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Chen X, Wang F, Guo H, Liu X, Wu S, Lv L, Tang T. Uncovering hidden dangers: The combined toxicity of abamectin and lambda-cyhalothrin on honey bees. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 933:173126. [PMID: 38734105 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Studying the toxic effects of pesticides on bees has consistently been a prominent area of interest for researchers. Nonetheless, existing research has predominantly concentrated on individual toxicity assessments, leaving a gap in our understanding of mixed toxicity. This study delves into the individual and combined toxic effects of abamectin (ABA) and lambda-cyhalothrin (LCY) on honey bees (Apis mellifera) in laboratory settings. We discovered that ABA (96 h-LC50 value of 0.079 mg/L) exhibited greater acute toxicity to honey bees compared to LCY (96 h-LC50 value of 9.177 mg/L). Moreover, the mixture of ABA and LCY presented an acute antagonistic effect on honey bees. Additionally, our results indicated that exposure to LCY, at medium concentration, led to a reduction in the abundance of gut core bacterium Snodgrassella. However, an increase in the abundance of Bifidobacterium was noted when exposed to a medium concentration of LCY and its mixture with ABA. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant regulation of certain genes in the medium concentration of all three treatments compared to the control group, primarily enriching in metabolism and immune-related pathways. Following chronic exposure to field-relevant concentrations of ABA, LCY, and their mixture, there were significant alterations in the activities of immunity-related enzyme polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and detoxification enzymes glutathione S-transferase (GST) and carboxylesterase (CarE). Additionally, the expression of four genes (abaecin, cyp9e2, cyp302a1, and GstD1) associated with immune and detoxification metabolism was significantly altered. These findings suggest a potential health risk posed by the insecticides ABA and LCY to honey bees. Despite exhibiting acute antagonistic effect, mixed exposure still induced damage to bees at all levels. This study advances our knowledge of the potential adverse effects of individual or combined exposure to these two pesticides on non-target pollinators and offers crucial guidance for the use of insecticides in agricultural production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaozhen Chen
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315800, China; State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Key Laboratory for Pesticide Residue Detection of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Agro-Product Safety and Nutrition, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Feidi Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Key Laboratory for Pesticide Residue Detection of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Agro-Product Safety and Nutrition, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Haikun Guo
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Key Laboratory for Pesticide Residue Detection of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Agro-Product Safety and Nutrition, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Xinju Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Key Laboratory for Pesticide Residue Detection of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Agro-Product Safety and Nutrition, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Shenggan Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Key Laboratory for Pesticide Residue Detection of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Agro-Product Safety and Nutrition, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Lu Lv
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Key Laboratory for Pesticide Residue Detection of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Agro-Product Safety and Nutrition, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China.
| | - Tao Tang
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Key Laboratory for Pesticide Residue Detection of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Agro-Product Safety and Nutrition, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China.
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2
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Foster LJ, Tsvetkov N, McAfee A. Mechanisms of Pathogen and Pesticide Resistance in Honey Bees. Physiology (Bethesda) 2024; 39:0. [PMID: 38411571 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00033.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Bees are the most important insect pollinators of the crops humans grow, and Apis mellifera, the Western honey bee, is the most commonly managed species for this purpose. In addition to providing agricultural services, the complex biology of honey bees has been the subject of scientific study since the 18th century, and the intricate behaviors of honey bees and ants, fellow hymenopterans, inspired much sociobiological inquest. Unfortunately, honey bees are constantly exposed to parasites, pathogens, and xenobiotics, all of which pose threats to their health. Despite our curiosity about and dependence on honey bees, defining the molecular mechanisms underlying their interactions with biotic and abiotic stressors has been challenging. The very aspects of their physiology and behavior that make them so important to agriculture also make them challenging to study, relative to canonical model organisms. However, because we rely on A. mellifera so much for pollination, we must continue our efforts to understand what ails them. Here, we review major advancements in our knowledge of honey bee physiology, focusing on immunity and detoxification, and highlight some challenges that remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard J Foster
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Michael Smith LaboratoriesUniversity of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nadejda Tsvetkov
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Michael Smith LaboratoriesUniversity of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alison McAfee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Michael Smith LaboratoriesUniversity of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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3
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Guo D, Wang Y, Li Z, Zhang DX, Wang C, Wang H, Liu Z, Liu F, Guo X, Wang N, Xu B, Gao Z. Effects of abamectin nanocapsules on bees through host physiology, immune function, and gut microbiome. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 930:172738. [PMID: 38670362 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Pesticide usage is a common practice to increase crop yields. Nevertheless, the existence of pesticide residues in the surrounding environment presents a significant hazard to pollinators, specifically the potential undisclosed dangers related to emerging nanopesticides. This study examines the impact of abamectin nanocapsules (AbaNCs), created through electrostatic self-assembly, as an insecticide on honey bees. It was determined that AbaNCs upregulated detoxification genes, including CYP450, as well as antioxidant and immune genes in honey bees. Furthermore, AbaNCs affected the activity of crucial enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD). Although no apparent damage was observed in bee gut tissue, AbaNCs significantly decreased digestive enzyme activity. Microbiome sequencing revealed that AbaNCs disrupted gut microbiome, resulting in a reduction of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. Additionally, these changes in the gut microbiome were associated with decreased activity of digestive enzymes, including lipase. This study enhances our understanding of the impact of nanopesticides on pollinating insects. Through the revelation of the consequences arising from the utilization of abamectin nanocapsules, we have identified potential stress factors faced by these pollinators, enabling the implementation of improved protective measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dezheng Guo
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongyu Li
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Da-Xia Zhang
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongfang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenguo Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Liu
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingqi Guo
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Ningxin Wang
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China.
| | - Baohua Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zheng Gao
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China.
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4
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Askri D, Pottier M, Arafah K, Voisin SN, Hodge S, Stout JC, Dominik C, Schweiger O, Tamburini G, Pereira-Peixoto MH, Klein AM, López VM, De la Rúa P, Cini E, Potts SG, Schwarz JM, Knauer AC, Albrecht M, Raimets R, Karise R, di Prisco G, Ivarsson K, Svensson GP, Ronsevych O, Knapp JL, Rundlöf M, Onorati P, de Miranda JR, Bocquet M, Bulet P. A blood test to monitor bee health across a European network of agricultural sites of different land-use by MALDI BeeTyping mass spectrometry. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 929:172239. [PMID: 38583620 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
There are substantial concerns about impaired honey bee health and colony losses due to several poorly understood factors. We used MALDI profiling (MALDI BeeTyping®) analysis to investigate how some environmental and management factors under field conditions across Europe affected the honey bee haemolymph peptidome (all peptides in the circulatory fluid), as a profile of molecular markers representing the immune status of Apis mellifera. Honey bees were exposed to a range of environmental stressors in 128 agricultural sites across eight European countries in four biogeographic zones, with each country contributing eight sites each for two different cropping systems: oilseed rape (OSR) and apple (APP). The full haemolymph peptide profiles, including the presence and levels of three key immunity markers, namely the antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) Apidaecin, Abaecin and Defensin-1, allowed the honey bee responses to environmental variables to be discriminated by country, crop type and site. When considering just the AMPs, it was not possible to distinguish between countries by the prevalence of each AMP in the samples. However, it was possible to discriminate between countries on the amounts of the AMPs, with the Swedish samples in particular expressing high amounts of all AMPs. A machine learning model was developed to discriminate the haemolymphs of bees from APP and OSR sites. The model was 90.6 % accurate in identifying the crop type from the samples used to build the model. Overall, MALDI BeeTyping® of bee haemolymph represents a promising and cost-effective "blood test" for simultaneously monitoring dozens of peptide markers affected by environmental stressors at the landscape scale, thus providing policymakers with new diagnostic and regulatory tools for monitoring bee health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalel Askri
- Platform BioPark Archamps, Archamps, France.
| | | | | | | | - Simon Hodge
- School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jane C Stout
- School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Christophe Dominik
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Dep. Community Ecology, Theodor-Lieser-Strasse 4, 06120 Halle, Germany; German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstraße 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Oliver Schweiger
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Dep. Community Ecology, Theodor-Lieser-Strasse 4, 06120 Halle, Germany; German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstraße 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Giovanni Tamburini
- Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Alexandra-Maria Klein
- Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Vicente Martínez López
- Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Pilar De la Rúa
- Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Elena Cini
- Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, Reading University, RG6 6AR, UK
| | - Simon G Potts
- Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, Reading University, RG6 6AR, UK
| | - Janine M Schwarz
- Agroecology and Environment, Agroscope, Reckenholzstrasse 191, 8046 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anina C Knauer
- Agroecology and Environment, Agroscope, Reckenholzstrasse 191, 8046 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Albrecht
- Agroecology and Environment, Agroscope, Reckenholzstrasse 191, 8046 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Risto Raimets
- Estonian University of Life Sciences, Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 5, Tartu 51006, Estonia
| | - Reet Karise
- Estonian University of Life Sciences, Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 5, Tartu 51006, Estonia
| | - Gennaro di Prisco
- CREA Research Centre for Agriculture and Environment, 40128 Bologna, Italy; Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, The Italian National Research Council, Napoli, Italy
| | - Kjell Ivarsson
- Federation of Swedish Farmers (LRF), 105 33 Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | | | - Maj Rundlöf
- Department of Biology, Lund University, 223 62 Lund, Sweden
| | - Piero Onorati
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 756 51 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Joachim R de Miranda
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 756 51 Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Philippe Bulet
- CR, University Grenoble Alpes, IAB INSERM 1209, CNRS UMR5309, Grenoble, France
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5
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Yusuf AA, Pirk CWW, Buttstedt A. Expression of honey bee (Apis mellifera) sterol homeostasis genes in food jelly producing glands of workers. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 341:627-641. [PMID: 38567629 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Adult workers of Western honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) acquire sterols from their pollen diet. These food sterols are transported by the hemolymph to peripheral tissues such as the mandibular and the hypopharyngeal glands in the worker bees' heads that secrete food jelly which is fed to developing larvae. As sterols are obligatory components of biological membranes and essential precursors for molting hormone synthesis in insects, they are indispensable to normal larval development. Thus, the study of sterol delivery to larvae is important for a full understanding of honey bee larval nutrition and development. Whereas hypopharyngeal glands only require sterols for their membrane integrity, mandibular glands add sterols, primarily 24-methylenecholesterol, to its secretion. For this, sterols must be transported through the glandular epithelial cells. We have analyzed for the first time in A. mellifera the expression of genes which are involved in intracellular movement of sterols. Mandibular and hypopharyngeal glands were dissected from newly emerged bees, 6-day-old nurse bees that feed larvae and 26-day-old forager bees. The expression of seven genes involved in intracellular sterol metabolism was measured with quantitative real-time PCR. Relative transcript abundance of sterol metabolism genes was significantly influenced by the age of workers and specific genes but not by gland type. Newly emerged bees had significantly more transcripts for six out of seven genes than older bees indicating that the bulk of the proteins needed for sterol metabolism are produced directly after emergence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullahi A Yusuf
- Social Insects Research Group, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Christian W W Pirk
- Social Insects Research Group, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Anja Buttstedt
- Social Insects Research Group, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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6
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Sipos T, Glavák C, Turbók J, Somfalvi-Tóth K, Donkó T, Keszthelyi S. Analysis of X-ray irradiation effects on the mortality values and hemolymph immune cell composition of Apis mellifera and its parasite, Varroa destructor. J Invertebr Pathol 2024; 204:108109. [PMID: 38631557 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2024.108109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Varroa destructor is one of the most destructive enemies of the honey bee, Apis mellifera all around the world. Several control methods are known to control V. destructor, but the efficacy of several alternative control methods remains unexplored. Irradiation can be one of these unknown solutions but before practical application, the effectiveness, and the physiological effects of ionizing radiation on the host and the parasite are waiting to be tested. Therefore, the objective of our study was to investigate the effects of different doses (15, 50, 100, and 150 Gy) of high-energy X-ray irradiation through mortality rates and hemocyte composition changes in A. mellifera workers and record the mortality rates of the parasite. The mortality rate was recorded during short-term (12, 24, and 48 h) and long-term periods (3, 6, 12, 18, and 24d). The sensitivity of the host and the parasite in case of the higher doses of radiation tested (50, 100, and 150 Gy) been demonstrated by total mortality of the host and 90 % of its parasite has been observed on the 18th day after the irradiation. V. destructor showed higher sensitivity (1.52-times higher than the adult honey bee workers) at the lowest dose (15 Gy). A. mellifera hemocytes were influenced significantly by radiation dosage and the elapsed time after treatment. The higher radiation doses increased plasmatocyte numbers in parallel with the decrease in prohemocyte numbers. On the contrary, the numbers of granulocytes and oencoytes increased in the treated samples, but the putative effects of the different dosages on the recorded number of these hemocyte types could not be statistically proven. In summary, based on the outcome of our study X-ray irradiation can be deemed an effective tool for controlling phoretic V. destructor. However, further research is needed to understand the physiological response of the affected organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamás Sipos
- Institute of Agronomy, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kaposvár Campus, Guba Sándor str. 40., H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary; Institute for Farm Animal Gene Conservation, National Centre for Biodiversity and Gene Conservation, H-2100 Gödöllő, Hungary.
| | - Csaba Glavák
- Moritz Kaposi Teaching Hospital, Dr. József Baka Diagnostic, Radiation Oncology, Research and Teaching Center, Guba Sandor str. 40., H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary.
| | - Janka Turbók
- Department of Physiology and Animal Health, Institute of Physiology and Nutrition, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kaposvár Campus, Guba Sándor str. 40., H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary.
| | - Katalin Somfalvi-Tóth
- Institute of Agronomy, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kaposvár Campus, Guba Sándor str. 40., H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary.
| | - Tamás Donkó
- Medicopus Nonprofit Ltd., Guba Sándor str. 40., H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary.
| | - Sándor Keszthelyi
- Institute of Agronomy, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kaposvár Campus, Guba Sándor str. 40., H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary.
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7
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Narciso L, Topini M, Ferraiuolo S, Ianiro G, Marianelli C. Effects of natural treatments on the varroa mite infestation levels and overall health of honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302846. [PMID: 38713668 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The survival of the honey bee (Apis mellifera), which has a crucial role in pollination and ecosystem maintenance, is threatened by many pathogens, including parasites, bacteria, fungi and viruses. The ectoparasite Varroa destructor is considered the major cause of the worldwide decline in honey bee colony health. Although several synthetic acaricides are available to control Varroa infestations, resistant mites and side effects on bees have been documented. The development of natural alternatives for mite control is therefore encouraged. The study aims at exploring the effects of cinnamon and oregano essential oils (EOs) and of a mixed fruit cocktail juice on mite infestation levels and bee colony health. A multi-method study including hive inspection, mite count, molecular detection of fungal, bacterial and viral pathogens, analysis of defensin-1, hymenoptaecin and vitellogenin immune gene expression, colony density and honey production data, was conducted in a 20-hive experimental apiary. The colonies were divided into five groups: four treatment groups and one control group. The treatment groups were fed on a sugar syrup supplemented with cinnamon EO, oregano EO, a 1:1 mixture of both EOs, or a juice cocktail. An unsupplemented syrup was, instead, used to feed the control group. While V. destructor affected all the colonies throughout the study, no differences in mite infestation levels, population density and honey yield were observed between treatment and control groups. An overexpression of vitellogenin was instead found in all EO-treated groups, even though a significant difference was only found in the group treated with the 1:1 EO mixture. Viral (DWV, CBPV and BQCV), fungal (Nosema ceranae) and bacterial (Melissococcus plutonius) pathogens from both symptomatic and asymptomatic colonies were detected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Narciso
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Topini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
- Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sonia Ferraiuolo
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
- Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Ianiro
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Marianelli
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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8
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Maritan E, Quagliariello A, Frago E, Patarnello T, Martino ME. The role of animal hosts in shaping gut microbiome variation. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20230071. [PMID: 38497257 PMCID: PMC10945410 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2023.0071] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Millions of years of co-evolution between animals and their associated microbial communities have shaped and diversified the nature of their relationship. Studies continue to reveal new layers of complexity in host-microbe interactions, the fate of which depends on a variety of different factors, ranging from neutral processes and environmental factors to local dynamics. Research is increasingly integrating ecosystem-based approaches, metagenomics and mathematical modelling to disentangle the individual contribution of ecological factors to microbiome evolution. Within this framework, host factors are known to be among the dominant drivers of microbiome composition in different animal species. However, the extent to which they shape microbiome assembly and evolution remains unclear. In this review, we summarize our understanding of how host factors drive microbial communities and how these dynamics are conserved and vary across taxa. We conclude by outlining key avenues for research and highlight the need for implementation of and key modifications to existing theory to fully capture the dynamics of host-associated microbiomes. This article is part of the theme issue 'Sculpting the microbiome: how host factors determine and respond to microbial colonization'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Maritan
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, 35020 Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Quagliariello
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, 35020 Padova, Italy
| | - Enric Frago
- CIRAD, UMR CBGP, INRAE, Institut Agro, IRD, Université Montpellier, 34398 Montpellier, France
| | - Tomaso Patarnello
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, 35020 Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Martino
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, 35020 Padova, Italy
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9
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Becchimanzi A, Nicoletti R, Di Lelio I, Russo E. Immune Gene Repertoire of Soft Scale Insects (Hemiptera: Coccidae). Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4922. [PMID: 38732132 PMCID: PMC11084805 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Insects possess an effective immune system, which has been extensively characterized in several model species, revealing a plethora of conserved genes involved in recognition, signaling, and responses to pathogens and parasites. However, some taxonomic groups, characterized by peculiar trophic niches, such as plant-sap feeders, which are often important pests of crops and forestry ecosystems, have been largely overlooked regarding their immune gene repertoire. Here we annotated the immune genes of soft scale insects (Hemiptera: Coccidae) for which omics data are publicly available. By using immune genes of aphids and Drosophila to query the genome of Ericerus pela, as well as the transcriptomes of Ceroplastes cirripediformis and Coccus sp., we highlight the lack of peptidoglycan recognition proteins, galectins, thaumatins, and antimicrobial peptides in Coccidae. This work contributes to expanding our knowledge about the evolutionary trajectories of immune genes and offers a list of promising candidates for developing new control strategies based on the suppression of pests' immunity through RNAi technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Becchimanzi
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.B.); (I.D.L.); (E.R.)
- BAT Center—Interuniversity Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosario Nicoletti
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.B.); (I.D.L.); (E.R.)
- Research Centre for Olive, Fruit and Citrus Crops, Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Ilaria Di Lelio
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.B.); (I.D.L.); (E.R.)
- BAT Center—Interuniversity Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Elia Russo
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.B.); (I.D.L.); (E.R.)
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10
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Hafeez M, Mc Donnell R, Colton A, Howe D, Denver D, Martin RC, Choi MY. Immune-Related Gene Profiles and Differential Expression in the Grey Garden Slug Deroceras reticulatum Infected with the Parasitic Nematode Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita. INSECTS 2024; 15:311. [PMID: 38786867 PMCID: PMC11122010 DOI: 10.3390/insects15050311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
The grey garden slug (Deroceras reticulatum), a common terrestrial slug native to Europe with a global distribution including North America, is commonly considered the most severe slug pest in agriculture. The nematode Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita, which has been used in the U.K. and Europe as a commercial biocontrol agent since 1994, has also recently been collected in Oregon and California and has long been considered a candidate biocontrol agent for slug management in the U.S. In this study, we report differential gene expressions in nematode-infected slugs using RNA-seq to identify slug immune-related genes against nematodes. Comparison of gene expression levels between the whole bodies of a nematode-infected slug (N-S) and an uninfected control slug (C-S) revealed that there were a total of 39,380 regulated unigenes, of which 3084 (3%) were upregulated and 6761 (6%) were downregulated at greater than 2-fold change (FC > 2) in the nematode-infected slug. To further investigate the biological functions of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), gene ontology (GO) and functional enrichment analysis were performed to map the DEGs to terms in the GO, eukaryotic ortholog groups of proteins (KOG) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome Pathway (KEGG) databases. Among these DEGs, approximately 228 genes associated with immunity or immune-related pathways were upregulated 2-fold or more in the N-S compared to C-S. These genes include toll, Imd, JNK, scavenger receptors (SCRs), C-type lectins (CTLs), immunoglobulin-like domains, and JAK/STAT63 signaling pathways. From the RNA-seq results, we selected 18 genes and confirmed their expression levels by qRT-PCR. Our findings provide insights into the immune response of slugs during nematode infection. These studies provide fundamental information that will be valuable for the development of new methods of pest slug control using pathogenic nematodes in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Hafeez
- USDA-ARS, Horticultural Crops Disease and Pest Management Research Unit, Corvallis, OR 97330, USA;
- Department of Horticulture, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA;
| | - Rory Mc Donnell
- Department of Crop and Soil Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA; (R.M.D.); (A.C.)
| | - Andrew Colton
- Department of Crop and Soil Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA; (R.M.D.); (A.C.)
| | - Dana Howe
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA; (D.H.); (D.D.)
| | - Dee Denver
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA; (D.H.); (D.D.)
| | - Ruth C. Martin
- Department of Horticulture, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA;
| | - Man-Yeon Choi
- USDA-ARS, Horticultural Crops Disease and Pest Management Research Unit, Corvallis, OR 97330, USA;
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11
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Copeland DC, Ricigliano VA, Mott BM, Kortenkamp OL, Erickson RJ, Gorrochategui-Ortega J, Anderson KE. A longitudinal study of queen health in honey bees reveals tissue specific response to seasonal changes and pathogen pressure. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8963. [PMID: 38637564 PMCID: PMC11026438 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58883-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The health of honey bee queens is crucial for colony success, particularly during stressful periods like overwintering. To accompany a previous longitudinal study of colony and worker health, we explored niche-specific gut microbiota, host gene expression, and pathogen prevalence in honey bee queens overwintering in a warm southern climate. We found differential gene expression and bacterial abundance with respect to various pathogens throughout the season. Biologically older queens had larger microbiotas, particularly enriched in Bombella and Bifidobacterium. Both Deformed Wing Virus A and B subtypes were highest in the fat body tissue in January, correlating with colony Varroa levels, and Deformed Wing Virus titers in workers. High viral titers in queens were associated with decreased vitellogenin expression, suggesting a potential trade-off between immune function and reproductive capacity. Additionally, we found a complex and dynamic relationship between these viral loads and immune gene expression, indicating a possible breakdown in the coordinated immune response as the season progressed. Our study also revealed a potential link between Nosema and Melissococcus plutonius infections in queens, demonstrating that seasonal opportunism is not confined to just workers. Overall, our findings highlight the intricate interplay between pathogens, metabolic state, and immune response in honey bee queens. Combined with worker and colony-level metrics from the same colonies, our findings illustrate the social aspect of queen health and resilience over the winter dearth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duan C Copeland
- USDA-ARS Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, 2000 E. Allen Rd, Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA.
| | - Vincent A Ricigliano
- USDA-ARS Honey Bee Breeding, Genetics, and Physiology Laboratory, Baton Rouge, LA, 70820, USA
| | - Brendon M Mott
- USDA-ARS Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, 2000 E. Allen Rd, Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA
| | - Oliver L Kortenkamp
- USDA-ARS Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, 2000 E. Allen Rd, Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA
- Department of Entomology and Center for Insect Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Robert J Erickson
- USDA-ARS Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, 2000 E. Allen Rd, Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA
| | - June Gorrochategui-Ortega
- Department of Genetics, Physical Anthropology and Animal Physiology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena S/N, 48940, Leioa, Spain
| | - Kirk E Anderson
- USDA-ARS Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, 2000 E. Allen Rd, Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA.
- Department of Entomology and Center for Insect Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA.
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12
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Wang H, Chen W, Lei L, Zhang W, Liu Z, Wang Y, Xu B. Queen bee gut microbiota extends honeybee lifespan by inhibiting insulin signaling. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0179923. [PMID: 38470148 PMCID: PMC11022582 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01799-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Queen and worker bees are natural models for aging research, as their lifespans vary considerably independent of genetic variation. Investigating the reasons why queens live longer than workers is of great significance for research on the universal processes of aging in animals. The gut microbiome has received attention as a vital regulator of host health, while its precise role in honeybee aging needs further investigation. The effects and mechanisms behind the relationship between gut microbiota and worker lifespan were measured by transplanting queen bee gut bacteria (QG) and worker bee gut bacteria (WG) into microbiota-free (MF) workers. The transplantation of QG to MF bees significantly extended the workers' lifespans compared with MF and WG bees. Untargeted metabolomics identified 49 lifespan-related differential metabolites, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis of these revealed three lifespan-related metabolic pathways: insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling, immune, and ketone body metabolism pathways. Further verification showed that QG inhibited the expression of insulin-like peptides (ILPs), and the expression of ILPs was lower in natural queens than in natural workers. QG transplantation also stimulated the expression of antioxidant genes and lowered oxidative damage products in natural queen bees. However, gut microbiota transplantation failed to mimic the immune properties and ketone body metabolism profiles of natural queens and workers. Concisely, QG could increase the antioxidant capacity to extend lifespan by inhibiting insulin signaling. These findings may help determine the mechanisms behind queen longevity and provide further insights into the role of gut symbionts. IMPORTANCE Queen and worker bees share the same genetic background but have vastly different lifespans. The gut microbiome regulates host health, suggesting that differences in lifespan between queen and worker bees could be related to gut bacteria. Herein, we used an innovative method to transplant gut microbiota from adult queen or worker bees to microbiota-free bees. The transplantation of queen gut microbiota to microbiota-free bees extended their lifespan. Insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling, a highly conserved metabolic pathway related to lifespan, displayed identical expression profiles in natural queen bees and microbiota-free bees transplanted with queen microbiota. This finding significantly expands our understanding of the relationships between intestinal bacteria, host health, and the biology of aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongfang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Wenfeng Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Li Lei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Zhenguo Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Ying Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Baohua Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, Shandong, China
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13
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Smriti, Rana A, Singh G, Gupta G. Prospects of probiotics in beekeeping: a review for sustainable approach to boost honeybee health. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:205. [PMID: 38573383 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-03926-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Honeybees are vital for global crop pollination, making indispensable contributions to agricultural productivity. However, these vital insects are currently facing escalating colony losses on a global scale, primarily attributed to parasitic and pathogenic attacks. The prevalent response to combat these infections may involve the use of antibiotics. Nevertheless, the application of antibiotics raises concerns regarding potential adverse effects such as antibiotic resistance and imbalances in the gut microbiota of bees. In response to these challenges, this study reviews the utilization of a probiotic-supplemented pollen substitute diet to promote honeybee gut health, enhance immunity, and overall well-being. We systematically explore various probiotic strains and their impacts on critical parameters, including survival rate, colony strength, honey and royal jelly production, and the immune response of bees. By doing so, we emphasize the significance of maintaining a balanced gut microbial community in honeybees. The review also scrutinizes the factors influencing the gut microbial communities of bees, elucidates the consequences of dysbiosis, and evaluates the potential of probiotics to mitigate these challenges. Additionally, it delineates different delivery mechanisms for probiotic supplementation and elucidates their positive effects on diverse health parameters of honeybees. Given the alarming decline in honeybee populations and the consequential threat to global food security, this study provides valuable insights into sustainable practices aimed at supporting honeybee populations and enhancing agricultural productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smriti
- Department of Biosciences (UIBT), Chandigarh University, Mohali, 140413, India
| | - Anita Rana
- Department of Biosciences (UIBT), Chandigarh University, Mohali, 140413, India.
| | - Gagandeep Singh
- Department of Biosciences (UIBT), Chandigarh University, Mohali, 140413, India
| | - Garima Gupta
- Department of Agriculture (UIAS), Chandigarh University, Mohali, 140413, India
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14
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Jaremek M, Olszewski K, Chobotow J, Strachecka A. The Morphological Image of Fat Body and Tergal Gland Cells in Uninseminated Apis mellifera Queen Bees. INSECTS 2024; 15:244. [PMID: 38667374 PMCID: PMC11050307 DOI: 10.3390/insects15040244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The morphological changes in fat body cells, tergal gland cells, and the surface areas of the cell nuclei were determined in queen bees of the subspecies Apis mellifera carnica. This study focused on 1-, 8-, and 20-day-old uninseminated females kept in colonies, analyzing cells from three locations in the abdomen: the sternite, and tergites III and V. The oenocytes in the sternites were large, oval/circular with a centrally located nucleus, while in tergites III and V, they were small and triangular in the 1-day-old queens. During the first week of life, these cells in tergites III and V change their shape to oval and increase their sizes. The initially light yellow and then dark yellow granularities in the oenocytes of the fat body appear along with the advancing age of the queens. The trophocytes (sternites, tergites III and V) in the 1-day-old queens were completely filled with droplets of different sizes. In the 8- and 20-day-old queens, the number and size of the droplets decreased in the trophocytes of tergites III and V. The tergal gland cells had a centrally located cell nucleus in the 1-, 8- and 20-day-old queens. The dark granularities in these cells were visible only in the 20-day-old queens. Different morphological images of the fat body at the sternite, and tergites III and V, and the difference in the size of the oenocyte cell nuclei may indicate various functions of the fat body depending on its location. Characterization of the changes in the morphology of the fat body, taking into account its segmental character, and the tergal glands requires further research in older queens, e.g., one-year-old, brooding queens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Jaremek
- Department of Invertebrate Ecophysiology and Experimental Biology, Faculty of Environmental Biology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Doświadczalna 50a, 20-280 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Krzysztof Olszewski
- Subdepartment of Apidology, Institute of Biological Basis of Animal Production, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, 20-950 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Jacek Chobotow
- Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, Akademicka 19, 20-400 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Aneta Strachecka
- Department of Invertebrate Ecophysiology and Experimental Biology, Faculty of Environmental Biology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Doświadczalna 50a, 20-280 Lublin, Poland;
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15
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Xia J, Peng R, Fei S, Awais MM, Lai W, Huang Y, Wu H, Yu Y, Liang L, Swevers L, Sun J, Feng M. Systematic analysis of innate immune-related genes in the silkworm: Application to antiviral research. INSECT SCIENCE 2024. [PMID: 38571329 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
The silkworm, a crucial model organism of the Lepidoptera, offers an excellent platform for investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying the innate immune response of insects toward pathogens. Over the years, researchers worldwide have identified numerous immune-related genes in silkworms. However, these identified silkworm immune genes are not well classified and not well known to the scientific community. With the availability of the latest genome data of silkworms and the extensive research on silkworm immunity, it has become imperative to systematically categorize the immune genes of silkworms with different database IDs. In this study, we present a meticulous organization of prevalent immune-related genes in the domestic silkworm, using the SilkDB 3.0 database as a reliable source for updated gene information. Furthermore, utilizing the available data, we classify the collected immune genes into distinct categories: pattern recognition receptors, classical immune pathways, effector genes and others. In-depth data analysis has enabled us to predict some potential antiviral genes. Subsequently, we performed antiviral experiments on selected genes, exploring their impact on Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus replication. The outcomes of this research furnish novel insights into the immune genes of the silkworm, consequently fostering advancements in the field of silkworm immunity research by establishing a comprehensive classification and functional understanding of immune-related genes in the silkworm. This study contributes to the broader understanding of insect immune responses and opens up new avenues for future investigations in the domain of host-pathogen interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junming Xia
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruoxuan Peng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shigang Fei
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mian Muhammad Awais
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenxuan Lai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yigui Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hailin Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yue Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lingying Liang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Luc Swevers
- Insect Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology, National Center for Scientific Research Demokritos, Institute of Biosciences and Applications, Athens, Greece
| | - Jingchen Sun
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Feng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
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16
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Roy N, Moon S, Kim C, Kim JM, Lee KS, Shin Y, Shanmugam G, Choi K. Probiotic Potential of Bacillus Subtilis Strain I3: Antagonistic Activity Against Chalkbrood Pathogen and Pesticide Degradation for Enhancing Honeybee Health. Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins 2024:10.1007/s12602-024-10248-w. [PMID: 38564169 DOI: 10.1007/s12602-024-10248-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
To explore the potential of probiotic candidates beneficial for honeybee health through the modulation of the gut microbiome, bee gut microbes were isolated from bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) and honeybee (Apis mellifera) using diverse media and cultural conditions. A total of 77 bee gut bacteria, classified under the phyla Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria, were identified. The antagonistic activity of the isolates against Ascosphaera apis, a fungal pathogen responsible for chalkbrood disease in honeybee larvae, was investigated. The highest growth inhibition percentage against A. apis was demonstrated by Bacillus subtilis strain I3 among the bacterial strains. The presence of antimicrobial peptide genes in the I3 strain was detected using PCR amplification of gene fragments encoding surfactin and fengycin utilizing specific primers. The export of antimicrobial peptides by the I3 strain into growth medium was verified using liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectroscopy. Furthermore, the strain's capabilities for degrading pesticides, used for controlling varroa mites, and its spent growth medium antioxidant activity were substantiated. The survival rate of honeybees infected with (A) apis was investigated after feeding larvae with only medium (fructose + glucose + yeast extract + royal jelly), (B) subtilis I3 strain, A. apis with medium and I3 strain + A. apis with medium. Honeybees receiving the I3 strain + A. apis exhibited a 50% reduction in mortality rate due to I3 strain supplementation under experimental conditions, compared to the control group. In silico molecular docking revealed that fengycin hydrolase from I3 strain effectively interacted with tau-fluvalinate, suggesting its potential in bee health and environmental protection. Further studies are needed to confirm the effects of the I3 strain in different populations of honey bees across several regions to account for genetic and environmental variations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazish Roy
- Department of Applied Bioscience, Dong-A University, Busan, 49315, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunmi Moon
- Department of Applied Bioscience, Dong-A University, Busan, 49315, Republic of Korea
| | - Chaerin Kim
- Department of Applied Bioscience, Dong-A University, Busan, 49315, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Myung Kim
- Department of Applied Bioscience, Dong-A University, Busan, 49315, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Sik Lee
- Department of Applied Bioscience, Dong-A University, Busan, 49315, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongho Shin
- Department of Applied Bioscience, Dong-A University, Busan, 49315, Republic of Korea
| | - Gnanendra Shanmugam
- Department of Biotechnology, Vivekanandha College of Arts and Sciences for Women (Autonomous), Tiruchengode, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Kihyuck Choi
- Department of Applied Bioscience, Dong-A University, Busan, 49315, Republic of Korea.
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17
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Giménez-Martínez P, Zúñiga F, Medici S, Fuselli S, Martínez J. Spent coffee grounds extract: antimicrobial activity against Paenibacillus larvae and its effect on the expression of antimicrobial peptides in Apis mellifera. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:889-899. [PMID: 37989931 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10256-1] [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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, natural alternatives have been sought for the control of beekeeping pathologies; in the case of American Foulbrood (AFB) disease, the use of synthetic antibiotics was prohibited due to honey contamination and the generation of resistant bacteria. The significant increase in population growth worldwide has led to great concern about the production of large amounts of waste, including those from agribusiness. Among the most important beverages consumed is coffee, generating thousands of tons of waste called spent coffee grounds (SCG). The SCG is a source of many bioactive compounds with known antimicrobial activity. The aims of the present work were: (1) to obtain and chemically analyse by HPLC of SCG extracts (SCGE), (2) to analyse the antimicrobial activity of SCGE against vegetative form of Paenibacillus larvae (the causal agent of AFB), (3) to evaluate the toxicity in bees of SCGE and (4) to analyse the effect of the extracts on the expression of various genes of the immune system of bees. SCGs have a high content of phenolic compounds, and the caffeine concentration was of 0.3%. The MIC value obtained was 166.667 µg/mL; the extract was not toxic to bees, and interestingly, overexpression of abaecin and hymenoptaecin peptides was observed. Thus, SCGE represents a promising alternative for application in the control of American Foulbrood and as a possible dietary supplement to strengthen the immune system of honeybees. Therefore, the concept of circular bio-economy could be applied from the coffee industry to the beekeeping industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Giménez-Martínez
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), CONICET-UNMdP. Centro de Asociación Simple CIC PBA, Mar del Plata, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fabián Zúñiga
- Centro de Medicina Regenerativa, Facultad de Medicina, Clínica Alemana-Universidad del Desarrollo, Avenida Plaza 680, Las Condes, Santiago, 7610658, Chile
| | - Sandra Medici
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), CONICET-UNMdP. Centro de Asociación Simple CIC PBA, Mar del Plata, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sandra Fuselli
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), CONICET-UNMdP. Centro de Asociación Simple CIC PBA, Mar del Plata, Argentina
- Comisión de Investigaciones Científicas de la Provincia de Buenos Aires (CIC), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jessica Martínez
- Centro de Medicina Regenerativa, Facultad de Medicina, Clínica Alemana-Universidad del Desarrollo, Avenida Plaza 680, Las Condes, Santiago, 7610658, Chile.
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18
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Bilal B, Azim MK. Nematicidal activity of paucimannose-type glycoconjugates from acacia honey. Exp Parasitol 2024; 259:108707. [PMID: 38336095 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2024.108707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Natural honey contains glycoconjugates as minor components. We characterized acacia honey glycoconjugates with molecular masses in the range of 2-5 kDa. The glycoconjugates were separated by RP-HPLC into three peaks (termed RP-2-5 k-I, RP-2-5 k-II, and RP-2-5 k-III) which demonstrated paralyzing effects on the model nematode C. elegans (ED50 of 50 ng glycoconjugates/μL). To examine molecular mechanisms underlying the nematicidal effects of honey glycoconjugates, expressional analyses of genes that are essential for the growth, development, reproduction, and movement of C. elegans were carried out. Quantitative PCR-based assays showed that these molecules moderately regulate the expression of genes involved in the citric acid cycle (mdh-1 and idhg-1) and cytoskeleton (act-1 and act-2). MALDI-ToF-MS/MS analysis of RP-HPLC peaks revealed the presence of paucimannose-like N-glycans which are known to play important roles in invertebrates e.g., worms and flies. These findings provided novel information regarding the structure and nematicidal function of honey glycoconjugates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bushra Bilal
- Department of Biosciences, Mohammad Ali Jinnah University, Karachi, Pakistan; H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan.
| | - M Kamran Azim
- Department of Biosciences, Mohammad Ali Jinnah University, Karachi, Pakistan.
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19
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Zhou L, Meng G, Zhu L, Ma L, Chen K. Insect Antimicrobial Peptides as Guardians of Immunity and Beyond: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3835. [PMID: 38612644 PMCID: PMC11011964 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), as immune effectors synthesized by a variety of organisms, not only constitute a robust defense mechanism against a broad spectrum of pathogens in the host but also show promising applications as effective antimicrobial agents. Notably, insects are significant reservoirs of natural AMPs. However, the complex array of variations in types, quantities, antimicrobial activities, and production pathways of AMPs, as well as evolution of AMPs across insect species, presents a significant challenge for immunity system understanding and AMP applications. This review covers insect AMP discoveries, classification, common properties, and mechanisms of action. Additionally, the types, quantities, and activities of immune-related AMPs in each model insect are also summarized. We conducted the first comprehensive investigation into the diversity, distribution, and evolution of 20 types of AMPs in model insects, employing phylogenetic analysis to describe their evolutionary relationships and shed light on conserved and distinctive AMP families. Furthermore, we summarize the regulatory pathways of AMP production through classical signaling pathways and additional pathways associated with Nitric Oxide, insulin-like signaling, and hormones. This review advances our understanding of AMPs as guardians in insect immunity systems and unlocks a gateway to insect AMP resources, facilitating the use of AMPs to address food safety concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lizhen Zhou
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China;
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Guanliang Meng
- Zoological Research Museum Alexander Koenig, Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change, 53113 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Ling Zhu
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China;
| | - Li Ma
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu 030810, China
| | - Kangkang Chen
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China;
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20
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Dong JH, Xu X, Ren ZX, Zhao YH, Zhang Y, Chen L, Wu Y, Chen G, Cao R, Wu Q, Wang H. The adaptation of bumblebees to extremely high elevation associated with their gut microbiota. mSystems 2024; 9:e0121923. [PMID: 38329353 PMCID: PMC10949452 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.01219-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Bumblebees are among the most abundant and important pollinators for sub-alpine and alpine flowering plant species in the Northern Hemisphere, but little is known about their adaptations to high elevations. In this article, we focused on two bumblebee species, Bombus friseanus and Bombus prshewalskyi, and their respective gut microbiota. The two species, distributed through the Hengduan Mountains of southwestern China, show species replacement at different elevations. We performed genome sequencing based on 20 worker bee samples of each species. Applying evolutionary population genetics and metagenomic approaches, we detected genes under selection and analyzed functional pathways between bumblebees and their gut microbes. We found clear genetic differentiation between the two host species and significant differences in their microbiota. Species replacement occurred in both hosts and their bacteria (Snodgrassella) with an increase in elevation. These extremely high-elevation bumblebees show evidence of positive selection related to diverse biological processes. Positively selected genes involved in host immune systems probably contributed to gut microbiota changes, while the butyrate generated by gut microbiota may influence both host energy metabolism and immune systems. This suggests a close association between the genomes of the host species and their microbiomes based on some degree of natural selection.IMPORTANCETwo closely related and dominant bumblebee species, distributed at different elevations through the Hengduan Mountains of southwestern China, showed a clear genomic signature of adaptation to elevation at the molecular level and significant differences in their respective microbiota. Species replacement occurred in both hosts and their bacteria (Snodgrassella) with an increase in elevation. Bumblebees' adaptations to higher elevations are closely associated with their gut microbiota through two biological processes: energy metabolism and immune response. Information allowing us to understand the adaptive mechanisms of species to extreme conditions is implicit if we are to conserve them as their environments change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiu-Hong Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Xu
- CAS Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Zong-Xin Ren
- CAS Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Yan-Hui Zhao
- CAS Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Yaran Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Li Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - You Wu
- CAS Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guotao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ruiqing Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
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21
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Bastide H, Legout H, Dogbo N, Ogereau D, Prediger C, Carcaud J, Filée J, Garnery L, Gilbert C, Marion-Poll F, Requier F, Sandoz JC, Yassin A. The genome of the blind bee louse fly reveals deep convergences with its social host and illuminates Drosophila origins. Curr Biol 2024; 34:1122-1132.e5. [PMID: 38309271 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Social insects' nests harbor intruders known as inquilines,1 which are usually related to their hosts.2,3 However, distant non-social inquilines may also show convergences with their hosts,4,5 although the underlying genomic changes remain unclear. We analyzed the genome of the wingless and blind bee louse fly Braula coeca, an inquiline kleptoparasite of the western honey bee, Apis mellifera.6,7 Using large phylogenomic data, we confirmed recent accounts that the bee louse fly is a drosophilid8,9 and showed that it had likely evolved from a sap-breeder ancestor associated with honeydew and scale insects' wax. Unlike many parasites, the bee louse fly genome did not show significant erosion or strict reliance on an endosymbiont, likely due to a relatively recent age of inquilinism. However, we observed a horizontal transfer of a transposon and a striking parallel evolution in a set of gene families between the honey bee and the bee louse fly. Convergences included genes potentially involved in metabolism and immunity and the loss of nearly all bitter-tasting gustatory receptors, in agreement with life in a protective nest and a diet of honey, pollen, and beeswax. Vision and odorant receptor genes also exhibited rapid losses. Only genes whose orthologs in the closely related Drosophila melanogaster respond to honey bee pheromone components or floral aroma were retained, whereas the losses included orthologous receptors responsive to the anti-ovarian honey bee queen pheromones. Hence, deep genomic convergences can underlie major phenotypic transitions during the evolution of inquilinism between non-social parasites and their social hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Héloïse Bastide
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, IRD, UMR Évolution, Génomes, Comportement et Écologie, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France.
| | - Hélène Legout
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, IRD, UMR Évolution, Génomes, Comportement et Écologie, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Noé Dogbo
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, IRD, UMR Évolution, Génomes, Comportement et Écologie, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - David Ogereau
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, IRD, UMR Évolution, Génomes, Comportement et Écologie, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Carolina Prediger
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, IRD, UMR Évolution, Génomes, Comportement et Écologie, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Julie Carcaud
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, IRD, UMR Évolution, Génomes, Comportement et Écologie, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Jonathan Filée
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, IRD, UMR Évolution, Génomes, Comportement et Écologie, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Lionel Garnery
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, IRD, UMR Évolution, Génomes, Comportement et Écologie, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Clément Gilbert
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, IRD, UMR Évolution, Génomes, Comportement et Écologie, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Frédéric Marion-Poll
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, IRD, UMR Évolution, Génomes, Comportement et Écologie, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France; Université Paris-Saclay, AgroParisTech, 91123 Palaiseau Cedex, France
| | - Fabrice Requier
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, IRD, UMR Évolution, Génomes, Comportement et Écologie, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Sandoz
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, IRD, UMR Évolution, Génomes, Comportement et Écologie, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Amir Yassin
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, IRD, UMR Évolution, Génomes, Comportement et Écologie, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
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22
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García-Vicente EJ, Martín M, Rey-Casero I, Pérez A, Martín J, García A, Alonso JM, Risco D. Effects of feeding with a protein liquid supplement on productivity, mortality and health of Apis mellifera hives in southwestern Spain. Res Vet Sci 2024; 169:105173. [PMID: 38335895 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Colony collapse disorder (CCD) has affected bees worldwide in recent decades, with southwestern Spain being no exception. This disorder is one of the main causes of Apis mellifera mortality and is believed to be caused by environmental, social and sanitary conditions. Dietary supplementation can help to improve some parameters of the general status and sanitary condition of bees, such as infestation by certain recurrent pathogens, including Varroa destructor and Nosema ceranae, by enhancing immune and social response. Thus, the aim of this study was to test a liquid hydrolysed protein supplement on the health and general status of the hive in several apiaries with access to the same natural food and under similar climatic conditions. We selected two groups of ten hives (supplemented by either placebo or protein) from five apiaries where the number of adult bees, amount of brood (open and operculated), honey and pollen reserves, infestation by V. destructor, N. ceranae, deformed wing virus (DWV) and chronic bee paralysis virus (CBPV) were measured. Additionally, we assess the expression of four immune system-related genes and a gene encoding vitellogenin. At the end of this work, treated hives showed a significant increase in open brood and a decrease in V. destructor infestation. Also, these hives showed a significant decrease in the mortality rate after the cold season. Therefore, supplementation with this product improved the health of the hive and could be a promising tool against bee colony loss.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - María Martín
- Neobéitar S.L., Av. Alemania 6, 1°B 10001 Cáceres, Spain; Department of Animal Medicine, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Av. de la Universidad s/n, 10004 Cáceres, Spain.
| | | | - Ana Pérez
- Neobéitar S.L., Av. Alemania 6, 1°B 10001 Cáceres, Spain.
| | - Jairo Martín
- Hurdadsa (Assoc. Agrupación Defensa Sanitaria Apícola), C/ Pasil 1, 1 Dcha, 10620 Caminomorisco (Cáceres), Spain
| | - Alfredo García
- Cicytex (Centro de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas de Extremadura), Ctra. A-V, Km 372, 06187 Guadajira (Badajoz), Spain.
| | - Juan Manuel Alonso
- Department of Animal Health, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Av. de la Universidad s/n, 10004 Cáceres, Spain.
| | - David Risco
- Department of Animal Medicine, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Av. de la Universidad s/n, 10004 Cáceres, Spain.
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23
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Conradie TA, Lawson K, Allsopp M, Jacobs K. Exploring the impact of fungicide exposure and nutritional stress on the microbiota and immune response of the Cape honey bee (Apis mellifera capensis). Microbiol Res 2024; 280:127587. [PMID: 38142516 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2023.127587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Honey bees (Apis mellifera) harbour a stable core microbial community within their gut, that is suggested to play a role in metabolic functioning, immune regulation, and host homeostasis. This microbiota presents a unique opportunity to observe the effects of stressors on honey bee health. We examined the effects of two common honey bee stressors: indirect fungicide contamination and nutrient limitation. These effects were observed through changes in their hind- and midgut microbiota using Automated Ribosomal Intergenic Spacer Analysis (ARISA), alongside high-throughput amplicon sequencing. Expression of the honey bees' immune response was examined through the expression of three immune-related genes, namely, immune deficiency (imd), proPhenolOxidase (proPO), and spaetzle (spz). Additionally, longevity of the honey bees was monitored through observation of the expression levels of Vitellogenin (Vg). Both treatment groups were compared to a negative control, and a diseased positive control. There was no effect on the hindgut microbiota due to the stressors, while significant changes in the midgut was observed. This was also observed in the expression of the immune-related genes within the treatment groups. The Imd pathway was substantially downregulated, with upregulation in the prophenoloxidase pathway. However, no significant effect was observed in the expression of spz, and only the pollen treatment group showed reduced longevity through a downregulation of Vg. Overall, the effect of these two common stressors indicate a compromise in honey bee immunity, and potential vulnerabilities within the immune defence mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tersia A Conradie
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa
| | - Kayla Lawson
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa
| | - Mike Allsopp
- Agricultural Research Council - Plant, Health & Protection, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa
| | - Karin Jacobs
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa.
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24
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Motta EVS, Moran NA. The honeybee microbiota and its impact on health and disease. Nat Rev Microbiol 2024; 22:122-137. [PMID: 38049554 PMCID: PMC10998682 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-023-00990-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Honeybees (Apis mellifera) are key pollinators that support global agriculture and are long-established models for developmental and behavioural research. Recently, they have emerged as models for studying gut microbial communities. Earlier research established that hindguts of adult worker bees harbour a conserved set of host-restricted bacterial species, each showing extensive strain variation. These bacteria can be cultured axenically and introduced to gnotobiotic hosts, and some have basic genetic tools available. In this Review, we explore the most recent research showing how the microbiota establishes itself in the gut and impacts bee biology and health. Microbiota members occupy specific niches within the gut where they interact with each other and the host. They engage in cross-feeding and antagonistic interactions, which likely contribute to the stability of the community and prevent pathogen invasion. An intact gut microbiota provides protection against diverse pathogens and parasites and contributes to the processing of refractory components of the pollen coat and dietary toxins. Absence or disruption of the microbiota results in altered expression of genes that underlie immunity, metabolism, behaviour and development. In the field, such disruption by agrochemicals may negatively impact bees. These findings demonstrate a key developmental and protective role of the microbiota, with broad implications for bee health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erick V S Motta
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Nancy A Moran
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas, Austin, TX, USA.
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25
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Li Z, Guo D, Wang C, Chi X, Liu Z, Wang Y, Wang H, Guo X, Wang N, Xu B, Gao Z. Toxic effects of the heavy metal Cd on Apis cerana cerana (Hymenoptera: Apidae): Oxidative stress, immune disorders and disturbance of gut microbiota. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169318. [PMID: 38143006 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic non-essential metal element that can enter the honey bee body through air, water and soil. Currently, there is a lack of sufficient research on the effects of Cd on A. cerana cerana, especially the potential risks of long-term exposure to sublethal concentrations. In order to ascertain the toxicological effects of the heavy metal Cd on bees, we performed laboratory-based toxicity experiments on worker bees and conducted analyses from three distinctive facets: antioxidative, immunological, and gut microbiota. The results showed that exposure of bees to high concentrations of Cd resulted in acute mortality, and the increase in mortality was concentration dependent. In long-term exposure to sublethal concentrations, Cd reduced the number of transcripts of antioxidant genes (AccSOD1, AccTPx3 and AccTPx4) and superoxide dismutase activity, causing an increase in malondialdehyde content. Simultaneously, the transcription of immune-related genes (AccAbaecin and AccApidaecin) and acetylcholinesterase activities was inhibited. Furthermore, Cd changes the structural characteristics of bacterial and fungal communities in the gut, disrupting the balance of microbial communities. In conclusion, the health and survival of honey bees are affected by Cd. This study provides a scientific basis for investigating the toxicological mechanisms and control strategies of the heavy metal Cd on honey bees, while facilitating a better understanding and protection of these valuable honey bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyu Li
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Dezheng Guo
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuepeng Chi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenguo Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongfang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingqi Guo
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China
| | - Ningxin Wang
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China.
| | - Baohua Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zheng Gao
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong 271018, People's Republic of China.
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26
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Jin G, Hrithik MTH, Mandal E, Kil EJ, Jung C, Kim Y. Phospholipase A2 activity is required for immune defense of European (Apis mellifera) and Asian (Apis cerana) honeybees against American foulbrood pathogen, Paenibacillus larvae. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0290929. [PMID: 38319944 PMCID: PMC10846722 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Honeybees require an efficient immune system to defend against microbial pathogens. The American foulbrood pathogen, Paenibacillus larvae, is lethal to honeybees and one of the main causes of colony collapse. This study investigated the immune responses of Apis mellifera and Apis cerana honeybees against the bacterial pathogen P. larvae. Both species of honeybee larvae exhibited significant mortality even at 102 103 cfu/mL of P. larvae by diet-feeding, although A. mellifera appeared to be more tolerant to the bacterial pathogen than A. cerana. Upon bacterial infection, the two honeybee species expressed both cellular and humoral immune responses. Hemocytes of both species exhibited characteristic spreading behaviors, accompanied by cytoskeletal extension along with F-actin growth, and formed nodules. Larvae of both species also expressed an antimicrobial peptide called apolipophorin III (ApoLpIII) in response to bacterial infection. However, these immune responses were significantly suppressed by a specific inhibitor to phospholipase A2 (PLA2). Each honeybee genome encodes four PLA2 genes (PLA2A ~ PLA2D), representing four orthologous combinations between the two species. In response to P. larvae infection, both species significantly up-regulated PLA2 enzyme activities and the expression of all four PLA2 genes. To determine the roles of the four PLA2s in the immune responses, RNA interference (RNAi) was performed by injecting gene-specific double stranded RNAs (dsRNAs). All four RNAi treatments significantly suppressed the immune responses, and specific inhibition of the two secretory PLA2s (PLA2A and PLA2B) potently suppressed nodule formation and ApoLpIII expression. These results demonstrate the cellular and humoral immune responses of A. mellifera and A. cerana against P. larvae. This study suggests that eicosanoids play a crucial role in mediating common immune responses in two closely related honeybees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gahyeon Jin
- Department of Plant Medicals, Andong National University, Andong, Korea
| | | | - Eeshita Mandal
- Department of Plant Medicals, Andong National University, Andong, Korea
| | - Eui-Joon Kil
- Department of Plant Medicals, Andong National University, Andong, Korea
| | - Chuleui Jung
- Department of Plant Medicals, Andong National University, Andong, Korea
| | - Yonggyun Kim
- Department of Plant Medicals, Andong National University, Andong, Korea
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27
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Chang R, Yan J, Li Y, Zhang Y, Wu K, Yang Y. Crohn's disease-associated Escherichia coli LF82 in the gut damage of germ-free honeybees: A laboratory study. Microb Pathog 2024; 187:106487. [PMID: 38158143 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Escherichia coli LF82 (LF82) is associated with Crohn's disease. The simplicity and genetic maneuverability of honeybees' gut microbiota make them suitable for studying host-microbe interactions. To understand the interaction between LF82 and host gut, LF82 was used to infect germ-free honeybees (Apis mellifera) orally. We found that LF82 successfully colonized the gut and shortened the lifespan of germ-free bees. LF82 altered the gut structure and significantly increased gut permeability. RT-qPCR showed that LF82 infection activated anti-infective immune pathways and upregulated the mRNAs levels of antimicrobial peptides in the gut of germ-free bees. The gut transcriptome showed that LF82 significantly upregulated genes involved in Notch signaling, adhesion junctions, and Toll and Imd signaling pathways and downregulated genes involved in the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway, protein digestion and absorption, and tyrosine metabolism. In conclusion, the human-derived enteropathogenic bacterium LF82 can successfully colonize the gut of germ-free honeybees and cause enteritis-like changes, which provides an ideal model organism for revealing the pathogenesis of bacterial-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruqi Chang
- Medical College of Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Jingshuang Yan
- Medical College of Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Yiyuan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | | | - Yunsheng Yang
- Medical College of Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China; Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China.
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28
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Ayad AS, Benchaabane S, Daas T, Smagghe G, Loucif-Ayad W. Assessment of Efficacy of Algerian Propolis against the Parasitic Mite Varroa destructor and Safety for Honey Bees by Spray Treatment. INSECTS 2024; 15:75. [PMID: 38276824 PMCID: PMC10816108 DOI: 10.3390/insects15010075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Varroa destructor is an ectoparasitic mite and is considered one of the most important causes of honey bee population loss. In the last years, substances of botanical origin have emerged as natural alternatives to diminish the mite population levels. Propolis is a natural product and is used by honey bees for multiple tasks, including protection from pathogens and parasites, and varroacidal activity of propolis extracts has been shown. In this study, we investigated the potential of propolis, collected by native Algerian honey bee subspecies (Apis mellifera intermissa and A. m. sahariensis) in different locations in Algeria and extracted by ultrasound, to control mites of V. destructor and tested the safety for the honey bees. The most important results were that the best propolis extracts at 10% killed 100% of the Varroa mites within 3-4 h in a Petri dish assay. In addition, when we sprayed A. m. intermissa bees infested with Varroa mites with a 10% concentration in a mini-hive setup, we scored a high mite mortality of 85-87% with the best propolis extracts, and importantly, there was no mortality in the bees. Our data demonstrated that propolis extracts in Algeria could be used in honey bee colonies by spraying against Varroa mite infestations, which may develop as an easy method for local beekeepers to control Varroa in their hives. Further research should investigate the mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Sabri Ayad
- Laboratory of Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Badji Mokhtar University, Annaba 23000, Algeria; (A.S.A.); (T.D.)
| | - Samia Benchaabane
- Laboratory of Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Badji Mokhtar University, Annaba 23000, Algeria; (A.S.A.); (T.D.)
| | - Tarek Daas
- Laboratory of Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Badji Mokhtar University, Annaba 23000, Algeria; (A.S.A.); (T.D.)
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
- Department of Biology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wahida Loucif-Ayad
- Laboratory of Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Badji Mokhtar University, Annaba 23000, Algeria; (A.S.A.); (T.D.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Badji Mokhtar University, Annaba 23000, Algeria
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29
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Zhang Z, Jin F, Huang J, Mandal SD, Zeng L, Zafar J, Xu X. MicroRNA Targets PAP1 to Mediate Melanization in Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus) Infected by Metarhizium anisopliae. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1140. [PMID: 38256210 PMCID: PMC10816858 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a pivotal role in important biological processes by regulating post-transcriptional gene expression and exhibit differential expression patterns during development, immune responses, and stress challenges. The diamondback moth causes significant economic damage to crops worldwide. Despite substantial advancements in understanding the molecular biology of this pest, our knowledge regarding the role of miRNAs in regulating key immunity-related genes remains limited. In this study, we leveraged whole transcriptome resequencing data from Plutella xylostella infected with Metarhizium anisopliae to identify specific miRNAs targeting the prophenoloxidase-activating protease1 (PAP1) gene and regulate phenoloxidase (PO) cascade during melanization. Seven miRNAs (pxy-miR-375-5p, pxy-miR-4448-3p, pxy-miR-279a-3p, pxy-miR-3286-3p, pxy-miR-965-5p, pxy-miR-8799-3p, and pxy-miR-14b-5p) were screened. Luciferase reporter assays confirmed that pxy-miR-279a-3p binds to the open reading frame (ORF) and pxy-miR-965-5p to the 3' untranslated region (3' UTR) of PAP1. Our experiments demonstrated that a pxy-miR-965-5p mimic significantly reduced PAP1 expression in P. xylostella larvae, suppressed PO activity, and increased larval mortality rate. Conversely, the injection of pxy-miR-965-5p inhibitor could increase PAP1 expression and PO activity while decreasing larval mortality rate. Furthermore, we identified four LncRNAs (MSTRG.32910.1, MSTRG.7100.1, MSTRG.6802.1, and MSTRG.22113.1) that potentially interact with pxy-miR-965-5p. Interference assays using antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) revealed that silencing MSTRG.7100.1 and MSTRG.22113.1 increased the expression of pxy-miR-965-5p. These findings shed light on the potential role of pxy-miR-965-5p in the immune response of P. xylostella to M. anisopliae infection and provide a theoretical basis for biological control strategies targeting the immune system of this pest.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Xiaoxia Xu
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Z.Z.); (F.J.); (J.H.); (S.D.M.); (L.Z.); (J.Z.)
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Taylor LN, Dolezal AG. The effect of Israeli acute paralysis virus infection on honey bee brood care behavior. Sci Rep 2024; 14:991. [PMID: 38200122 PMCID: PMC10781695 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50585-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
To protect themselves from communicable diseases, social insects utilize social immunity-behavioral, physiological, and organizational means to combat disease transmission and severity. Within a honey bee colony, larvae are visited thousands of times by nurse bees, representing a prime environment for pathogen transmission. We investigated a potential social immune response to Israeli acute paralysis virus (IAPV) infection in brood care, testing the hypotheses that bees will respond with behaviors that result in reduced brood care, or that infection results in elevated brood care as a virus-driven mechanism to increase transmission. We tested for group-level effects by comparing three different social environments in which 0%, 50%, or 100% of nurse bees were experimentally infected with IAPV. We investigated individual-level effects by comparing exposed bees to unexposed bees within the mixed-exposure treatment group. We found no evidence for a social immune response at the group level; however, individually, exposed bees interacted with the larva more frequently than their unexposed nestmates. While this could increase virus transmission from adults to larvae, it could also represent a hygienic response to increase grooming when an infection is detected. Together, our findings underline the complexity of disease dynamics in complex social animal systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lincoln N Taylor
- Department of Entomology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
| | - Adam G Dolezal
- Department of Entomology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
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Duan X, Wang L, Wang R, Xiong M, Qin G, Huang S, Li J. Variation in the physiological response of adult worker bees of different ages (Apis mellifera L.) to pyraclostrobin stress. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 269:115754. [PMID: 38043416 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The social division of labor within the honeybee colony is closely related to the age of the bees, and the age structure is essential to the development and survival of the colony. Differences in tolerance to pesticides and other external stresses among worker bees of different ages may be related to their social division of labor and corresponding physiological states. Pyraclostrobin was widely used to control the fungal diseases of nectar and pollen plants, though it was not friend to honey bees and other pollinators. This work aimed to determine the effects of field recommended concentrations of pyraclostrobin on the activities of protective and detoxifying enzymes, on the expression of genes involved in nutrient metabolism, and immune response in worker bees of different ages determined to investigate the physiological and biochemical differences in sensitivity to pyraclostrobin among different age of worker bees. The result demonstrates that the tolerance of adult worker bees to pyraclostrobin was negatively correlated with their age, and the significantly reduced survival rate of forager bees (21 day-old) with continued fungicide exposure. The activities of protective enzymes (CAT and SOD) and detoxifying enzymes (CarE, GSTs and CYP450) in different ages of adult worker bees were significantly altered, indicating the physiological response and the regulatory capacity of worker bees of different ages to fungicide stress was variation. Compared with 1 and 8 day-old worker bees, the expression of nutrient-related genes (ilp1 and ilp2) and immunity-related genes (apidaecin and defensin1) in forager bees (21 day-old) was gradually downregulated with increasing pyraclostrobin concentrations. Moreover, the expression of vitellogenin and hymenoptaecin in forager bees (21 day-old) was also decreased in high concentration treatment groups (250 and 313 mg/L). The present study confirmed the findings of the chronic toxicity of pyraclostrobin on the physiology and biochemistry of worker bees of different ages, especially to forager bees (21 day-old). These results would provide important physiological and biochemical insight for better understanding the potential risks of pyraclostrobin on honeybees and other non-target pollinators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinle Duan
- College of Animal Science (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Fujian Honey Bee Biology Observation Station, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Fuzhou 350002, China.
| | - Lizhu Wang
- College of Animal Science (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Ruyi Wang
- College of Animal Science (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Manqiong Xiong
- College of Animal Science (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Gan Qin
- College of Animal Science (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Shaokang Huang
- College of Animal Science (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Fujian Honey Bee Biology Observation Station, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Jianghong Li
- College of Animal Science (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Fujian Honey Bee Biology Observation Station, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Fuzhou 350002, China
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Fine JD, Cox-Foster DL, Moor KJ, Chen R, Avalos A. Trisiloxane Surfactants Negatively Affect Reproductive Behaviors and Enhance Viral Replication in Honey Bees. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024; 43:222-233. [PMID: 37861380 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Trisiloxane surfactants are often applied in formulated adjuvant products to blooming crops, including almonds, exposing the managed honey bees (Apis mellifera) used for pollination of these crops and persisting in colony matrices, such as bee bread. Despite this, little is known regarding the effects of trisiloxane surfactants on important aspects of colony health, such as reproduction. In the present study, we use laboratory assays to examine how exposure to field-relevant concentrations of three trisiloxane surfactants found in commonly used adjuvant formulations affect queen oviposition rates, worker interactions with the queen, and worker susceptibility to endogenous viral pathogens. Trisiloxane surfactants were administered at 5 mg/kg in pollen supplement diet for 14 days. No effects on worker behavior or physiology could be detected, but our results demonstrate that hydroxy-capped trisiloxane surfactants can negatively affect queen oviposition and methyl-capped trisiloxane surfactants cause increased replication of Deformed Wing Virus in workers, suggesting that trisiloxane surfactant use while honey bees are foraging may negatively impact colony longevity and growth. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:222-233. © 2023 SETAC. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia D Fine
- US Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service Invasive Species and Pollinator Health Research Unit, Davis, California, USA
| | - Diana L Cox-Foster
- US Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service Pollinating Insect Research Unit, Logan, Utah, USA
| | - Kyle J Moor
- Utah Water Research Laboratory, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
| | - Ruiwen Chen
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Arian Avalos
- US Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service Honey Bee Breeding, Genetics, and Physiology Research Laboratory, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
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Frunze O, Kim H, Kim BJ, Lee JH, Bilal M, Kwon HW. Monitoring Immune Modulation in Season Population: Identifying Effects and Markers Related to Apis mellifera ligustica Honey Bee Health. Biomolecules 2023; 14:19. [PMID: 38254619 PMCID: PMC10813216 DOI: 10.3390/biom14010019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Honey bees play a significant role in ecology, producing biologically active substances used to promote human health. However, unlike humans, the molecular markers indicating honey bee health remain unknown. Unfortunately, numerous reports of honey bee collapse have been documented. To identify health markers, we analyzed ten defense system genes in Apis mellifera ligustica honey bees from winter (Owb) and spring (Fb for foragers and Nb for newly emerged) populations sampled in February and late April 2023, respectively. We focused on colonies free from SBV and DWV viruses. Molecular profiling revealed five molecular markers of honey bee health. Of these, two seasonal molecular markers-domeless and spz genes-were significantly downregulated in Owb compared to Nb and Fb honey bees. One task-related marker gene, apid-1, was identified as being downregulated in Owb and Nb compared to Fb honey bees. Two recommended general health markers, SOD and defensin-2, were upregulated in honey bees. These markers require further testing across various honey bee subspecies in different climatic regions. They can diagnose bee health without colony intervention, especially during low-temperature months like winter. Beekeepers can use this information to make timely adjustments to nutrients or heating to prevent seasonal losses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Frunze
- Department of Life Sciences, Incheon National University, 119 Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea; (O.F.); (H.K.); (B.-j.K.); (J.-H.L.)
- Convergence Research Center for Insect Vectors (CRCIV), Incheon National University, 119 Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunjee Kim
- Department of Life Sciences, Incheon National University, 119 Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea; (O.F.); (H.K.); (B.-j.K.); (J.-H.L.)
- Convergence Research Center for Insect Vectors (CRCIV), Incheon National University, 119 Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-ju Kim
- Department of Life Sciences, Incheon National University, 119 Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea; (O.F.); (H.K.); (B.-j.K.); (J.-H.L.)
- Convergence Research Center for Insect Vectors (CRCIV), Incheon National University, 119 Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Hyeon Lee
- Department of Life Sciences, Incheon National University, 119 Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea; (O.F.); (H.K.); (B.-j.K.); (J.-H.L.)
- Convergence Research Center for Insect Vectors (CRCIV), Incheon National University, 119 Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea
| | - Mustafa Bilal
- Department of Life Sciences, Incheon National University, 119 Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea; (O.F.); (H.K.); (B.-j.K.); (J.-H.L.)
- Convergence Research Center for Insect Vectors (CRCIV), Incheon National University, 119 Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung-Wook Kwon
- Department of Life Sciences, Incheon National University, 119 Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea; (O.F.); (H.K.); (B.-j.K.); (J.-H.L.)
- Convergence Research Center for Insect Vectors (CRCIV), Incheon National University, 119 Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea
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Khataybeh B, Jaradat Z, Ababneh Q. Anti-bacterial, anti-biofilm and anti-quorum sensing activities of honey: A review. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 317:116830. [PMID: 37400003 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Man has used honey to treat diseases since ancient times, perhaps even before the history of medicine itself. Several civilizations have utilized natural honey as a functional and therapeutic food to ward off infections. Recently, researchers worldwide have been focusing on the antibacterial effects of natural honey against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. AIM OF THE STUDY This review aims to summarize research on the use of honey properties and constituents with their anti-bacterial, anti-biofilm, and anti-quorum sensing mechanisms of action. Further, honey's bacterial products, including probiotic organisms and antibacterial agents which are produced to curb the growth of other competitor microorganisms is addressed. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this review, we have provided a comprehensive overview of the antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and anti-quorum sensing activities of honey and their mechanisms of action. Furthermore, the review addressed the effects of antibacterial agents of honey from bacterial origin. Relevant information on the antibacterial activity of honey was obtained from scientific online databases such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and PubMed. RESULTS Honey's antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and anti-quorum sensing activities are mostly attributed to four key components: hydrogen peroxide, methylglyoxal, bee defensin-1, and phenolic compounds. The performance of bacteria can be altered by honey components, which impact their cell cycle and cell morphology. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review that specifically summarizes every phenolic compound identified in honey along with their potential antibacterial mechanisms of action. Furthermore, certain strains of beneficial lactic acid bacteria such as Bifidobacterium, Fructobacillus, and Lactobacillaceae, as well as Bacillus species can survive and even grow in honey, making it a potential delivery system for these agents. CONCLUSION Honey could be regarded as one of the best complementary and alternative medicines. The data presented in this review will enhance our knowledge of some of honey's therapeutic properties as well as its antibacterial activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Batool Khataybeh
- Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Ziad Jaradat
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, 22110, Jordan.
| | - Qutaiba Ababneh
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
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Liu Z, Wu F, Li F, Wei Y. Methionine can reduce the sublethal risk of Chlorantraniliprole to honeybees (Apis mellifera L.): Based on metabolomics analysis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 268:115682. [PMID: 37979366 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Bees, essential for pollination in agriculture and global economic growth. However, the great wax moth (Galleria mellonella, GWM), a Lepidopteran insect, poses a substantial threat to bee colonies, contributing to a global decline in bee populations. Chlorantraniliprole (CH) is one of the primary insecticide used to control GWM due to its efficacy and low toxicity to bees. To improve beekeeping safety and reduce the risk of GWM developing resistance to prolonged use of CH, we investigated the potential of combining methionine (MET) which has been found to have insecticidal activity against certain Lepidoptera pests, with chlorantraniliprole for use in the apiculture industry. This study assessed the combined effects of MET and CH on GWM and honeybees by employing the maximum concentration of MET (1 %, w/w), previously reported as safe for honeybees, and the practical concentration of CH (1 mg/kg) for GWM control. The results revealed limited acute lethal toxicity of MET to GWM and honeybees, whereas the combined chronic exposure of MET and CH (MIX) led to significant synergistic lethal effects on GWM mortality. Nevertheless, the protective effect of MET on honeybees exposed to CH was significant under chronic exposure. Potential mechanisms underlying the synergistic actions of MET and CH may stem from MET-induced protection of the "Cysteine and methionine" and the "Glycine, serine, and threonine" metabolism pathways. Furthermore, immune stress mitigation was also observed in honeybee immune-related gene transcripts treated by the combination of MET and CH under both acute and chronic exposure. The effects of MET on CH activity in GWM and honeybees are likely due to metabolic regulation. This study suggests the potential of developing MET as a promising biopesticide or protective agent in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyong Liu
- College of Science & Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Huanghua, Hebei 061100, China
| | - Fangtong Wu
- Hebei Research Institute of Microbiology Co., Ltd., Baoding, Hebei 071052, China
| | - FuQiang Li
- College of Science & Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Huanghua, Hebei 061100, China
| | - Yue Wei
- College of Science & Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Huanghua, Hebei 061100, China.
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Zhang W, Sun C, Lang H, Wang J, Li X, Guo J, Zhang Z, Zheng H. Toll receptor ligand Spätzle 4 responses to the highly pathogenic Enterococcus faecalis from Varroa mites in honeybees. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011897. [PMID: 38150483 PMCID: PMC10775982 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Honeybees play a major role in crop pollination, which supports the agricultural economy and international food supply. The colony health of honeybees is threatened by the parasitic mite Varroa destructor, which inflicts physical injury on the hosts and serves as the vector for variable viruses. Recently, it shows that V. destructor may also transmit bacteria through the feeding wound, yet it remains unclear whether the invading bacteria can exhibit pathogenicity to the honeybees. Here, we incidentally isolate Enterococcus faecalis, one of the most abundant bacteria in Varroa mites, from dead bees during our routine generation of microbiota-free bees in the lab. In vivo tests show that E. faecalis is only pathogenic in Apis mellifera but not in Apis cerana. The expression of antimicrobial peptide genes is elevated following infection in A. cerana. The gene-based molecular evolution analysis identifies positive selection of genes encoding Späetzle 4 (Spz4) in A. cerana, a signaling protein in the Toll pathway. The amino acid sites under positive selection are related to structural changes in Spz4 protein, suggesting improvement of immunity in A. cerana. The knock-down of Spz4 in A. cerana significantly reduces the survival rates under E. faecalis challenge and the expression of antimicrobial peptide genes. Our results indicate that bacteria associated with Varroa mites are pathogenic to adult bees, and the positively selected gene Spz4 in A. cerana is crucial in response to this mite-related pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Zhang
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Cheng Sun
- College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Haoyu Lang
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jieni Wang
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Jun Guo
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Zijing Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Environment, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Hao Zheng
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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Wu Q, Xing L, Du M, Huang C, Liu B, Zhou H, Liu W, Wan F, Qian W. A Genome-Wide Analysis of Serine Protease Inhibitors in Cydia pomonella Provides Insights into Their Evolution and Expression Pattern. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16349. [PMID: 38003538 PMCID: PMC10671500 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Serine protease inhibitors (serpins) appear to be ubiquitous in almost all living organisms, with a conserved structure and varying functions. Serpins can modulate immune responses by negatively regulating serine protease activities strictly and precisely. The codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.), a major invasive pest in China, can cause serious economic losses. However, knowledge of serpin genes in this insect remain largely unknown. In this study, we performed a systematic analysis of the serpin genes in C. pomonella, obtaining 26 serpins from the C. pomonella genome. Subsequently, their sequence features, evolutionary relationship, and expression pattern were characterized. Comparative analysis revealed the evolution of a number of serpin genes in Lepidoptera. Importantly, the evolutionary relationship and putative roles of serpin genes in C. pomonella were revealed. Additionally, selective pressure analysis found amino acid sites with strong evidence of positive selection. Interestingly, the serpin1 gene possessed at least six splicing isoforms with distinct reactive-center loops, and these isoforms were experimentally validated. Furthermore, we observed a subclade expansion of serpins, and these genes showed high expression in multiple tissues, suggesting their important roles in C. pomonella. Overall, this study will enrich our knowledge of the immunity of C. pomonella and help to elucidate the role of serpins in the immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Wu
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518120, China
| | - Longsheng Xing
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei Basic Science Center for Biotic Interactions, Institute of Life Sciences and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Min Du
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory for Integrated Control of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Sino-Australian Joint Research Institute of Agriculture and Environmental Health, College of Plant Health & Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Cong Huang
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518120, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518120, China
| | - Hongxu Zhou
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory for Integrated Control of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Sino-Australian Joint Research Institute of Agriculture and Environmental Health, College of Plant Health & Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Wanxue Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Fanghao Wan
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518120, China
| | - Wanqiang Qian
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518120, China
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Sagona S, Coppola F, Tafi E, Orlando C, D’Onofrio C, Boni CB, Casini L, Palego L, Betti L, Giannaccini G, Felicioli A. Effects of Virgin Coconut Oil-Enriched Diet on Immune and Antioxidant Enzymatic Activity, Fat and Vitellogenin Contents in Newly Emerged and Forager Bees ( Apis mellifera L.) Reared in Cages. INSECTS 2023; 14:856. [PMID: 37999055 PMCID: PMC10671777 DOI: 10.3390/insects14110856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Searching for artificial diets positively affecting the survival, immune and antioxidant systems of honey bees is one of main challenges occurring in beekeeping. Among nutrients, lipids play a significant role in insect nutrition as structural components in cell membranes, energy sources and reserves, and are involved in many physiological processes. In this context, the aim of this work was to investigate the effect of 0.5% and 1% coconut oil-enriched diet administration on newly emerged and forager bees survival rate, feed intake, immune system, antioxidant system and both fat and vitellogenin content. In newly emerged bees, supplementation with 1% coconut oil determined a decrease in feed consumption, an increase in survival rate from the 3rd to 14th day of feeding, a short-term decrease in phenoloxidase activity, an increase in body fat and no differences in vitellogenin content. Conversely, supplementation with 0.5% coconut oil determined an increase in survival rate from the 3rd to 15th day of feeding and an increase in fat content in the long term (i.e., 20 days). Regarding the forager bee diet, enrichment with 0.5% and 1% coconut oil only determined an increase in fat content. Therefore, supplementation with coconut oil in honey bee diets at low percentages (0.5 and 1%) determines fat gain. Further investigations to evaluate the use of such supplement foods to prevent the fat loss of weak families during winter are desirable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Sagona
- Department of Pharmacy, Pisa University, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (C.O.); (L.B.); (G.G.)
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Pisa University, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.C.); (C.B.B.); (L.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Francesca Coppola
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Pisa University, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.C.); (C.B.B.); (L.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Elena Tafi
- CREA Research Centre for Agriculture and Environment, Via di Corticella 133, 40128 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Caterina Orlando
- Department of Pharmacy, Pisa University, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (C.O.); (L.B.); (G.G.)
| | - Chiara D’Onofrio
- Biosensor Technologies, Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH, Konrad-Lorenz Straße, 24, 3430 Tulln, Austria;
| | - Chiara Benedetta Boni
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Pisa University, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.C.); (C.B.B.); (L.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Lucia Casini
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Pisa University, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.C.); (C.B.B.); (L.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Lionella Palego
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pisa University, Via Savi 10, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Laura Betti
- Department of Pharmacy, Pisa University, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (C.O.); (L.B.); (G.G.)
| | - Gino Giannaccini
- Department of Pharmacy, Pisa University, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (C.O.); (L.B.); (G.G.)
| | - Antonio Felicioli
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Pisa University, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.C.); (C.B.B.); (L.C.); (A.F.)
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Mee L, Barribeau SM. Influence of social lifestyles on host-microbe symbioses in the bees. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10679. [PMID: 37928198 PMCID: PMC10620586 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbiomes are increasingly recognised as critical for the health of an organism. In eusocial insect societies, frequent social interactions allow for high-fidelity transmission of microbes across generations, leading to closer host-microbe coevolution. The microbial communities of bees with other social lifestyles are less studied, and few comparisons have been made between taxa that vary in social structure. To address this gap, we leveraged a cloud-computing resource and publicly available transcriptomic data to conduct a survey of microbial diversity in bee samples from a variety of social lifestyles and taxa. We consistently recover the core microbes of well-studied corbiculate bees, supporting this method's ability to accurately characterise microbial communities. We find that the bacterial communities of bees are influenced by host location, phylogeny and social lifestyle, although no clear effect was found for fungal or viral microbial communities. Bee genera with more complex societies tend to harbour more diverse microbes, with Wolbachia detected more commonly in solitary tribes. We present a description of the microbiota of Euglossine bees and find that they do not share the "corbiculate core" microbiome. Notably, we find that bacteria with known anti-pathogenic properties are present across social bee genera, suggesting that symbioses that enhance host immunity are important with higher sociality. Our approach provides an inexpensive means of exploring microbiomes of a given taxa and identifying avenues for further research. These findings contribute to our understanding of the relationships between bees and their associated microbial communities, highlighting the importance of considering microbiome dynamics in investigations of bee health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Mee
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, Department of Evolution, Ecology and BehaviourUniversity of LiverpoolLiverpoolUK
| | - Seth M. Barribeau
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, Department of Evolution, Ecology and BehaviourUniversity of LiverpoolLiverpoolUK
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Malladi S, Sukkar D, Bonnefoy A, Falla-Angel J, Laval-Gilly P. Imidacloprid and acetamiprid synergistically downregulate spaetzle and myD88 of the Toll pathway in haemocytes of the European honeybee (Apis mellifera). ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 104:104323. [PMID: 37995888 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Pollinator health has been of critical concern over the last few decades. The prevalence of the honeybee Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD), changing climate, and the rise of vector-borne honeybee diseases by Varroa destructor, have played a major role in the rapid decline of global honeybee populations. Honeybees are environmentally and economically significant actors in biodiversity. The impact of agricultural practices, such as pesticide use, has exacerbated the negative effects on honeybees. We demonstrate the synergistic effect of cocktails of the neonicotinoids imidacloprid and acetamiprid on honeybee haemocytes. Two genes responsible for critical immune responses, spaetzle and myD88, are consistently dysregulated following exposure to either neonicotinoid alone or as a mixture with or without an immune challenge. The 2018 ban of neonicotinoids in Europe, followed by the 2020 reauthorisation of imidacloprid in France and the current consideration to reinstate acetamiprid underscores the need to evaluate their cumulative impact on honeybee health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dani Sukkar
- Université de Lorraine, INRAE, LSE, F-54000 Nancy, France; Université de Lorraine, IUT Thionville-Yutz, Plateforme de Recherche, Transfert de Technologie et Innovation (PRTI), 57970 Yutz, France
| | - Antoine Bonnefoy
- Université de Lorraine, IUT Thionville-Yutz, Plateforme de Recherche, Transfert de Technologie et Innovation (PRTI), 57970 Yutz, France
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Karaoğlu ŞA, Bıyık S, Nisbet C, Akpınar R, Bozdeveci A, Suyabatmaz Ş, Güler A, Kaya S, Yeşilyurt A, Batan N, Yaylı N. Use of Dicranum polysetum extract against Paenibacillus larvae causing American Foulbrood under in vivo and in vitro conditions. Int Microbiol 2023; 26:1087-1101. [PMID: 37097489 DOI: 10.1007/s10123-023-00361-1] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
Recent research shows that Dicranum species can be used to ameliorate the negative effects of honeybee bacterial diseases and that novel compounds isolated from these species may have the potential to treat bacterial diseases. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of Dicranum polysetum Sw. against American Foulbrood using toxicity and larval model. The effectiveness of D. polysetum Sw. ethanol extract in combating AFB was investigated in vitro and in vivo. This study is important in finding an alternative treatment or prophylactic method to prevent American Foulbrood disease in honey bee colonies. Spore and vegetative forms of Paenibacillus larvae PB31B with ethanol extract of D. polysetum were tested on 2040 honey bee larvae under controlled conditions. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents of D. polysetum ethanol extracts were determined as 80.72 mg/GAE(Gallic acid equivalent) and 303.20 µg/mL, respectively. DPPH(2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging percent inhibition value was calculated as 4.32%. In Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) and Lymantria dispar (LD652) cell lines, the cytotoxic activities of D. polysetum extract were below 20% at 50 µg/mL. The extract was shown to considerably decrease infection in the larvae, and the infection was clinically halted when the extract was administered during the first 24 h after spore contamination. The fact that the extract contains potent antimicrobial/antioxidant activity does not reduce larval viability and live weight, and does not interact with royal jelly is a promising development, particularly regarding its use to treat early-stage AFB infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Şengül Alpay Karaoğlu
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University, 53100, Rize, Turkey.
| | - Selim Bıyık
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Ondokuz Mayıs University, 55200, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Cevat Nisbet
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ondokuz Mayıs University, 55200, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Rahşan Akpınar
- Laboratory of Bee Diseases, Samsun Veterinary Control Institute, 55200, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Arif Bozdeveci
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University, 53100, Rize, Turkey.
| | - Şeyma Suyabatmaz
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University, 53100, Rize, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Güler
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Ondokuz Mayıs University, 55200, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Selma Kaya
- Laboratory of Bee Diseases, Samsun Veterinary Control Institute, 55200, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Aydın Yeşilyurt
- Tonya Vocational School, Trabzon University, 61500, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Nevzat Batan
- Molecular Biology and Genetics, Karadeniz Technical University, 61080, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Nurettin Yaylı
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Karadeniz Technical University, 61080, Trabzon, Turkey
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Qin M, Jiang L, Qiao G, Chen J. Phylosymbiosis: The Eco-Evolutionary Pattern of Insect-Symbiont Interactions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15836. [PMID: 37958817 PMCID: PMC10650905 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115836] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Insects harbor diverse assemblages of bacterial and fungal symbionts, which play crucial roles in host life history. Insects and their various symbionts represent a good model for studying host-microbe interactions. Phylosymbiosis is used to describe an eco-evolutionary pattern, providing a new cross-system trend in the research of host-associated microbiota. The phylosymbiosis pattern is characterized by a significant positive correlation between the host phylogeny and microbial community dissimilarities. Although host-symbiont interactions have been demonstrated in many insect groups, our knowledge of the prevalence and mechanisms of phylosymbiosis in insects is still limited. Here, we provide an order-by-order summary of the phylosymbiosis patterns in insects, including Blattodea, Coleoptera, Diptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, and Lepidoptera. Then, we highlight the potential contributions of stochastic effects, evolutionary processes, and ecological filtering in shaping phylosymbiotic microbiota. Phylosymbiosis in insects can arise from a combination of stochastic and deterministic mechanisms, such as the dispersal limitations of microbes, codiversification between symbionts and hosts, and the filtering of phylogenetically conserved host traits (incl., host immune system, diet, and physiological characteristics).
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Qin
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; (M.Q.); (L.J.)
| | - Liyun Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; (M.Q.); (L.J.)
| | - Gexia Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; (M.Q.); (L.J.)
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; (M.Q.); (L.J.)
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Gekière A, Vanderplanck M, Michez D. Trace metals with heavy consequences on bees: A comprehensive review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 895:165084. [PMID: 37379929 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
The pervasiveness of human imprint on Earth is alarming and most animal species, including bees (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Anthophila), must cope with several stressors. Recently, exposure to trace metals and metalloids (TMM) has drawn attention and has been suggested as a threat for bee populations. In this review, we aimed at bringing together all the studies (n = 59), both in laboratories and in natura, that assessed the effects of TMM on bees. After a brief comment on semantics, we listed the potential routes of exposure to soluble and insoluble (i.e. nanoparticle) TMM, and the threat posed by metallophyte plants. Then, we reviewed the studies that addressed whether bees could detect and avoid TMM in their environment, as well as the ways bee detoxify these xenobiotics. Afterwards, we listed the impacts TMM have on bees at the community, individual, physiological, histological and microbial levels. We discussed around the interspecific variations among bees, as well as around the simultaneous exposure to TMM. Finally, we highlighted that bees are likely exposed to TMM in combination or with other stressors, such as pesticides and parasites. Overall, we showed that most studies focussed on the domesticated western honey bee and mainly addressed lethal effects. Because TMM are widespread in the environment and have been shown to result in detrimental consequences, evaluating their lethal and sublethal effects on bees, including non-Apis species, warrants further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Gekière
- Laboratory of Zoology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, 20 Place du Parc, 7000 Mons, Belgium.
| | - Maryse Vanderplanck
- CEFE, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, 1919 Route de Mende, 34090 Montpellier, France.
| | - Denis Michez
- Laboratory of Zoology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, 20 Place du Parc, 7000 Mons, Belgium.
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Vertacnik KL, Herrig DK, Godfrey RK, Hill T, Geib SM, Unckless RL, Nelson DR, Linnen CR. Evolution of five environmentally responsive gene families in a pine-feeding sawfly, Neodiprion lecontei (Hymenoptera: Diprionidae). Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10506. [PMID: 37791292 PMCID: PMC10542623 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A central goal in evolutionary biology is to determine the predictability of adaptive genetic changes. Despite many documented cases of convergent evolution at individual loci, little is known about the repeatability of gene family expansions and contractions. To address this void, we examined gene family evolution in the redheaded pine sawfly Neodiprion lecontei, a noneusocial hymenopteran and exemplar of a pine-specialized lineage evolved from angiosperm-feeding ancestors. After assembling and annotating a draft genome, we manually annotated multiple gene families with chemosensory, detoxification, or immunity functions before characterizing their genomic distributions and molecular evolution. We find evidence of recent expansions of bitter gustatory receptor, clan 3 cytochrome P450, olfactory receptor, and antimicrobial peptide subfamilies, with strong evidence of positive selection among paralogs in a clade of gustatory receptors possibly involved in the detection of bitter compounds. In contrast, these gene families had little evidence of recent contraction via pseudogenization. Overall, our results are consistent with the hypothesis that in response to novel selection pressures, gene families that mediate ecological interactions may expand and contract predictably. Testing this hypothesis will require the comparative analysis of high-quality annotation data from phylogenetically and ecologically diverse insect species and functionally diverse gene families. To this end, increasing sampling in under-sampled hymenopteran lineages and environmentally responsive gene families and standardizing manual annotation methods should be prioritized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim L. Vertacnik
- Department of EntomologyUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
| | | | - R. Keating Godfrey
- McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity, University of FloridaGainesvilleFloridaUSA
| | - Tom Hill
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious DiseasesBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Scott M. Geib
- Tropical Crop and Commodity Protection Research UnitUnited States Department of Agriculture: Agriculture Research Service Pacific Basin Agricultural Research CenterHiloHawaiiUSA
| | - Robert L. Unckless
- Department of Molecular BiosciencesUniversity of KansasLawrenceKansasUSA
| | - David R. Nelson
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and BiochemistryUniversity of Tennessee Health Science CenterMemphisTennesseeUSA
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Sukkar D, Kanso A, Laval-Gilly P, Falla-Angel J. A clash on the Toll pathway: competitive action between pesticides and zymosan A on components of innate immunity in Apis mellifera. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1247582. [PMID: 37753094 PMCID: PMC10518393 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1247582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The immune system of honeybees includes multiple pathways that may be affected by pesticide exposure decreasing the immune competencies of bees and increasing their susceptibility to diseases like the fungal Nosema spp. infection, which is detected in collapsed colonies. Methods To better understand the effect of the co-presence of multiple pesticides that interact with bees like imidacloprid and amitraz, we evaluated the expression of immune-related genes in honeybee hemocytes. Results Imidacloprid, amitraz, and the immune activator, zymosan A, mainly affect the gene expression in the Toll pathway. Discussion Imidacloprid, amitraz, and zymosan A have a synergistic or an antagonistic relationship on gene expression depending on the level of immune signaling. The presence of multiple risk factors like pesticides and pathogens requires the assessment of their complex interaction, which has differential effects on the innate immunity of honeybees as seen in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dani Sukkar
- Université de Lorraine, INRAE, LSE, F-54000 Nancy, France
- Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences I, Lebanese University, Hadath, Lebanon
| | - Ali Kanso
- Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences I, Lebanese University, Hadath, Lebanon
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Daisley BA, Pitek AP, Torres C, Lowery R, Adair BA, Al KF, Niño B, Burton JP, Allen-Vercoe E, Thompson GJ, Reid G, Niño E. Delivery mechanism can enhance probiotic activity against honey bee pathogens. THE ISME JOURNAL 2023; 17:1382-1395. [PMID: 37311937 PMCID: PMC10432525 DOI: 10.1038/s41396-023-01422-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Managed honey bee (Apis mellifera) populations play a crucial role in supporting pollination of food crops but are facing unsustainable colony losses, largely due to rampant disease spread within agricultural environments. While mounting evidence suggests that select lactobacilli strains (some being natural symbionts of honey bees) can protect against multiple infections, there has been limited validation at the field-level and few methods exist for applying viable microorganisms to the hive. Here, we compare how two different delivery systems-standard pollen patty infusion and a novel spray-based formulation-affect supplementation of a three-strain lactobacilli consortium (LX3). Hives in a pathogen-dense region of California are supplemented for 4 weeks and then monitored over a 20-week period for health outcomes. Results show both delivery methods facilitate viable uptake of LX3 in adult bees, although the strains do not colonize long-term. Despite this, LX3 treatments induce transcriptional immune responses leading to sustained decreases in many opportunistic bacterial and fungal pathogens, as well as selective enrichment of core symbionts including Bombilactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Bartonella spp. These changes are ultimately associated with greater brood production and colony growth relative to vehicle controls, and with no apparent trade-offs in ectoparasitic Varroa mite burdens. Furthermore, spray-LX3 exerts potent activities against Ascosphaera apis (a deadly brood pathogen) likely stemming from in-hive dispersal differences, whereas patty-LX3 promotes synergistic brood development via unique nutritional benefits. These findings provide a foundational basis for spray-based probiotic application in apiculture and collectively highlight the importance of considering delivery method in disease management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan A Daisley
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Andrew P Pitek
- Department of Biology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Christina Torres
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Robin Lowery
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Bethany A Adair
- Department of Biology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Kait F Al
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Bernardo Niño
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
- Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Jeremy P Burton
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Emma Allen-Vercoe
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Graham J Thompson
- Department of Biology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Gregor Reid
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Elina Niño
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, Oakland, CA, 95618, USA.
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Guo L, Tang J, Tang M, Luo S, Zhou X. Reactive oxygen species are regulated by immune deficiency and Toll pathways in determining the host specificity of honeybee gut bacteria. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2219634120. [PMID: 37556501 PMCID: PMC10438842 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2219634120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Host specificity is observed in gut symbionts of diverse animal lineages. But how hosts maintain symbionts while rejecting their close relatives remains elusive. We use eusocial bees and their codiversified gut bacteria to understand host regulation driving symbiotic specificity. The cross-inoculation of bumblebee Gilliamella induced higher prostaglandin in the honeybee gut, promoting a pronounced host response through immune deficiency (IMD) and Toll pathways. Gene silencing and vitamin C treatments indicate that reactive oxygen species (ROS), not antimicrobial peptides, acts as the effector in inhibiting the non-native strain. Quantitative PCR and RNAi further reveal a regulatory function of the IMD and Toll pathways, in which Relish and dorsal-1 may regulate Dual Oxidase (Duox) for ROS production. Therefore, the honeybee maintains symbiotic specificity by creating a hostile gut environment to exotic bacteria, through differential regulation of its immune system, reflecting a co-opting of existing machinery evolved to combat pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lizhen Guo
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing100083, People’s Republic of China
- Sanya Institute of China Agricultural University, Sanya572000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junbo Tang
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing100083, People’s Republic of China
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing100083, People’s Republic of China
| | - Min Tang
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing100083, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Biological Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou215100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shiqi Luo
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing100083, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin Zhou
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing100083, People’s Republic of China
- Sanya Institute of China Agricultural University, Sanya572000, People’s Republic of China
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Wu H, Xu Y, Zafar J, Mandal SD, Lin L, Lu Y, Jin F, Pang R, Xu X. Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals the Impact of the Biopesticide Metarhizium anisopliae on the Immune System of Major Workers in Solenopsis invicta. INSECTS 2023; 14:701. [PMID: 37623411 PMCID: PMC10455567 DOI: 10.3390/insects14080701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
The red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta Buren, 1972) is a globally significant invasive species, causing extensive agricultural, human health, and biodiversity damage amounting to billions of dollars worldwide. The pathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae (Metchnikoff) Sorokin (1883), widely distributed in natural environments, has been used to control S. invicta populations. However, the interaction between M. anisopliae and the immune system of the social insect S. invicta remains poorly understood. In this study, we employed RNA-seq to investigate the effects of M. anisopliae on the immune systems of S. invicta at different time points (0, 6, 24, and 48 h). A total of 1313 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and classified into 12 expression profiles using short time-series expression miner (STEM) for analysis. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was employed to partition all genes into 21 gene modules. Upon analyzing the statistically significant WGCNA model and conducting Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis on the modules, we identified key immune pathways, including the Toll and Imd signaling pathways, lysosomes, autophagy, and phagosomes, which may collectively contribute to S. invicta defense against M. anisopliae infection. Subsequently, we conducted a comprehensive scan of all differentially expressed genes and identified 33 immune-related genes, encompassing various aspects such as recognition, signal transduction, and effector gene expression. Furthermore, by integrating the significant gene modules derived from the WGCNA analysis, we constructed illustrative pathway diagrams depicting the Toll and Imd signaling pathways. Overall, our research findings demonstrated that M. anisopliae suppressed the immune response of S. invicta during the early stages while stimulating its immune response at later stages, making it a potential biopesticide for controlling S. invicta populations. These discoveries lay the foundation for further understanding the immune mechanisms of S. invicta and the molecular mechanisms underlying its response to M. anisopliae.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Rui Pang
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, “Belt and Road” Technology Industry and Innovation Institute for Green and Biological Control of Agricultural Pests, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (H.W.); (Y.X.); (J.Z.); (S.D.M.); (L.L.); (Y.L.); (F.J.)
| | - Xiaoxia Xu
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, “Belt and Road” Technology Industry and Innovation Institute for Green and Biological Control of Agricultural Pests, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (H.W.); (Y.X.); (J.Z.); (S.D.M.); (L.L.); (Y.L.); (F.J.)
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Çakıcı Ö, Uysal M, Demirözer O, Gösterit A. Sublethal effects of thiamethoxam on immune system cells in the workers of Bombus terrestris (Hymenoptera: Apidae). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:87424-87432. [PMID: 37422564 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28654-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Neonicotinoids harm especially bumblebees and other species in agricultural areas all over the world. The toxic effect of thiamethoxam from the neonicotinoid group has been little studied especially on bees. This research aimed to evaluate the effects of thiamethoxam on the immune system cells of Bombus terrestris workers. Different ratios of 1/1000, 1/100 and 1/10 of the recommended maximum application dose of thiamethoxam formed the experimental groups. Ten foraging workers were used for each dose and control groups. Contamination was ensured by spraying the prepared suspensions at different ratios to the bees for 20 s at a pressure of 1 atm. The effects of thiamethoxam on the structures of immune system cells of bumblebees and the amount of these cells were investigated after 48 h of exposure. In general, anomalies such as vacuolization, cell membrane irregularities and cell shape changes were detected in prohemocyte, plasmatocyte, granulocyte, spherulocyte and oenocytoid in each dose group. Hemocyte area measurements in all groups were examined comparatively between groups. In general, granulocyte and plasmatocyte sizes were decreased, while spherulocyte and oenocytoid were increased. It was also determined that there was a significant decrease in the amount of hemocytes in the 1 mm3 hemolymph as dose increased. The results of the study revealed that sublethal doses of thiamethoxam negatively affected hemocytes and their amounts of B. terrestris workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özlem Çakıcı
- Science Faculty, Biology Department, Ege University, Zoology Section, 35100, Bornova-Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Melis Uysal
- Science Faculty, Biology Department, Ege University, Zoology Section, 35100, Bornova-Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ozan Demirözer
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Isparta Applied Science University, 32260, Isparta, Turkey
| | - Ayhan Gösterit
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Isparta Applied Science University, 32260, Isparta, Turkey
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Zanni V, Frizzera D, Marroni F, Seffin E, Annoscia D, Nazzi F. Age-related response to mite parasitization and viral infection in the honey bee suggests a trade-off between growth and immunity. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288821. [PMID: 37459342 PMCID: PMC10351714 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Host age at parasites' exposure is often neglected in studies on host-parasite interactions despite the important implications for epidemiology. Here we compared the impact of the parasitic mite Varroa destructor, and the associated pathogenic virus DWV on different life stages of their host, the western honey bee Apis mellifera. The pre-imaginal stages of the honey bee proved to be more susceptible to mite parasitization and viral infection than adults. The higher viral load in mite-infested bees and DWV genotype do not appear to be the drivers of the observed difference which, instead, seems to be related to the immune-competence of the host. These results support the existence of a trade-off between immunity and growth, making the pupa, which is involved in the highly energy-demanding process of metamorphosis, more susceptible to parasites and pathogens. This may have important implications for the evolution of the parasite's virulence and in turn for honey bee health. Our results highlight the important role of host's age and life stage at exposure in epidemiological modelling. Furthermore, our study could unravel new aspects of the complex honey bee-Varroa relationship to be addressed for a sustainable management of this parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Zanni
- Dipartimento di Scienze AgroAlimentari, Ambientali e Animali (DI4A), Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Davide Frizzera
- Dipartimento di Scienze AgroAlimentari, Ambientali e Animali (DI4A), Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Fabio Marroni
- Dipartimento di Scienze AgroAlimentari, Ambientali e Animali (DI4A), Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Elisa Seffin
- Dipartimento di Scienze AgroAlimentari, Ambientali e Animali (DI4A), Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Desiderato Annoscia
- Dipartimento di Scienze AgroAlimentari, Ambientali e Animali (DI4A), Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Francesco Nazzi
- Dipartimento di Scienze AgroAlimentari, Ambientali e Animali (DI4A), Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy
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