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Lopes DM, Provençano AF, de Mello CB, Feder MD, Cunha JA, Nogueira N, Lechuga GC, Bourguignon SC, de Souza W, Garcia ES, das Chagas EF, Azambuja P, Gonzalez MS. Ecdysone modulates both ultrastructural arrangement of hindgut and attachment of Trypanosoma cruzi DM 28c to the rectum cuticle of Rhodnius prolixus fifth-instar nymph. Exp Parasitol 2022; 236-237:108247. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2022.108247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Nascimento PVP, Almeida-Oliveira F, Macedo-Silva A, Ausina P, Motinha C, Sola-Penna M, Majerowicz D. Gene annotation of nuclear receptor superfamily genes in the kissing bug Rhodnius prolixus and the effects of 20-hydroxyecdysone on lipid metabolism. Insect Mol Biol 2021; 30:297-314. [PMID: 33455040 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone is fundamental for regulating moulting and metamorphosis in immature insects, and it plays a role in physiological regulation in adult insects. This hormone acts by binding and activating a receptor, the ecdysone receptor, which is part of the nuclear receptor gene superfamily. Here, we analyse the genome of the kissing bug Rhodnius prolixus to annotate the nuclear receptor superfamily genes. The R. prolixus genome displays a possible duplication of the HNF4 gene. All the analysed insect organs express most nuclear receptor genes as shown by RT-PCR. The quantitative PCR analysis showed that the RpEcR and RpUSP genes are highly expressed in the testis, while the RpHNF4-1 and RpHNF4-2 genes are more active in the fat body and ovaries and in the anterior midgut, respectively. Feeding does not induce detectable changes in the expression of these genes in the fat body. However, the expression of the RpHNF4-2 gene is always higher than that of RpHNF4-1. Treating adult females with 20-hydroxyecdysone increased the amount of triacylglycerol stored in the fat bodies by increasing their lipogenic capacity. These results indicate that 20-hydroxyecdysone acts on the lipid metabolism of adult insects, although the underlying mechanism is not clear.
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Affiliation(s)
- P V P Nascimento
- Departamento de Biotecnologia Farmacêutica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - F Almeida-Oliveira
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - A Macedo-Silva
- Departamento de Biotecnologia Farmacêutica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - P Ausina
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - C Motinha
- Departamento de Biotecnologia Farmacêutica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - M Sola-Penna
- Departamento de Biotecnologia Farmacêutica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - D Majerowicz
- Departamento de Biotecnologia Farmacêutica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Entomologia Molecular, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Vieira CS, Figueiredo MB, Moraes CDS, Pereira SB, Dyson P, Mello CB, Castro DP, Azambuja P. Azadirachtin interferes with basal immunity and microbial homeostasis in the Rhodnius prolixus midgut. Dev Comp Immunol 2021; 114:103864. [PMID: 32918931 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2020.103864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Rhodnius prolixus is an insect vector of two flagellate parasites, Trypanosoma rangeli and Trypanosoma cruzi, the latter being the causative agent of Chagas disease in Latin America. The R. prolixus neuroendocrine system regulates the synthesis of the steroid hormone ecdysone, which is essential for not only development and molting but also insect immunity. Knowledge for how this modulates R. prolixus midgut immune responses is essential for understanding interactions between the vector, its parasites and symbiotic microbes. In the present work, we evaluated the effects of ecdysone inhibition on R. prolixus humoral immunity and homeostasis with its microbiota, using the triterpenoid natural product, azadirachtin. Our results demonstrated that azadirachtin promoted a fast and lasting inhibitory effect on expression of both RpRelish, a nuclear factor kappa B transcription factor (NF-kB) component of the IMD pathway, and several antimicrobial peptide (AMP) genes. On the other hand, RpDorsal, encoding the equivalent NF-kB transcription factor in the Toll pathway, and the defC AMP gene were upregulated later in azadirachtin treated insects. The treatment also impacted on proliferation of Serratia marcescens, an abundant commensal bacterium. The simultaneous administration of ecdysone and azadirachtin in R. prolixus blood meals counteracted the azadirachtin effects on insect molting and also on expression of RpRelish and AMPs genes. These results support the direct involvement of ecdysone in regulation of the IMD pathway in the Rhodnius prolixus gut.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Stahl Vieira
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Fisiologia de Insetos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Departamento de Entomologia Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Entomologia Molecular (INCT-EM), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Marcela Barbosa Figueiredo
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Fisiologia de Insetos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Caroline da Silva Moraes
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Fisiologia de Insetos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Suelen Bastos Pereira
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Fisiologia de Insetos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Paul Dyson
- School of Medicine, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Cícero Brasileiro Mello
- Laboratório de Biologia de Insetos, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niteroi, RJ, Brazil; Departamento de Entomologia Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Entomologia Molecular (INCT-EM), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niteroi, RJ, Brazil
| | - Daniele Pereira Castro
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Fisiologia de Insetos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Departamento de Entomologia Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Entomologia Molecular (INCT-EM), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Azambuja
- Departamento de Entomologia Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Entomologia Molecular (INCT-EM), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niteroi, RJ, Brazil.
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de Fuentes-Vicente JA, Gutiérrez-Cabrera AE, Flores-Villegas AL, Lowenberger C, Benelli G, Salazar-Schettino PM, Córdoba-Aguilar A. What makes an effective Chagas disease vector? Factors underlying Trypanosoma cruzi-triatomine interactions. Acta Trop 2018; 183:23-31. [PMID: 29625091 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2018.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Revised: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which infect blood-feeding triatomine bugs to finally reach mammal hosts. Chagas disease is endemic in Latin America, and is ranked among the 13 neglected tropical diseases worldwide. Currently, an estimate of 7 million people is infected by T. cruzi, leading to about 22 000 deaths per year throughout the Americas. As occurs with other vectors, a major question towards control programs is what makes a susceptible bug. In this review, we focus on findings linked to insect gut structure and microbiota, immunity, genetics, blood sources, abiotic factors (with special reference to ambient temperature and altitude) to understand the interactions occurring between T. cruzi and triatomine bugs, under a co-evolutionary scenario. These factors lead to varying fitness benefits and costs for bugs, explaining why infection in the insect takes place and how it varies in time and space. Our analysis highlights that major factors are gut components and microbiota, blood sources and temperature. Although their close interaction has never been clarified, knowledge reviewed here may help to boost the success of triatomine control programs, reducing the use of insecticides.
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Duarte GF, Macedo DB, Luz C. Simplified membrane feeding of bloodsucking triatomines (Hemiptera: Reduviidae). Acta Trop 2017; 174:130-131. [PMID: 28720489 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/09/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Laboratory-reared hematophagous triatomines that are the main vectors of Chagas disease are generally fed on small vertebrates or on blood-filled membrane devices. Such devices allow a large-scale rearing of these vectors without sacrificing host animals but are almost always expensive, fragile, not easily purchased, and usually difficult to use because they need to be sterilized before and carefully cleaned after each feeding. We present here a simple device to feed triatomines that is composed of a circular series of alternating short pieces of stainless steel and silicon tubing connected to a pump that circulates water heated at 50° C in a water bath. An unlubricated condom filled with 50ml of blood, is fixed around each steel tube section and placed onto the screened tops of containers with triatomines. Nymphs and adults access the blood source by climbing a vertical piece of folded filter paper. After feeding, each condom can be easily and safely removed and discarded. This device consists of simple, cheap, safe and robust components that can be easily purchased, assembled and used. Contamination during or after feeding is practically excluded. The technique is successfully used in our Laboratory for almost two years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glennyha F Duarte
- DMIPP, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, 74690-900, Brazil
| | - Dayane B Macedo
- DMIPP, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, 74690-900, Brazil
| | - Christian Luz
- DMIPP, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, 74690-900, Brazil.
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Azambuja P, Garcia ES, Waniek PJ, Vieira CS, Figueiredo MB, Gonzalez MS, Mello CB, Castro DP, Ratcliffe NA. Rhodnius prolixus: from physiology by Wigglesworth to recent studies of immune system modulation by Trypanosoma cruzi and Trypanosoma rangeli. J Insect Physiol 2017; 97:45-65. [PMID: 27866813 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2016.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Revised: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
This review is dedicated to the memory of Professor Sir Vincent B. Wigglesworth (VW) in recognition of his many pioneering contributions to insect physiology which, even today, form the basis of modern-day research in this field. Insects not only make vital contributions to our everyday lives by their roles in pollination, balancing eco-systems and provision of honey and silk products, but they are also outstanding models for studying the pathogenicity of microorganisms and the functioning of innate immunity in humans. In this overview, the immune system of the triatomine bug, Rhodnius prolixus, is considered which is most appropriate to this dedication as this insect species was the favourite subject of VW's research. Herein are described recent developments in knowledge of the functioning of the R. prolixus immune system. Thus, the roles of the cellular defences, such as phagocytosis and nodule formation, as well as the role of eicosanoids, ecdysone, antimicrobial peptides, reactive oxygen and nitrogen radicals, and the gut microbiota in the immune response of R. prolixus are described. The details of many of these were unknown to VW although his work gives indications of his awareness of the importance to R. prolixus of cellular immunity, antibacterial activity, prophenoloxidase and the gut microbiota. This description of R. prolixus immunity forms a backdrop to studies on the interaction of the parasitic flagellates, Trypanosoma cruzi and Trypanosoma rangeli, with the host defences of this important insect vector. These parasites remarkably utilize different strategies to avoid/modulate the triatomine immune response in order to survive in the extremely hostile host environments present in the vector gut and haemocoel. Much recent information has also been gleaned on the remarkable diversity of the immune system in the R. prolixus gut and its interaction with trypanosome parasites. This new data is reviewed and gaps in our knowledge of R. prolixus immunity are identified as subjects for future endeavours. Finally, the publication of the T. cruzi, T. rangeli and R. prolixus genomes, together with the use of modern molecular techniques, should lead to the enhanced identification of the determinants of infection derived from both the vector and the parasites which, in turn, could form targets for new molecular-based control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Azambuja
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Fisiologia de Insetos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Departamento de Entomologia Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Entomologia Molecular (INCT-EM), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - E S Garcia
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Fisiologia de Insetos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Departamento de Entomologia Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Entomologia Molecular (INCT-EM), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - P J Waniek
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Fisiologia de Insetos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - C S Vieira
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Fisiologia de Insetos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - M B Figueiredo
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Fisiologia de Insetos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - M S Gonzalez
- Laboratório de Biologia de Insetos, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, RJ, Brazil.
| | - C B Mello
- Laboratório de Biologia de Insetos, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, RJ, Brazil.
| | - D P Castro
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Fisiologia de Insetos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Departamento de Entomologia Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Entomologia Molecular (INCT-EM), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - N A Ratcliffe
- Laboratório de Biologia de Insetos, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, RJ, Brazil; Department of Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom.
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Gutiérrez-Cabrera AE, Córdoba-Aguilar A, Zenteno E, Lowenberger C, Espinoza B. Origin, evolution and function of the hemipteran perimicrovillar membrane with emphasis on Reduviidae that transmit Chagas disease. Bull Entomol Res 2016; 106:279-291. [PMID: 26639621 DOI: 10.1017/s0007485315000929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The peritrophic matrix is a chitin-protein structure that envelops the food bolus in the midgut of the majority of insects, but is absent in some groups which have, instead, an unusual extra-cellular lipoprotein membrane named the perimicrovillar membrane. The presence of the perimicrovillar membrane (PMM) allows these insects to exploit restricted ecological niches during all life stages. It is found only in some members of the superorder Paraneoptera and many of these species are of medical and economic importance. In this review we present an overview of the midgut and the digestive system of insects with an emphasis on the order Paraneoptera and differences found across phylogenetic groups. We discuss the importance of the PMM in Hemiptera and the apparent conservation of this structure among hemipteran groups, suggesting that the basic mechanism of PMM production is the same for different hemipteran species. We propose that the PMM is intimately involved in the interaction with parasites and as such should be a target for biological and chemical control of hemipteran insects of economic and medical importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Gutiérrez-Cabrera
- Departamento de Inmunología,Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas,Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México,Apdo. 70228,Circuito Exterior,Ciudad Universitaria,04510,Coyoacán,Distrito Federal,México
| | - A Córdoba-Aguilar
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva,Instituto de Ecología,Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México,Apdo. P. 70-275,Circuito Exterior,Ciudad Universitaria,04510,Coyoacán,Distrito Federal,Mexico
| | - E Zenteno
- Departamento de Bioquímica,Facultad de Medicina,Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México,Ciudad Universitaria,04510 D.F.,Mexico
| | - C Lowenberger
- Department of Biological Sciences,Simon Fraser University,Burnaby, B.C., V5A 1S6,Canada
| | - B Espinoza
- Departamento de Inmunología,Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas,Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México,Apdo. 70228,Circuito Exterior,Ciudad Universitaria,04510,Coyoacán,Distrito Federal,México
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Rost-Roszkowska MM, Świątek P, Poprawa I, Rupik W, Swadźba E, Kszuk-Jendrysik M. Ultrastructural analysis of apoptosis and autophagy in the midgut epithelium of Piscicola geometra (Annelida, Hirudinida) after blood feeding. Protoplasma 2015; 252:1387-1396. [PMID: 25666305 PMCID: PMC4561070 DOI: 10.1007/s00709-015-0774-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Cell death in the endodermal region of the digestive tract of the blood-feeding leech Piscicola geometra was analyzed using light and transmission electron microscopes and the fluorescence method. Sexually mature specimens of P. geometra were bred under laboratory conditions and fed on Danio rerio. After copulation, the specimens laid cocoons. The material for our studies were non-feeding juveniles collected just after hatching, non-feeding adult specimens, and leeches that had been fed with fish blood (D. rerio) only once ad libitum. The fed leeches were prepared for our studies during feeding and after 1, 3, 7, and 14 days (not sexually mature specimens) and some weeks after feeding (the sexually mature). Autophagy in all regions of the endodermal part of the digestive system, including the esophagus, the crop, the posterior crop caecum (PCC), and the intestine was observed in the adult non-feeding and feeding specimens. In fed specimens, autophagy occurred at very high levels--in 80 to 90 % of epithelial cells in all four regions. In contrast, in adult specimens that did not feed, this process occurred at much lower levels--about 10 % (esophagus and intestine) and about 30 % (crop and PCC) of the midgut epithelial cells. Apoptosis occurred in the feeding adult specimens but only in the crop and PCC. However, it was absent in the non-feeding adult specimens and the specimens that were collected during feeding. Moreover, neither autophagy nor apoptosis were observed in the juvenile, non-feeding specimens. The appearance of autophagy and apoptosis was connected with feeding on toxic blood. We concluded that autophagy played the role of a survival factor and was involved in the protection of the epithelium against the products of blood digestion. Quantitative analysis was prepared to determine the number of autophagic and apoptotic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Rost-Roszkowska
- Department of Animal Histology and Embryology, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, 40-007, Katowice, Poland,
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Gutiérrez-Cabrera AE, Alejandre-Aguilar R, Hernández-Martínez S, Espinoza B. Development and glycoprotein composition of the perimicrovillar membrane in Triatoma (Meccus) pallidipennis (Hemiptera: Reduviidae). Arthropod Struct Dev 2014; 43:571-578. [PMID: 25043894 DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2014.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2014] [Revised: 06/25/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Hemipterans and thysanopterans (Paneoptera: Condylognatha) differ from other insects by having an intestinal perimicrovillar membrane (PMM) which extends from the base of the microvilli to the intestinal lumen. The development and composition of the PMM in hematophagous Reduviidae depend on factors related to diet. The PMM may also allow the human parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of human Chagas Disease, to establish and develop in this insect vector. We studied the PMM development in the Mexican vector of Chagas Disease, Triatoma (Meccus) pallidipennis. We describe changes in the midgut epithelial cells of insects in response to starvation, and at different times (10, 15 and 20 days) after bloodfeeding. In starved insects, the midguts showed epithelial cells closely connected to each other but apparently free of PMM with some regions being periodic acid-Schiff (PAS-Schiff) positive. In contrast, the PMM was evident and fully developed in the midgut region of insects 15 days after feeding. After this time, the PMM completely covered the microvilli and reached the midgut lumen. At 15 days following feeding the labeled PAS-Schiff increased in the epithelial apex, suggesting an increase in carbohydrates. Lectins as histochemical reagents show the presence of a variety of glycoconjugates including mannose, glucose, galactosamine, N-acetyl-galactosamine. Also present were N-acetyl-glucosamine and sialic acid which contribute to the successful establishment and replication or T. cruzi in its insect vectors. By means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the formation and structure of the PMM is confirmed at 15 days post feeding. Our results confirmed the importance of the feeding processes in the formation of the PMM and showed the nature of the biochemical composition of the vectors' intestine in this important Mexican vector of Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana E Gutiérrez-Cabrera
- Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 Mexico City, D.F., Mexico
| | - Ricardo Alejandre-Aguilar
- Departamento de Parasitología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico
| | - Salvador Hernández-Martínez
- Centro de Investigación Sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Av. Universidad 655, Col. Sta. María Ahuacatitlan, CP 62508 Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Bertha Espinoza
- Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 Mexico City, D.F., Mexico.
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Rost-Roszkowska MM, Świątek P, Kszuk M, Główczyk K, Bielecki A. Morphology and ultrastructure of the midgut in Piscicola geometra (Annelida, Hirudinea). Protoplasma 2012; 249:1037-47. [PMID: 22016149 PMCID: PMC3459081 DOI: 10.1007/s00709-011-0337-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2011] [Accepted: 10/05/2011] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents information on the organization of the midgut and its epithelium ultrastructure in juvenile and adult specimens of Piscicola geometra (Annelida, Hirudinea), a species which is a widespread ectoparasite found on the body and gills and in the mouth of many types of fish. The analysis of juvenile nonfeeding specimens helped in the explanation of all alterations in the midgut epithelium which are connected with digestion. The endodermal portion (midgut) of the digestive system is composed of four regions: the esophagus, the crop, the posterior crop caecum, and the intestine. Their epithelia are formed by flat, cuboidal, or columnar digestive cells; however, single small cells which do not contact the midgut lumen were also observed. The ultrastructure of all of the regions of the midgut are described and discussed with a special emphasis on their functions in the digestion of blood. In P. geometra, the part of the midgut that is devoid of microvilli is responsible for the accumulation of blood, while the epithelium of the remaining part of the midgut, which has a distinct regionalization in the distribution of organelles, plays a role in its absorption and secretion. Glycogen granules in the intestinal epithelium indicate its role in the accumulation of sugar. The comparison of the ultrastructure of midgut epithelium in juvenile and adult specimens suggests that electron-dense granules observed in the apical cytoplasm of digestive cells take part in enzyme accumulation. Numerous microorganisms were observed in the mycetome, which is composed of two large oval diverticles that connect with the esophagus via thin ducts. Similar microorganisms also occurred in the cytoplasm of the epithelium in the esophagus, the crop, the intestine, and in their lumen. Microorganisms were observed both in fed adult and unfed juvenile specimens of P. geometra, which strongly suggests that vertical transmission occurs from parent to offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Piotr Świątek
- Department of Animal Histology and Embryology, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, 40-007 Katowice, Poland
| | - Michalina Kszuk
- Department of Animal Histology and Embryology, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, 40-007 Katowice, Poland
| | - Kinga Główczyk
- Department of Animal Histology and Embryology, University of Silesia, Bankowa 9, 40-007 Katowice, Poland
| | - Aleksander Bielecki
- Department of Zoology, University of Warmia and Mazury, Oczapowskiego 5, 10-967 Olsztyn-Kortowo, Poland
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Cortez M, Provençano A, Silva C, Mello C, Zimmermann L, Schaub G, Garcia E, Azambuja P, Gonzalez M. Trypanosoma cruzi: Effects of azadirachtin and ecdysone on the dynamic development in Rhodnius prolixus larvae. Exp Parasitol 2012; 131:363-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2012.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2011] [Revised: 05/08/2012] [Accepted: 05/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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da Cunha FM, Caetano FH, Wanderley-Teixeira V, Torres JB, Teixeira AAC, Alves LC. Ultra-structure and histochemistry of digestive cells of Podisus nigrispinus (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) fed with prey reared on bt-cotton. Micron 2011; 43:245-50. [PMID: 21900014 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2011.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2011] [Revised: 08/04/2011] [Accepted: 08/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The toxic effects of Bt proteins from the body of the prey/host to predators and parasitoids have been investigated as a route of impact on non-target insects of Bt crops. This research aimed to analyze ultrastructural changes and histochemistry in digestive cells of the middle region of the midgut of Podisus nigrispinus fed, since its second instar, with Spodoptera frugiperda reared on Bt cotton variety Acala90 B, which expresses the toxin Cry 1Ac, and its non-Bt isoline Acala 90. Fragments of the midgut of P. nigrispinus were analyzed by electron microscopy. For the histochemical analysis, Bromophenol Blue, Periodic Acid Schiff von Kossa, Alcian Blue pH 2.5 and Sudan Black were used. The Cry1Ac toxin of Bt cotton ingested by S. frugiperda promotes a disorganization in the perimicrovillar matrix of P. nigrispinus (third trophic level), thus generating ultrastructural changes in the digestive cells, as elongation of microvilli, presence of spherocrystals and granules of different electron densities, in addition to altering the distribution pattern of glycogen, lipids and calcium of these cells in the median region of the midgut. Thus, we conclude that species moderately susceptible to Cry1Ac toxin, such as S. frugiperda, can acquire this toxin and expose it to P. nigrispinus, which can interfere with your ability to predation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franklin M da Cunha
- Department of Agronomy-Entomology, Rural Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Dois Irmãos, 52171-900, Recife, PE, Brazil.
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Genta FA, Souza RS, Garcia ES, Azambuja P. Phenol oxidases from Rhodnius prolixus: temporal and tissue expression pattern and regulation by ecdysone. J Insect Physiol 2010; 56:1253-1259. [PMID: 20361973 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2010.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2009] [Revised: 03/22/2010] [Accepted: 03/23/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Rhodnius prolixus 5th instar nymphs have significant PO enzymatic activity in the anterior midgut, fat body and hemolymph. The tissue with the major amount of PO activity is the anterior midgut while those with higher specific activities are the fat body and hemolymph. In this work the temporal pattern of PO enzymatic activity in different tissues was investigated. In fat body, PO peaks occur at 7, 12 and 16 days after a blood meal. In hemolymph, PO diminishes until day 7, and then recovers by day 14. In the anterior midgut tissue, PO peaks on day 9 and just before ecdysis; a similar pattern was observed in the anterior midgut contents. Some of these activities are dependent on the release of ecdysone, as feeding blood meal containing azadirachtin suppresses them and ecdysone treatment counteracts this effect. These results suggest that during the development of the 5th instar, the insect has natural regulating cycles of basal PO expression and activation, which could be related to the occurrence of natural infections. The differences in temporal patterns of activity and the effects of azadirachtin and ecdysone in each organ suggest that, at least in R. prolixus, different tissues are expressing different PO genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- F A Genta
- Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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Stiebler R, Timm BL, Oliveira PL, Hearne GR, Egan TJ, Oliveira MF. On the physico-chemical and physiological requirements of hemozoin formation promoted by perimicrovillar membranes in Rhodnius prolixus midgut. Insect Biochem Mol Biol 2010; 40:284-292. [PMID: 20060043 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2009.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2009] [Revised: 12/21/2009] [Accepted: 12/22/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Triatomine insects are obligatory blood-feeders that detoxify most of the hemoglobin-derived heme through its crystallization into hemozoin (Hz). Previous evidence demonstrates the key role of midgut perimicrovillar membranes (PMVM) on heme crystallization in triatomines. Here, we investigated some of the physico-chemical and physiological aspects of heme crystallization induced by Rhodnius prolixus PMVM. Hz formation in vitro proceeded optimally at pH 4.8 and 28 degrees C, apparently involving three kinetically distinct mechanisms along this process. Furthermore, the insect feeding status and age affected PMVM-induced heme crystallization whereas pharmacological blockage of PMVM formation by azadirachtin, reduced hemoglobin digestion and Hz formation in vivo. Mössbauer spectrometry analyses of R. prolixus midgut showed that Hz represents the only measurable iron species found four days after a blood meal. Autocatalytic heme crystallization to Hz is revealed to be an inefficient process and this conversion is further reduced as the Hz concentration increases. Also, PMVM-derived lipids were able to induce rapid Hz formation, regardless of the diet composition. These results indicate that PMVM-driven Hz formation in R. prolixus midgut occurs at physiologically relevant physico-chemical conditions and that lipids derived from this structure play an important role in heme crystallization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Stiebler
- Laboratório de Bioquímica Redox, Programa de Biologia Molecular e Biotecnologia, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Teixeira ARL, Gomes C, Lozzi SP, Hecht MM, Rosa ADC, Monteiro PS, Bussacos AC, Nitz N, McManus C. Environment, interactions between Trypanosoma cruzi and its host, and health. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2009; 25 Suppl 1:S32-44. [PMID: 19287864 DOI: 10.1590/s0102-311x2009001300004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2007] [Accepted: 04/09/2008] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
An epidemiological chain involving Trypanosoma cruzi is discussed at the environmental level, and in terms of fine molecular interactions in invertebrate and vertebrate hosts dwelling in different ecosystems. This protozoan has a complex, genetically controlled plasticity, which confers adaptation to approximately 40 blood-sucking triatomine species and to over 1,000 mammalian species, fulfilling diverse metabolic requirements in its complex life-cycle. The Tr. cruzi infections are deeply embedded in countless ecotypes, where they are difficult to defeat using the control methods that are currently available. Many more field and laboratory studies are required to obtain data and information that may be used for the control and prevention of Tr. cruzi infections and their various disease manifestations. Emphasis should be placed on those sensitive interactions at cellular and environmental levels that could become selected targets for disease prevention. In the short term, new technologies for social mobilization should be used by people and organizations working for justice and equality through health information and promotion. A mass media directed program could deliver education, information and communication to protect the inhabitants at risk of contracting Tr. cruzi infections.
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Azevedo DO, Neves CA, Mallet JRDS, Gonçalves TCM, Zanuncio JC, Serrão JE. Notes on midgut ultrastructure of cimex hemipterus (Hemiptera: Cimicidae). J Med Entomol 2009; 46:435-41. [PMID: 19496410 DOI: 10.1603/033.046.0304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
This work studied the ultrastructure of the midgut cells of Cimex hemipterus Fabricius (Hemiptera: Cimicidae). The midgut of adult insects was analyzed on different days after a bloodmeal, and three anatomical regions with different digestive functions were apparent. In the anterior midgut, the digestive cells had many spherocrystals, lipid inclusions, and glycogen deposits, suggesting a role in water absorption, ion regulation, digestion, and storage of lipids and sugars. The digestive cells in the middle midgut contained secretory granules in the apical cytoplasm, lysosomes, and large amounts of rough endoplasmic reticulum, suggesting that this midgut region was active in digestive processes. The posterior midgut contained digestive cells with secretory vesicles, lysosomes, rough endoplasmic reticulum, and spherocrystals, suggesting digestion and ion/water absorption. Also, there was strong evidence that the posterior midgut may be the major site of nutrient absorption. The hematophagous heteropteran groups share many of these blood digestion mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dihego Oliveira Azevedo
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Av. PH Rolfs, s/n, Viçosa, MG, CEP 36570-000, Brazil
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Albuquerque-Cunha JM, Gonzalez MS, Garcia ES, Mello CB, Azambuja P, Almeida JCA, de Souza W, Nogueira NFS. Cytochemical characterization of microvillar and perimicrovillar membranes in the posterior midgut epithelium of Rhodnius prolixus. Arthropod Struct Dev 2009; 38:31-44. [PMID: 18602023 DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2008.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2007] [Revised: 05/30/2008] [Accepted: 06/01/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Perimicrovillar membranes (PMM) are structures present on the surface of midgut epithelial cells of the hematophagous insect, Rhodnius prolixus. They cover the microvilli and are especially evident 10 days after blood meal, providing the compartmentalization of the enzymatic processes in the intestinal microenvironment. Using an enzyme cytochemical approach, Mg2+-ATPase and ouabain-sensitive Na+K+-ATPase activities were observed in the plasma (or microvillar) membrane (MM) of midgut cells and in the PMM. In contrast, alkaline phosphatase was only detected in MM. Using cationized ferritin and colloidal iron hydroxide particles, anionic sites were found only on the luminal surface of the PMM. Using fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled lectins, residues of alpha-d-galactose, mannose, N-acetyl-neuraminic acid, N-acetyl-d-galactosamine and N-acetyl-galactosamine-alpha-1,3-galactose were detected on the apical surface of posterior midgut epithelial cells. On the other hand, using FITC-labeled neoglycoproteins (NGP) it was possible to detect the presence of carbohydrate binding molecules (CBM) recognizing N-acetyl-d-galactosamine, alpha-d-mannose, alpha-l-fucose and alpha-d-glucose in the posterior midgut epithelium. The use of digitonin showed the presence of sterols in the MM and PMM. These results have led the authors to suggest that for some components the PMM resembles the MM lining the midgut cells of R. prolixus, composing a system which covers the microvilli and stretches to the luminal space.
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Affiliation(s)
- José M Albuquerque-Cunha
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense, Avenida Alberto Lamego, 2000, Horto, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 28.015-620, Brazil
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Alves CR, Albuquerque-Cunha JM, Mello CB, Garcia ES, Nogueira NF, Bourguingnon SC, de Souza W, Azambuja P, Gonzalez MS. Trypanosoma cruzi: attachment to perimicrovillar membrane glycoproteins of Rhodnius prolixus. Exp Parasitol 2007; 116:44-52. [PMID: 17250827 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2006.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2006] [Revised: 11/10/2006] [Accepted: 11/20/2006] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Studies were carried out to identify proteins involved in the interface of Trypanosoma cruzi with the perimicrovillar membranes (PMM) of Rhodnius prolixus. Video microscopy experiments demonstrated high level of adhesion of T. cruzi Dm 28c epimastigotes to the surface of posterior midgut cells of non-treated R. prolixus. The parasites however were unable to attach to gut cells obtained from decapitated or azadirachtin-treated insects. The influence of carbohydrates on the adhesion to insect midgut was confirmed by inhibition of parasite attachment after midgut incubation with N-acetylgalactosamine, N-acetylmannosamine, N-acetylglucosamine, D-galactose, D-mannose or sialic acid. We observed that hydrophobic proteins in the surface of epimastigotes bind to polypeptides with 47.7, 45.5, 44, 43, 40.5, 36, 31 and 13kDa from R. prolixus PMM and that pre-incubation of lectins specifically inhibited binding to 31, 40.5, 44 and 45.5kDa proteins. We suggest that glycoproteins from PMM and hydrophobic proteins from epimastigotes are important for the adhesion of the parasite to the posterior midgut cells of the vector.
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Affiliation(s)
- C R Alves
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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