1
|
Duraisamy R, Al-Shar'i NA, Chandrashekharappa S, Deb PK, Gleiser RM, Tratrat C, Chopra D, Muthukurpalya Bhojegowd MR, Thirumalai D, Morsy MA, Ibrahim YF, Mohanlall V, Venugopala KN. Synthesis, biological evaluation, and computational investigation of ethyl 2,4,6-trisubstituted-1,4-dihydropyrimidine-5-carboxylates as potential larvicidal agents against Anopheles arabiensis. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:4016-4028. [PMID: 37259506 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2217929] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Malaria is one of the most known vector-borne diseases caused by female Anopheles mosquito bites. According to WHO, about 247 million cases of malaria and 619,000 deaths were estimated worldwide in 2021, of which 95% of the cases and 96% of deaths occurred in the African region. Sadly, about 80% of all malaria deaths were of children under five years old. Despite the availability of different insecticides used to control this disease, the emergence of drug-resistant mosquitoes threatens public health. This, in turn, highlighted the need for new larvicidal agents that are effective at different larval life stages. This study aimed to identify novel larvicidal agents. To this end, a series of ethyl 2,4,6-trisubstituted-1,4-dihydropyrimidine-5-carboxylates 8a-i was synthesized using a three-step chemical synthetic approach via a Biginelli reaction employed as a key step. All title compounds were screened against Anopheles arabiensis to determine their larvicidal activities. Among them, two derivatives, ethyl 2-((4-bromophenyl)amino)-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-6-methyl-1,4-dihydropyrimidine-5-carboxylate 8b and ethyl 2-((4-bromo-2-cyanophenyl)amino)-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-6-methyl-1,4-dihydropyrimidine-5-carboxylate 8f, showed the highest larvicidal activity, with mortality of 94% and 91%, respectively, and emerged as potential larvicidal agents. In addition, computational studies, including molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations, were carried out to investigate their mechanism of action. The computational results showed that acetylcholinesterase appears to be a plausible molecular target for their larvicidal property.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramasamy Duraisamy
- Organic Synthesis and Nano-Bio Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Thiruvalluvar University, Vellore, India
| | - Nizar A Al-Shar'i
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Sandeep Chandrashekharappa
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER-R) Raebareli, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - Pran Kishore Deb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Raquel M Gleiser
- CREAN-IMBIV (CONICET-UNC), Universidad Nacional de Cordoba, Cordoba, Argentina
| | - Christophe Tratrat
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Deepak Chopra
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | | | - Dhakshanamurthy Thirumalai
- Organic Synthesis and Nano-Bio Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Thiruvalluvar University, Vellore, India
| | - Mohamed A Morsy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, El-Minia, Egypt
| | - Yasmine F Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, El-Minia, Egypt
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Viresh Mohanlall
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Katharigatta N Venugopala
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Alvarenga PH, Alves E Silva TL, Suzuki M, Nardone G, Cecilio P, Vega-Rodriguez J, Ribeiro JMC, Andersen JF. Comprehensive Proteomics Analysis of the Hemolymph Composition of Sugar-Fed Aedes aegypti Female and Male Mosquitoes. J Proteome Res 2024; 23:1471-1487. [PMID: 38576391 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.3c00918] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
In arthropods, hemolymph carries immune cells and solubilizes and transports nutrients, hormones, and other molecules that are involved in diverse physiological processes including immunity, metabolism, and reproduction. However, despite such physiological importance, little is known about its composition. We applied mass spectrometry-based label-free quantification approaches to study the proteome of hemolymph perfused from sugar-fed female and male Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. A total of 1403 proteins were identified, out of which 447 of them were predicted to be extracellular. In both sexes, almost half of these extracellular proteins were predicted to be involved in defense/immune response, and their relative abundances (based on their intensity-based absolute quantification, iBAQ) were 37.9 and 33.2%, respectively. Interestingly, among them, 102 serine proteases/serine protease-homologues were identified, with almost half of them containing CLIP regulatory domains. Moreover, proteins belonging to families classically described as chemoreceptors, such as odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) and chemosensory proteins (CSPs), were also highly abundant in the hemolymph of both sexes. Our data provide a comprehensive catalogue of A. aegypti hemolymph basal protein content, revealing numerous unexplored targets for future research on mosquito physiology and disease transmission. It also provides a reference for future studies on the effect of blood meal and infection on hemolymph composition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patricia H Alvarenga
- Vector Biology Section, Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIH-NIAID, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Thiago Luiz Alves E Silva
- Molecular Parasitology and Entomology Unit, Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIH-NIAID, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Motoshi Suzuki
- Protein and Chemistry Section, Research Technologies Branch, NIH-NIAID, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Glenn Nardone
- Protein and Chemistry Section, Research Technologies Branch, NIH-NIAID, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Pedro Cecilio
- Vector Biology Section, Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIH-NIAID, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Joel Vega-Rodriguez
- Molecular Parasitology and Entomology Unit, Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIH-NIAID, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Jose M C Ribeiro
- Vector Biology Section, Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIH-NIAID, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - John F Andersen
- Vector Biology Section, Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIH-NIAID, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Hamidian M, Salehi A, Naghiha R, Movahhedi Dehnavi M, Mohammadi H, Nejad Mirfathi M, Mojarab-Mahboubkar M, Azizi R. Biological activity of essential oils from Ferulago angulata and Ferula assa-foetida against food-related microorganisms (antimicrobial) and Ephestia kuehniella as a storage pest (insecticidal); an in vitro and in silico study. Fitoterapia 2024; 175:105937. [PMID: 38565381 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2024.105937] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Misuse of synthetic pesticides and antimicrobials in agriculture and the food industry has resulted in food contamination, promoting resistant pests and pathogen strains and hazards for humanity and the environment. Therefore, ever-increasing concern about synthetic chemicals has stimulated interest in eco-friendly compounds. Ferulago angulata (Schltdl.) Boiss. and Ferula assa-foetida L., as medicinal species with restricted natural distribution and unknown biological potential, aimed at investigation of their essential oil (EO) biological properties, were subjected. Z-β-Ocimene and Z-1-Propenyl-sec-butyl disulfide molecules were identified as the major composition of the essential oil of the fruits of F. angulata and F. assa-foetida, respectively. In vitro antimicrobial activity and membrane destruction investigation by scanning electron microscopy imaging illustrated that F. angulata EO had potent antibacterial activity. Besides, the EOs of both plants exhibited significant anti-yeast activity against Candida albicans. In relation to insecticidal activity, both EOs indicated appropriate potential against Ephestia kuehniella; however, the F. assa-foetida EO had more toxicity on the studied pest. Among several insecticidal-related targets, acetylcholinesterase was identified as the main target of EO based on the molecular docking approach. Hence, in line with in vitro results, in silico evaluation determined that F. assa-foetida has a higher potential for inhibiting acetylcholinesterase and, consequently, better insecticide properties. Overall, in addition to the antioxidant properties of both EO, F. angulata EO could serve as an effective prevention against microbial spoilage and foodborne pathogens, and F. assa-foetida EO holds promise as a multi-purpose and natural biocide for yeast contamination and pest management particularly against E. kuehniella.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hamidian
- Department of Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Yasouj University, Iran
| | - Amin Salehi
- Department of Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Yasouj University, Iran.
| | - Reza Naghiha
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Yasouj University, Yasouj, Iran; Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | | | | | | | | | - Roya Azizi
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Agricultural Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
da Costa RA, da Costa ADSS, da Rocha JAP, Lima MRDC, da Rocha ECM, Nascimento FCDA, Gomes AJB, do Rego JDAR, Brasil DDSB. Exploring Natural Alkaloids from Brazilian Biodiversity as Potential Inhibitors of the Aedes aegypti Juvenile Hormone Enzyme: A Computational Approach for Vector Mosquito Control. Molecules 2023; 28:6871. [PMID: 37836714 PMCID: PMC10574778 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28196871] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This study explores the potential inhibitory activity of alkaloids, a class of natural compounds isolated from Brazilian biodiversity, against the mJHBP enzyme of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. This mosquito is a significant vector of diseases such as dengue, zika, and chikungunya. The interactions between the ligands and the enzyme at the molecular level were evaluated using computational techniques such as molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD), and molecular mechanics with generalized Born surface area (MMGBSA) free energy calculation. The findings suggest that these compounds exhibit a high binding affinity with the enzyme, as confirmed by the binding free energies obtained in the simulation. Furthermore, the specific enzyme residues that contribute the most to the stability of the complex with the compounds were identified: specifically, Tyr33, Trp53, Tyr64, and Tyr129. Notably, Tyr129 residues were previously identified as crucial in the enzyme inhibition process. This observation underscores the significance of the research findings and the potential of the evaluated compounds as natural insecticides against Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. These results could stimulate the development of new vector control agents that are more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renato Araújo da Costa
- Laboratory of Biosolutions and Bioplastics of the Amazon, Graduate Program in Science and Environment, Institute of Exact and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; (A.d.S.S.d.C.); (F.C.d.A.N.); (J.d.A.R.d.R.); (D.d.S.B.B.)
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Evolution and Microbiology, Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Pará (IFPA) Campus Abaetetuba, Abaetetuba 68440-000, PA, Brazil; (M.R.d.C.L.); (A.J.B.G.)
| | - Andréia do Socorro Silva da Costa
- Laboratory of Biosolutions and Bioplastics of the Amazon, Graduate Program in Science and Environment, Institute of Exact and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; (A.d.S.S.d.C.); (F.C.d.A.N.); (J.d.A.R.d.R.); (D.d.S.B.B.)
| | - João Augusto Pereira da Rocha
- Graduate Program in Chemistry, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; (J.A.P.d.R.); (E.C.M.d.R.)
| | - Marlon Ramires da Costa Lima
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Evolution and Microbiology, Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Pará (IFPA) Campus Abaetetuba, Abaetetuba 68440-000, PA, Brazil; (M.R.d.C.L.); (A.J.B.G.)
| | | | - Fabiana Cristina de Araújo Nascimento
- Laboratory of Biosolutions and Bioplastics of the Amazon, Graduate Program in Science and Environment, Institute of Exact and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; (A.d.S.S.d.C.); (F.C.d.A.N.); (J.d.A.R.d.R.); (D.d.S.B.B.)
| | - Anderson José Baia Gomes
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Evolution and Microbiology, Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Pará (IFPA) Campus Abaetetuba, Abaetetuba 68440-000, PA, Brazil; (M.R.d.C.L.); (A.J.B.G.)
| | - José de Arimatéia Rodrigues do Rego
- Laboratory of Biosolutions and Bioplastics of the Amazon, Graduate Program in Science and Environment, Institute of Exact and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; (A.d.S.S.d.C.); (F.C.d.A.N.); (J.d.A.R.d.R.); (D.d.S.B.B.)
| | - Davi do Socorro Barros Brasil
- Laboratory of Biosolutions and Bioplastics of the Amazon, Graduate Program in Science and Environment, Institute of Exact and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; (A.d.S.S.d.C.); (F.C.d.A.N.); (J.d.A.R.d.R.); (D.d.S.B.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kobenan KC, Kouadio IS, Kouakou M, Silvie P, Kouadio KNB, N'goran KE, Kouakou BJ, Amangoua NF, Tehia KE, Uba AI, Zengin G. In Vitro and Molecular Docking Evaluation of Larvicidal Effects of Essential Oils of Five Aromatic Plants on the Fall Armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda JE. Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) from Ivory Coast. Chem Biodivers 2023; 20:e202300411. [PMID: 37357831 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202300411] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Faced with the serious consequences resulting from the abusive and repeated use of synthetic chemicals, today rethinking crop protection is more than necessary. It is in this context that the essential oils of the Lamiaceae Ocimum gratissimum and Ocimum canum, the Poaceae Cymbopogon citratus and nardus and a Rutaceae Citrus sp. of known chemical compositions were experimented. The evaluation of the larvicidal potential of the essential oils was done by the method of topical application of the test solutions, on the L1-L2 stage larvae from the first generation of S. frugiperda obtained after rearing in an air-conditioned room. Lethal concentrations (LC10 , LC50 and LC90 ) were determined after 48 h. After assessing the larvicidal potential of essential oils, molecular docking was carried out to study protein-ligand interactions and their propensity to bind to insect enzyme sites (AChE). The essential oil of O. gratissimum was the most effective with the lowest lethal concentrations (LC10 =0.91 %, LC50 =1.91 % and LC90 =3.92 %). The least toxic oil to larvae was Citrus sp. (LC10 =5.44 %, LC50 =20.50 % and LC90 =77.41 %). Molecular docking revealed that p-cymene and thymol from O. gratissimum essential oil are structurally similar and bind to the AChE active site via predominantly hydrophobic interactions and a H-bond with Tyr374 in the case of thymol. The essential oil of O. gratissimum constitutes a potential candidate for the development of biological insecticides for the fight against insect pests and for the protection of the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Koffi Christophe Kobenan
- National Center of Agronomic Research (CNRA), Cotton Research Station, Laboratory of Entomology, 01, Bouake, Ivory Coast
| | - Ibrahime Sinan Kouadio
- Physiology and Biochemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Biology, Selçuk, University, 42130, Konya, Turkey
| | - Malanno Kouakou
- National Center of Agronomic Research (CNRA), Cotton Research Station, Laboratory of Entomology, 01, Bouake, Ivory Coast
| | - Pierre Silvie
- Plant Health Institute, University of Montpellier, 34090, Montpellier, France
| | - Kra Norbert Bini Kouadio
- National Center of Agronomic Research (CNRA), Cotton Research Station, Laboratory of Entomology, 01, Bouake, Ivory Coast
| | - Kouadio Emmanuel N'goran
- National Center of Agronomic Research (CNRA), Cotton Research Station, Laboratory of Entomology, 01, Bouake, Ivory Coast
| | - Brou Julien Kouakou
- National Center of Agronomic Research (CNRA), Cotton Research Station, Laboratory of Entomology, 01, Bouake, Ivory Coast
| | - Nogbou Ferdinand Amangoua
- National Center of Agronomic Research (CNRA), Cotton Research Station, Laboratory of Entomology, 01, Bouake, Ivory Coast
| | - Kouakou Etienne Tehia
- National Center of Agronomic Research (CNRA), Cotton Research Station, Laboratory of Entomology, 01, Bouake, Ivory Coast
| | - Abdullahi Ibrahim Uba
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Istanbul AREL University, 34537, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Gokhan Zengin
- Physiology and Biochemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Biology, Selçuk, University, 42130, Konya, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Corrêa EJA, Carvalho FC, de Castro Oliveira JA, Bertolucci SKV, Scotti MT, Silveira CH, Guedes FC, Melo JOF, de Melo-Minardi RC, de Lima LHF. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms of essential oils' insecticidal action using a novel cheminformatics protocol. Sci Rep 2023; 13:4598. [PMID: 36944648 PMCID: PMC10028760 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29981-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Essential oils (EOs) are a promising source for novel environmentally safe insecticides. However, the structural diversity of their compounds poses challenges to accurately elucidate their biological mechanisms of action. We present a new chemoinformatics methodology aimed at predicting the impact of essential oil (EO) compounds on the molecular targets of commercial insecticides. Our approach merges virtual screening, chemoinformatics, and machine learning to identify custom signatures and reference molecule clusters. By assigning a molecule to a cluster, we can determine its most likely interaction targets. Our findings reveal that the main targets of EOs are juvenile hormone-specific proteins (JHBP and MET) and octopamine receptor agonists (OctpRago). Three of the twenty clusters show strong similarities to the juvenile hormone, steroids, and biogenic amines. For instance, the methodology successfully identified E-Nerolidol, for which literature points indications of disrupting insect metamorphosis and neurochemistry, as a potential insecticide in these pathways. We validated the predictions through experimental bioassays, observing symptoms in blowflies that were consistent with the computational results. This new approach sheds a higher light on the ways of action of EO compounds in nature and biotechnology. It also opens new possibilities for understanding how molecules can interfere with biological systems and has broad implications for areas such as drug design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo José Azevedo Corrêa
- Multicenter Program in Postgraduate in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of São João del-Rei, Campus Divinópolis, Divinópolis, MG, Brazil
- Minas Gerais Agricultural Research Company (EPAMIG), Pitangui, MG, Brazil
| | - Frederico Chaves Carvalho
- Department of Computer Science, Institute of Exact Sciences-ICEx, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Campus Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Suzan Kelly Vilela Bertolucci
- Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Medicinal Plants, Department of Agriculture, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, MG, Brazil
| | - Marcus Tullius Scotti
- Chemistry Department, Exact and Nature Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraiba, Campus I, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | | | - Fabiana Costa Guedes
- Technological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Itajubá, Itabira, MG, Brazil
| | - Júlio Onésio Ferreira Melo
- Department of Exact and Biological Sciences, Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Sete Lagoas Campus, Sete Lagoas, MG, Brazil
| | - Raquel Cardoso de Melo-Minardi
- Department of Computer Science, Institute of Exact Sciences-ICEx, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Campus Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Henrique França de Lima
- Multicenter Program in Postgraduate in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of São João del-Rei, Campus Divinópolis, Divinópolis, MG, Brazil.
- Department of Exact and Biological Sciences, Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Sete Lagoas Campus, Sete Lagoas, MG, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lu S, Martin-Martin I, Ribeiro JM, Calvo E. A deeper insight into the sialome of male and female Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:135. [PMID: 36941562 PMCID: PMC10027276 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09236-1] [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] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION During evolution, blood-feeding arthropods developed a complex salivary mixture that can interfere with host haemostatic and immune response, favoring blood acquisition and pathogen transmission. Therefore, a survey of the salivary gland contents can lead to the identification of molecules with potent pharmacological activity in addition to increase our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the hematophagic behaviour of arthropods. The southern house mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatus, is a vector of several pathogenic agents, including viruses and filarial parasites that can affect humans and wild animals. RESULTS Previously, a Sanger-based transcriptome of the salivary glands (sialome) of adult C. quinquefasciatus females was published based on the sequencing of 503 clones organized into 281 clusters. Here, we revisited the southern mosquito sialome using an Illumina-based RNA-sequencing approach of both male and female salivary glands. Our analysis resulted in the identification of 7,539 coding DNA sequences (CDS) that were functionally annotated into 25 classes, in addition to 159 long non-coding RNA (LncRNA). Additionally, comparison of male and female libraries allowed the identification of female-enriched transcripts that are potentially related to blood acquisition and/or pathogen transmission. CONCLUSION Together, these findings represent an extended reference for the identification and characterization of the proteins containing relevant pharmacological activity in the salivary glands of C. quinquefasciatus mosquitoes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Lu
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ines Martin-Martin
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Laboratory of Medical Entomology, National Center for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose M Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Eric Calvo
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Alvarenga PH, Andersen JF. An Overview of D7 Protein Structure and Physiological Roles in Blood-Feeding Nematocera. Biology (Basel) 2022; 12:biology12010039. [PMID: 36671732 PMCID: PMC9855781 DOI: 10.3390/biology12010039] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Each time an insect bites a vertebrate host, skin and vascular injury caused by piercing triggers a series of responses including hemostasis, inflammation and immunity. In place, this set of redundant and interconnected responses would ultimately cause blood coagulation, itching and pain leading to host awareness, resulting in feeding interruption in the best-case scenario. Nevertheless, hematophagous arthropod saliva contains a complex cocktail of molecules that are crucial to the success of blood-feeding. Among important protein families described so far in the saliva of blood sucking arthropods, is the D7, abundantly expressed in blood feeding Nematocera. D7 proteins are distantly related to insect Odorant-Binding Proteins (OBP), and despite low sequence identity, observation of structural similarity led to the suggestion that like OBPs, they should bind/sequester small hydrophobic compounds. Members belonging to this family are divided in short forms and long forms, containing one or two OBP-like domains, respectively. Here, we provide a review of D7 proteins structure and function, discussing how gene duplication and some modifications in their OBP-like domains during the course of evolution lead to gain and loss of function among different hematophagous Diptera species.
Collapse
|
9
|
Guo N, Ma H, Han H, Yan F, Gao H, Zhang Y, Gao S. Phenotypic and Differential Gene Expression Analyses of Phase Transition in Oedaleus asiaticus under High-Density Population Stress. Insects 2022; 13:1034. [PMID: 36354858 PMCID: PMC9697361 DOI: 10.3390/insects13111034] [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] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The high-density-dependent phase change from solitary to gregarious individuals in locusts is a typical example of phenotypic plasticity. However, the underlying molecular mechanism is not clear. In this study, first, Oedaleus asiaticus were treated with high-density population stress and then analyzed by Illumina sequencing on days 1, 3, 5, and 7 of the body color change to identify the stage-specific differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The KEGG pathway enrichment analysis of the identified DEGs revealed their role in metabolic pathways. Furthermore, the expression patterns of the nine key DEGs were studied in detail; this showed that the material change in locusts began on the third day of the high-density treatment, with the number of DEGs being the largest, indicating the importance of this period in the phase transition. In addition, the phenotypic change involved several key genes of important regulatory pathways, possibly working in a complex network. Phenotypic plasticity in locusts is multifactorial, involving multilevel material network interactions. This study improves the mechanistic understanding of phenotypic variation in insects at the genetic level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Na Guo
- Institute of Grassland Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hohhot 010010, China
| | - Hongyue Ma
- Research Center for Grassland Entomology, Inner Mongolia University for Nationalities, Tongliao 028000, China
| | - Haibin Han
- Institute of Grassland Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hohhot 010010, China
| | - Feng Yan
- Forest Pest Management and Quarantine Station of Ordos, Ordos 017010, China
| | - Haiyan Gao
- Institute of Grassland Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hohhot 010010, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Institute of Grassland Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hohhot 010010, China
| | - Shujing Gao
- Institute of Grassland Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Hohhot 010010, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lima LR, Bastos RS, Ferreira EFB, Leão RP, Araújo PHF, Pita SSDR, De Freitas HF, Espejo-Román JM, Dos Santos ELVS, Ramos RDS, Macêdo WJC, Santos CBR. Identification of Potential New Aedes aegypti Juvenile Hormone Inhibitors from N-Acyl Piperidine Derivatives: A Bioinformatics Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179927. [PMID: 36077329 PMCID: PMC9456062 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aedes aegypti mosquitoes transmit several human pathogens that cause millions of deaths worldwide, mainly in Latin America. The indiscriminate use of insecticides has resulted in the development of species resistance to some such compounds. Piperidine, a natural alkaloid isolated from Piper nigrum, has been used as a hit compound due to its larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti. In the present study, piperidine derivatives were studied through in silico methods: pharmacophoric evaluation (PharmaGist), pharmacophoric virtual screening (Pharmit), ADME/Tox prediction (Preadmet/Derek 10.0®), docking calculations (AutoDock 4.2) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation on GROMACS-5.1.4. MP-416 and MP-073 molecules exhibiting ΔG binding (MMPBSA −265.95 ± 1.32 kJ/mol and −124.412 ± 1.08 kJ/mol, respectively) and comparable to holo (ΔG binding = −216.21 ± 0.97) and pyriproxyfen (a well-known larvicidal, ΔG binding= −435.95 ± 2.06 kJ/mol). Considering future in vivo assays, we elaborated the theoretical synthetic route and made predictions of the synthetic accessibility (SA) (SwissADME), lipophilicity and water solubility (SwissADME) of the promising compounds identified in the present study. Our in silico results show that MP-416 and MP-073 molecules could be potent insecticides against the Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lúcio R. Lima
- Graduate Program in Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Modeling, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil
| | - Ruan S. Bastos
- Graduate Program in Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Modeling, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil
| | - Elenilze F. B. Ferreira
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil
- Laboratory of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of the State of Amapá, Macapá 68900-070, AP, Brazil
| | - Rozires P. Leão
- Graduate Program in Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Modeling, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil
| | - Pedro H. F. Araújo
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil
| | - Samuel S. da R. Pita
- Bioinformatics and Molecular Modeling Laboratory, Pharmacy College, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Barão de Jeremoabo, 147, Ondina, Salvador 40170-115, BA, Brazil
| | - Humberto F. De Freitas
- Bioinformatics and Molecular Modeling Laboratory, Pharmacy College, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Barão de Jeremoabo, 147, Ondina, Salvador 40170-115, BA, Brazil
- Health Department, State University of Feira de Santana, Feira de Santana 44036-900, BA, Brazil
| | - José M. Espejo-Román
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus of Cartuja, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Edla L. V. S. Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil
| | - Ryan da S. Ramos
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil
| | - Williams J. C. Macêdo
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Simulation System, Federal Rural University of Amazônia, Rua João Pessoa, 121, Capanema 68700-030, PA, Brazil
| | - Cleydson B. R. Santos
- Graduate Program in Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Modeling, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Da Costa GV, Neto MFA, Da Silva AKP, De Sá EMF, Cancela LCF, Vega JS, Lobato CM, Zuliani JP, Espejo-Román JM, Campos JM, Leite FHA, Santos CBR. Identification of Potential Insect Growth Inhibitor against Aedes aegypti: A Bioinformatics Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23. [PMID: 35897792 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Aedes aegypti is the main vector that transmits viral diseases such as dengue, hemorrhagic dengue, urban yellow fever, zika, and chikungunya. Worldwide, many cases of dengue have been reported in recent years, showing significant growth. The best way to manage diseases transmitted by Aedes aegypti is to control the vector with insecticides, which have already been shown to be toxic to humans; moreover, insects have developed resistance. Thus, the development of new insecticides is considered an emergency. One way to achieve this goal is to apply computational methods based on ligands and target information. In this study, sixteen compounds with acceptable insecticidal activities, with 100% larvicidal activity at low concentrations (2.0 to 0.001 mg·L−1), were selected from the literature. These compounds were used to build up and validate pharmacophore models. Pharmacophore model 6 (AUC = 0.78; BEDROC = 0.6) was used to filter 4793 compounds from the subset of lead-like compounds from the ZINC database; 4142 compounds (dG < 0 kcal/mol) were then aligned to the active site of the juvenile hormone receptor Aedes aegypti (PDB: 5V13), 2240 compounds (LE < −0.40 kcal/mol) were prioritized for molecular docking from the construction of a chitin deacetylase model of Aedes aegypti by the homology modeling of the Bombyx mori species (PDB: 5ZNT), which aligned 1959 compounds (dG < 0 kcal/mol), and 20 compounds (LE < −0.4 kcal/mol) were predicted for pharmacokinetic and toxicological prediction in silico (Preadmet, SwissADMET, and eMolTox programs). Finally, the theoretical routes of compounds M01, M02, M03, M04, and M05 were proposed. Compounds M01−M05 were selected, showing significant differences in pharmacokinetic and toxicological parameters in relation to positive controls and interaction with catalytic residues among key protein sites reported in the literature. For this reason, the molecules investigated here are dual inhibitors of the enzymes chitin synthase and juvenile hormonal protein from insects and humans, characterizing them as potential insecticides against the Aedes aegypti mosquito.
Collapse
|
12
|
Bruno Lobato Rodrigues A, Lopes Martins R, de Menezes Rabelo É, Lopes de Matos J, Lima Santos L, Barreto Brandão L, do Socorro Barbosa Chaves R, Luiz Pena da Costa A, Gomes Faustino C, Maria da Cunha Sá D, Luzia Ferreira Farias A, Susan Moreira da Silva de Almeida S. IN SILICO AND IN VIVO STUDY OF ADULTICIDAL ACTIVITY FROM Ayapana triplinervis ESSENTIAL OILS NANO-EMULSION AGAINST Aedes aegypti. ARAB J CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.arabjc.2022.104033] [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] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
|
13
|
Venugopala KN, Shinu P, Tratrat C, Deb PK, Gleiser RM, Chandrashekharappa S, Chopra D, Attimarad M, Nair AB, Sreeharsha N, Mahomoodally FM, Haroun M, Kandeel M, Asdaq SMB, Mohanlall V, Al-Shar'i NA, Morsy MA. 1,2,3-Triazolyl-tetrahydropyrimidine Conjugates as Potential Sterol Carrier Protein-2 Inhibitors: Larvicidal Activity against the Malaria Vector Anopheles arabiensis and In Silico Molecular Docking Study. Molecules 2022; 27:2676. [PMID: 35566029 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27092676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Alteration of insect growth regulators by the action of inhibitors is becoming an attractive strategy to combat disease-transmitting insects. In the present study, we investigated the larvicidal effect of 1,2,3-triazolyl-pyrimidinone derivatives against the larvae of the mosquito Anopheles arabiensis, a vector of malaria. All compounds demonstrated insecticidal activity against mosquito larvae in a dose-dependent fashion. A preliminary study of the structure-activity relationship indicated that the electron-withdrawing substituent in the para position of the 4-phenyl-pyrimidinone moiety enhanced the molecules' potency. A docking study of these derivatives revealed favorable binding affinity for the sterol carrier protein-2 receptor, a protein present in the intestine of the mosquito larvae. Being effective insecticides against the malaria-transmitting Anopheles arabiensis, 1,2,3-triazole-based pyrimidinones represent a starting point to develop novel inhibitors of insect growth regulators.
Collapse
|
14
|
Gao SS, Li RM, Xue S, Zhang YC, Zhang YL, Wang JS, Zhang KP. Odorant Binding Protein C17 Contributes to the Response to Artemisia vulgaris Oil in Tribolium castaneum. Front Toxicol 2022; 3:627470. [PMID: 35387178 PMCID: PMC8979489 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2021.627470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (T. castaneum), generates great financial losses to the grain storage and food processing industries. Previous studies have shown that essential oil (EO) from Artemisia vulgaris (A. vulgaris) has strong contact toxicity to larvae of the beetle, and odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) contribute to the defense of larvae against A. vulgaris. However, the functions of OBPs in insects defending against plant oil is still not clear. Here, expression of one OBP gene, TcOBPC17, was significantly induced 12–72 h after EO exposure. Furthermore, compared to the control group, RNA interference (RNAi) against TcOBPC17 resulted in a higher mortality rate after EO treatment, which suggests that TcOBPC17 involves in the defense against EO and induces a declining sensitivity to EO. In addition, the tissue expression profile analysis revealed that the expression of TcOBPC17 was more abundant in the metabolic detoxification organs of the head, fat body, epidermis, and hemolymph than in other larval tissue. The expression profile of developmental stages showed that TcOBPC17 had a higher level in early and late adult stages than in other developmental stages. Taken together, these results suggest that TcOBPC17 could participate in the sequestration process of exogenous toxicants in T. castaneum larvae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shan-Shan Gao
- Department of Food and Bioengineering, Innovation and Practice Base for Postdoctors, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| | - Rui-Min Li
- Department of Food and Bioengineering, Innovation and Practice Base for Postdoctors, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China.,College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shuang Xue
- Department of Food and Bioengineering, Innovation and Practice Base for Postdoctors, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| | - Yuan-Chen Zhang
- Department of Food and Bioengineering, Innovation and Practice Base for Postdoctors, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| | - Yong-Lei Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing-Shun Wang
- Department of Food and Bioengineering, Innovation and Practice Base for Postdoctors, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| | - Kun-Peng Zhang
- Department of Food and Bioengineering, Innovation and Practice Base for Postdoctors, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Araújo IF, Marinho VHDS, Sena IDS, Curti JM, Ramos RDS, Ferreira RMA, Souto RNP, Ferreira IM. Larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti and molecular docking studies of compounds extracted from the endophytic fungus Aspergillus sp. isolated from Bertholletia excelsa Humn. & Bonpl. Biotechnol Lett 2022; 44:439-459. [PMID: 35147845 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-022-03220-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Endophytic fungi are microorganisms capable of colonizing the interior of plant tissues without causing damage to them. The study of the secondary metabolites produced by their vast biodiversity fungal is relevant for the discovery of new products for biotechnological and agrochemical applications. In addition, extract of the endophytic fungus Aspergillus sp., isolated from the almonds of Bertholletia excelsa Humn & Bonlp collected in the Brazilian Amazon, oviposition deterrent, and larvicidal activity of against Aedes aegypti. In the oviposition deterrence test was observed that females able to lay eggs preferred the control oviposition sites (46.6%). Furthermore, the extract showed larvicidal activity with LC50 26.86 µg/mL at 24 h and 18.75 µg/mL at 48 h. Molecular docking studies showed the compound Aspergillol B a potent larvicide by to inhibit the acetylcholinesterase enzyme (- 7.74 kcal/mol). These results indicate that compounds from secondary metabolites of Aspergillus sp., isolated from almonds of B. excelsa, are useful biological potential against vectors A. aegypti.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inana F Araújo
- Biocatalysis and Applied Organic Synthesis Laboratory, Collegiate of Chemistry, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, KM 02, Macapá, Amapá, 68902-280, Brazil
| | - Victor Hugo de S Marinho
- Biocatalysis and Applied Organic Synthesis Laboratory, Collegiate of Chemistry, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, KM 02, Macapá, Amapá, 68902-280, Brazil
| | - Iracirema da S Sena
- Biocatalysis and Applied Organic Synthesis Laboratory, Collegiate of Chemistry, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, KM 02, Macapá, Amapá, 68902-280, Brazil
| | - Jhone M Curti
- Biocatalysis and Applied Organic Synthesis Laboratory, Collegiate of Chemistry, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, KM 02, Macapá, Amapá, 68902-280, Brazil
| | - Ryan da S Ramos
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá, AP, 68902-280, Brazil
| | - Ricardo M A Ferreira
- Arthropod Laboratory, Collegiate of Biology, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, KM 02, Macapá, Amapá, 68902-280, Brazil
| | - Raimundo N P Souto
- Arthropod Laboratory, Collegiate of Biology, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, KM 02, Macapá, Amapá, 68902-280, Brazil
| | - Irlon M Ferreira
- Biocatalysis and Applied Organic Synthesis Laboratory, Collegiate of Chemistry, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, KM 02, Macapá, Amapá, 68902-280, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ononamadu CJ, Abdalla M, Ihegboro GO, Li J, Owolarafe TA, John TD, Tian Q. In silico identification and study of potential anti-mosquito juvenile hormone binding protein (MJHBP) compounds as candidates for dengue virus - Vector insecticides. Biochem Biophys Rep 2021; 28:101178. [PMID: 34901473 PMCID: PMC8640742 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2021.101178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dengue has become a huge global health burden. It is currently recognized as the most rapidly spreading mosquito-borne viral disease. Yet, there are currently no licensed vaccines or specific therapeutics to manage the virus, thus, scaling up vector control approaches is important in controlling this viral spread. This study aimed to identify and study in silico, potential anti-mosquito compounds targeting Juvenile hormone (JH) mediated pathways via the Mosquito Juvenile Hormone Binding Protein (MJHBP). The study was implemented using series of computational methods. The query compounds included pyrethroids and those derived from ZINC and ANPDB databases using a simple pharmacophore model in Molecular Operating Environment (MOE). Molecular docking of selected compounds' library was implemented in MOE. The resultant high-score compounds were further validated by molecular dynamics simulation via Maestro 12.3 module and the respective Prime/Molecular Mechanics Generalized Born Surface Area (Prime/MM-GBSA) binding energies computed. The study identified compounds-pyrethroids, natural and synthetic - with high docking energy scores (ranging from 10.91-12.34 kcal/mol). On further analysis of the high-ranking (in terms of docking scores) compounds using MD simulation, the compounds - Ekeberin D4, Maesanin, Silafluofen and ZINC16919139- revealed very low binding energies (-122.99, -72.91 -104.50 and,-74.94 kcal/mol respectively), fairly stable complex and interesting interaction with JH-binding site amino acid residues on MJHBP. Further studies can explore these compounds in vitro/in vivo in the search for more efficient mosquito vector control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohnad Abdalla
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Cultural West Road, Shandong Province, 250012, PR China
| | | | - Jin Li
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Cultural West Road, Shandong Province, 250012, PR China
| | | | - Timothy Datit John
- Federal University Dutse, Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Qiang Tian
- Department of Senile Neurology, The Central Hospital of Taian, Taian, Shandong, 271000, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Guo X, Xuan N, Liu G, Xie H, Lou Q, Arnaud P, Offmann B, Picimbon JF. An Expanded Survey of the Moth PBP/GOBP Clade in Bombyx mori: New Insight into Expression and Functional Roles. Front Physiol 2021; 12:712593. [PMID: 34776998 PMCID: PMC8582636 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.712593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
We studied the expression profile and ontogeny (from the egg stage through the larval stages and pupal stages, to the elderly adult age) of four OBPs from the silkworm moth Bombyx mori. We first showed that male responsiveness to female sex pheromone in the silkworm moth B. mori does not depend on age variation; whereas the expression of BmorPBP1, BmorPBP2, BmorGOBP1, and BmorGOBP2 varies with age. The expression profile analysis revealed that the studied OBPs are expressed in non-olfactory tissues at different developmental stages. In addition, we tested the effect of insecticide exposure on the expression of the four OBPs studied. Exposure to a toxic macrolide insecticide endectocide molecule (abamectin) led to the modulated expression of all four genes in different tissues. The higher expression of OBPs was detected in metabolic tissues, such as the thorax, gut, and fat body. All these data strongly suggest some alternative functions for these proteins other than olfaction. Finally, we carried out ligand docking studies and reported that PBP1 and GOBP2 have the capacity of binding vitamin K1 and multiple different vitamins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xia Guo
- Biotechnology Research Center, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Ning Xuan
- Biotechnology Research Center, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Guoxia Liu
- Biotechnology Research Center, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Hongyan Xie
- Biotechnology Research Center, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Qinian Lou
- Shandong Silkworm Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Yantai, China
| | - Philippe Arnaud
- Protein Engineering and Functionality Unit, UMR CNRS 6286, University of Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Bernard Offmann
- Protein Engineering and Functionality Unit, UMR CNRS 6286, University of Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Jean-François Picimbon
- Biotechnology Research Center, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, China.,School of Bioengineering, QILU University of Technology, Jinan, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Gao S, Lu R, Zhang Y, Sun H, Li S, Zhang K, Li R. Odorant binding protein C12 is involved in the defense against eugenol in Tribolium castaneum. Pestic Biochem Physiol 2021; 179:104968. [PMID: 34802518 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2021.104968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [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: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Tribolium castaneum (T. castaneum) is a worldwide pest of stored grain that mainly harms flour, and not only causes serious loss of flour quality but also leads to deterioration of flour quality. Chemical detection plays a key role in insect behavior, and the role of odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) in insect chemical detection has been widely studied. However, the mechanism of OBPs in insect defense against exogenous toxic substances is still unclear. In this study, biochemical analysis showed that eugenol, the active component of A. vulgaris essential oil, significantly induced the expression of the OBP gene OBPC12 from T. castaneum (TcOBPC12). The mortality of late larvae treated with eugenol was higher than that of the control group after RNA interference (RNAi) against TcOBPC12, which indicates that the OBP gene is involved in the eugenol defense mechanism and leads to a decrease in sensitivity to eugenol. Tissue expression profiling showed that the expression of TcOBPC12 in the epidermis, hemolymph, and intestine was higher than in other larval tissues, and TcOBPC12 was expressed mainly in the epidermis, head, and fat body of adults. The developmental expression profile showed that the expression of TcOBPC12 in late eggs, early and late larval stages, and late adult stages was higher than in other developmental stages. These data suggest that TcOBPC12 may be involved in the absorption of exogenous toxic substances by the larvae from T. castaneum. Our results provide a theoretical basis for the metabolism and degradation mechanism of exogenous toxic substances and help explore more potential target genes of insect pests.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Gao
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, Henan, 455000, China
| | - Ruixue Lu
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, Henan, 455000, China
| | - Yonglei Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Haidi Sun
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, Henan, 455000, China
| | - Siying Li
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, Henan, 455000, China
| | - Kunpeng Zhang
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, Henan, 455000, China
| | - Ruimin Li
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, Henan, 455000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Dong S, Ye Z, Tikhe CV, Tu ZJ, Zwiebel LJ, Dimopoulos G. Pleiotropic Odorant-Binding Proteins Promote Aedes aegypti Reproduction and Flavivirus Transmission. mBio 2021; 12:e0253121. [PMID: 34634943 DOI: 10.1128/mBio.02531-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Insect odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) are small soluble proteins that have been assigned roles in olfaction, but their other potential functions have not been extensively explored. Using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated disruption of Aedes aegyptiObp10 and Obp22, we demonstrate the pleiotropic contribution of these proteins to multiple processes that are essential for vectorial capacity. Mutant mosquitoes have impaired host-seeking and oviposition behavior, reproduction, and arbovirus transmission. Here, we show that Obp22 is linked to the male-determining sex locus (M) on chromosome 1 and is involved in male reproduction, likely by mediating the development of spermatozoa. Although OBP10 and OBP22 are not involved in flavivirus replication, abolition of these proteins significantly reduces transmission of dengue and Zika viruses through a mechanism affecting secretion of viral particles into the saliva. These results extend our current understanding of the role of insect OBPs in insect reproduction and transmission of human pathogens, making them essential determinants of vectorial capacity.
Collapse
|
20
|
Nagy NA, Rácz R, Rimington O, Póliska S, Orozco-terWengel P, Bruford MW, Barta Z. Draft genome of a biparental beetle species, Lethrus apterus. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:301. [PMID: 33902445 PMCID: PMC8074431 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07627-w] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The lack of an understanding about the genomic architecture underpinning parental behaviour in subsocial insects displaying simple parental behaviours prevents the development of a full understanding about the evolutionary origin of sociality. Lethrus apterus is one of the few insect species that has biparental care. Division of labour can be observed between parents during the reproductive period in order to provide food and protection for their offspring. RESULTS Here, we report the draft genome of L. apterus, the first genome in the family Geotrupidae. The final assembly consisted of 286.93 Mbp in 66,933 scaffolds. Completeness analysis found the assembly contained 93.5% of the Endopterygota core BUSCO gene set. Ab initio gene prediction resulted in 25,385 coding genes, whereas homology-based analyses predicted 22,551 protein coding genes. After merging, 20,734 were found during functional annotation. Compared to other publicly available beetle genomes, 23,528 genes among the predicted genes were assigned to orthogroups of which 1664 were in species-specific groups. Additionally, reproduction related genes were found among the predicted genes based on which a reduction in the number of odorant- and pheromone-binding proteins was detected. CONCLUSIONS These genes can be used in further comparative and functional genomic researches which can advance our understanding of the genetic basis and hence the evolution of parental behaviour.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikoletta A Nagy
- MTA-DE Behavioural Ecology Research Group, Department of Evolutionary Zoology, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, Debrecen, H-4032, Hungary.
- Department of Evolutionary Zoology and Human Biology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Rita Rácz
- MTA-DE Behavioural Ecology Research Group, Department of Evolutionary Zoology, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, Debrecen, H-4032, Hungary
- Department of Evolutionary Zoology and Human Biology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | | | - Szilárd Póliska
- Genomic Medicine and Bioinformatic Core Facility, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | | | | | - Zoltán Barta
- MTA-DE Behavioural Ecology Research Group, Department of Evolutionary Zoology, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, Debrecen, H-4032, Hungary
- Department of Evolutionary Zoology and Human Biology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ma HY, Li YY, Li L, Tan Y, Pang BP. Regulation of Juvenile Hormone on Summer Diapause of Geleruca daurica and Its Pathway Analysis. Insects 2021; 12:237. [PMID: 33799822 DOI: 10.3390/insects12030237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Diapause is an arrestment state in development, and plays an important role in life history in insects. It has been thought that a lack in juvenile hormone (JH) results in reproductive diapause occurring at the adult stage. However, we do not fully know about the underlying molecular mechanism. In this study, we proved that the topical application of a JH analog methoprene caused the changes at the transcriptional levels of a great number of genes, inhibited lipid accumulation, and finally delayed the adults entering diapause. Therefore, JH signaling plays an important role in regulating reproductive diapause of G. daurica, a new pest with great outbreaks in Inner Mongolia. Abstract Juvenile hormone (JH) signaling plays an important role in regulation of reproductive diapause in insects. However, we have little understanding of the effect of JH on gene expression at the transcriptome level in diapause. Galeruca daurica is a new pest in the Inner Mongolia grasslands with obligatory summer diapause in the adult stage. Topical application of a JH analog methoprene at the pre-diapause stage delayed the adults entering diapause and inhibited lipid accumulation whereas it did not during diapause. Using Illumina sequencing technology and bioinformatics tools, 54 and 138 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected at 1 and 2 d after treatment, respectively. The KEGG analysis showed that the DEGs were mainly enriched in the metabolism pathways. qRT-PCR analysis indicated that methoprene promoted the expression of genes encoding vitellogenin, fork head transcription factor and Krüppel homolog 1, whereas suppressed the expression of genes encoding juvenile hormone-binding protein, juvenile hormone esterase, juvenile hormone acid methyltransferase, juvenile hormone epoxide hydrolase and fatty acid synthase 2. These results indicate that JH signaling plays an important role in regulating reproductive diapause of G. daurica.
Collapse
|
22
|
Valli M, Atanázio LCV, Monteiro GC, Coelho RR, Demarque DP, Andricopulo AD, Espindola LS, Bolzani VDS. The Potential of Biologically Active Brazilian Plant Species as a Strategy to Search for Molecular Models for Mosquito Control. Planta Med 2021; 87:6-23. [PMID: 33348409 DOI: 10.1055/a-1320-4610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Natural products are a valuable source of biologically active compounds and continue to play an important role in modern drug discovery due to their great structural diversity and unique biological properties. Brazilian biodiversity is one of the most extensive in the world and could be an effective source of new chemical entities for drug discovery. Mosquitoes are vectors for the transmission of dengue, Zika, chikungunya, yellow fever, and many other diseases of public health importance. These diseases have a major impact on tropical and subtropical countries, and their incidence has increased dramatically in recent decades, reaching billions of people at risk worldwide. The prevention of these diseases is mainly through vector control, which is becoming more difficult because of the emergence of resistant mosquito populations to the chemical insecticides. Strategies to provide efficient and safe vector control are needed, and secondary metabolites from plant species from the Brazilian biodiversity, especially Cerrado, that are biologically active for mosquito control are herein highlighted. Also, this is a literature revision of targets as insights to promote advances in the task of developing active compounds for vector control. In view of the expansion and occurrence of arboviruses diseases worldwide, scientific reviews on bioactive natural products are important to provide molecular models for vector control and contribute with effective measures to reduce their incidence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marilia Valli
- Laboratory of Medicinal and Computational Chemistry (LQMC), Centre for Research and Innovation in Biodiversity and Drug Discovery (CIBFar), Institute of Physics of São Carlos, University of São Paulo (USP), São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Letícia Cristina Vieira Atanázio
- Nuclei of Bioassays, Biosynthesis and Ecophysiology of Natural Products (NuBBE), Department of Organic Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Claro Monteiro
- Laboratório de Farmacognosia, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Roberta Ramos Coelho
- Laboratório de Farmacognosia, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Daniel Pecoraro Demarque
- Laboratório de Farmacognosia, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Adriano Defini Andricopulo
- Laboratory of Medicinal and Computational Chemistry (LQMC), Centre for Research and Innovation in Biodiversity and Drug Discovery (CIBFar), Institute of Physics of São Carlos, University of São Paulo (USP), São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Laila Salmen Espindola
- Laboratório de Farmacognosia, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Vanderlan da Silva Bolzani
- Nuclei of Bioassays, Biosynthesis and Ecophysiology of Natural Products (NuBBE), Department of Organic Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Martin-Martin I, Kern O, Brooks S, Smith LB, Valenzuela-Leon PC, Bonilla B, Ackerman H, Calvo E. Biochemical characterization of AeD7L2 and its physiological relevance in blood feeding in the dengue mosquito vector, Aedes aegypti. FEBS J 2020; 288:2014-2029. [PMID: 32799410 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Aedes aegypti saliva facilitates blood meal acquisition through pharmacologically active compounds that prevent host hemostasis. Among these salivary proteins are the D7s, which are highly abundant and have been shown to act as scavengers of biogenic amines and eicosanoids. In this work, we performed comparative structural modeling, characterized the binding capabilities, and assessed the physiological functions of the Ae. aegypti salivary protein AeD7L2 compared to the well-characterized AeD7L1. AeD7L1 and AeD7L2 show different binding affinities to several biogenic amines and biolipids involved in host hemostasis. Interestingly, AeD7L2 tightly binds U-46619, the stable analog of thromboxane A2 (KD = 69.4 nm), which is an important platelet aggregation mediator, while AeD7L1 shows no binding. We tested the ability of these proteins to interfere with the three branches of hemostasis: vasoconstriction, platelet aggregation, and blood coagulation. Pressure myography experiments showed these two proteins reversed isolated resistance artery vasoconstriction induced by either norepinephrine or U-46619. These proteins also inhibited platelet aggregation induced by low doses of collagen or U-46619. However, D7 long proteins did not affect blood coagulation. The different ligand specificity and affinities of AeD7L1 and AeD7L2 matched our experimental observations from studying their effects on vasoconstriction and platelet aggregation, which confirm their role in preventing host hemostasis. This work highlights the complex yet highly specific biological activities of mosquito salivary proteins and serves as another example of the sophisticated biology underlying arthropod blood feeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ines Martin-Martin
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Olivia Kern
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Steven Brooks
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Leticia Barion Smith
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Paola Carolina Valenzuela-Leon
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Brian Bonilla
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Hans Ackerman
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Eric Calvo
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Zhang YC, Gao SS, Xue S, Zhang KP, Wang JS, Li B. Odorant-Binding Proteins Contribute to the Defense of the Red Flour Beetle, Tribolium castaneum, Against Essential Oil of Artemisia vulgaris. Front Physiol 2020; 11:819. [PMID: 32982763 PMCID: PMC7488584 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The function of odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) in insect chemodetection has been extensively studied. However, the role of OBPs in the defense of insects against exogenous toxic substances remains elusive. The red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum, a major pest of stored grains, causes serious economic losses for the agricultural grain and food processing industries. Here, biochemical analysis showed that essential oil (EO) from Artemisia vulgaris, a traditional Chinese medicine, has a strong contact killing effect against larvae of the red flour beetle. Furthermore, one OBP gene, TcOBPC11, was significantly induced after exposure to EO. RNA interference (RNAi) against TcOBPC11 led to higher mortality compared with the controls after EO treatment, suggesting that this OBP gene is associated with defense of the beetle against EO and leads to a decrease in sensitivity to the EO. Tissue expression profiling showed that expression of TcOBPC11 was higher in the fat body, Malpighian tubule, and hemolymph than in other larval tissues, and was mainly expressed in epidermis, fat body, and antennae from the early adult. The developmental expression profile revealed that expression of TcOBPC11 was higher in late larval stages and adult stages than in other developmental stages. These data indicate that TcOBPC11 may be involved in sequestration of exogenous toxicants in the larvae of T. castaneum. Our results provide a theoretical basis for the degradation mechanism of exogenous toxicants and identify potential novel targets for controlling the beetle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-chen Zhang
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| | - Shan-shan Gao
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| | - Shuang Xue
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| | - Kun-peng Zhang
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| | - Jing-shun Wang
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
| | - Bin Li
- College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Martin-Martin I, Paige A, Valenzuela Leon PC, Gittis AG, Kern O, Bonilla B, Chagas AC, Ganesan S, Smith LB, Garboczi DN, Calvo E. ADP binding by the Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito D7 salivary protein enhances blood feeding on mammals. Nat Commun 2020; 11:2911. [PMID: 32518308 PMCID: PMC7283271 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-16665-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
During blood-feeding, mosquito saliva is injected into the skin to facilitate blood meal acquisition. D7 proteins are among the most abundant components of the mosquito saliva. Here we report the ligand binding specificity and physiological relevance of two D7 long proteins from Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito, the vector of filaria parasites or West Nile viruses. CxD7L2 binds biogenic amines and eicosanoids. CxD7L1 exhibits high affinity for ADP and ATP, a binding capacity not reported in any D7. We solve the crystal structure of CxD7L1 in complex with ADP to 1.97 Å resolution. The binding pocket lies between the two protein domains, whereas all known D7s bind ligands either within the N- or the C-terminal domains. We demonstrate that these proteins inhibit hemostasis in ex vivo and in vivo experiments. Our results suggest that the ADP-binding function acquired by CxD7L1 evolved to enhance blood-feeding in mammals, where ADP plays a key role in platelet aggregation. D7 proteins are highly abundant in the salivary glands of several blood feeding insects. Here, the authors study the ligand binding specificity and physiological roles of the mosquito D7 proteins CxD7L1 and CxD7L2, showing that CxD7L1 acquired ADP-binding properties to enhance blood feeding in mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ines Martin-Martin
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Andrew Paige
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Paola Carolina Valenzuela Leon
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Apostolos G Gittis
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Olivia Kern
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Brian Bonilla
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Andrezza Campos Chagas
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Sundar Ganesan
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Leticia Barion Smith
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - David N Garboczi
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Eric Calvo
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Venugopala KN, Ramachandra P, Tratrat C, Gleiser RM, Bhandary S, Chopra D, Morsy MA, Aldhubiab BE, Attimarad M, Nair AB, Sreeharsha N, Venugopala R, Deb PK, Chandrashekharappa S, Khalil HE, Alwassil OI, Abed SN, Bataineh YA, Palenge R, Haroun M, Pottathil S, Girish MB, Akrawi SH, Mohanlall V. Larvicidal Activities of 2-Aryl-2,3-Dihydroquinazolin -4-ones against Malaria Vector Anopheles arabiensis, In Silico ADMET Prediction and Molecular Target Investigation. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25061316. [PMID: 32183140 PMCID: PMC7144721 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25061316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria, affecting all continents, remains one of the life-threatening diseases introduced by parasites that are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. Although insecticides are currently used to reduce malaria transmission, their safety concern for living systems, as well as the environment, is a growing problem. Therefore, the discovery of novel, less toxic, and environmentally safe molecules to effectively combat the control of these vectors is in high demand. In order to identify new potential larvicidal agents, a series of 2-aryl-1,2-dihydroquinazolin-4-one derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their larvicidal activity against Anopheles arabiensis. The in silico absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) properties of the compounds were also investigated and most of the derivatives possessed a favorable ADMET profile. Computational modeling studies of the title compounds demonstrated a favorable binding interaction against the acetylcholinesterase enzyme molecular target. Thus, 2-aryl-1,2-dihydroquinazolin-4-ones were identified as a novel class of Anopheles arabiensis insecticides which can be used as lead molecules for the further development of more potent and safer larvicidal agents for treating malaria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharigatta N. Venugopala
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (C.T.); (M.A.M.); (B.E.A.); (M.A.); (A.B.N.); (N.S.); (H.E.K.); (M.H.); (S.H.A.)
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4001, South Africa;
- Correspondence:
| | - Pushpalatha Ramachandra
- Department of Chemistry, School of Applied Sciences, REVA University, Bangalore 560 064, India; (P.R.); (R.P.)
| | - Christophe Tratrat
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (C.T.); (M.A.M.); (B.E.A.); (M.A.); (A.B.N.); (N.S.); (H.E.K.); (M.H.); (S.H.A.)
| | - Raquel M. Gleiser
- CREAN-IMBIV (UNC-CONICET), Av. Valparaíso s.n., Córdoba, Argentina and FCEFyN, AV. Sarsfield 299, Universidad Nacional de Cordoba, Cordoba 5000, Argentina;
| | - Subhrajyoti Bhandary
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal, Bhopal By-pass Road, Bhauri, Bhopal 462 066, Madhya Pradesh, India; (S.B.); (D.C.)
| | - Deepak Chopra
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal, Bhopal By-pass Road, Bhauri, Bhopal 462 066, Madhya Pradesh, India; (S.B.); (D.C.)
| | - Mohamed A. Morsy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (C.T.); (M.A.M.); (B.E.A.); (M.A.); (A.B.N.); (N.S.); (H.E.K.); (M.H.); (S.H.A.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, El-Minia 61511, Egypt
| | - Bandar E. Aldhubiab
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (C.T.); (M.A.M.); (B.E.A.); (M.A.); (A.B.N.); (N.S.); (H.E.K.); (M.H.); (S.H.A.)
| | - Mahesh Attimarad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (C.T.); (M.A.M.); (B.E.A.); (M.A.); (A.B.N.); (N.S.); (H.E.K.); (M.H.); (S.H.A.)
| | - Anroop B. Nair
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (C.T.); (M.A.M.); (B.E.A.); (M.A.); (A.B.N.); (N.S.); (H.E.K.); (M.H.); (S.H.A.)
| | - Nagaraja Sreeharsha
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (C.T.); (M.A.M.); (B.E.A.); (M.A.); (A.B.N.); (N.S.); (H.E.K.); (M.H.); (S.H.A.)
| | - Rashmi Venugopala
- Department of Public Health Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Howard College Campus, Durban 4001, South Africa;
| | - Pran Kishore Deb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, P.O. Box 1, Amman 19392, Jordan; (P.K.D.); (S.N.A.); (Y.A.B.)
| | - Sandeep Chandrashekharappa
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, NCBS, TIFR, GKVK, Bellary Road, Bangalore 560 065, India;
| | - Hany Ezzat Khalil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (C.T.); (M.A.M.); (B.E.A.); (M.A.); (A.B.N.); (N.S.); (H.E.K.); (M.H.); (S.H.A.)
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia 61519, Egypt
| | - Osama I. Alwassil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11481, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Sara Nidal Abed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, P.O. Box 1, Amman 19392, Jordan; (P.K.D.); (S.N.A.); (Y.A.B.)
| | - Yazan A. Bataineh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, P.O. Box 1, Amman 19392, Jordan; (P.K.D.); (S.N.A.); (Y.A.B.)
| | - Ramachandra Palenge
- Department of Chemistry, School of Applied Sciences, REVA University, Bangalore 560 064, India; (P.R.); (R.P.)
| | - Michelyne Haroun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (C.T.); (M.A.M.); (B.E.A.); (M.A.); (A.B.N.); (N.S.); (H.E.K.); (M.H.); (S.H.A.)
| | - Shinu Pottathil
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Meravanige B. Girish
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Sabah H. Akrawi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (C.T.); (M.A.M.); (B.E.A.); (M.A.); (A.B.N.); (N.S.); (H.E.K.); (M.H.); (S.H.A.)
| | - Viresh Mohanlall
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4001, South Africa;
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Zhao M, Wang W, Ma C, Zhang F, Ma L. Characterization and expression analysis of seven putative JHBPs in the mud crab Scylla paramamosain: Putative relationship with methyl farnesoate. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 241:110390. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2019.110390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
|
28
|
Wang J, Murphy EJ, Nix JC, Jones DNM. Aedes aegypti Odorant Binding Protein 22 selectively binds fatty acids through a conformational change in its C-terminal tail. Sci Rep 2020; 10:3300. [PMID: 32094450 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-60242-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aedes aegypti is the primary vector for transmission of Dengue, Zika and chikungunya viruses. Previously it was shown that Dengue virus infection of the mosquito led to an in increased expression of the odorant binding protein 22 (AeOBP22) within the mosquito salivary gland and that siRNA mediated knockdown of AeOBP22 led to reduced mosquito feeding behaviors. Insect OBPs are implicated in the perception, storage and transport of chemosensory signaling molecules including air-borne odorants and pheromones. AeOBP22 is unusual as it is additionally expressed in multiple tissues, including the antenna, the male reproductive glands and is transferred to females during reproduction, indicating multiple roles in the mosquito life cycle. However, it is unclear what role it plays in these tissues and what ligands it interacts with. Here we present solution and X-ray crystallographic studies that indicate a potential role of AeOBP22 binding to fatty acids, and that the specificity for longer chain fatty acids is regulated by a conformational change in the C-terminal tail that leads to creation of an enlarged binding cavity that enhances binding affinity. This study sheds light onto the native ligands for AeOBP22 and provides insight into its potential functions in different tissues.
Collapse
|
29
|
Liu Z, Han H, Meng F, Jiang Y, Cai J. Dynamic transcriptome profiling exploring cold tolerance in forensically important blow fly, Aldrichina grahami (Diptera: Calliphoridae). BMC Genomics 2020; 21:92. [PMID: 31996132 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-020-6509-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Aldrichina grahami (Diptera: Calliphoridae) is a forensically important fly, which has been widely applied to practical legal investigations. Unlike other necrophagous flies, A. grahami exhibits cold tolerance which helps to maintain its activity during low-temperature months, when other species are usually not active. Hence, A. grahami is considered an important forensic insect especially in cold seasons. In this study, we aim to explore the molecular mechanisms of cold tolerance of A. grahami through transcriptome. Results We collected eggs and larvae (first-instar, second-instar and third-instar) at three different temperatures (4 °C, 12 °C and 20 °C) and performed RNA-seq analyses. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with the cold-tolerance were screened out. The Venn analysis of DEGs from egg to third-instar larvae at three different temperatures showed there were 9 common genes. Candidate biological processes and genes were identified which refer to growth, and development of different temperatures, especially the chitin and cuticle metabolic process. The series-clusters showed crucial and unique trends when the temperature changed. Moreover, by comparing the results of growth and developmental transcriptomes from different temperatures, we found that DEGs belonging to the family of larval cuticle proteins (LCP), pupal cuticle protein (CUP), and heat shock proteins (HSP) have certain differences. Conclusions This study identified functional genes and showed differences in the expression pattern of diverse temperatures. The DEGs series-clusters with increasing or decreasing trends were analyzed which may play an important role in cold-tolerance. Moreover, the findings in LCP, CUP and HSP showed more possible modulations in a cold environment. This work will provide valuable information for the future investigation of the molecular mechanism of cold tolerance in A. grahami.
Collapse
|
30
|
Kim IH, Castillo JC, Aryan A, Martin-Martin I, Nouzova M, Noriega FG, Barletta ABF, Calvo E, Adelman ZN, Ribeiro JMC, Andersen JF. A mosquito juvenile hormone binding protein (mJHBP) regulates the activation of innate immune defenses and hemocyte development. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008288. [PMID: 31961911 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Insects rely on the innate immune system for defense against pathogens, some aspects of which are under hormonal control. Here we provide direct experimental evidence showing that the juvenile hormone-binding protein (mJHBP) of Aedes aegypti is required for the regulation of innate immune responses and the development of mosquito blood cells (hemocytes). Using an mJHBP-deficient mosquito line generated by means of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology we uncovered a mutant phenotype characterized by immunosuppression at the humoral and cellular levels, which profoundly affected susceptibility to bacterial infection. Bacteria-challenged mosquitoes exhibited significantly higher levels of septicemia and mortality relative to the wild type (WT) strain, delayed expression of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), severe developmental dysregulation of embryonic and larval hemocytes (reduction in the total number of hemocytes) and increased differentiation of the granulocyte lineage. Interestingly, injection of recombinant wild type mJHBP protein into adult females three-days before infection was sufficient to restore normal immune function. Similarly, injection of mJHBP into fourth-instar larvae fully restored normal larval/pupal hemocyte populations in emerging adults. More importantly, the recovery of normal immuno-activation and hemocyte development requires the capability of mJHBP to bind JH III. These results strongly suggest that JH III functions in mosquito immunity and hemocyte development in a manner that is perhaps independent of canonical JH signaling, given the lack of developmental and reproductive abnormalities. Because of the prominent role of hemocytes as regulators of mosquito immunity, this novel discovery may have broader implications for the understanding of vector endocrinology, hemocyte development, vector competence and disease transmission. There are many unanswered questions concerning the nature of immune responses of mosquitoes to bacteria, viruses and parasites. This is important because a variety of human pathogens are transmitted by mosquitoes during the process of consuming blood. Much of mosquito physiology is under the control of hormones and we aim to understand a potential role for an important hormone known as juvenile hormone in anti-bacterial immunity. We have produced a strain of the mosquito, Aedes aegypti, that is deficient in the production of a protein that circulates in the blood while carrying juvenile hormone. This strain is shown to have less ability to control bacterial infection, to have lower levels of proteins involved in immunity and to have smaller numbers of blood cells that are known to be important in the mosquito immune response. If the protein is administered to the deficient strain by injection, the immune response and blood cell numbers return to near-normal levels. Other results suggest that the association of the protein with juvenile hormone is important for its ability to function in the immune system. Overall, this study describes an important new protein regulator of mosquito immunity and a potential role of juvenile hormone in this process.
Collapse
|
31
|
Ramirez CE, Nouzova M, Michalkova V, Fernandez-Lima F, Noriega FG. Common structural features facilitate the simultaneous identification and quantification of the five most common juvenile hormones by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Insect Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 116:103287. [PMID: 31760138 PMCID: PMC6983331 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2019.103287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
This study reports the development and application of a liquid chromatography method coupled to electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for the identification and quantification of the five most common juvenile hormone (JH) homologs and methyl farnesoate (MF). The protocol allows the simultaneous analysis in a single LC run of JH I, JH II, JH III, JH III bisepoxide (JHB3) and JH III skipped bisepoxide (JHSB3). The identification of JHs is based on multiple reaction monitoring (MRM), using two of the most abundant fragmentation transitions for each hormone. Addition of deuterated JH III as an internal standard permits the absolute quantification of the different JHs. The JH homologs common structural features led to similar chromatographic behavior, as well as related fragmentation patterns, which facilitated the simultaneous detection of all the homologs in a single LC-MS/MS run. The protocol detects JHs in the low femtomole range, allowing often the analysis of JH in individual insects. Fragmentation of each of the JH homologs generates unique diagnostic ions that permitted the identification and quantification of JHs from samples of different species of Diptera, Lepidoptera, Heteroptera and Hymenoptera. Having a simple protocol, which can undisputedly determine the identity of the homologs present in a particular species, provides us with the opportunity to identify and quantify JHs existing in insects that are pests, vector of diseases or important research models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cesar E Ramirez
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, Miami, USA
| | - Marcela Nouzova
- Department of Biology, Florida International University, Miami, USA; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre CAS, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | | | - Francisco Fernandez-Lima
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, Miami, USA; Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, USA
| | - Fernando G Noriega
- Department of Biology, Florida International University, Miami, USA; Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Ramos RS, Macêdo WJC, Costa JS, da Silva CHTDP, Rosa JMC, da Cruz JN, de Oliveira MS, de Aguiar Andrade EH, E Silva RBL, Souto RNP, Santos CBR. Potential inhibitors of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase and juvenile hormone with insecticidal activity: study of the binding mode via docking and molecular dynamics simulations. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2019; 38:4687-4709. [PMID: 31674282 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2019.1688192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Models validation in QSAR, pharmacophore, docking and others can ensure the accuracy and reliability of future predictions in design and selection of molecules with biological activity. In this study, pyriproxyfen was used as a pivot/template to search the database of the Maybridge Database for potential inhibitors of the enzymes acetylcholinesterase and juvenile hormone as well. The initial virtual screening based on the 3D shape resulted in 2000 molecules with Tanimoto index ranging from 0.58 to 0.88. A new reclassification was performed on the overlapping of positive and negative charges, which resulted in 100 molecules with Tanimoto's electrostatic score ranging from 0.627 to 0.87. Using parameters related to absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion and the pivot molecule, the molecules selected in the previous stage were evaluated regarding these criteria, and 21 were then selected. The pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties were considered and for 12 molecules, the DEREK software not fired any alert of toxicity, which were thus considered satisfactory for prediction of biological activity using the Web server PASS. In the molecular docking with insect acetylcholinesterase, the Maybridge3_002654 molecule had binding affinity of -11.1 kcal/mol, whereas in human acetylcholinesterase, the Maybridge4_001571molecule show in silico affinity of -10.2 kcal/mol, and in the juvenile hormone, the molecule MCULE-8839595892 show in silico affinity value of -11.6 kcal/mol. Subsequent long-trajectory molecular dynamics studies indicated considerable stability of the novel molecules compared to the controls.AbbreviationsQSARquantitative structure-activity relationshipsPASSprediction of activity spectra for substancesCommunicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan S Ramos
- Graduate Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity-Network BIONORTE, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá, Brazil.,Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá, Brazil.,Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Simulation System, Federal Rural University of Amazônia, Capanema, Brazil
| | - Williams J C Macêdo
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá, Brazil.,Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Simulation System, Federal Rural University of Amazônia, Capanema, Brazil
| | - Josivan S Costa
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá, Brazil.,Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Simulation System, Federal Rural University of Amazônia, Capanema, Brazil
| | - Carlos H T de P da Silva
- Computational Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Joaquín M C Rosa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | | | - Mozaniel S de Oliveira
- Program of Post-Graduation in Food Science and Technology, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Brazil
| | - Eloisa H de Aguiar Andrade
- Adolpho Ducke Laboratory, Emílio Goeldi Paraense Museum, Belém, Brazil.,Program of Post-Graduation in Biodiversity and Biotechnology (BIONORTE), Federal University of Pará, Belém, Brazil
| | - Raullyan B L E Silva
- Center of Biodiversity, Institute for Scientific and Technological Research of Amapá (IEPA), Brazil
| | | | - Cleydson B R Santos
- Graduate Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity-Network BIONORTE, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá, Brazil.,Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Tang QF, Shen C, Zhang Y, Yang ZP, Han RR, Wang J. Antennal transcriptome analysis of the maize weevil Sitophilus zeamais: Identification and tissue expression profiling of candidate odorant-binding protein genes. Arch Insect Biochem Physiol 2019; 101:e21542. [PMID: 30820994 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Our bioassays reviewed that antennae played crucial roles in the responses of maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais) to food and sex volatiles. In order to identify the maize weevil odorant-binding protein (OBP) genes, we analyzed its antennal transcriptome. In total, 21,587,928 high-quality clean reads were obtained from RNA-seq, 52,206 unigenes were assembled, and 25,744 unigenes showed significant similarity ( E value < 10 -5 ) to known proteins in the NCBI nonredundant protein database. From those unigenes, we identified 41 candidate OBP proteins, which could be categorized into dimeric OBPs subfamily, minus-C OBPs subfamily, and classical OBPs subfamily. Phylogenic analysis indicated that most maize weevil OBPs were closely related to their orthologues in other beetles of the Superfamily Curculionoidea. We further investigated the expression profiles of those candidate OBP genes by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Twenty-six of forty-one maize weevil OBP genes were highly expressed in the antennae or other parts of the head. The rest were expressed in the legs, wings, or other tested tissues. The antennal transcriptomic data and candidate OBP genes described here provide a basis for the functional studies of the maize weevil chemical perception, which are potential novel targets for pest control strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Feng Tang
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Chen Shen
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Zhi-Peng Yang
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Rong-Rong Han
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
V da Costa G, Ferreira EFB, da S Ramos R, B da Silva L, M F de Sá E, K P da Silva A, M Lobato C, N P Souto R, T de P da Silva CH, B Federico L, M C Rosa J, B R Dos Santos C. Hierarchical Virtual Screening of Potential Insectides Inhibitors of Acetylcholinesterase and Juvenile Hormone from Temephos. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2019; 12:E61. [PMID: 31003398 DOI: 10.3390/ph12020061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762; Diptera: Culicidae) is the main vector transmitting viral diseases such as dengue fever, dengue haemorrhagic fever, urban yellow fever, zika and chikungunya. Worldwide, especially in the Americas and Brazil, many cases of dengue have been reported in recent years, which have shown significant growth. The main control strategy is the elimination of the vector, carried out through various education programs, to change human habits, but the most usual is biological control, together with environmental management and chemical control. The most commonly insecticide used is temephos (an organophosphorus compound), but Aedes aegypti populations have shown resistance and the product is highly toxic, so we chose it as a template molecule to perform a ligand-based virtual screening in the ChemBrigde (DIVERSet-CL subcollection) database, searching for derivatives with similarity in shape (ROCS) and electrostatic potential (EON). Thus, fourty-five molecules were filtered based on their pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties and 11 molecules were selected by a molecular docking study, including binding affinity and mode of interaction. The L46, L66 and L68 molecules show potential inhibitory activity for both the insect (−9.28, −10.08 and −6.78 Kcal/mol, respectively) and human (−6.05, 6.25 and 7.2 Kcal/mol respectively) enzymes, as well as the juvenile hormone protein (−9.2; −10.96 and −8.16 kcal/mol, respectively), showing a significant difference in comparison to the template molecule temephos. Molecules L46, L66 and L68 interacted with important amino acids at each catalytic site of the enzyme reported in the literature. Thus, the molecules here investigated are potential inhibitors for both the acetylcholinesterase enzymes and juvenile hormone protein–from insect and humans, characterizing them as a potential insecticide against the Aedes aegypti mosquito.
Collapse
|
35
|
Jablonka W, Kim IH, Alvarenga PH, Valenzuela JG, Ribeiro JMC, Andersen JF. Functional and structural similarities of D7 proteins in the independently-evolved salivary secretions of sand flies and mosquitoes. Sci Rep 2019; 9:5340. [PMID: 30926880 PMCID: PMC6440969 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-41848-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The habit of blood feeding evolved independently in many insect orders of families. Sand flies and mosquitoes belong to separate lineages of blood-feeding Diptera and are thus considered to have evolved the trait independently. Because of this, sand fly salivary proteins differ structurally from those of mosquitoes, and orthologous groups are nearly impossible to define. An exception is the long-form D7-like proteins that show conservation with their mosquito counterparts of numerous residues associated with the N-terminal domain binding pocket. In mosquitoes, this pocket is responsible for the scavenging of proinflammatory cysteinyl leukotrienes and thromboxanes at the feeding site. Here we show that long-form D7 proteins AGE83092 and ABI15936 from the sand fly species, Phlebotomus papatasi and P. duboscqi, respectively, inhibit the activation of platelets by collagen and the thromboxane A2 analog U46619. Using isothermal titration calorimetry, we also demonstrate direct binding of U46619 and cysteinyl leukotrienes C4, D4 and E4 to the P. papatasi protein. The crystal structure of P. duboscqi ABI15936 was determined and found to contain two domains oriented similarly to those of the mosquito proteins. The N-terminal domain contains an apparent eicosanoid binding pocket. The C-terminal domain is smaller in overall size than in the mosquito D7s and is missing some helical elements. Consequently, it does not contain an obvious internal binding pocket for small-molecule ligands that bind to many mosquito D7s. Structural similarities indicate that mosquito and sand fly D7 proteins have evolved from similar progenitors, but phylogenetics and differences in intron/exon structure suggest that they may have acquired the ability to bind vertebrate eicosanoids independently, indicating a convergent evolution scenario.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Willy Jablonka
- The Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIAID, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, 20852, USA
| | - Il Hwan Kim
- The Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIAID, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, 20852, USA
| | - Patricia H Alvarenga
- The Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIAID, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, 20852, USA
| | - Jesus G Valenzuela
- The Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIAID, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, 20852, USA
| | - Jose M C Ribeiro
- The Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIAID, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, 20852, USA
| | - John F Andersen
- The Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIAID, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, 20852, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Wang J, Gao P, Luo Y, Tao J. Characterization and expression profiling of odorant-binding proteins in Anoplophora glabripennis Motsch. Gene 2019; 693:25-36. [PMID: 30695713 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.12.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In insects, olfaction plays a critical role in locating hosts, recognizing mates, and selecting oviposition sites. The Asian long-horned beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis Motschulsky) feeds on 43 species of trees in 15 families, but its chemosensory mechanisms are poorly understood. Herein, genes encoding 61 odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) were identified from the published genome and our previous A. glabripennis transcriptomic data. To investigate their physiological functions, we performed expression profiling of all AglaOBPs in the antennae, legs, and maxillary palps of both sexes. Phylogenetic analysis clustered A. glabripennis OBPs into four subgroups, comprising 29 Minus-C OBPs, 15 Antennae-binding proteins (ABPIIs), 10 Classic OBPs, and one Plus-C OBP. 12 AglaOBP genes were expressed specifically in antennae, and AglaOBP3, AglaOBP18, AglaOBP21, AglaOBP33, AglaOBP41, AglaOBP45, and AglaOBP47 were particularly highly expressed in male antennae. These proteins may function in the detection of female sex pheromones. AglaOBP23 and AglaOBP44 were preferentially expressed in maxillary palps. Expression profiling suggests that many OBPs may be involved in olfaction and gustation, in addition to carrying hydrophobic molecules. The AglaOBPs family has acquired functional diversity concurrently with functional constraints, and further investigation could provide insight into the roles of OBPs in chemoreception.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingzhen Wang
- Key Laboratory for Silviculture and Conservation of Ministry of Education, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, PR China
| | - Peng Gao
- Key Laboratory for Silviculture and Conservation of Ministry of Education, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, PR China.
| | - Youqing Luo
- Key Laboratory for Silviculture and Conservation of Ministry of Education, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, PR China.
| | - Jing Tao
- Key Laboratory for Silviculture and Conservation of Ministry of Education, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Ramos RDS, Costa JDS, Silva RC, da Costa GV, Rodrigues ABL, Rabelo ÉDM, Souto RNP, Taft CA, Silva CHTDPD, Rosa JMC, Santos CBRD, Macêdo WJDC. Identification of Potential Inhibitors from Pyriproxyfen with Insecticidal Activity by Virtual Screening. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2019; 12:E20. [PMID: 30691028 PMCID: PMC6469432 DOI: 10.3390/ph12010020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Aedes aegypti is the main vector of dengue fever transmission, yellow fever, Zika, and chikungunya in tropical and subtropical regions and it is considered to cause health risks to millions of people in the world. In this study, we search to obtain new molecules with insecticidal potential against Ae. aegypti via virtual screening. Pyriproxyfen was chosen as a template compound to search molecules in the database Zinc_Natural_Stock (ZNSt) with structural similarity using ROCS (rapid overlay of chemical structures) and EON (electrostatic similarity) software, and in the final search, the top 100 were selected. Subsequently, in silico pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties were determined resulting in a total of 14 molecules, and these were submitted to the PASS online server for the prediction of biological insecticide and acetylcholinesterase activities, and only two selected molecules followed for the molecular docking study to evaluate the binding free energy and interaction mode. After these procedures were performed, toxicity risk assessment such as LD50 values in mg/kg and toxicity class using the PROTOX online server, were undertaken. Molecule ZINC00001624 presented potential for inhibition for the acetylcholinesterase enzyme (insect and human) with a binding affinity value of -10.5 and -10.3 kcal/mol, respectively. The interaction with the juvenile hormone was -11.4 kcal/mol for the molecule ZINC00001021. Molecules ZINC00001021 and ZINC00001624 had excellent predictions in all the steps of the study and may be indicated as the most promising molecules resulting from the virtual screening of new insecticidal agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan da Silva Ramos
- Postgraduate Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity-Network BIONORTE, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá, Amapá 68903-419, Brazil.
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil.
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Simulation System, Federal Rural University of Amazônia, Capanema, Pará 68700-030, Brazil.
| | - Josivan da Silva Costa
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil.
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Simulation System, Federal Rural University of Amazônia, Capanema, Pará 68700-030, Brazil.
| | - Rai Campos Silva
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil.
- Computational Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo 14040-903, Brazil;.
| | - Glauber Vilhena da Costa
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil.
| | - Alex Bruno Lobato Rodrigues
- Postgraduate Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity-Network BIONORTE, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá, Amapá 68903-419, Brazil.
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil.
| | - Érica de Menezes Rabelo
- Postgraduate Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity-Network BIONORTE, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá, Amapá 68903-419, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Carlos Henrique Tomich de Paula da Silva
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Simulation System, Federal Rural University of Amazônia, Capanema, Pará 68700-030, Brazil.
- Computational Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo 14040-903, Brazil;.
| | | | - Cleydson Breno Rodrigues Dos Santos
- Postgraduate Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity-Network BIONORTE, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá, Amapá 68903-419, Brazil.
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil.
- Computational Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo 14040-903, Brazil;.
| | - Williams Jorge da Cruz Macêdo
- Postgraduate Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity-Network BIONORTE, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá, Amapá 68903-419, Brazil.
- Laboratory of Modeling and Computational Chemistry, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil.
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Simulation System, Federal Rural University of Amazônia, Capanema, Pará 68700-030, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Bittova L, Jedlicka P, Dracinsky M, Kirubakaran P, Vondrasek J, Hanus R, Jindra M. Exquisite ligand stereoselectivity of a Drosophila juvenile hormone receptor contrasts with its broad agonist repertoire. J Biol Chem 2018; 294:410-423. [PMID: 30455350 PMCID: PMC6333893 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra118.005992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Revised: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The sesquiterpenoid juvenile hormone (JH) is vital to insect development and reproduction. Intracellular JH receptors have recently been established as basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor (bHLH)/PAS proteins in Drosophila melanogaster known as germ cell–expressed (Gce) and its duplicate paralog, methoprene-tolerant (Met). Upon binding JH, Gce/Met activates its target genes. Insects possess multiple native JH homologs whose molecular activities remain unexplored, and diverse synthetic compounds including insecticides exert JH-like effects. How the JH receptor recognizes its ligands is unknown. To determine which structural features define an active JH receptor agonist, we tested several native JHs and their nonnative geometric and optical isomers for the ability to bind the Drosophila JH receptor Gce, to induce Gce-dependent transcription, and to affect the development of the fly. Our results revealed high ligand stereoselectivity of the receptor. The geometry of the JH skeleton, dictated by two stereogenic double bonds, was the most critical feature followed by the presence of an epoxide moiety at a terminal position. The optical isomerism at carbon C11 proved less important even though Gce preferentially bound a natural JH enantiomer. The results of receptor-ligand–binding and cell-based gene activation assays tightly correlated with the ability of different geometric JH isomers to induce gene expression and morphogenetic effects in the developing insects. Molecular modeling supported the requirement for the proper double-bond geometry of JH, which appears to be its major selective mechanism. The strict stereoselectivity of Gce toward the natural hormone contrasts with the high potency of synthetic Gce agonists of disparate chemistries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Bittova
- From the Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Entomology, Ceske Budejovice 370 05, Czech Republic and
| | - Pavel Jedlicka
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 166 10, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Dracinsky
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 166 10, Czech Republic
| | - Palani Kirubakaran
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 166 10, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Vondrasek
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 166 10, Czech Republic
| | - Robert Hanus
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 166 10, Czech Republic
| | - Marek Jindra
- From the Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Entomology, Ceske Budejovice 370 05, Czech Republic and
| |
Collapse
|