Z.-C.L.); (Z.-Y.W.); (Y.-J.Z.)
| | - Wan-Xue Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (Y.Z.); (K.-T.D.); (N.-W.Y.); (Z.-C.L.); (Z.-Y.W.); (Y.-J.Z.)
| | - Jian-Yang Guo
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (Y.Z.); (K.-T.D.); (N.-W.Y.); (Z.-C.L.); (Z.-Y.W.); (Y.-J.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Cheng Y, Zhou Y. Changes in juvenile hormone titres and differential expression of related genes at different stages of Coccinella septempunctata L. female adults supplied with an artificial diet and aphid diet. BULLETIN OF ENTOMOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2025; 115:32-38. [PMID: 39773690 DOI: 10.1017/s0007485324000853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2025]
Abstract
Juvenile hormone (JH) regulates multiple physiological functions in insects including growth, metamorphosis, and reproduction. Juvenile hormone epoxide hydrolase (JHEH) and juvenile hormone esterase (JHE) are degradative enzymes that metabolise JH, and JH receptor (methoprene-tolerant, Met) functions in the regulation of female reproduction and vitellogenesis. In this study, JH titres in Coccinella septempunctata adult females were determined using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry; the JH titres ranged from 0.03 to 0.16 ng g-1 in 5- to 30-day-old female adults. JHEH, JHE, and Met expression were studied in different reproductive stages of C. septempunctata females by quantitative real-time PCR. JHEH transcription levels were highest in 25-day-old female adults and were 1.93-fold higher than expression levels in 5-day-old adults. JHEH and JHE expression levels were inhibited by the addition of JH to the artificial diet. Met expression in C. septempunctata supplied with 3 μl JH in artificial diet was similar to Met transcription in females supplied with an aphid diet, and the results showed that supplementation with 3 μl JH in 582.2 g of artificial diet was the most suitable for reproductive regulation of C. septempunctata. The results of this study provide important insights for the improvement of C. septempunctata artificial diets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Cheng
- Institute of Plant Protection, Guizhou Provincial Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Yuhang Zhou
- Institute of Plant Protection, Guizhou Provincial Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Dhungana P, Wei X, Kang DS, Sim C. A Head-Specific Transcriptomic Study Reveals Key Regulatory Pathways for Winter Diapause in the Mosquito Culex pipiens. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2025; 118:e70032. [PMID: 39898769 DOI: 10.1002/arch.70032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2024] [Revised: 12/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2025] [Indexed: 02/04/2025]
Abstract
The primary vector of the West Nile virus, Culex pipiens, undergoes reproductive dormancy during the adverse winter season. While our current understanding has mainly focused on cellular signals and phenotypic shifts occurring at a global scale during diapause, information on tissue-specific transcriptomic changes remains limited. This knowledge gap is a major challenge in interpreting the regulatory mechanisms at the tissue level. To address this, the present work utilized RNA-seq technology to investigate the transcriptional changes in the head that house the brain and crucial endocrinal organs such as corpora allata. We obtained RNA samples from the heads of diapausing and nondiapausing female mosquitoes at two specific time intervals, ZT0 and ZT16, and then subjected them to sequencing. Our results revealed differences in differentially expressed genes between diapause and non-diapause at ZT0 and ZT16, highlighting the phenotypic and diel variations in gene expression. We also selected twelve genes associated with the diapause phenotype and examined the transcript abundance at six different time points over 24 h. qRT-PCR analysis showed similar up- and downregulation of transcripts between the diapause and nondiapause phenotypes thus validating the results of RNA-seq. In summary, our study identified new genes with phenotypic and diel differentiation in their expression, potentially linking photoperiod to seasonal reproductive dormancy in insects. The newly presented information will significantly advance our understanding of head-specific genes crucial for insect diapause.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Xueyan Wei
- Department of Biology, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - David S Kang
- USDA Agricultural Research Service, Biological Control of Insects Research Laboratory, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Cheolho Sim
- Department of Biology, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Campli G, Volovych O, Kim K, Veldsman WP, Drage HB, Sheizaf I, Lynch S, Chipman AD, Daley AC, Robinson-Rechavi M, Waterhouse RM. The moulting arthropod: a complete genetic toolkit review. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2024; 99:2338-2375. [PMID: 39039636 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13123] [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: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Exoskeletons are a defining character of all arthropods that provide physical support for their segmented bodies and appendages as well as protection from the environment and predation. This ubiquitous yet evolutionarily variable feature has been instrumental in facilitating the adoption of a variety of lifestyles and the exploitation of ecological niches across all environments. Throughout the radiation that produced the more than one million described modern species, adaptability afforded by segmentation and exoskeletons has led to a diversity that is unrivalled amongst animals. However, because of the limited extensibility of exoskeleton chitin and cuticle components, they must be periodically shed and replaced with new larger ones, notably to accommodate the growing individuals encased within. Therefore, arthropods grow discontinuously by undergoing periodic moulting events, which follow a series of steps from the preparatory pre-moult phase to ecdysis itself and post-moult maturation of new exoskeletons. Each event represents a particularly vulnerable period in an arthropod's life cycle, so processes must be tightly regulated and meticulously executed to ensure successful transitions for normal growth and development. Decades of research in representative arthropods provide a foundation of understanding of the mechanisms involved. Building on this, studies continue to develop and test hypotheses on the presence and function of molecular components, including neuropeptides, hormones, and receptors, as well as the so-called early, late, and fate genes, across arthropod diversity. Here, we review the literature to develop a comprehensive overview of the status of accumulated knowledge of the genetic toolkit governing arthropod moulting. From biosynthesis and regulation of ecdysteroid and sesquiterpenoid hormones, to factors involved in hormonal stimulation responses and exoskeleton remodelling, we identify commonalities and differences, as well as highlighting major knowledge gaps, across arthropod groups. We examine the available evidence supporting current models of how components operate together to prepare for, execute, and recover from ecdysis, comparing reports from Chelicerata, Myriapoda, Crustacea, and Hexapoda. Evidence is generally highly taxonomically imbalanced, with most reports based on insect study systems. Biases are also evident in research on different moulting phases and processes, with the early triggers and late effectors generally being the least well explored. Our synthesis contrasts knowledge based on reported observations with reasonably plausible assumptions given current taxonomic sampling, and exposes weak assumptions or major gaps that need addressing. Encouragingly, advances in genomics are driving a diversification of tractable study systems by facilitating the cataloguing of putative genetic toolkits in previously under-explored taxa. Analysis of genome and transcriptome data supported by experimental investigations have validated the presence of an "ultra-conserved" core of arthropod genes involved in moulting processes. The molecular machinery has likely evolved with elaborations on this conserved pathway backbone, but more taxonomic exploration is needed to characterise lineage-specific changes and novelties. Furthermore, linking these to transformative innovations in moulting processes across Arthropoda remains hampered by knowledge gaps and hypotheses based on untested assumptions. Promisingly however, emerging from the synthesis is a framework that highlights research avenues from the underlying genetics to the dynamic molecular biology through to the complex physiology of moulting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Campli
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, Quartier UNIL-Sorge, Bâtiment Biophore, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Quartier Sorge, Bâtiment Amphipôle, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Olga Volovych
- The Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Edmond J. Safra Campus - Givat Ram, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Kenneth Kim
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, Quartier UNIL-Sorge, Bâtiment Biophore, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Quartier Sorge, Bâtiment Amphipôle, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Werner P Veldsman
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, Quartier UNIL-Sorge, Bâtiment Biophore, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Quartier Sorge, Bâtiment Amphipôle, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Harriet B Drage
- Institute of Earth Sciences, Quartier UNIL-Mouline, Bâtiment Géopolis, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Idan Sheizaf
- The Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Edmond J. Safra Campus - Givat Ram, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Sinéad Lynch
- Institute of Earth Sciences, Quartier UNIL-Mouline, Bâtiment Géopolis, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Ariel D Chipman
- The Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Edmond J. Safra Campus - Givat Ram, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Allison C Daley
- Institute of Earth Sciences, Quartier UNIL-Mouline, Bâtiment Géopolis, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Marc Robinson-Rechavi
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, Quartier UNIL-Sorge, Bâtiment Biophore, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Quartier Sorge, Bâtiment Amphipôle, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Robert M Waterhouse
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, Quartier UNIL-Sorge, Bâtiment Biophore, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Quartier Sorge, Bâtiment Amphipôle, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kurogi Y, Mizuno Y, Hayashi R, Goyins K, Okamoto N, Barton L, Niwa R. The seminal vesicle is a juvenile hormone-responsive tissue in adult male Drosophila melanogaster. Open Biol 2024; 14:240315. [PMID: 39689858 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.240315] [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: 10/25/2024] [Accepted: 11/08/2024] [Indexed: 12/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Juvenile hormone (JH) is one of the most essential hormones controlling insect metamorphosis and physiology. While it is well known that JH affects many tissues throughout the insect life cycle, the difference in JH responsiveness and the repertoire of JH-inducible genes among different tissues has not been fully investigated. In this study, we monitored JH responsiveness in vivo using transgenic Drosophila melanogaster flies carrying a JH response element-GFP (JHRE-GFP) construct. Our data highlight the high responsiveness of the epithelial cells within the seminal vesicle, a component of the male reproductive tract, to JH. Specifically, we observe an elevation in the JHRE-GFP signal within the seminal vesicle epithelium upon JH analogue administration, while suppression occurs upon knockdown of a gene encoding the intracellular JH receptor, germ cell-expressed. Starting from published transcriptomic and proteomics datasets, we next identified Lactate dehydrogenase as a JH-response gene expressed in the seminal vesicle epithelium, suggesting insect seminal vesicles undergo metabolic regulation by JH. Together, this study sheds new light on the biology of the insect reproductive regulatory system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshitomo Kurogi
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
| | - Yosuke Mizuno
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Hayashi
- Degree Programs in Life and Earth Sciences, Graduate School of Science and Technology, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Krystal Goyins
- Department of Neuroscience, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Naoki Okamoto
- Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
| | - Lacy Barton
- Department of Neuroscience, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Ryusuke Niwa
- Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li H, Kong X, Fang Y, Hou J, Zhang W, Zhang Y, Wei J, Li X. Aphis craccivora (Hemiptera: Aphididae) synthesizes juvenile hormone III via a pathway involving epoxidation followed by esterification, potentially providing an epoxidation active site for the synthesis of juvenile hormone SB3. INSECT SCIENCE 2024. [PMID: 39365891 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 10/06/2024]
Abstract
Juvenile hormones (JHs) play a crucial role in regulating development and reproduction in insects. Most insects predominantly synthesize JH III, which typically involves esterification followed by epoxidation, lepidopteran insects use a pathway of epoxidation followed by esterification. Although hemipteran insects have JH III and JH skipped bisepoxide III (JH SB3), the synthesis pathway and key epoxidases remain unclear. This study was conducted on Aphis craccivora, and demonstrated that corpora allata, microsomes, Ac-CYP15C1, and Ac-JHAMT catalyze JH III production in vitro, establishing the pathway of epoxidation followed by esterification. These findings were further confirmed through RNA interference and molecular docking. The presence of JH III and JH SB3 in A. craccivora was identified, and their synthesis pathway was elucidated as follows: Ac-CYP15C1 oxidizes farnesic acid to JH A, followed by methylation to JH III by Ac-JHAMT, possibly providing an epoxidation site on the second carbon for JH SB3. This alteration may significantly contribute to the differentiation and functional diversification of JH types in insects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haolin Li
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agric-Environment and Agric-Products Safety, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Xue Kong
- Department of Entomology and MOA Key Lab of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Fang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agric-Environment and Agric-Products Safety, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Jiangan Hou
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agric-Environment and Agric-Products Safety, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Wenjie Zhang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agric-Environment and Agric-Products Safety, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Yongheng Zhang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agric-Environment and Agric-Products Safety, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Jiguang Wei
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agric-Environment and Agric-Products Safety, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Xuesheng Li
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agric-Environment and Agric-Products Safety, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Jindra M, Tumova S, Bittova L, Tuma R, Sedlak D. Agonist-dependent action of the juvenile hormone receptor. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2024; 65:101234. [PMID: 39025365 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2024.101234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Juvenile hormone (JH) signaling is realized at the gene regulatory level by receptors of the bHLH-PAS transcription factor family. The sesquiterpenoid hormones and their synthetic mimics are agonist ligands of a unique JH receptor (JHR) protein, methoprene-tolerant (MET). Upon binding an agonist to its PAS-B cavity, MET dissociates from a cytoplasmic chaperone complex including HSP83 and concomitantly switches to a bHLH-PAS partner taiman, forming a nuclear, transcriptionally active JHR heterodimer. This course of events resembles the vertebrate aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), activated by a plethora of endogenous and synthetic compounds. Like in AHR, the pliable PAS-B cavity of MET adjusts to diverse ligands and binds them through similar mechanisms. Despite recent progress, we only begin to discern agonist-induced conformational shifts within the PAS-B domain, with the ultimate goal of understanding how these localized changes stimulate the assembly of the active JHR complex and, thus, fully grasp the mechanism of JHR signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marek Jindra
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Ceske Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic.
| | - Sarka Tumova
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Bittova
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic
| | - Roman Tuma
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Ceske Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic
| | - David Sedlak
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Charamis J, Balaska S, Ioannidis P, Dvořák V, Mavridis K, McDowell MA, Pavlidis P, Feyereisen R, Volf P, Vontas J. Comparative Genomics Uncovers the Evolutionary Dynamics of Detoxification and Insecticide Target Genes Across 11 Phlebotomine Sand Flies. Genome Biol Evol 2024; 16:evae186. [PMID: 39224065 PMCID: PMC11412322 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evae186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Sand flies infect more than 1 million people annually with Leishmania parasites and other bacterial and viral pathogens. Progress in understanding sand fly adaptations to xenobiotics has been hampered by the limited availability of genomic resources. To address this gap, we sequenced, assembled, and annotated the transcriptomes of 11 phlebotomine sand fly species. Subsequently, we leveraged these genomic resources to generate novel evolutionary insights pertaining to their adaptations to xenobiotics, including those contributing to insecticide resistance. Specifically, we annotated over 2,700 sand fly detoxification genes and conducted large-scale phylogenetic comparisons to uncover the evolutionary dynamics of the five major detoxification gene families: cytochrome P450s (CYPs), glutathione-S-transferases (GSTs), UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs), carboxyl/cholinesterases (CCEs), and ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters. Using this comparative approach, we show that sand flies have evolved diverse CYP and GST gene repertoires, with notable lineage-specific expansions in gene groups evolutionarily related to known xenobiotic metabolizers. Furthermore, we show that sand flies have conserved orthologs of (i) CYP4G genes involved in cuticular hydrocarbon biosynthesis, (ii) ABCB genes involved in xenobiotic toxicity, and (iii) two primary insecticide targets, acetylcholinesterase-1 (Ace1) and voltage gated sodium channel (VGSC). The biological insights and genomic resources produced in this study provide a foundation for generating and testing hypotheses regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying sand fly adaptations to xenobiotics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason Charamis
- Department of Biology, University of Crete, Heraklion 71409, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion 70013, Greece
| | - Sofia Balaska
- Department of Biology, University of Crete, Heraklion 71409, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion 70013, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Ioannidis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion 70013, Greece
- Institute of Computer Science, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Vít Dvořák
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Konstantinos Mavridis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion 70013, Greece
| | - Mary Ann McDowell
- Eck Institute for Global Health, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Pavlos Pavlidis
- Department of Biology, University of Crete, Heraklion 71409, Greece
- Institute of Computer Science, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - René Feyereisen
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Petr Volf
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - John Vontas
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion 70013, Greece
- Pesticide Science Laboratory, Department of Crop Science, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens 11855, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
David OG, Arce AV, Costa-da-Silva AL, Bellantuono AJ, DeGennaro M. Fertility decline in Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) mosquitoes is associated with reduced maternal transcript deposition and does not depend on female age. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2024; 61:1064-1070. [PMID: 38757780 PMCID: PMC11239790 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjae058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Female mosquitoes undergo multiple rounds of reproduction known as gonotrophic cycles (GC). A gonotrophic cycle spans the period from blood meal intake to egg laying. Nutrients from vertebrate host blood are necessary for completing egg development. During oogenesis, a female prepackages mRNA into her oocytes, and these maternal transcripts drive the first 2 h of embryonic development prior to zygotic genome activation. In this study, we profiled transcriptional changes in 1-2 h of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) embryos across 2 GC. We found that homeotic genes which are regulators of embryogenesis are downregulated in embryos from the second gonotrophic cycle. Interestingly, embryos produced by Ae. aegypti females progressively reduced their ability to hatch as the number of GC increased. We show that this fertility decline is due to increased reproductive output and not the mosquitoes' age. Moreover, we found a similar decline in fertility and fecundity across 3 GC in Aedes albopictus. Our results are useful for predicting mosquito population dynamics to inform vector control efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olayinka G David
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
- Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Andrea V Arce
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
- Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Andre Luis Costa-da-Silva
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
- Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Anthony J Bellantuono
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
- Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Matthew DeGennaro
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
- Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Leyria J. Endocrine factors modulating vitellogenesis and oogenesis in insects: An update. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 587:112211. [PMID: 38494046 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2024.112211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
The endocrine system plays a pivotal role in shaping the mechanisms that ensure successful reproduction. With over a million known insect species, understanding the endocrine control of reproduction has become increasingly complex. Some of the key players include the classic insect lipid hormones juvenile hormone (JH) and ecdysteroids, and neuropeptides such as insulin-like peptides (ILPs). Individual endocrine factors not only modulate their own target tissue but also play crucial roles in crosstalk among themselves, ensuring successful vitellogenesis and oogenesis. Recent advances in omics, gene silencing, and genome editing approaches have accelerated research, offering both fundamental insights and practical applications for studying in-depth endocrine signaling pathways. This review provides an updated and integrated view of endocrine factors modulating vitellogenesis and oogenesis in insect females.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jimena Leyria
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Jia Q, Yang L, Wen J, Liu S, Wen D, Luo W, Wang W, Palli SR, Sheng L. Cyp6g2 is the major P450 epoxidase responsible for juvenile hormone biosynthesis in Drosophila melanogaster. BMC Biol 2024; 22:111. [PMID: 38741075 PMCID: PMC11092216 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-024-01910-4] [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: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Juvenile hormones (JH) play crucial role in regulating development and reproduction in insects. The most common form of JH is JH III, derived from MF through epoxidation by CYP15 enzymes. However, in the higher dipterans, such as the fruitfly, Drosophila melanogaster, a bis-epoxide form of JHB3, accounted most of the JH detected. Moreover, these higher dipterans have lost the CYP15 gene from their genomes. As a result, the identity of the P450 epoxidase in the JH biosynthesis pathway in higher dipterans remains unknown. RESULTS In this study, we show that Cyp6g2 serves as the major JH epoxidase responsible for the biosynthesis of JHB3 and JH III in D. melanogaster. The Cyp6g2 is predominantly expressed in the corpus allatum (CA), concurring with the expression pattern of jhamt, another well-studied gene that is crucial in the last steps of JH biosynthesis. Mutation in Cyp6g2 leads to severe disruptions in larval-pupal metamorphosis and exhibits reproductive deficiencies, exceeding those seen in jhamt mutants. Notably, Cyp6g2-/-::jhamt2 double mutants all died at the pupal stage but could be rescued through the topical application of JH analogs. JH titer analyses revealed that both Cyp6g2-/- mutant and jhamt2 mutant lacking JHB3 and JH III, while overexpression of Cyp6g2 or jhamt caused a significant increase in JHB3 and JH III titer. CONCLUSIONS These findings collectively established that Cyp6g2 as the major JH epoxidase in the higher dipterans and laid the groundwork for the further understanding of JH biosynthesis. Moreover, these findings pave the way for developing specific Cyp6g2 inhibitors as insect growth regulators or insecticides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiangqiang Jia
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiamin Wen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Suning Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, China
| | - Di Wen
- College of Biological Science and Agriculture, Qiannan Normal University for Nationalities, Duyuan, 558000, China
| | - Wei Luo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, China
| | - Weihua Wang
- Center of Pharmaceutical Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Subba Reddy Palli
- Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40546, USA
| | - Li Sheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Institute of Insect Science and Technology & School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China.
- Guangmeiyuan R&D Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, South China Normal University, Meizhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Silva RBV, Coelho Júnior VG, de Paula Mattos Júnior A, Julidori Garcia H, Siqueira Caixeta Nogueira E, Mazzoni TS, Ramos Martins J, Rosatto Moda LM, Barchuk AR. Farnesol, a component of plant-derived honeybee-collected resins, shows JH-like effects in Apis mellifera workers. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 154:104627. [PMID: 38373613 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2024.104627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Farnesol, a sesquiterpene found in all eukaryotes, precursor of juvenile hormone (JH) in insects, is involved in signalling, communication, and antimicrobial defence. Farnesol is a compound of floral volatiles, suggesting its importance in pollination and foraging behaviour. Farnesol is found in the resin of Baccharis dracunculifolia, from which honeybees elaborate the most worldwide marketable propolis. Bees use propolis to seal cracks in the walls, reinforce the wax combs, and as protection against bacteria and fungi. The introduction within a honeybee hive of a compound with potential hormonal activity can be a challenge to the colony survival, mainly because the transition from within-hive to outside activities of workers is controlled by JH. Here, we tested the hypothesis that exogenous farnesol alters the pacing of developing workers. The first assays showed that low doses of the JH precursor (0.1 and 0.01 µg) accelerate pharate-adult development, with high doses being toxic. The second assay was conducted in adult workers and demonstrated bees that received 0.2 µg farnesol showed more agitated behaviour than the control bees. If farnesol was used by corpora allata (CA) cells as a precursor of JH and this hormone was responsible for the observed behavioural alterations, these glands were expected to be larger after the treatment. Our results on CA measurements after 72 h of treatment showed bees that received farnesol had glands doubled in size compared to the control bees (p < 0.05). Additionally, we expected the expression of JH synthesis, JH degradation, and JH-response genes would be upregulated in the treated bees. Our results showed that indeed, the mean transcript levels of these genes were higher in the treated bees (significant for methyl farnesoate epoxidase and juvenile hormone esterase, p < 0.05). These results suggest farnesol is used in honeybees as a precursor of JH, leading to increasing JH titres, and thus modulating the pacing of workers development. This finding has behavioural and ecological implications, since alterations in the dynamics of the physiological changes associated to aging in young honeybees may significantly impact colony balance in nature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raissa Bayker Vieira Silva
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, UNIFAL-MG, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Valdeci Geraldo Coelho Júnior
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, UNIFAL-MG, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Adolfo de Paula Mattos Júnior
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, UNIFAL-MG, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Henrique Julidori Garcia
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, UNIFAL-MG, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ester Siqueira Caixeta Nogueira
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, UNIFAL-MG, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Talita Sarah Mazzoni
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, UNIFAL-MG, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Juliana Ramos Martins
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, UNIFAL-MG, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lívia Maria Rosatto Moda
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, UNIFAL-MG, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Angel Roberto Barchuk
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, UNIFAL-MG, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Qi Z, Etebari K, Nouzova M, Noriega FG, Asgari S. Differential gene expression and microRNA profile in corpora allata-corpora cardiaca of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes with weak juvenile hormone signalling. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:113. [PMID: 38273232 PMCID: PMC10811912 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10007-9] [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: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The corpora allata-corpora cardiaca (CA-CC) is an endocrine gland complex that regulates mosquito development and reproduction through the synthesis of juvenile hormone (JH). Epoxidase (Epox) is a key enzyme in the production of JH. We recently utilized CRISPR/Cas9 to establish an epoxidase-deficient (epox-/-) Aedes aegypti line. The CA from epox-/- mutants do not synthesize epoxidated JH III but methyl farneosate (MF), a weak agonist of the JH receptor, and therefore have reduced JH signalling. Illumina sequencing was used to examine the differences in gene expression between the CA-CC from wild type (WT) and epox-/- adult female mosquitoes. From 18,034 identified genes, 317 were significantly differentially expressed. These genes are involved in many biological processes, including the regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis, energy metabolism, and nutritional uptake. In addition, the same CA-CC samples were also used to examine the microRNA (miRNA) profiles of epox-/- and WT mosquitoes. A total of 197 miRNAs were detected, 24 of which were differentially regulated in epox-/- mutants. miRNA binding sites for these particular miRNAs were identified using an in silico approach; they target a total of 101 differentially expressed genes. Our results suggest that a lack of epoxidase, besides affecting JH synthesis, results in the diminishing of JH signalling that have significant effects on Ae. aegypti CA-CC transcriptome profiles, as well as its miRNA repertoire.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Qi
- Australian Infectious Disease Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Kayvan Etebari
- Australian Infectious Disease Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Marcela Nouzova
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre CAS, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Fernando G Noriega
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Parasitology, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Sassan Asgari
- Australian Infectious Disease Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Tumova S, Dolezel D, Jindra M. Conserved and Unique Roles of bHLH-PAS Transcription Factors in Insects - From Clock to Hormone Reception. J Mol Biol 2023; 436:168332. [PMID: 39491146 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2024]
Abstract
A dozen bHLH-PAS transcription factors have evolved since the dawn of the animal kingdom; nine of them have mutual orthologs between arthropods and vertebrates. These proteins are master regulators in a range of developmental processes from organogenesis, nervous system formation and functioning, to cell fate decisions defining identity of limbs or photoreceptors for color vision. Among the functionally best conserved are bHLH-PAS proteins acting in the animal circadian clock. On the other side of the spectrum are fundamental physiological mechanisms such as those underlying xenobiotic detoxification, oxygen homeostasis, and metabolic adaptation to hypoxia, infection or tumor progression. Predictably, malfunctioning of bHLH-PAS regulators leads to pathologies. Performance of the individual bHLH-PAS proteins is modulated at multiple levels including dimerization and other protein-protein interactions, proteasomal degradation, and by binding low-molecular weight ligands. Despite the vast evolutionary gap dividing arthropods and vertebrates, and the differences in their anatomy, many functions of orthologous bHLH-PAS proteins are remarkably similar, including at the molecular level. Our phylogenetic analysis shows that one bHLH-PAS protein type has been lost during vertebrate evolution. This protein has a unique function as a receptor of the sesquiterpenoid juvenile hormones of insects and crustaceans. Although some other bHLH-PAS proteins are regulated by binding small molecules, the juvenile hormone receptor presents an unprecedented case, since all other non-peptide animal hormones activate members of the nuclear receptor family. The purpose of this review is to compare and highlight parallels and differences in functioning of bHLH-PAS proteins between insects and vertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarka Tumova
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic
| | - David Dolezel
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic
| | - Marek Jindra
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Leyria J, Guarneri AA, Lorenzo MG, Nouzova M, Noriega FG, Benrabaa SAM, Fernandez-Lima F, Valadares Tose L, Orchard I, Lange AB. Effects of mating on female reproductive physiology in the insect model, Rhodnius prolixus, a vector of the causative parasite of Chagas disease. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011640. [PMID: 37729234 PMCID: PMC10545099 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-sucking hemipteran Rhodnius prolixus is one of the main vectors of Chagas disease, a neglected tropical disease that affects several million people worldwide. Consuming a blood meal and mating are events with a high epidemiological impact since after each meal, mated females can lay fertile eggs that result in hundreds of offspring. Thus, a better knowledge of the control of R. prolixus reproductive capacity may provide targets for developing novel strategies to control vector populations, thereby reducing vector-host contacts and disease transmission. Here, we have used a combination of gene transcript expression analysis, biochemical assays, hormone measurements and studies of locomotory activity to investigate how mating influences egg development and egg laying rates in R. prolixus females. The results demonstrate that a blood meal increases egg production capacity and leads to earlier egg laying in mated females compared to virgins. Virgin females, however, have increased survival rate over mated females. Circulating juvenile hormone (JH) and ecdysteroid titers are increased in mated females, a process mainly driven through an upregulation of the transcripts for their biosynthetic enzymes in the corpus allatum and ovaries, respectively. Mated females display weaker locomotory activity compared to virgin females, mainly during the photophase. In essence, this study shows how reproductive output and behaviour are profoundly influenced by mating, highlighting molecular, biochemical, endocrine and behavioral features differentially expressed in mated and virgin R. prolixus females.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jimena Leyria
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Canada
| | | | - Marcelo G. Lorenzo
- Instituto René Rachou, Avenida Augusto de Lima, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Biodiversidad y Biotecnología (INBIOTEC-CONICET), Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marcela Nouzova
- Biology Center of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Institute of Parasitology, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Fernando G. Noriega
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Parasitology, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | | | - Francisco Fernandez-Lima
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Lilian Valadares Tose
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Ian Orchard
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Canada
| | - Angela B. Lange
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Yu Y, Li T, Guo M, Xiong R, Yan D, Chen P. Possible Regulation of Larval Juvenile Hormone Titers in Bombyx mori by BmFAMeT6. INSECTS 2023; 14:644. [PMID: 37504649 PMCID: PMC10380277 DOI: 10.3390/insects14070644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Juvenile hormone (JH) plays a vital role in the growth, development, and reproduction of insects and other arthropods. Previous experiments have suggested that BmFAMeT6 could affect the duration of the silk moth's larval stage. In this study, we established the BmFAMeT6 overexpression strain and BmFAMeT6 knockout strain using the GAL4/UAS binary hybrid system and CRISPR/Cas 9 system, respectively, and found that the larval stage of the overexpression strain was shorter, while the knockout strain was longer. Our results exhibited that both the JH titers and BmKr-h1 levels in the larvae of the third instar were reduced significantly by BmFAMeT6 overexpression, but were increased obviously by BmFAMeT6 knockout. In addition, injection of farnesoic acid induced changes in the JH I and JH II levels in the hemolymphs of larvae. This study is the first to directly reveal the role of BmFAMeT6 in the regulation of insect JH titers and the relationship between farnesoic acid and JH (JH I and JH II). This provides a new perspective on regulating the growth and development of insects such as Bombyx mori.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yu
- College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Tian Li
- College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Drug Discovery Research Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646099, China
| | - Meiwei Guo
- College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Rong Xiong
- College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Dongshen Yan
- College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Ping Chen
- College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Smykal V, Dolezel D. Evolution of proteins involved in the final steps of juvenile hormone synthesis. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 145:104487. [PMID: 36707023 PMCID: PMC10015273 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2023.104487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Juvenile hormone (JH), a sesquiterpenoid produced by the insect corpus allatum gland (CA), is a key regulator of insect metamorphosis, reproduction, caste differentiation, and polyphenism. The first part of JH biosynthesis occurs via the universal eukaryotic mevalonate pathway. The final steps involve epoxidation and methylation. However, the sequence of these steps might not be conserved among all insects and Crustacea. Therefore, we used available genomic and transcriptomic data and identified JH acid methyltransferase (JHAMT), analyzed their genomic duplications in selected model organisms, and reconstructed their phylogeny. We have further reconstructed phylogeny of FAMeT proteins and show that evolution of this protein group is more complicated than originally appreciated. The analysis delineates important milestones in the evolution of several JH biosynthetic enzymes in arthropods, reviews major literature data on the last steps of JH synthesis, and defines questions and some hypotheses worth pursuing experimentally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vlastimil Smykal
- Biology Center of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Institute of Entomology, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - David Dolezel
- Biology Center of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Institute of Entomology, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Qiu J, Dai T, Luo C, Cui W, Liu K, Li J, Sima Y, Xu S. Circadian clock regulates developmental time through ecdysone and juvenile hormones in Bombyx mori. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023. [PMID: 36815346 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The circadian clock plays an integral role in hormone biosynthesis and secretion. However, how the circadian clock precisely coordinates hormonal homeostasis to maintain normal animal development remains unclear. Here, we show that knocking out the core clock gene Cryptochrome 1 (Cry1) significantly delays the developmental time in Bombyx mori. This study focuses on the ecdysone and juvenile hormone signalling pathways of fifth instar larvae with the longest developmental time delay. We found that the mutant reduced prothoracicotropic hormone synthesis in the brain, and could not produce sufficient ecdysone in the prothoracic gland, resulting in a delayed peak of 20-hydroxyecdysone titre in the hemolymph of fifth instar larvae, prolonging developmental time. Moreover, further investigation revealed that the mutant enhanced juvenile hormone biosynthesis and signalling pathway and that this higher juvenile hormone titre also resulted in prolonged developmental time in fifth instar larvae. Our results provide insights into the molecular mechanisms by which the circadian clock regulates animal development by maintaining hormonal homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianfeng Qiu
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology & Ecology (IABE), Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Taiming Dai
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology & Ecology (IABE), Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Cheng Luo
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology & Ecology (IABE), Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wenzhao Cui
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology & Ecology (IABE), Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Kai Liu
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology & Ecology (IABE), Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jianglan Li
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology & Ecology (IABE), Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yanghu Sima
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology & Ecology (IABE), Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Shiqing Xu
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology & Ecology (IABE), Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lyu XY, Wang XL, Geng DQ, Jiang H, Zou Z. Juvenile hormone acts on male accessory gland function via regulating l-asparaginase expression and triacylglycerol mobilization in Aedes aegypti. INSECT SCIENCE 2023; 30:81-94. [PMID: 35633120 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Hormones control the reproductive development of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The adult male reproductive process and mating behavior require adequate nutrients and energy. Understanding the molecular mechanism linking hormones, energy metabolism, and reproduction in male mosquitoes is important. In this study, we found that the size of the male accessory gland, an essential part of the male reproductive system, gradually increased after eclosion. However, it was significantly reduced in male mosquitoes deficient in methoprene-tolerant (Met), the receptor of juvenile hormone. Likewise, egg hatchability of females that mated with Met-depleted males showed the same downward trend. The mRNA level of the gene encoding accessory gland protein, l-asparaginase (ASNase), was reduced in Met dsRNA-treated males. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay and quantitative reverse transcription-PCR results revealed that Met was capable of binding directly to the promoter of ASNase and activated its transcription. RNA interference of ASNase in males resulted in the reduction of egg hatchability of the females with which they mated. These results showed that Met influenced the fecundity of male mosquitoes by directly upregulating the expression of the ASNase gene. Moreover, the levels of triacylglycerol and the sizes of lipid droplets were decreased by 72-78 h after eclosion in the fat body cells, whereas both of them increased in Met-depleted male mosquitoes, indicating that Met knockdown reduced lipid catabolism. These data demonstrate that Met might influence the egg hatchability of females by regulating lipid metabolism and the development of the male accessory gland in male mosquitoes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Yang Lyu
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xue-Li Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dan-Qian Geng
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Vasquez DDN, Pinheiro DH, Teixeira LA, Moreira-Pinto CE, Macedo LLP, Salles-Filho ALO, Silva MCM, Lourenço-Tessutti IT, Morgante CV, Silva LP, Grossi-de-Sa MF. Simultaneous silencing of juvenile hormone metabolism genes through RNAi interrupts metamorphosis in the cotton boll weevil. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1073721. [PMID: 36950526 PMCID: PMC10025338 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1073721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The cotton boll weevil (CBW) (Anthonomus grandis) is one of the major insect pests of cotton in Brazil. Currently, CBW control is mainly achieved by insecticide application, which is costly and insufficient to ensure effective crop protection. RNA interference (RNAi) has been used in gene function analysis and the development of insect control methods. However, some insect species respond poorly to RNAi, limiting the widespread application of this approach. Therefore, nanoparticles have been explored as an option to increase RNAi efficiency in recalcitrant insects. Herein, we investigated the potential of chitosan-tripolyphosphate (CS-TPP) and polyethylenimine (PEI) nanoparticles as a dsRNA carrier system to improve RNAi efficiency in the CBW. Different formulations of the nanoparticles with dsRNAs targeting genes associated with juvenile hormone metabolism, such as juvenile hormone diol kinase (JHDK), juvenile hormone epoxide hydrolase (JHEH), and methyl farnesoate hydrolase (MFE), were tested. The formulations were delivered to CBW larvae through injection (0.05-2 µg), and the expression of the target genes was evaluated using RT-qPCR. PEI nanoparticles increased targeted gene silencing compared with naked dsRNAs (up to 80%), whereas CS-TPP-dsRNA nanoparticles decreased gene silencing (0%-20%) or led to the same level of gene silencing as the naked dsRNAs (up to 50%). We next evaluated the effects of targeting a single gene or simultaneously targeting two genes via the injection of naked dsRNAs or dsRNAs complexed with PEI (500 ng) on CBW survival and phenotypes. Overall, the gene expression analysis showed that the treatments with PEI targeting either a single gene or multiple genes induced greater gene silencing than naked dsRNA (∼60%). In addition, the injection of dsJHEH/JHDK, either naked or complexed with PEI, significantly affected CBW survival (18% for PEI nanoparticles and 47% for naked dsRNA) and metamorphosis. Phenotypic alterations, such as uncompleted pupation or malformed pupae, suggested that JHEH and JHDK are involved in developmental regulation. Moreover, CBW larvae treated with dsJHEH/JHDK + PEI (1,000 ng/g) exhibited significantly lower survival rate (55%) than those that were fed the same combination of naked dsRNAs (30%). Our findings demonstrated that PEI nanoparticles can be used as an effective tool for evaluating the biological role of target genes in the CBW as they increase the RNAi response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel D. N. Vasquez
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil
- Catholic University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | - Lays A. Teixeira
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil
- Catholic University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
- Embrapa Café, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | - Leonardo L. P. Macedo
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT PlantStress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Alvaro L. O. Salles-Filho
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil
- Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Maria C. M. Silva
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT PlantStress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Isabela T. Lourenço-Tessutti
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT PlantStress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Carolina V. Morgante
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT PlantStress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasília, Brazil
- Embrapa SemiArid, Petrolina, Brazil
| | | | - Maria F. Grossi-de-Sa
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil
- Catholic University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT PlantStress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasília, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Maria F. Grossi-de-Sa,
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Crosstalk between Nutrition, Insulin, Juvenile Hormone, and Ecdysteroid Signaling in the Classical Insect Model, Rhodnius prolixus. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010007. [PMID: 36613451 PMCID: PMC9819625 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The rigorous balance of endocrine signals that control insect reproductive physiology is crucial for the success of egg production. Rhodnius prolixus, a blood-feeding insect and main vector of Chagas disease, has been used over the last century as a model to unravel aspects of insect metabolism and physiology. Our recent work has shown that nutrition, insulin signaling, and two main types of insect lipophilic hormones, juvenile hormone (JH) and ecdysteroids, are essential for successful reproduction in R. prolixus; however, the interplay behind these endocrine signals has not been established. We used a combination of hormone treatments, gene expression analyses, hormone measurements, and ex vivo experiments using the corpus allatum or the ovary, to investigate how the interaction of these endocrine signals might define the hormone environment for egg production. The results show that after a blood meal, circulating JH levels increase, a process mainly driven through insulin and allatoregulatory neuropeptides. In turn, JH feeds back to provide some control over its own biosynthesis by regulating the expression of critical biosynthetic enzymes in the corpus allatum. Interestingly, insulin also stimulates the synthesis and release of ecdysteroids from the ovary. This study highlights the complex network of endocrine signals that, together, coordinate a successful reproductive cycle.
Collapse
|
31
|
Genetics tools for corpora allata specific gene expression in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20426. [PMID: 36443489 PMCID: PMC9705396 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25009-4] [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: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Juvenile hormone (JH) is synthesized by the corpora allata (CA) and controls development and reproduction in insects. Therefore, achieving tissue-specific expression of transgenes in the CA would be beneficial for mosquito research and control. Different CA promoters have been used to drive transgene expression in Drosophila, but mosquito CA-specific promoters have not been identified. Using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, we integrated transgenes encoding the reporter green fluorescent protein (GFP) close to the transcription start site of juvenile hormone acid methyl transferase (JHAMT), a locus encoding a JH biosynthetic enzyme, specifically and highly expressed in the CA of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Transgenic individuals showed specific GFP expression in the CA but failed to reproduce the full pattern of jhamt spatiotemporal expression. In addition, we created GeneSwitch driver and responder mosquito lines expressing an inducible fluorescent marker, enabling the temporal regulation of the transgene via the presence or absence of an inducer drug. The use of the GeneSwitch system has not previously been reported in mosquitoes and provides a new inducible binary system that can control transgene expression in Aedes aegypti.
Collapse
|
32
|
Leyria J, Orchard I, Lange AB. Impact of JH Signaling on Reproductive Physiology of the Classical Insect Model, Rhodnius prolixus. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232213832. [PMID: 36430311 PMCID: PMC9692686 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232213832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In adult females of several insect species, juvenile hormones (JHs) act as gonadotrophic hormones, regulating egg production. JH binds to its nuclear receptor, Methoprene tolerant (Met), triggering its dimerization with the protein Taiman (Tai). The resulting active complex induces transcription of JH response genes, such as Krüppel homolog 1 (Kr-h1). In this study we report for the first time the participation of the isoform JH III skipped bisepoxide (JHSB3) and its signaling pathway in the reproductive fitness of the classical insect model Rhodnius prolixus. The topical application of synthetic JHSB3 increases transcript and protein expression of yolk protein precursors (YPPs), mainly by the fat body but also by the ovaries, the second source of YPPs. These results are also confirmed by ex vivo assays. In contrast, when the JH signaling cascade is impaired via RNA interference by downregulating RhoprMet and RhoprTai mRNA, egg production is inhibited. Although RhoprKr-h1 transcript expression is highly dependent on JHSB3 signaling, it is not involved in egg production but rather in successful hatching. This research contributes missing pieces of JH action in the insect model in which JH was first postulated almost 100 years ago.
Collapse
|
33
|
He Q, Zhang Y. Kr-h1, a Cornerstone Gene in Insect Life History. Front Physiol 2022; 13:905441. [PMID: 35574485 PMCID: PMC9092015 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.905441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Insect life cycle is coordinated by hormones and their downstream effectors. Krüppel homolog1 (Kr-h1) is one of the crucial effectors which mediates the actions of the two critical hormones of insects, the juvenile hormone (JH) and 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E). It is a transcription factor with a DNA-binding motif of eight C2H2 zinc fingers which is found to be conserved among insect orders. The expression of Kr-h1 is fluctuant during insect development with high abundance in juvenile instars and lower levels in the final instar and pupal stage, and reappearance in adults, which is governed by the coordination of JH, 20E, and miRNAs. The dynamic expression pattern of Kr-h1 is closely linked to its function in the entire life of insects. Over the past several years, accumulating studies have advanced our understanding of the role of Kr-h1 during insect development. It acts as a universal antimetamorphic factor in both hemimetabolous and holometabolous species by directly inhibiting the transcription of 20E signaling genes Broad-Complex (Br-C) and Ecdysone induced protein 93F (E93), and steroidogenic enzyme genes involved in ecdysone biosynthesis. Meanwhile, it promotes vitellogenesis and ovarian development in the majority of studied insects. In addition, Kr-h1 regulates insect behavioral plasticity and caste identity, neuronal morphogenesis, maturation of sexual behavior, as well as embryogenesis and metabolic homeostasis. Hence, Kr-h1 acts as a cornerstone regulator in insect life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qianyu He
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Microbiology and Recycling of Argo-Waste in Cold Region, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Yuanxi Zhang
- Daqing Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau, Daqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Hejníková M, Nouzova M, Ramirez CE, Fernandez-Lima F, Noriega FG, Doležel D. Sexual dimorphism of diapause regulation in the hemipteran bug Pyrrhocoris apterus. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 142:103721. [PMID: 35007710 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2022.103721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Diapause is one of the major strategies for insects to prepare for and survive harsh seasons. In females, the absence of juvenile hormone (JH) is a hallmark of adult reproductive diapause, a developmental arrest, which is much less characterized in males. Here we show that juvenile hormone III skipped bisepoxide (JHSB3) titers in hemolymph remarkably differ between reproductive males and females of the linden bug Pyrrhocoris apterus, whereas no JH was detected in diapausing adults of both sexes. Like in females, ectopic application of JH mimic effectively terminated male diapause through the canonical JH receptor components, Methoprene-tolerant and Taiman. In contrast to females, long photoperiod induced reproduction even in males with silenced JH reception or in males with removed corpus allatum (CA), the JH-producing gland. JHSB3 was detected in the accessory glands (MAG) of reproductive males, unexpectedly, even in males without CA. If there is a source of JHSB3 outside CA or a long-term storage of JHSB3 in MAGs remains to be elucidated. These sex-related idiosyncrasies are further manifested in different dynamics of diapause termination in P. apterus by low temperature. We would like to propose that this sexual dimorphism of diapause regulation might be explained by the different reproductive costs for each sex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Markéta Hejníková
- Biology Center of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Institute of Entomology, 37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, 37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Marcela Nouzova
- Biology Center of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Institute of Parasitology, 37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic; Department of Biological Sciences, Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Cesar E Ramirez
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Francisco Fernandez-Lima
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Fernando Gabriel Noriega
- Department of Biological Sciences, Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - David Doležel
- Biology Center of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Institute of Entomology, 37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, 37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|