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Duan H, Shao X, Liu W, Xiang J, Pan N, Wang X, Du G, Li Y, Zhou J, Sui L. Spatio-temporal patterns of ovarian development and VgR gene silencing reduced fecundity in parthenogenetic Artemia. Open Biol 2023; 13:230172. [PMID: 37963545 PMCID: PMC10645507 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.230172] [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: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The halophilic zooplankton brine shrimp Artemia has been used as an experimental animal in multidisciplinary studies. However, the reproductive patterns and its regulatory mechanisms in Artemia remain unclear. In this study, the ovarian development process of parthenogenetic Artemia (A. parthenogenetica) was divided into five stages, and oogenesis or egg formation was identified in six phases. The oogenesis mode was assumed to be polytrophic. We also traced the dynamic translocation of candidate germline stem cells (cGSCs) using EdU labelling and elucidated several key cytological events in oogenesis through haematoxylin and eosin staining and fluorescence imaging. Distinguished from the ovary structure of insects and crustaceans, Artemia germarium originated from ovariole buds and are located at the base of the ovarioles. RNA-seq based on five stages of ovarian development identified 2657 upregulated genes related to reproduction by pair-to-pair comparison. Gbb, Dpp, piwi, vasa, nanos, VgA and VgR genes associated with cGSCs recognition and reproductive development were screened and verified using qPCR. Silencing of the VgR gene in A. parthenogenetica (Ap-VgR) at ovarian development Stage II led to a low level of gene expression (less than 10%) within 5 days, which resulted in variations in oogenesis-related gene expression and significantly inhibited vitellogenesis, impeded oocyte maturation, and eventually decreased the number of offspring. In conclusion, we have illustrated the patterns of ovarian development, outlined the key spatio-temporal features of oogenesis and identified the negative impacts of VgR gene knockdown on oogenesis using A. parthenogenetica as an experimental animal. The findings of this study also lay a foundation for the further study of reproductive biology of invertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hu Duan
- Asian Regional Artemia Reference Center, College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, No. 29, 13th Avenue, Tianjin 300457, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Chemistry and Food Technology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, No. 29, 13th Avenue, Tianjin 300457, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuanxuan Shao
- Asian Regional Artemia Reference Center, College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, No. 29, 13th Avenue, Tianjin 300457, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Liu
- Asian Regional Artemia Reference Center, College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, No. 29, 13th Avenue, Tianjin 300457, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianhai Xiang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao 266071, People's Republic of China
| | - Namin Pan
- Asian Regional Artemia Reference Center, College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, No. 29, 13th Avenue, Tianjin 300457, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuehui Wang
- Tianjin Fisheries Research Institute, Tianjin 300221, People's Republic of China
| | - Guoru Du
- Asian Regional Artemia Reference Center, College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, No. 29, 13th Avenue, Tianjin 300457, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Li
- Asian Regional Artemia Reference Center, College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, No. 29, 13th Avenue, Tianjin 300457, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaping Zhou
- Research Center of Modern Analytical Technology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, No. 29, 13th Avenue, Tianjin 300457, People's Republic of China
| | - Liying Sui
- Asian Regional Artemia Reference Center, College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, No. 29, 13th Avenue, Tianjin 300457, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Chemistry and Food Technology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, No. 29, 13th Avenue, Tianjin 300457, People's Republic of China
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Zhang X, Jin L, Li G. RNAi-Mediated Functional Analysis Reveals the Regulation of Oocyte Vitellogenesis by Ecdysone Signaling in Two Coleoptera Species. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1284. [PMID: 37886994 PMCID: PMC10604093 DOI: 10.3390/biology12101284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Coleoptera is the largest taxa of animals by far. The robust reproductive capacity is one of the main reasons for such domination. Successful female reproduction partially relies on effective vitellogenesis. However, the hormone regulation of vitellogenesis remains to be explored. In the present paper, in vitro culture of Leptinotarsa decemlineata 1-day-old adult fat bodies in the 20E-contained median did not activate juvenile hormone production and insulin-like peptide pathways, but significantly stimulated the expression of two LdVg genes, in a cycloheximide-dependent pattern. In vivo RNA interference (RNAi) of either ecdysone receptor (LdEcR) or ultraspiracle (Ldusp) by injection of corresponding dsRNA into 1-day-old female adults inhibited oocyte development, dramatically repressed the transcription of LdVg genes in fat bodies and of LdVgR in ovaries; application of JH into the LdEcR or Ldusp RNAi L. decemlineata females did not restore the oocyte development, partially rescued the decreased LdVg mRNA levels but over-compensated LdVgR expression levels. The same RNAi experiments were performed in another Coleoptera species, Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata. Little yolk substances were seen in the misshapen oocytes in the HvEcR or Hvusp RNAi ovaries, in contrast to larger amounts of yolk granules in the normal oocytes. Correspondingly, the transcript levels of HvVg in the fat bodies and ovaries decreased significantly in the HvEcR and Hvusp RNAi samples. Our results here show that 20E signaling is indispensable in the activation of vitellogenesis in the developing oocytes of the two beetle species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Guoqing Li
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests, State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Invention and Application, Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.Z.); (L.J.)
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3
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Sheng Y, Chen J, Jiang H, Lu Y, Dong Z, Pang L, Zhang J, Wang Y, Chen X, Huang J. The vitellogenin receptor gene contributes to mating and host-searching behaviors in parasitoid wasps. iScience 2023; 26:106298. [PMID: 36950109 PMCID: PMC10025991 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106298] [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: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitellogenin receptor (VgR) is essential to vitellogenin uptaking and dominates ovary maturation in insects. However, the function of VgR in parasitoid wasps is largely unknown. Here, we applied the Drosophila parasitoid Leptopilina boulardi as a study model to investigate the function of VgR in parasitoids. Despite the conserved sequence characteristics with other insect VgRs, we found L. boulardi VgR (LbVgR) gene was highly expressed in head but lower in ovary. In addition, we found that LbVgR had no effects on ovary development, but participated in host-searching behavior of female L. boulardi and mating behavior of male L. boulardi. Comparative transcriptome analysis further revealed LbVgR might play crucial roles in regulating the expression of some important chemoreception genes to adjust the parasitoid behaviors. These results will broaden our knowledge of the function of VgR in insects, and contribute to develop advanced pest management strategies using parasitoids as biocontrol agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifeng Sheng
- Institute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jiani Chen
- Institute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Resources, Institute of Crop Science, Plant Precision Breeding Academy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Hanyu Jiang
- Institute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yueqi Lu
- Institute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhi Dong
- Institute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lan Pang
- Institute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Resources, Institute of Crop Science, Plant Precision Breeding Academy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Junwei Zhang
- Institute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Institute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xuexin Chen
- Institute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- State Key Lab of Rice Biology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jianhua Huang
- Institute of Insect Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insect Pests, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Corresponding author
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Ramos FO, Nouzova M, Fruttero LL, Leyria J, Ligabue-Braun R, Noriega FG, Canavoso LE. Role of Methoprene-tolerant in the regulation of oogenesis in Dipetalogaster maxima. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14195. [PMID: 35988007 PMCID: PMC9392760 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18384-5] [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: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Juvenile hormone (JH) signalling, via its receptor Methoprene-tolerant (Met), controls metamorphosis and reproduction in insects. Met belongs to a superfamily of transcription factors containing the basic Helix Loop Helix (bHLH) and Per Arnt Sim (PAS) domains. Since its discovery in 1986, Met has been characterized in several insect species. However, in spite of the importance as vectors of Chagas disease, our knowledge on the role of Met in JH signalling in Triatominae is limited. In this study, we cloned and sequenced the Dipetalogaster maxima Met transcript (DmaxMet). Molecular modelling was used to build the structure of Met and identify the JH binding site. To further understand the role of the JH receptor during oogenesis, transcript levels were evaluated in two main target organs of JH, fat body and ovary. Functional studies using Met RNAi revealed significant decreases of transcripts for vitellogenin (Vg) and lipophorin (Lp), as well as their receptors. Lp and Vg protein amounts in fat body, as well as Vg in hemolymph were also decreased, and ovarian development was impaired. Overall, these studies provide additional molecular insights on the roles of JH signalling in oogenesis in Triatominae; and therefore are relevant for the epidemiology of Chagas´ disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian O Ramos
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Marcela Nouzova
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre CAS, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Leonardo L Fruttero
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Jimena Leyria
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Rodrigo Ligabue-Braun
- Department of Pharmacosciences and Graduate Program in Biosciences (PPGBio), Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Fernando G Noriega
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA.
- Department of Parasitology, University of South Bohemia, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.
| | - Lilian E Canavoso
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina.
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5
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Yang ZM, Lu TY, Wu Y, Yu N, Xu GM, Han QQ, Liu ZW. The importance of vitellogenin receptors in the oviposition of the pond wolf spider, Pardosa pseudoannulata. INSECT SCIENCE 2022; 29:443-452. [PMID: 34237799 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Vitellogenin receptor (VgR) is crucial for vitellogenin (Vg) uptake by oocytes. VgR is less known in Arachnida, especially in spiders. Different from only one VgR in an arthropod species, two VgRs, VgR-1 and VgR-2, were found in the pond wolf spider, Pardosa pseudoannulata. Both VgRs had the typical domains of the low-density lipoprotein receptor family except for the absence of the ligand-binding domain 1 in VgR-2. Spatiotemporal expression profiles showed that two VgR genes were consistently highly expressed in females and their ovaries, but VgR-1 was 48-fold that of VgR-2 in ovaries. The transcriptional level of VgR-1 was significantly downregulated by RNAi, but it did not work for VgR-2 although several trials were performed. Vg-1 and Vg-2 might be the ligands of VgR-1 because their expressions were also decreased in the dsVgR-1-treated females. Silencing VgR-1 prolonged the pre-oviposition period by 56 h. The expression of VgRs and Vgs were upregulated by juvenile hormones (JHs), which suggested that JHs were the essential factors to vitellogenesis in the spider. The present study revealed the importance of VgR-1 in the spider oviposition, which will improve the understanding on VgR physiological functions in spiders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Ming Yang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Tian-Yu Lu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Yong Wu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Na Yu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Guang-Ming Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Qian-Qian Han
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Ze-Wen Liu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
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Han H, Han S, Qin Q, Chen J, Wang D, He Y. Molecular Identification and Functional Characterization of Vitellogenin Receptor From Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae). JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY 2022; 115:325-333. [PMID: 34922376 DOI: 10.1093/jee/toab224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Vitellogenin receptors (VgRs) have vital roles in reproduction by mediating endocytosis of the vitellogenin (Vg) in oviparous insects. Same as most insect species that possess only one VgR, in this study, a single VgR mRNA (HmVgR) was identified in an important natural enemy ladybeetle, Harmonia axyridis (Pallas). The open reading frame of HmVgR was 5,340 bases encoding a protein of 1,779 amino acids. Bioinformatic analyses showed that HmVgR had conserved domain motifs of low-density lipoprotein receptor family. Based on phylogenetic analysis, HmVgR had highly homologous within the Coleoptera. The transcriptional level of HmVgR was initially detected in the newly emerged female adults, gradually increased from day 3 to day 9, peaked on day 13, and then sharply decreased on day 15. Similar to most insects, HmVgR was expressed specifically in ovarian tissue. Moreover, RNA interference (RNAi) clearly decreased the transcription levels of HmVgR, which blocked the deposition of yolk protein in the ovaries, shortened the ovarian length, and led to negative impacts on reproductive-related parameters (i.e., prolonged preoviposition periods, reduced spawning and depressed hatchability). In sum, these results indicated that HmVgR may be critical for yolk protein deposition of oocytes and can play a key role in reproduction of female adults of H. axyridis. Our results provide conclusive proof for the important roles of HmVgR in fecundity, and establish a basis for further research on its interaction with vitellogenin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Han
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding 071000, China
| | - ShiPeng Han
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding 071000, China
| | - QiuJu Qin
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Jie Chen
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding 071000, China
- Laboratory of Plant Protection, Handan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Handan 056000, China
| | - Da Wang
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Yunzhuan He
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding 071000, China
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The vitellogenin receptor functionality of the migratory locust depends on its phosphorylation by juvenile hormone. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2106908118. [PMID: 34493670 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2106908118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitellogenin receptor (VgR) plays a pivotal role in ovarian vitellogenin (Vg) uptake and vertical transmission of pathogenic microbes and Wolbachia symbionts. However, the regulatory mechanisms of VgR action as an endocytic receptor and translocation from oocyte cytoplasm to the membrane remain poorly understood. Here, by using the migratory locust Locusta migratoria as a model system, we report that juvenile hormone (JH) promotes VgR phosphorylation at Ser1361 in the second EGF-precursor homology domain. A signaling cascade including GPCR, PLC, extracellular calcium, and PKC-ι is involved in JH-stimulated VgR phosphorylation. This posttranslational regulation is a prerequisite for VgR binding to Vg on the external surface of the oocyte membrane and subsequent VgR/Vg endocytosis. Acidification, a condition in endosomes, induces VgR dephosphorylation along with the dissociation of Vg from VgR. Phosphorylation modification is also required for VgR recycling from oocyte cytoplasm to the membrane. Additionally, VgR phosphorylation and its requirement for Vg uptake and VgR recycling are evolutionarily conserved in other representative insects including the cockroach Periplaneta americana and the cotton bollworm Helicoverpa armigera This study fills an important knowledge gap of low-density lipoprotein receptors in posttranslational regulation, endocytosis, and intracellular recycling.
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Ramos FO, Leyria J, Nouzova M, Fruttero LL, Noriega FG, Canavoso LE. Juvenile hormone mediates lipid storage in the oocytes of Dipetalogaster maxima. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 133:103499. [PMID: 33212190 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2020.103499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Triatomines are vectors of Chagas disease and important model organisms in insect physiology. "Kissing bugs" are obligatory hematophagous insects. A blood meal is required to successfully complete oogenesis, a process primarily controlled by juvenile hormone (JH). We used Dipetalogaster maxima as an experimental model to further understand the roles of JH in the regulation of vitellogenesis and oogenesis. A particular focus was set on the role of JH controlling lipid and protein recruitment by the oocytes. The hemolymph titer of JH III skipped bisepoxide increased after a blood meal. Following a blood meal there were increased levels of mRNAs in the fat body for the yolk protein precursors, vitellogenin (Vg) and lipophorin (Lp), as well as of their protein products in the hemolymph; mRNAs of the Vg and Lp receptors (VgR and LpR) were concomitantly up-regulated in the ovaries. Topical administration of JH induced the expression of Lp/LpR and Vg/VgR genes, and prompted the uptake of Lp and Vg in pre-vitellogenic females. Knockdown of the expression of LpR by RNA interference in fed females did not impair the Lp-mediated lipid transfer to oocytes, suggesting that the bulk of lipid acquisition by oocytes occurred by other pathways rather than by the endocytic Lp/LpR pathway. In conclusion, our results strongly suggest that JH signaling is critical for lipid storage in oocytes, by regulating Vg and Lp gene expression in the fat body as well as by modulating the expression of LpR and VgR genes in ovaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian O Ramos
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina.
| | - Jimena Leyria
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina.
| | - Marcela Nouzova
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre CAS, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.
| | - Leonardo L Fruttero
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina.
| | - Fernando G Noriega
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Lilian E Canavoso
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina.
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Wu Z, Yang L, He Q, Zhou S. Regulatory Mechanisms of Vitellogenesis in Insects. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:593613. [PMID: 33634094 PMCID: PMC7901893 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.593613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitellogenesis is pre-requisite to insect egg production and embryonic development after oviposition. During insect vitellogenesis, the yolk protein precursor vitellogenin (Vg) is mainly synthesized in the fat body, transported by the hemolymph through the intercellular spaces (known as patency) in the follicular epithelium to reach the membrane of maturing oocytes, and sequestered into the maturing oocytes via receptor-mediated endocytosis. Insect vitellogenesis is governed by two critical hormones, the sesquiterpenoid juvenile hormone (JH) and the ecdysteriod 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E). JH acts as the principal gonadotropic hormone to stimulate vitellogenesis in basal hemimetabolous and most holometabolous insects. 20E is critical for vitellogenesis in some hymenopterans, lepidopterans and dipterans. Furthermore, microRNA (miRNA) and nutritional (amino acid/Target of Rapamycin and insulin) pathways interplay with JH and 20E signaling cascades to control insect vitellogenesis. Revealing the regulatory mechanisms underlying insect vitellogenesis is critical for understanding insect reproduction and helpful for developing new strategies of insect pest control. Here, we outline the recent research progress in the molecular action of gonadotropic JH and 20E along with the role of miRNA and nutritional sensor in regulating insect vitellogenesis. We highlight the advancements in the regulatory mechanisms of insect vitellogenesis by the coordination of hormone, miRNA and nutritional signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongxia Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Libin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Qiongjie He
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Shutang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
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10
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Husain M, Rasool KG, Tufail M, Aldawood AS. Molecular characterization, expression pattern and RNAi-mediated silencing of vitellogenin receptor gene in almond moth, Cadra cautella. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 29:417-430. [PMID: 32368832 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The almond moth is an important pest of date fruits worldwide. The females produce several eggs; however, role of vitellogenin receptor (VgR) in oocyte development by mediating endocytosis of major yolk protein precursor Vg remains yet unexplored. To investigate the role of vitellogenin receptor (VgR) in reproduction, Cadra cautella vitellogenin receptor (CcVgR) transcript was obtained using rapid amplification of cDNA ends-polymerase chain reaction. Expression analysis of CcVgR was performed using reverse transcriptase and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in different developmental stages. RNA interference was performed by injecting CcVgR-based double-stranded (ds)RNA at different exposure times. The results revealed that CcVgR is 5421 bp long, encoded 1807 amino acid, belongs to low-density lipoprotein receptor superfamily and contains all conserved domains. Expression analysis confirmed that CcVgR is sex-specific and starts to express in female larvae on day 19. Additionally, RNA interference (RNAi) of CcVgR-based dsRNA inhibited CcVgR expression up to 83% after 72 h, reduced fecundity and hatchability, and confirmed involvement of CcVgR in C. cautella reproduction. This report provides a basis for gene silencing in this species, and proposes RNAi technology potential for pest management.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Husain
- Economic Entomology Research Unit, Plant Protection Department, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - K G Rasool
- Economic Entomology Research Unit, Plant Protection Department, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - M Tufail
- Economic Entomology Research Unit, Plant Protection Department, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Ghazi University, Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan
| | - A S Aldawood
- Economic Entomology Research Unit, Plant Protection Department, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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11
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Ruan Y, Wong NK, Zhang X, Zhu C, Wu X, Ren C, Luo P, Jiang X, Ji J, Wu X, Hu C, Chen T. Vitellogenin Receptor (VgR) Mediates Oocyte Maturation and Ovarian Development in the Pacific White Shrimp ( Litopenaeus vannamei). Front Physiol 2020; 11:485. [PMID: 32499719 PMCID: PMC7243368 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte maturation and ovarian development are sequentially coordinated events critical to reproduction. In the ovaries of adult oviparous animals such as birds, bony fish, insects, and crustaceans, vitellogenin receptor (VgR) is a plasma membrane receptor that specifically mediates vitellogenin (Vg) transport into oocytes. Accumulation of Vg drives sexual maturation of the female crustaceans by acting as a pivotal regulator of nutritional accumulation within oocytes, a process known as vitellogenesis. However, the mechanisms by which VgR mediates vitellogenesis are still not fully understood. In this study, we first identified a unique VgR (Lv-VgR) and characterized its genomic organization and protein structural domains in Litopenaeus vannamei, a predominant cultured shrimp species worldwide. This newly identified Lv-VgR phylogenetically forms a group with VgRs from other crustacean species within the arthropod cluster. Duplicated LBD/EGFD regions are found exclusively among arthropod VgRs but not in paralogs from vertebrates and nematodes. In terms of expression patterns, Lv-VgR transcripts are specifically expressed in ovaries of female shrimps, which increases progressively during ovarian development, and rapidly declines toward embryonic development. The cellular and subcellular locations were For analyzed by in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence, respectively. The Lv-VgR mRNA was found to be expressed in the oocytes of ovaries, and Lv-VgR protein was found to localize in the cell membrane of maturing oocytes while accumulation of the ligand Vg protein assumed an even cytoplasmic distribution. Silencing of VgR transcript expression by RNAi was effective for stunting ovarian development. This present study has thus provided new insights into the regulatory roles of VgR in crustacean ovarian development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Ruan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology (LMB), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology (LAMB), South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Nai-Kei Wong
- National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, The Second Hospital Affiliated to Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology (LMB), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology (LAMB), South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chunhua Zhu
- College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Xiaofen Wu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology (LMB), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology (LAMB), South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chunhua Ren
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology (LMB), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology (LAMB), South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Institution of South China Sea Ecology and Environmental Engineering (ISEE), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Luo
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology (LMB), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology (LAMB), South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Institution of South China Sea Ecology and Environmental Engineering (ISEE), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Jiang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology (LMB), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology (LAMB), South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Institution of South China Sea Ecology and Environmental Engineering (ISEE), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiatai Ji
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology (LMB), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology (LAMB), South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Haimao Investment Co., Ltd., Zhanjiang, China
| | - Xugan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chaoqun Hu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology (LMB), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology (LAMB), South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Institution of South China Sea Ecology and Environmental Engineering (ISEE), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ting Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology (LMB), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology (LAMB), South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Institution of South China Sea Ecology and Environmental Engineering (ISEE), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
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12
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Shen G, Chen E, Ji X, Liu L, Liu J, Hua X, Li D, Xiao Y, Xia Q. The POU Transcription Factor POU-M2 Regulates Vitellogenin Receptor Gene Expression in the Silkworm, Bombyx mori. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:E394. [PMID: 32268540 PMCID: PMC7230888 DOI: 10.3390/genes11040394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitellogenin receptors (VgRs) play critical roles in egg formation by transporting vitellogenin (Vg) into oocytes in insects. Although the function of VgR in insects is well studied, the transcriptional regulation of this gene is still unclear. Here, we cloned the promoter of the VgR gene from Bombyx mori (BmVgR), and predicted many POU cis-response elements (CREs) in its promoter. Electrophoretic mobility shift and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays showed that the POU transcription factor POU-M2 bound directly to the CREs of the promoter. Overexpression of POU-M2 in an ovarian cell line (BmNs) enhanced BmVgR transcription and promoter activity detected by quantitative reverse transcription PCR and luciferase reporter assays. Analyses of expression patterns indicated that POU-M2 was expressed in ovary at day two of wandering stage initially, followed by BmVgR. RNA interference of POU-M2 significantly reduced the transcription of BmVgR in ovary and egg-laying rate. Our results suggest a novel function for the POU factor in silkworm oogenesis by its involvement in BmVgR regulation and expands the understanding of POU factors in insect VgR expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanwang Shen
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China; (G.S.); (E.C.); (L.L.); (J.L.); (X.H.); (D.L.); (Y.X.)
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Enxiang Chen
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China; (G.S.); (E.C.); (L.L.); (J.L.); (X.H.); (D.L.); (Y.X.)
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Xiaocun Ji
- Research Center of Bioenergy & Bioremediation, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China;
| | - Lina Liu
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China; (G.S.); (E.C.); (L.L.); (J.L.); (X.H.); (D.L.); (Y.X.)
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Jianqiu Liu
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China; (G.S.); (E.C.); (L.L.); (J.L.); (X.H.); (D.L.); (Y.X.)
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Xiaoting Hua
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China; (G.S.); (E.C.); (L.L.); (J.L.); (X.H.); (D.L.); (Y.X.)
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Dan Li
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China; (G.S.); (E.C.); (L.L.); (J.L.); (X.H.); (D.L.); (Y.X.)
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Yingdan Xiao
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China; (G.S.); (E.C.); (L.L.); (J.L.); (X.H.); (D.L.); (Y.X.)
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Qingyou Xia
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China; (G.S.); (E.C.); (L.L.); (J.L.); (X.H.); (D.L.); (Y.X.)
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Chongqing 400716, China
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13
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Molecular characterization and functional analysis of the vitellogenin receptor from eri silkworm, Samia ricini. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 242:110417. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2020.110417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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14
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Peng L, Wang Q, Zou MM, Qin YD, Vasseur L, Chu LN, Zhai YL, Dong SJ, Liu LL, He WY, Yang G, You MS. CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Vitellogenin Receptor Knockout Leads to Functional Deficiency in the Reproductive Development of Plutella xylostella. Front Physiol 2020; 10:1585. [PMID: 32038281 PMCID: PMC6989618 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.01585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The vitellogenin receptor (VgR) belongs to the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) gene superfamily and plays an indispensable role in Vg transport, yolk deposition, and oocyte development. For this reason, it has become a promising target for pest control. The involvement of VgR in Vg transport and reproductive functions remains unclear in diamondback moths, Plutella xylostella (L.), a destructive pest of cruciferous crops. Here, we cloned and identified the complete cDNA sequence of P. xylostella VgR, which encoded 1805 amino acid residues and contained four conserved domains of LDLR superfamily. PxVgR was mainly expressed in female adults, more specifically in the ovary. PxVgR protein also showed the similar expression profile with the PxVgR transcript. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated PxVgR knockout created a homozygous mutant of P. xylostella with 5-bp-nucleotide deletion in the PxVgR. The expression deficiency of PxVgR protein was detected in the ovaries and eggs of mutant individuals. Vg protein was still detected in the eggs of the mutant individuals, but with a decreased expression level. However, PxVg transcripts were not significantly affected by the PxVgR knockout. Knockout of PxVgR resulted in shorter ovarioles of newly emerged females. No significant difference was detected between wild and mutant individuals in terms of the number of eggs laid in the first 3 days after mating. The loss of PxVgR gene resulted in smaller and whiter eggs and lower egg hatching rate. This study represents the first report on the functions of VgR in Vg transport, ovary development, oviposition, and embryonic development of P. xylostella using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. This study lays the foundation for understanding molecular mechanisms of P. xylostella reproduction, and for making use of VgR as a potential genetic-based molecular target for better control of the P. xylostella.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Qing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ming-Min Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yu-Dong Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Liette Vasseur
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Li-Na Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yi-Long Zhai
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shi-Jie Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Li-Li Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Wei-Yi He
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Guang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Min-Sheng You
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
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15
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Chen E, Chen Z, Li S, Xing D, Guo H, Liu J, Ji X, Lin Y, Liu S, Xia Q. MicroRNAs bmo-miR-2739 and novel-miR-167 coordinately regulate the expression of the vitellogenin receptor in Bombyx mori oogenesis. Development 2020; 147:dev.183723. [DOI: 10.1242/dev.183723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Vitellogenin receptors (VgRs) play critical roles in oogenesis by mediating endocytosis of vitellogenin and other nutrients in ovipara. We conducted small RNA sequencing and screening with a luciferase reporter system, and found that bmo-miR-2739 and a novel miRNA (novel-miR-167) coordinately regulate the expression of VgR in Bombyx mori (BmVgR). Further analyses suggested that these two miRNAs direct target repression by binding directly to the BmVgR 3ʹ untranslated region. Forced expression of either miRNA using the piggyBac system blocked vitellogenin (Vg) transport and retarded ovariole development. Antagomir silencing of bmo-miR-2739 or novel-miR-167 resulted in increased amounts of BmVgR protein in the ovaries and BmVgR mRNA in the fat body. This evidence combined with spatiotemporal expression profiles revealed that these two miRNAs function together to fine-tune the amount of BmVgR protein for ovarian development. Additionally, novel-miR-167 mainly switched on the posttranscriptional repression of BmVgR in non-ovarian tissues. The results of this study contribute to a better understanding of the function of miRNA during ovarian development of a lepidopteran and suggest a new strategy for controlling insect reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enxiang Chen
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, PR China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Beibei, Chongqing 400716, PR China
| | - Zhiwei Chen
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, PR China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Beibei, Chongqing 400716, PR China
| | - Shenglong Li
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, PR China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Beibei, Chongqing 400716, PR China
| | - Dongxu Xing
- Sericulture and Agri-Food Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510610, China
| | - Huizhen Guo
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, PR China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Beibei, Chongqing 400716, PR China
| | - Jianqiu Liu
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, PR China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Beibei, Chongqing 400716, PR China
| | - Xiaocun Ji
- Research Center of Bioenergy & Bioremediation, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Ying Lin
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, PR China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Beibei, Chongqing 400716, PR China
| | - Shiping Liu
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, PR China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Beibei, Chongqing 400716, PR China
| | - Qingyou Xia
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, PR China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sericulture Science, Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Novel Silk Materials, Beibei, Chongqing 400716, PR China
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16
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Miao LJ, Zhang N, Jiang H, Dong F, Yang XM, Xu X, Qian K, Meng XK, Wang JJ. Molecular characterization and functional analysis of the vitellogenin receptor in the rice stem borer, Chilo suppressalis. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 103:e21636. [PMID: 31612557 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
As a member of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) superfamily, vitellogenin (Vg) receptor (VgR) is responsible for the uptake of Vg into developing oocytes and is a potential target for pest control. Here, a full-length VgR complementary DNA (named as CsVgR) was isolated and characterized in the rice stem borer, Chilo suppressalis. The composite CsVgR gene contained an open reading frame of 5,484 bp encoding a protein of 1,827 amino acid residues. Structural analysis revealed that CsVgR contained two ligand-binding domains (LBDs) with four Class A (LDLRA ) repeats in LBD1 and seven in LBD2, which was structurally different from most non-Lepidopteran insect VgRs having five repeats in LBD1 and eight in LBD2. The developmental expression analysis showed that CsVgR messenger RNA expression was first detectable in 3-day-old pupae, sharply increased in newly emerged female adults, and reached a peak in 2-day-old female adults. Consistent with most other insects VgRs, CsVgR was exclusively expressed in the ovary. Notably, injection of dsCsVgR into late pupae resulted in fewer follicles in the ovarioles as well as reduced fecundity, suggesting a critical role of CsVgR in female reproduction. These results may contribute to the development of RNA interference-mediated disruption of reproduction as a control strategy of C. suppressalis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Jun Miao
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Heng Jiang
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Fan Dong
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xue-Mei Yang
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xin Xu
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Kun Qian
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xiang-Kun Meng
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jian-Jun Wang
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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17
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Du L, Wang M, Li J, He S, Huang J, Wu J. Characterization of a Vitellogenin Receptor in the Bumblebee, Bombus lantschouensis (Hymenoptera, Apidae). INSECTS 2019; 10:E445. [PMID: 31842304 PMCID: PMC6955983 DOI: 10.3390/insects10120445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The vitellogenin receptor (VgR) belongs to the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) family, responsible for mediating the endocytosis of vitellogenin (Vg) into the ovaries to promote ovarian growth and oviposition. Here, we cloned and measured VgR gene expression characteristics in the bumblebee Bombus lantschouensis. RNA interference was used to validate VgR function. The results showed that the full length of the BLVgR cDNA was 5519 bp, which included a 5280 bp open reading frame encoding 1759 amino acids (AAs). Sequence alignment revealed that the protein contained 12 LDLa, 5 EGF, 2 EGF-CA and 10 LY domains. Phylogenetic analysis showed that BLVgR and the VgR of Bombus terrestris clustered together and the tree of bumblebees (Bombus) appeared as one clade next to honeybees (Apis). Transcript expression analysis showed that BLVgR was expressed in all tested tissues and showed the highest abundance in the ovaries. BLVgR expression was present in all developmental stages. However, the expression level in larvae was extremely low. In addition, the expression of BLVgR was significantly upregulated after egg laying in both workers and queens. In new emerging workers injected with 5 µg of VgR dsRNA, the expression level of BLVgR was 4-fold lower than that in the GFP dsRNA-injected group after 72 h. Furthermore, BLVgR silencing significantly reduced the number of eggs laid (3.67 ± 1.96 eggs) and delayed the first egg-laying time (16.31 ± 2.07 days) in worker microcolonies when compared to dsGFP (37.31 ± 4.09 eggs, 8.15 ± 0.22 days) and DEPC-treated water injected controls (16.42 ± 2.24 eggs, 10.00 ± 0.37 days). In conclusion, the BLVgR gene and its reproductive function were explored in the bumblebee B. lantschouensis. This gene plays an important role in egg laying time and egg number.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Du
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; (L.D.); (S.H.)
- Key Laboratory for Insect-Pollinator Biology of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China;
| | - Mingming Wang
- Nanchuan Bureau of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Chongqing 408400, China;
| | - Jilian Li
- Key Laboratory for Insect-Pollinator Biology of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China;
| | - Shaoyu He
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; (L.D.); (S.H.)
| | - Jiaxing Huang
- Key Laboratory for Insect-Pollinator Biology of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China;
| | - Jie Wu
- Key Laboratory for Insect-Pollinator Biology of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China;
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18
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Xiang M, Sang D, Dong B, Hu H, Ji R, Wang H. Molecular Features and Expression Patterns of Vitellogenin Receptor in Calliptamus italicus (Orthoptera: Acrididae). JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2019; 19:5669931. [PMID: 31812980 PMCID: PMC6899333 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/iez119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Vitellogenin receptor (VgR) mediates the intake of vitellin via oocytes, thus exerting an important role in vitellogenesis. In this study, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and rapid-amplification of cDNA ends techniques were adopted to clone the CiVgR gene, namely the VgR gene of Calliptamus italicus, i.e., Orthopteran. The full length of CiVgR was 5,589 bp, and the open reading frame was estimated to be 5,265 bp, which encoded 1,754 amino acids (aa). Sequence alignment analysis showed that CiVgR belonged to the superfamily of low-density lipoprotein receptor genes, which contained several conserved domains, including ligand-binding domains, epidermal growth factor precursor homology domains, transmembrane domains, and cytoplasmic domains. However, no O-linked sugar domain was identified. Phylogenetic analysis showed that CiVgR had the closest genetic relationship to Blattarias. RT-PCR showed that CiVgR was only specifically expressed in the ovarian tissue of females. quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction showed that the transcription of CiVgR already appeared in the fourth-instar nymph of C. italicus, which gradually increased after adult emergence, peaked at the previtellogenesis stage, and then started to decrease. The expression pattern of CiVgR was closely associated with vitellogenesis. The findings of this study further our understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the reproduction of C. italicus, and provide new ideas to control this insect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Xiang
- International Research Center for the Collaborative Containment of Cross-Border Pests in Central Asia, College of Life Sciences, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi, China
| | - Di Sang
- International Research Center for the Collaborative Containment of Cross-Border Pests in Central Asia, College of Life Sciences, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi, China
| | - Bin Dong
- International Research Center for the Collaborative Containment of Cross-Border Pests in Central Asia, College of Life Sciences, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi, China
| | - Hongxia Hu
- International Research Center for the Collaborative Containment of Cross-Border Pests in Central Asia, College of Life Sciences, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi, China
| | - Rong Ji
- International Research Center for the Collaborative Containment of Cross-Border Pests in Central Asia, College of Life Sciences, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi, China
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Calkins TL, Tamborindeguy C, Pietrantonio PV. GPCR annotation, G proteins, and transcriptomics of fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) queen and worker brain: An improved view of signaling in an invasive superorganism. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2019; 278:89-103. [PMID: 30576645 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Knowledge of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and their signaling modalities is crucial to advancing insect endocrinology, specifically in highly successful invasive social insects, such as the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren. In the first published draft genome of S. invicta, emphasis was placed on the annotation of olfactory receptors, and only the number of predicted GPCR genes was reported. Without an organized and curated resource for GPCRs, it will be difficult to test hypotheses on the endocrine role of neuropeptide hormones, or the function of neurotransmitters and neuromodulators. Therefore, we mined the S. invicta genome for GPCRs and found 324 predicted transcripts encoded by 125 predicted loci and improved the annotation of 55 of these loci. Among them are sixteen GPCRs that are currently annotated as "uncharacterized proteins". Further, the phylogenetic analysis of class A neuropeptide receptors presented here and the comparative listing of GPCRs in the hymenopterans S. invicta, Apis mellifera (both eusocial), Nasonia vitripennis (solitary), and the solitary model dipteran Drosophila melanogaster will facilitate comparative endocrinological studies related to social insect evolution and diversity. We compiled the 24 G protein transcripts predicted (15 α, 7 β, and 2 γ) from 12 G protein genes (5 α, 5 β, and 2 γ). Reproductive division of labor is extreme in this ant species, therefore, we compared GPCR and G protein gene expression among worker, mated queen and alate virgin queen ant brain transcriptomes. Transcripts for ten GPCRs and two G proteins were differentially expressed between queen and worker brains. The differentially expressed GPCRs are candidate receptors to explore hypotheses on division of labor in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis L Calkins
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-2475, USA
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Hawkings C, Calkins TL, Pietrantonio PV, Tamborindeguy C. Caste-based differential transcriptional expression of hexamerins in response to a juvenile hormone analog in the red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta). PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216800. [PMID: 31107891 PMCID: PMC6527210 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The reproductive ground plan hypothesis proposes that gene networks regulating foraging behavior and reproductive female physiology in social insects emerged from ancestral gene and endocrine factor networks. Expression of storage proteins such as vitellogenins and hexamerins is an example of this co-option. Hexamerins, through their role modulating juvenile hormone availability, are involved in caste determination in termites. The genome of the fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) encodes four hexamerin genes, hexamerin-like (LOC105192919, hereafter called hexamerin 1), hexamerin (LOC105204474, hereafter called hexamerin 2), arylphorin subunit alpha-like, and arylphorin subunit beta. In this study, a phylogenetic analysis of the S. invicta hexamerins determined that each predicted protein clustered with one of the orthologous Apis mellifera hexamerins. Gene expression analyses by RT-qPCR revealed differential expression of the hexamerins between queens and workers, and between specific task-allocated workers (nurses and foragers). Queens and nurses had significantly higher expression of all genes when compared to foragers. Hexamerin 1 was expressed at higher levels in queens, while hexamerin 2 and arylphorin subunit beta were expressed at significantly higher levels in nurses. Arylphorin subunit alpha-like showed no significant difference in expression between virgin queens and nurses. Additionally, we analyzed the relationship between the expression of hexamerin genes and S-hydroprene, a juvenile hormone analog. Significant changes in hexamerin expression were recorded in nurses, virgin queens, and foragers 12 h after application of the analog. Hexamerin 1 and arylphorin subunit alpha-like expression were significantly lower after analog application in virgin queens. In foragers, hexamerin 2 and arylphorin subunit beta were significantly lower after analog application, while in nurses expression of all genes were significantly lower after analog application. Our results suggest that in S. invicta hexamerin genes could be associated with reproductive division of labor and task-allocation of workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Hawkings
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Travis L. Calkins
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Patricia V. Pietrantonio
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Cecilia Tamborindeguy
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Christen V, Vogel MS, Hettich T, Fent K. A Vitellogenin Antibody in Honey Bees (Apis mellifera): Characterization and Application as Potential Biomarker for Insecticide Exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2019; 38:1074-1083. [PMID: 30714192 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 01/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The insect yolk precursor vitellogenin is a lipoglycoprotein synthesized and stored in the fat body and secreted into the hemolymph. In honey bees, vitellogenin displays crucial functions in hormone signaling, behavioral transition of nurse bees to foragers, stress resistance, and longevity in workers. Plant protection products such as neonicotinoids, pyrethroids, and organophosphates alter the transcriptional expression of vitellogenin. To assess plant protection product-induced alterations on the protein level, we developed a rabbit polyclonal vitellogenin antibody. After characterization, we assessed its specificity and vitellogenin levels in different tissues of worker bees. The vitellogenin antibody recognized full-length 180-kDa vitellogenin and the lighter fragment of 150 kDa in fat body, hemolymph, and brain. In hemolymph, a band of approximately 75 kDa was detected. Subsequent mass spectrometric analysis (liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry) confirmed the 180- and 150-kDa bands as vitellogenin. Subsequently, we evaluated vitellogenin expression in brain, fat body, and hemolymph on 24-h exposure of bees to 3 ng/bee to the neonicotinoid clothianidin. Full-length vitellogenin was upregulated 3-fold in the fat body, and the 150-kDa fragment was upregulated in the brain of exposed honey bees, whereas no alteration occurred in the hemolymph. Upregulation of the vitellogenin protein by the neonicotinoid clothianidin is in line with the previously shown induction of its transcript. We conclude that vitellogenin might serve as a potential biomarker for neonicotinoid and other pesticide exposure in bees. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;00:1-10. © 2019 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Christen
- School of Life Sciences, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Maren Susanne Vogel
- School of Life Sciences, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Timm Hettich
- School of Life Sciences, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Karl Fent
- School of Life Sciences, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, Muttenz, Switzerland
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollution Dynamics, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zürich (ETH Zürich), Zürich, Switzerland
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Liu W, Guo S, Sun D, Zhu L, Zhu F, Lei CL, Sheng L, Phelps B, Wang XP. Molecular characterization and juvenile hormone-regulated transcription of the vitellogenin receptor in the cabbage beetle Colaphellus bowringi. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2019; 229:69-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2018.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Hawkings C, Tamborindeguy C. Expression analysis of vitellogenins in the workers of the red imported fire ant ( Solenopsis invicta). PeerJ 2018; 6:e4875. [PMID: 29868280 PMCID: PMC5978388 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.4875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitellogenin has been proposed to regulate division of labor and social organization in social insects. The red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) harbors four distinct, adjacent vitellogenin genes (Vg1, Vg2, Vg3, and Vg4). Contrary to honey bees that have a single Vg ortholog as well as potentially fertile nurses, and to other ant species that lay trophic eggs, S. invicta workers completely lack ovaries or the ability to lay eggs. This provides a unique model to investigate whether Vg duplication in S. invicta was followed by subfunctionalization to acquire non-reproductive functions and whether Vg was co-opted to regulate behavior within the worker caste. To investigate these questions, we compared the expression patterns of S. invicta Vg genes among workers from different morphological subcastes or performing different tasks. RT-qPCRs revealed higher relative expression of Vg1 in major workers compared to both medium and minor workers, and of Vg2 in major workers when compared to minor workers. Relative expression of Vg1 was also higher in carbohydrate foragers when compared to nurses and protein foragers. By contrast, the level of expression of Vg2, Vg3, and Vg4 were not significantly different among the workers performing the specific tasks. Additionally, we analyzed the relationship between the expression of the Vg genes and S-hydroprene, a juvenile hormone analog. No changes in Vg expression were recorded in workers 12 h after application of the analog. Our results suggest that in S. invicta the Vg gene underwent subfunctionalization after duplication to new functions based on the expression bias observed in these data. This may suggest an alternative and still unknown function for Vg in the workers that needs to be investigated further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Hawkings
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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24
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Calkins TL, Chen ME, Arora AK, Hawkings C, Tamborindeguy C, Pietrantonio PV. Brain gene expression analyses in virgin and mated queens of fire ants reveal mating-independent and socially regulated changes. Ecol Evol 2018; 8:4312-4327. [PMID: 29721300 PMCID: PMC5916306 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.3976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 02/03/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcriptomes of dissected brains from virgin alate and dealate mated queens from polygyne fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) were analyzed and compared. Thirteen genes were upregulated in mated queen brain, and nine were downregulated. While many of the regulated genes were either uncharacterized or noncoding RNAs, those annotated genes included two hexamerin proteins, astakine neuropeptide, serine proteases, and serine protease inhibitors. We found that for select differentially expressed genes in the brain, changes in gene expression were most likely driven by the changes in physiological state (i.e., age, nutritional status, or dominance rank) or in social environment (released from influence of primer pheromone). This was concluded because virgins that dealated after being separated from mated queens showed similar patterns of gene expression in the brain as those of mated queens for hexamerin 1, astakine, and XR_850909. Abaecin (XR_850725), however, appears upregulated only after mating. Therefore, our findings contribute to distinguish how specific gene networks, especially those influenced by queen primer pheromone, are regulated in queen ants. Additionally, to identify brain signaling pathways, we mined the fire ant genome and compiled a list of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). The expression level of GPCRs and other genes in the "genetic toolkit" in the brains of virgin alates and mated dealate queens is reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis L Calkins
- Department of Entomology Texas A&M University College Station TX USA
| | - Mei-Er Chen
- Department of Entomology Texas A&M University College Station TX USA.,Department of Entomology National Chung Hsing University Taichung City Taiwan
| | - Arinder K Arora
- Department of Entomology Texas A&M University College Station TX USA.,Department of Entomology Cornell University Ithaca NY USA
| | - Chloe Hawkings
- Department of Entomology Texas A&M University College Station TX USA
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Cho WS, Koo HN, Yun SH, Lee JS, Jeong DH, Kang WJ, Lee SJ, Kim HK, Han JH, Kwon YD, Kwon GH, Kim CH, Kim GH. Electron Beam-Induced Sterility and Inhibition of Ovarian Development in the Sakhalin Pine Longicorn, Monochamus saltuarius (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae). JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY 2018; 111:725-731. [PMID: 29401226 DOI: 10.1093/jee/tox306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The Sakhalin pine longicorn, Monochamus saltuarius (Gebler; Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), is an insect vector of the pine wilt nematode (PWN), Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Steiner et Buhrer) Nickle, and is widely distributed in central Korea. M. saltuarius is a forest pest that seriously damages Pinus densiflora (Siebold et Zucc, Pinales: Pinaceae) and Pinus koraiensis (Siebold & Zucc, Pinales: Pinaceae) forests. We examined the effect of electron beam irradiation on the mating, DNA damage and ovarian development of M. saltuarius adults and sought to identify the optimal dose for sterilizing insects. When the adults were irradiated with electron beams, both females and males were completely sterile at 200 Gy. In a reciprocal crossing experiment between unirradiated and irradiated adults, the reproductive ability of wild adults was recovered by crossing with wild adults even after crossing previously with sterile adults. When a pair of unirradiated adults (♀- × ♂-) and 10 or 20 irradiated adults (♀+ or ♂+) were kept together, the control effect was as high as 80~90%. After electron beam irradiation at 200 Gy, the DNA of M. saltuarius adults was damaged, the ovarian development of female adults was inhibited, and the level of vitellogenin was significantly decreased compared with that in unirradiated female adults. These results suggest that pine wilt disease can be effectively controlled if a large number of sterilized M. saltuarius male adults are released into the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woo Seong Cho
- Department of Plant Medicine, College of Agriculture, Life and Environment Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Na Koo
- Department of Plant Medicine, College of Agriculture, Life and Environment Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Hwan Yun
- Department of Plant Medicine, College of Agriculture, Life and Environment Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Seon Lee
- Department of Plant Medicine, College of Agriculture, Life and Environment Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae Hun Jeong
- Department of Plant Medicine, College of Agriculture, Life and Environment Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Jin Kang
- Department of Plant Medicine, College of Agriculture, Life and Environment Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Ju Lee
- Department of Plant Medicine, College of Agriculture, Life and Environment Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Kyung Kim
- Department of Plant Medicine, College of Agriculture, Life and Environment Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju-Hwan Han
- Chungcheongbuk-do Forest Environment Research Institute, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Dae Kwon
- Gyeonggi Forestry Environment Research Center, Gapyeong, Republic of Korea
| | - Gun Hyung Kwon
- Gyeonggi Forestry Environment Research Center, Gapyeong, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Gil-Hah Kim
- Department of Plant Medicine, College of Agriculture, Life and Environment Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
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Wu H, Jiang FZ, Guo JX, Yi JQ, Liu JB, Cao YS, Lai XS, Zhang GR. Molecular Characterization and Expression of Vitellogenin and Vitellogenin Receptor of Thitarodes pui (Lepidoptera: Hepialidae), an Insect on the Tibetan Plateau. JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2018; 18:4924664. [PMID: 29718485 PMCID: PMC5842397 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/iey010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Vitellogenin (Vg) and vitellogenin receptor (VgR) play important roles in the vitellogenesis of insects. In this study, we cloned and characterized the two corresponding genes (TpVg and TpVgR) in an economically important insect, Thitarodes pui (Lepidoptera: Hepialidae), from the Tibetan plateau. The full length of TpVg is 5566 bp with a 5373 bp open reading frame (ORF) encoding 1,790 amino acids. Sequence alignment revealed that TpVg has three conserved domains: a Vitellogenin_N domain, a DUF1943 domain, and a von Willebrand factor type D domain (VWD). The full length of TpVgR is 5732 bp, with a 5397 bp ORF encoding 1798 amino acids. BLASTP showed that TpVgR belongs to the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) gene superfamily. Structural analysis revealed that TpVgR has a group of four structural domains: a ligand-binding domain (LBD), an epidermal growth factor (EGF)-precursor homology domain, a transmembrane (TM) domain, and a cytoplasmic domain. In addition, TpVgR has four cysteine-rich LDL repeats in the first ligand-binding site and seven in the second. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that the expression levels of TpVg and TpVgR are much higher in later pupa than in either the larval or adult stage, implying that the synthesis and uptake of Vg in T. pui occurs in the later pupal stage. These results will help us to understand the molecular mechanism of the reproductive capacity and will provide new insight into the mass rearing and utilization of T. pui.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Feng-Ze Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ji-Xing Guo
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie-Qun Yi
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian-Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying-Shuai Cao
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue-Shuang Lai
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gu-Ren Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Corresponding author, e-mail:
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Seixas A, Alzugaray MF, Tirloni L, Parizi LF, Pinto AFM, Githaka NW, Konnai S, Ohashi K, Yates Iii JR, Termignoni C, da Silva Vaz I. Expression profile of Rhipicephalus microplus vitellogenin receptor during oogenesis. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2017; 9:72-81. [PMID: 29054547 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2017.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The vitellogenin receptor (VgR), which belongs to the low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLR) family, regulates the absorption of yolk protein accumulated in developing oocytes during oogenesis. In the present study, the full sequence of Rhipicephalus microplus VgR (RmVgR) and the partial sequence of Rhipicephalus appendiculatus VgR (RaVgR) ORF were determined and cloned. The RmVgR amino acid sequence contains the five highly conserved structural motifs characteristic of LDLR superfamily members, the same overall structure as observed in other species. Phylogenetic analysis separated VgRs in two major groups, corresponding to receptors from acarines and insects. Consistent with observations from other arthropods, RmVgR was specifically expressed in the ovarian tissue and its peak of expression occurs in females that are detaching from the host. Silencing with RmVgR dsRNA reduced VgR expression, which resulted in reduced fertility, evidenced by a decrease in the number of larvae. The present study confirms RmVgR is a specific receptor involved in yolk protein uptake and oocyte maturation in R. microplus, playing an important role in tick reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Seixas
- Departamento de Farmacociências, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, Rua Sarmento Leite, 245, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil.
| | - María Fernanda Alzugaray
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, Prédio 43421, Campus do Vale, Caixa Postal 15005, Porto Alegre, RS, 91501-970, Brazil; Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la Republica, Alberto Lasplaces 1550 a 1620, Montevideo, Código Postal 11600, Uruguay.
| | - Lucas Tirloni
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, Prédio 43421, Campus do Vale, Caixa Postal 15005, Porto Alegre, RS, 91501-970, Brazil.
| | - Luis Fernando Parizi
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, Prédio 43421, Campus do Vale, Caixa Postal 15005, Porto Alegre, RS, 91501-970, Brazil.
| | - Antonio Frederico Michel Pinto
- Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, 90037 USA; Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Tuberculose (INCT-TB), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, RS, 90619-900, Brazil
| | - Naftaly Wang'ombe Githaka
- Tick Unit, Animal and Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute, P.O. Box 30709-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Satoru Konnai
- Department of Disease Control, Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, 060-0818, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.
| | - Kazuhiko Ohashi
- Department of Disease Control, Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, 060-0818, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.
| | - John R Yates Iii
- Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, 90037 USA.
| | - Carlos Termignoni
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, Prédio 43421, Campus do Vale, Caixa Postal 15005, Porto Alegre, RS, 91501-970, Brazil; Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2600, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil.
| | - Itabajara da Silva Vaz
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, Prédio 43421, Campus do Vale, Caixa Postal 15005, Porto Alegre, RS, 91501-970, Brazil; Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves, 9090, Porto Alegre, RS, 91540-000, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Entomologia Molecular, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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Fruttero LL, Leyria J, Canavoso LE. Lipids in Insect Oocytes: From the Storage Pathways to Their Multiple Functions. Results Probl Cell Differ 2017; 63:403-434. [PMID: 28779328 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-60855-6_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In insect physiology, the mechanisms involved in the buildup and regulation of yolk proteins in developing oocytes have been thoroughly researched during the last three decades. Comparatively, the study of lipid metabolism in oocytes had received less attention. The importance of this issue lies in the fact that lipids make up to 40% of the dry weight of an insect egg, being the most important supply of energy for the developing embryo. Since the oocyte has a very limited capacity to synthesize lipids de novo, most of the lipids in the mature eggs arise from the circulation. The main lipid carriers in the insect circulatory system are the lipoproteins lipophorin and vitellogenin. In some species, the endocytosis of lipophorin and vitellogenin may account for about 10% of the lipids present in mature eggs. Thus, most of the lipids are transferred by a lipophorin-mediated pathway, in which the lipoprotein unloads its lipid cargo at the surface of oocytes without internalization. This chapter recapitulates the current status on lipid storage and its utilization in insect oocytes and discusses the participation of key factors including lipoproteins, transfer proteins, lipolytic enzymes, and dynamic organelles such as lipid droplets. The new findings in the field of lipophorin receptors are presented in the context of lipid accumulation during egg maturation, and the roles of lipids beyond energy source are summarized from the perspective of oogenesis and embryogenesis. Finally, prospective and fruitful areas of future research are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo L Fruttero
- Instituto do Cerebro (InsCer). Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Jimena Leyria
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, CP 5000, Argentina
| | - Lilián E Canavoso
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, CP 5000, Argentina.
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Molecular Characterization and Function Analysis of the Vitellogenin Receptor from the Cotton Bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae). PLoS One 2016; 11:e0155785. [PMID: 27192057 PMCID: PMC4871585 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0155785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 05/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Developing oocytes accumulate plentiful yolk protein during oogenesis through receptor-mediated endocytosis. The vitellogenin receptor (VgR), belonging to the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) family, regulates the absorption of yolk protein. In this work, the full-length vitellogenin receptor (HaVgR) in the cotton bollworm Helicoverpa armigera was identified, encoding a 1817 residue protein. Sequence alignment revealed that the sequence of HaVgR contained all of the conservative structural motifs of LDLR family members, and phylogenetic analysis indicated that HaVgR had a high identity among Lepidoptera and was distinct from that of other insects. Consistent with other insects, HaVgR was specifically expressed in ovarian tissue. The developmental expression pattern showed that HaVgR was first transcribed in the newly metamorphosed female adults, reached a peak in 2-day-old adults and then declined. Western blot analysis also revealed an ovarian-specific and developing expression pattern, which was consistent with the HaVgR mRNA transcription. Moreover, RNAi-mediated HaVgR knockdown strongly reduced the VgR expression in both the mRNA and protein levels, which inhibited the yolk protein deposition in the ovaries, led to the dramatic accumulation of vitellogenin and the up-regulation of HaVg expression in hemolymph, and eventually resulted in a declined fecundity. Together, all of these findings demonstrate that HaVgR is a specific receptor in uptake and transportation of yolk protein for the maturation of oocytes and that it plays a critical role in female reproduction.
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30
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Upadhyay SK, Singh H, Dixit S, Mendu V, Verma PC. Molecular Characterization of Vitellogenin and Vitellogenin Receptor of Bemisia tabaci. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0155306. [PMID: 27159161 PMCID: PMC4861306 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0155306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitellogenin (Vg) plays vital role in oocytes and embryo development in insects. Vg is synthesized in the fat body, moves through haemolymph and accumulates in oocytes. Vitellogenin receptors (VgR) present on the surface of oocytes, are responsible for Vg transportation from haemolymph to oocytes. Here, we cloned and characterized these genes from Bemisia tabaci Asia1 (BtA1) species. The cloned BtA1Vg and BtA1VgR genes consisted of 6,330 and 5,430 bp long open reading frames, which encoded 2,109 and 1,809 amino acid (AA) residues long protein. The BtA1Vg protein comprised LPD_N, DUF1943 and VWFD domains, typical R/KXXR/K, DGXR and GL/ICG motifs, and polyserine tracts. BtA1VgR protein contained 12 LDLa, 10 LDLb and 7 EGF domains, and a trans-membrane and cytoplasmic region at C-terminus. Phylogenetic analyses indicated evolutionary association of BtA1Vg and BtA1VgR with the homologous proteins from various insect species. Silencing of BtA1VgR by siRNA did not affect the transcript level of BtA1Vg. However, BtA1Vg protein accumulation in oocytes was directly influenced with the expression level of BtA1VgR. Further, BtA1VgR silencing caused significant mortality and reduced fecundity in adult whiteflies. The results established the role of BtA1VgR in transportation of BtA1Vg in oocytes. Further, these proteins are essential for fecundity, and therefore these can be potential RNAi targets for insect control in crop plants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Harpal Singh
- CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow, 226001, India
| | - Sameer Dixit
- CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow, 226001, India
| | - Venugopal Mendu
- Fiber & Biopolymer Research Institute (FBRI), Department of Plant and Soil Science, Texas Tech University, Food Technology Building, Lubbock, TX, 79409–2122, United States of America
| | - Praveen C. Verma
- CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow, 226001, India
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Bai H, Qiao H, Li F, Fu H, Jiang S, Zhang W, Yan Y, Xiong Y, Sun S, Jin S, Gong Y, Wu Y. Molecular and functional characterization of the vitellogenin receptor in oriental river prawn, Macrobrachium nipponense. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2016; 194:45-55. [PMID: 26773480 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2015.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Revised: 07/20/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
A complementary DNA (cDNA) that encodes the vitellogenin receptor (VgR) in the oriental river prawn, Macrobrachium nipponense, was cloned using expressed sequence tag analysis and a rapid amplification of cDNA ends approach. The coding region consists of 5920 base pairs (bp) that encode a 1902 amino acid protein, with a predicted molecular mass of 209 kDa. The coding region is flanked by a 45 bp 5'-untranslated region (UTR) and a 166 bp 3'-UTR. The deduced amino acid sequence of the M. nipponense VgR cDNA had typically conserved domains, such as an extracellular, lipoprotein-binding domain, epidermal growth factor-like and O-glycosylation domains, a transmembrane domain and a short C-terminal, cytosolic tail. Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) indicated that Mn-VgR is highly expressed in the female ovary. Expression analysis by qPCR demonstrated the larval and ovarian developmental stage-specific expression pattern. As the ovaries developed, the expression level of Mn-VgR gradually increased during the reproductive cycle (stage I), to reach a peak in stage III. Levels then dropped as a new development cycle was entered after reproduction molting. Eyestalk ablation led to a significant increase in the expression of Mn-VgR during the ovarian development stages (P<0.05), when compared with the eyestalk-intact group. The investigation revealed that eyestalk ablation initially affected Mn-VgR expression and then influenced vitellogenesis. In adult females, VgR RNA interference (RNAi) dramatically delayed the maturation of the ovary, in accordance with the gonad somatic index. In addition, Mn-VgR RNAi led to vitellin depletion in the oocytes and the accumulation of vitellin in the hepatopancreas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongkun Bai
- Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi 214081, China
| | - Hui Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi 214081, China
| | - Fajun Li
- Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi 214081, China; Weifang University of Science and Technology, Shouguang 262700, China
| | - Hongtuo Fu
- Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi 214081, China; Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi 214081, China.
| | - Sufei Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi 214081, China
| | - Wenyi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi 214081, China
| | - Yuedi Yan
- Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Yiwei Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi 214081, China
| | - Shengming Sun
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi 214081, China
| | - Shubo Jin
- Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi 214081, China; Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi 214081, China
| | - Yongsheng Gong
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi 214081, China
| | - Yan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi 214081, China
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Lin WJ, Chien CY, Tsai CL, Chen ME. A NONOVARY-SPECIFIC VITELLOGENIN RECEPTOR FROM THE ORIENTAL FRUIT FLY, Bactrocera dorsalis (HENDEL). ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2015; 90:169-180. [PMID: 26280361 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The yolk protein precursor, vitellogenin (Vg), is absorbed into growing oocytes via receptor-mediated endocytosis for embryonic development. In this study, a Vg receptor (VgR) cDNA of the oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis Hendel) was cloned via RT-PCR and RACE (GenBank accession no. KR535603) and its expression analyzed. The BdVgR cDNA has a length of 6,585 bp encoding 1,923 amino acids. It has a conserved motif arrangement with other insect VgRs, and showed high identity to the B. cucurbitae VgR (91.4%). The expression of BdVgR mRNA and proteins was shown in both ovary and fat body. This is the first report on a nonovary-specific VgR from a nonsocial insect. In ovary, the expression of BdVgR mRNA and proteins was inconsistent, with the transcription, but not protein, level high on D0. In fat body, the expression levels of BdVgR mRNA and proteins were high on days 5 and 6. The function of BdVgR in the fat body is not clear. However, it may be involved in reuptake of yolk proteins from the hemolymph as an amino acid reservoir or as autocrine regulation of yolk protein expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Jen Lin
- Department of Entomology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Yi Chien
- Department of Entomology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Lung Tsai
- Department of Entomology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Er Chen
- Department of Entomology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
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The Essential Role of Vitellogenin Receptor in Ovary Development and Vitellogenin Uptake in Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel). Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:18368-83. [PMID: 26262609 PMCID: PMC4581250 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160818368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Revised: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The vitellogenin receptor (VgR) functions as an essential component in uptaking and transporting vitellogenin (Vg) in female adults, which is involved in ovary development and oviposition. This study aimed to clarify the molecular characteristics and function of VgR in the oriental fruit fly Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel). Here, we identified the full-length of BdVgR (GenBank Accession No. JX469118), encoding a 1925 residue (aa) protein with a 214.72 kDa molecular mass and several typical motifs of low-density lipoprotein receptor superfamily (LDLR). Phylogenic analysis suggested that BdVgR was evolutionary conserved with other Dipteran VgRs. The expression of BdVgR was exclusively detected in the ovaries rather than head, thorax or other tissues. The developmental expression patterns showed that the signal of BdVgR was detectable in very beginning of adult stage, and positively correlated with the growth rate of ovaries and the expression levels of its ligands. In addition, we also demonstrated that the expression level of BdVgR, and ovary development were significantly suppressed after being injected with BdVgR-targeted dsRNA. Together, all of these results indicated that BdVgR was critical for yolk protein absorption and ovary maturation in B. dorsalis, playing a vital role in female reproduction.
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Qian C, Fu WW, Wei GQ, Wang L, Liu QN, Dai LS, Sun Y, Zhu BJ, Liu CL. IDENTIFICATION AND EXPRESSION ANALYSIS OF VITELLOGENIN RECEPTOR FROM THE WILD SILKWORM, Bombyx mandarina. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2015; 89:181-192. [PMID: 25808998 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The vitellogenin receptor (VgR) plays a key role on embryonic development in oviparous animals. Here, we cloned a VgR gene, which was identified from the wild silkworm Bombyx mandarina (BmaVgR) using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE). Sequence analysis revealed that BmaVgR is 5,861 bp long with an open reading frame encoded by 1,811 amino acid residues. The predicted amino acid sequence has 99.7 and 98.2% identity with the VgRs of Actias selene and Bombyx mori, respectively. The class B domain sequence of BmaVgR was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli, and purified by a Ni-NTA column. Polyclonal antibodies were produced against the purified recombinant protein, and titer of the antibody was about 1:12,800 measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Western blot and RT-qPCR showed that BmaVgR was expressed in the ovary and fat body of female larvae and the ovary of moth, and the expression level was highest at the third day and then declined from third day to seventh in fat body of pupa. After knockdown of the BmaVgR gene through RNA interference (RNAi), other three BmaVgR-related genes (Vg, egg-specific protein, and low molecular weight lipoprotein LP gene) were all downregulated significantly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cen Qian
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Wei-Wei Fu
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Guo-Qing Wei
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Lei Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Qiu-Ning Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Li-Shang Dai
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Yu Sun
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Bao-Jian Zhu
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Chao-Liang Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
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Otte KA, Schrank I, Fröhlich T, Arnold GJ, Laforsch C. Interclonal proteomic responses to predator exposure inDaphnia magnamay depend on predator composition of habitats. Mol Ecol 2015; 24:3901-17. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.13287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Revised: 06/09/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin A. Otte
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA); Gene Center; Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich; Feodor-Lynen-Strasse 25 81377 Munich Germany
- Department Biology II; Ludwig Maximilians University Munich; Grosshaderner Street 2 82152 Planegg-Martinsried Germany
- Animal Ecology I and BayCEER; University of Bayreuth; Universitätsstrasse 30 95440 Bayreuth Germany
| | - Isabella Schrank
- Animal Ecology I and BayCEER; University of Bayreuth; Universitätsstrasse 30 95440 Bayreuth Germany
| | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA); Gene Center; Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich; Feodor-Lynen-Strasse 25 81377 Munich Germany
| | - Georg J. Arnold
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA); Gene Center; Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich; Feodor-Lynen-Strasse 25 81377 Munich Germany
| | - Christian Laforsch
- Animal Ecology I and BayCEER; University of Bayreuth; Universitätsstrasse 30 95440 Bayreuth Germany
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Molecular characterization of vitellogenin and its receptor genes from citrus red mite, Panonychus citri (McGregor). Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:4759-73. [PMID: 25739087 PMCID: PMC4394447 DOI: 10.3390/ijms16034759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2014] [Revised: 02/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The production and uptake of yolk protein play an important role in the reproduction of all oviparous organisms. Vitellogenin (Vg) is the precursor of vitellin (Vn), which is the major egg storage protein, and vitellogenin receptor (VgR) is a necessary protein for the uptake of Vg into developing oocytes. In this paper, we characterize the full-length Vg and VgR, PcVg1 and PcVgR, respectively, of the citrus red mite Panonychus citri (McGregor). The PcVg1 cDNA is 5748 nucleotides (nt) with a 5553-nt open reading frame (ORF) coding for 1851 amino acids (aa), and the PcVgR is 6090 nt, containing an intact ORF of 5673 nt coding an expected protein of 1891 aa. The PcVg1 aa sequence shows a typical GLCG domain and several K/RXXR cleavage sites, and PcVgR comprises two ligand-binding domains, two epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like regions containing YWTD motifs, a transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic domain. An analysis of the aa sequences and phylogenetics implied that both genes were genetically distinct from those of ticks and insects. The transcriptional profiles determined by real-time quantitative PCR in different developmental stages showed that both genes present the same expressional tendencies in eggs, larvae, nymphs, and adults. This suggested that the biosynthesis and uptake of PcVg occurs coordinately. The strong reproductive capacity of P. citri has been hypothesized as an important factor in its resistance; consequently, understanding the molecular mechanisms regulating Vg and VgR are fundamental for mite control.
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Lu K, Shu Y, Zhou J, Zhang X, Zhang X, Chen M, Yao Q, Zhou Q, Zhang W. Molecular characterization and RNA interference analysis of vitellogenin receptor from Nilaparvata lugens (Stål). JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2015; 73:20-9. [PMID: 25617689 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2015.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2014] [Revised: 01/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Vitellogenin receptors (VgRs), members of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) superfamily, are responsible for taking vitellogenin (Vg) into developing oocytes. Here the first full-length VgR cDNA from a hemipteran insect, the brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens), was cloned and sequenced. The complete mRNA sequence was 6174 bp in length with an open reading frame (ORF) of 5796 bp encoding 1931 amino acid residues. N. lugens VgR (NlVgR) contained two ligand-binding domains with five LDLR Class A cysteine-rich repeats in the first domain and eight in the second domain, which was similar to other insect VgRs. NlVgR was specifically expressed in the ovary, and the mRNA level started to increase after adult female emergence, with a peak on day 7 in the adult stage, and then declined. Western blot analysis of NlVgR protein revealed an ovary-specific expression pattern, which was consistent with NlVgR transcript detection. Injection with NlVgR double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) significantly disturbed NlVgR, which led to a decrease in NlVg protein content in the ovaries, an accumulation of NlVg protein in the hemolymph, the arrested development of ovaries, and the failure of insects to reproduce. Besides, NlVgR expression was significantly upregulated after the topical application of juvenile hormone (JH) III. These results suggest that VgR is critical for Vg uptaking of oocytes and it plays an important role in insect fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, Sun-Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China; College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yinghua Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, Sun-Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Jialiang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, Sun-Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Xiaoyi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, Sun-Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Xinyu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, Sun-Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Mingxiao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, Sun-Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Qiong Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, Sun-Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Qiang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, Sun-Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| | - Wenqing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol and Institute of Entomology, Sun-Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
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Azevedo DO, de Paula SO, Zanuncio JC, Martinez LC, Serrão JE. Juvenile hormone downregulates vitellogenin production in Ectatomma tuberculatum (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) sterile workers. J Exp Biol 2015; 219:103-8. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.127712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In the ant Ectatomma tuberculatum (Olivier, 1792), workers have active ovaries and lay trophic eggs that are eaten by the queen and larvae. Vitellogenins are the main proteins found in the eggs of insects and are the source of nutrients for the embryo in the fertilized eggs and for adults when in the trophic eggs. In social insects, vitellogenin titers vary between castes and affect reproductive social status, nursing, foraging, longevity, somatic maintenance, and immunity. In most insects, vitellogenin synthesis is mainly regulated by juvenile hormone. However, in non-reproductive worker ants, this relationship is poorly characterized. This study determined the effects of juvenile hormone on vitellogenin synthesis in non-reproductive E. tuberculatum workers. Juvenile hormone was topically applied onto workers, and the effect on vitellogenin synthesis in the fat body and vitellogenin titers in the haemolymph were analyzed by ELISA and qPCR. Juvenile hormone downregulated protein synthesis and reduced vitellogenin titers in the haemolymph, suggesting that in workers E. tuberculatum, juvenile hormone loses its gonadotrophic function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - José Cola Zanuncio
- Departamento de Entomologia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-000 Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Luis Carlos Martinez
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-000 Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - José Eduardo Serrão
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-000 Viçosa, MG, Brazil
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Transposable element islands facilitate adaptation to novel environments in an invasive species. Nat Commun 2014; 5:5495. [PMID: 25510865 PMCID: PMC4284661 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms6495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Adaptation requires genetic variation, but founder populations are generally genetically depleted. Here we sequence two populations of an inbred ant that diverge in phenotype to determine how variability is generated. Cardiocondyla obscurior has the smallest of the sequenced ant genomes and its structure suggests a fundamental role of transposable elements (TEs) in adaptive evolution. Accumulations of TEs (TE islands) comprising 7.18% of the genome evolve faster than other regions with regard to single-nucleotide variants, gene/exon duplications and deletions and gene homology. A non-random distribution of gene families, larvae/adult specific gene expression and signs of differential methylation in TE islands indicate intragenomic differences in regulation, evolutionary rates and coalescent effective population size. Our study reveals a tripartite interplay between TEs, life history and adaptation in an invasive species. Genetic variation is key to species evolution. Here the authors sequence two phenotypically distinct populations of the ant Cardiocondyla obscurior, and find accumulations of transposable elements correlating with genetic variation that may have a role in differentiation, adaptation and speciation.
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Dominguez GA, Bisesi JH, Kroll KJ, Denslow ND, Sabo-Attwood T. Control of transcriptional repression of the vitellogenin receptor gene in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) by select estrogen receptors isotypes. Toxicol Sci 2014; 141:423-31. [PMID: 25061109 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfu145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The vitellogenin receptor (Vtgr) plays an important role in fish reproduction. This receptor functions to incorporate vitellogenin (Vtg), a macromolecule synthesized and released from the liver in the bloodstream, into oocytes where it is processed into yolk. Although studies have focused on the functional role of Vtgr in fish, the mechanistic control of this gene is still unexplored. Here we report the identification and analysis of the first piscine 5' regulatory region of the vtgr gene which was cloned from largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Using this putative promoter sequence, we investigated a role for hormones, including insulin and 17β-estradiol (E2), in transcriptional regulation through cell-based reporter assays. No effect of insulin was observed, however, E2 was able to repress transcriptional activity of the vtgr promoter through select estrogen receptor subtypes, Esr1 and Esr2a but not Esr2b. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay demonstrated that Esr1 likely interacts with the vtgr promoter region through half ERE and/or SP1 sites, in part. Finally we also show that ethinylestradiol (EE2), but not bisphenol-A (BPA), represses promoter activity similarly to E2. These results reveal for the first time that the Esr1 isoform may play an inhibitory role in the expression of LMB vtgr mRNA under the influence of E2, and potent estrogens such as EE2. In addition, this new evidence suggests that vtgr may be a target of select endocrine disrupting compounds through environmental exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo A Dominguez
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29208 Department of Environmental and Global Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610
| | - Joseph H Bisesi
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29208 Department of Environmental and Global Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610 Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611
| | - Kevin J Kroll
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611
| | - Nancy D Denslow
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611
| | - Tara Sabo-Attwood
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29208 Department of Environmental and Global Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610 Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611
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41
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Gopalapillai R, Vasantkumar VK, Bala R, Modala V, Rao G, Kumar V. Yeast two-hybrid screen reveals novel protein interactions of the cytoplasmic tail of lipophorin receptor in silkworm brain. J Mol Recognit 2014; 27:190-6. [DOI: 10.1002/jmr.2350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Revised: 12/02/2013] [Accepted: 12/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ravikumar Gopalapillai
- Division of Functional Genomics; Seri-biotech Research Laboratory, Central Silk Board; Kodathi, Carmelaram Bangalore 560 035 India
| | - Vardhana K. Vasantkumar
- Division of Functional Genomics; Seri-biotech Research Laboratory, Central Silk Board; Kodathi, Carmelaram Bangalore 560 035 India
| | - Rajni Bala
- Division of Functional Genomics; Seri-biotech Research Laboratory, Central Silk Board; Kodathi, Carmelaram Bangalore 560 035 India
| | - Venkateswarlu Modala
- Division of Functional Genomics; Seri-biotech Research Laboratory, Central Silk Board; Kodathi, Carmelaram Bangalore 560 035 India
| | - Guruprasad Rao
- Division of Functional Genomics; Seri-biotech Research Laboratory, Central Silk Board; Kodathi, Carmelaram Bangalore 560 035 India
| | - Vikas Kumar
- Division of Functional Genomics; Seri-biotech Research Laboratory, Central Silk Board; Kodathi, Carmelaram Bangalore 560 035 India
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Smith AD, Reuben Kaufman W. Molecular characterization of the vitellogenin receptor from the tick, Amblyomma hebraeum (Acari: Ixodidae). INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2013; 43:1133-1141. [PMID: 24128609 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2013.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Revised: 10/01/2013] [Accepted: 10/04/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
We have identified the full-length cDNA encoding a vitellogenin receptor (VgR) from the African bont tick Amblyomma hebraeum Koch (1844). VgRs are members of the low-density lipoprotein receptor superfamily that promote the uptake of the yolk protein vitellogenin (Vg), from the haemolymph. The AhVgR (GenBank accession No. JX846592) is 5703 bp, and encodes an 1801 aa protein with a 196.5 kDa molecular mass following cleavage of a 22 aa signal peptide. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that AhVgR is highly similar to other tick VgRs. AhVgR is expressed in only the ovary of mated, engorged females, and is absent in all other female tissues and in both fed and unfed males. Unfed, adult females injected with a VgR-dsRNA probe to knock-down VgR expression experienced a significant delay in ovary development and started oviposition significantly later than controls. These results indicate that the expression of AhVgR is important for the uptake of Vg and subsequent maturation of the oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander D Smith
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, CW 405, Biological Sciences Building, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9, Canada.
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Badisco L, Van Wielendaele P, Vanden Broeck J. Eat to reproduce: a key role for the insulin signaling pathway in adult insects. Front Physiol 2013; 4:202. [PMID: 23966944 PMCID: PMC3735985 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2013.00202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2013] [Accepted: 07/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Insects, like all heterotrophic organisms, acquire from their food the nutrients that are essential for anabolic processes that lead to growth (larval stages) or reproduction (adult stage). In adult females, this nutritional input is processed and results in a very specific output, i.e., the production of fully developed eggs ready for fertilization and deposition. An important role in this input-output transition is attributed to the insulin signaling pathway (ISP). The ISP is considered to act as a sensor of the organism's nutritional status and to stimulate the progression of anabolic events when the status is positive. In several insect species belonging to different orders, the ISP has been demonstrated to positively control vitellogenesis and oocyte growth. Whether or not ISP acts herein via a mediator action of lipophilic insect hormones (ecdysteroids and juvenile hormone) remains debatable and might be differently controlled in different insect orders. Most likely, insulin-related peptides, ecdysteroids and juvenile hormone are involved in a complex regulatory network, in which they mutually influence each other and in which the insect's nutritional status is a crucial determinant of the network's output. The current review will present an overview of the regulatory role of the ISP in female insect reproduction and its interaction with other pathways involving nutrients, lipophilic hormones and neuropeptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liesbeth Badisco
- Department of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Research Group of Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Lin Y, Meng Y, Wang YX, Luo J, Katsuma S, Yang CW, Banno Y, Kusakabe T, Shimada T, Xia QY. Vitellogenin receptor mutation leads to the oogenesis mutant phenotype "scanty vitellin" of the silkworm, Bombyx mori. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:13345-55. [PMID: 23515308 PMCID: PMC3650373 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.462556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In insects, the vitellogenin receptor (VgR) mediates the uptake of vitellogenin (Vg) from the hemolymph by developing oocytes. The oogenesis mutant scanty vitellin (vit) of Bombyx mori (Bm) lacks vitellin and 30-kDa proteins, but B. mori egg-specific protein and BmVg are normal. The vit eggs are white and smaller compared with the pale yellow eggs of the wild type and are embryonic lethal. This study found that a mutation in the B. mori VgR gene (BmVgR) is responsible for the vit phenotype. We cloned the cDNA sequences encoding WT and vit BmVgR. The functional domains of BmVgR are similar to those of other low-density lipoprotein receptors. When compared with the wild type, a 235-bp genomic sequence in vit BmVgR is substituted for a 7-bp sequence. This mutation has resulted in a 50-amino acid deletion in the third Class B region of the first epidermal growth factor (EGF1) domain. BmVgR is expressed specifically in oocytes, and the transcriptional level is changed dramatically and consistently with maturation of oocytes during the previtellogenic periods. Linkage analysis confirmed that BmVgR is mutated in the vit mutant. The coimmunoprecipitation assay confirmed that mutated BmVgR is able to bind BmVg but that BmVg cannot be dissociated under acidic conditions. The WT phenotype determined by RNA interference was similar to that of the vit phenotype for nutritional deficiency, such as BmVg and 30-kDa proteins. These results showed that BmVgR has an important role in transporting proteins for egg formation and embryonic development in B. mori.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
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Del Giudice G, Prisco M, Agnese M, Valiante S, Verderame M, Limatola E, Laforgia V, Andreuccetti P. Expression of vitellogenin receptor in the ovarian follicles during the reproductive cycle of the spotted ray Torpedo marmorata Risso 1880. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 315:585-92. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2011] [Accepted: 08/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Lu HL, Pietrantonio PV. Insect insulin receptors: insights from sequence and caste expression analyses of two cloned hymenopteran insulin receptor cDNAs from the fire ant. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2011; 20:637-649. [PMID: 21797944 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2583.2011.01094.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signalling (IIS) pathway in the honey bee (Apis mellifera) is linked to reproductive division of labour and foraging behaviour. Two insulin receptor genes are present in the released genomes of other social hymenopterans. Limited information is available on the IIS pathway role in ants. The predicted insulin receptor sequences from the recently released draft genome of the fire ant Solenopsis invicta (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) are incomplete and biologically significant data are also lacking. To elucidate the role of the IIS pathway in the fire ant, two putative insulin receptors (SiInR-1 and SiInR-2) were cloned; the first InR cDNAs cloned from social insects. Analyses of putative post-translational modification sites in SiInRs revealed the potential for differential regulation. We investigated the transcriptional expression of both receptors at different developmental stages, castes and queen tissues. In last instar larvae and pharate pupae of workers and reproductive, transcriptional abundance of both receptors was negatively correlated with body size and nutritional status. The expression level of both receptors in different queen tissues appears to correlate with requirements for queen reproductive physiology and behaviours. This study contributes new information to the understanding of social insects because in fire ants juvenile hormone acts as a gonadotropin and workers are fully sterile, contrary to honey bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- H-L Lu
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-2475, USA
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Lu HL, Pietrantonio PV. Immunolocalization of the short neuropeptide F receptor in queen brains and ovaries of the red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta Buren). BMC Neurosci 2011; 12:57. [PMID: 21672256 PMCID: PMC3146894 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-12-57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2011] [Accepted: 06/14/2011] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Insect neuropeptides are involved in diverse physiological functions and can be released as neurotransmitters or neuromodulators acting within the central nervous system, and as circulating neurohormones in insect hemolymph. The insect short neuropeptide F (sNPF) peptides, related to the vertebrate neuropeptide Y (NPY) peptides, have been implicated in the regulation of food intake and body size, and play a gonadotropic role in the ovaries of some insect species. Recently the sNPF peptides were localized in the brain of larval and adult Drosophila. However, the location of the sNPF receptor, a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), has not yet been investigated in brains of any adult insect. To elucidate the sites of action of the sNPF peptide(s), the sNPF receptor tissue expression and cellular localization were analyzed in queens of the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren (Hymenoptera), an invasive social insect. Results In the queen brains and subesophageal ganglion about 164 cells distributed in distinctive cell clusters (C1-C9 and C12) or as individual cells (C10, C11) were immuno-positive for the sNPF receptor. Most of these neurons are located in or near important sensory neuropils including the mushroom bodies, the antennal lobes, the central complex, and in different parts of the protocerebrum, as well as in the subesophageal ganglion. The localization of the sNPF receptor broadly links the receptor signaling pathway with circuits regulating learning and feeding behaviors. In ovaries from mated queens, the detection of sNPF receptor signal at the posterior end of oocytes in mid-oogenesis stage suggests that the sNPF signaling pathway may regulate processes at the oocyte pole. Conclusions The analysis of sNPF receptor immunolocalization shows that the sNPF signaling cascade may be involved in diverse functions, and the sNPF peptide(s) may act in the brain as neurotransmitter(s) or neuromodulator(s), and in the ovaries as neurohormone(s). To our knowledge, this is the first report of the cellular localization of a sNPF receptor on the brain and ovaries of adult insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao-Ling Lu
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-2475, USA
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Shu YH, Wang JW, Lu K, Zhou JL, Zhou Q, Zhang GR. The first vitellogenin receptor from a Lepidopteran insect: molecular characterization, expression patterns and RNA interference analysis. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2011; 20:61-73. [PMID: 20955241 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2583.2010.01054.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The vitellogenin receptor (VgR) belongs to the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) superfamily, and is an important carrier for the uptake of vitellogenin (Vg) into developing oocytes of all oviparous species. The first full-length message for a VgR from a Lepidopteran insect was cloned and sequenced from the ovary of Spodoptera litura Fabricius (GenBank accession no. GU983858). The coding region consisted of 5370 bp flanked by a 49 bp 5'-untranslated region (UTR) and a 177 bp 3'-UTR, which encoded a 1798-residue protein with a predicted molecular weight (MW) of 201.69 kDa. S. litura VgR (SlVgR)comprised two ligand binding sites with four LDLR class A repeats in the first domain and seven in the second domain, an epidermal growth factor-like domain containing an LDLR class B repeat and a YWXD motif, a transmembrane domain and a cytoplasmic domain. A phylogenetic relationship placed SlVgR as a separate group from the other insects. SlVgR messenger RNA (mRNA) was specifically expressed in the ovarian tissues. The developmental expression patterns showed that VgR mRNA was first transcribed in 6(th) day female pupae and the maximum level of VgR mRNA appeared in 36-h-old adults. Immunoblot analysis detected an ovary-specific VgR protein with a MW of ∼200 kDa, whose development profiles were consistent with VgR mRNA expression patterns. RNA inteference (RNAi) specifically disrupted the VgR gene by injection of 3 or 5 µg VgR double-stranded RNA per insect in 4(th) or 6(th) day pupae. RNAi of SlVgR led to a phenotype characterized by high Vg accumulation in the haemolymph, low Vg deposition in the ovary and the failure of insect spawning. These results mean that VgR is critical for binding Vg and transporting it into the oocytes of the insect ovary, thus playing an important role in insect reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y H Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Biological Control and Institute of Entomology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Lu HL, Vinson SB, Pietrantonio PV. Oocyte membrane localization of vitellogenin receptor coincides with queen flying age, and receptor silencing by RNAi disrupts egg formation in fire ant virgin queens. FEBS J 2009; 276:3110-23. [PMID: 19490112 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2009.07029.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In ant species in which mating flights are a strategic life-history trait for dispersal and reproduction, maturation of virgin queens occurs. However, the specific molecular mechanisms that mark this transition and the effectors that control premating ovarian growth are unknown. The vitellogenin receptor (VgR) is responsible for vitellogenin uptake during egg formation in insects. In the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), virgin queens have more abundant VgR transcripts than newly mated queens, but limited egg formation. To elucidate whether the transition to egg production involved changes in VgR expression, we investigated both virgin and mated queens. In both queens, western blot analysis showed an ovary-specific VgR band (approximately 202 kDa), and immunofluorescence analysis of ovaries detected differential VgR localization in early- and late-stage oocytes. However, the VgR signal was much lower in virgin queens ready to fly than in mated queens 8 h post mating flight. In virgin queens, the receptor signal was first observed at the oocyte membrane beginning at day 12 post emergence, coinciding with the 2 weeks of maturation required before a mating flight. Thus, the membrane localization of VgR appears to be a potential marker for queen mating readiness. Silencing of the receptor in virgin queens through RNA interference abolished egg formation, demonstrating that VgR is involved in fire ant ovary development pre mating. To our knowledge, this is the first report of RNA interference in any ant species and the first report of silencing of a hymenopteran VgR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao-Ling Lu
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-2475, USA
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Tufail M, Takeda M. Insect vitellogenin/lipophorin receptors: molecular structures, role in oogenesis, and regulatory mechanisms. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2009; 55:87-103. [PMID: 19071131 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2008.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2008] [Revised: 11/10/2008] [Accepted: 11/13/2008] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Insect vitellogenin and lipophorin receptors (VgRs/LpRs) belong to the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) gene superfamily and play a critical role in oocyte development by mediating endocytosis of the major yolk protein precursors Vg and Lp, respectively. Precursor Vg and Lp are synthesized, in the majority of insects, extraovarially in the fat body and are internalized by competent oocytes through membrane-bound receptors (i.e., VgRs and LpRs, respectively). Structural analysis reveals that insect VgRs/LpRs and all other LDLR family receptors share a group of five structural domains: clusters of cysteine-rich repeats constituting the ligand-binding domain (LBD), epidermal growth factor (EGF)-precursor homology domain that mediates the acid-dependent dissociation of ligands, an O-linked sugar domain of unknown function, a transmembrane domain anchoring the receptor in the plasma membrane, and a cytoplasmic domain that mediates the clustering of the receptor into the coated pits. The sequence analysis indicates that insect VgRs harbor two LBDs with five repeats in the first and eight repeats in the second domain as compared to LpRs which have a single 8-repeat LBD. Moreover, the cytoplasmic domain of all insect VgRs contains a LI internalization signal instead of the NPXY motif found in LpRs and in the majority of other LDLR family receptors. The exception is that of Solenopsis invicta VgR, which also contains an NPXY motif in addition to LI signal. Cockroach VgRs still harbor another motif, NPTF, which is also believed to be a functional internalization signal. The expression studies clearly demonstrate that insect VgRs are ovary-bound receptors of the LDLR family as compared to LpRs, which are transcribed in a wide range of tissues including ovary, fat body, midgut, brain, testis, Malpighian tubules, and muscles. VgR/LpR mRNA and the protein were detected in the germarium, suggesting that the genes involved in receptor-endocytotic machinery are specifically expressed long before they are functionally required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Tufail
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Kobe University, Nada, Kobe 657-8501, Japan.
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