RNA Interference-Mediated Suppression of Ecdysone Signaling Inhibits Choriogenesis in Two Coleoptera Species

During choriogenesis in insects, chorion (eggshell) is formed by surrounding follicular epithelial cells in ovarioles. However, the regulatory endocrine factor(s) activating choriogenesis and the effect of chemical components on eggshell deserve further exploration. In two representative coleopterans, a coccinellid Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata and a chrysomelid Leptinotarsa decemlineata, genes encoding the 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) receptor heterodimer, ecdysone receptor (EcR) and ultraspiracle (USP), and two chitin biosynthesis enzymes UDP-N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylase (UAP) and chitin synthase (ChS1), were highly expressed in ovaries of the young females. RNA interference (RNAi)-aided knockdown of either HvEcR or Hvusp in H. vigintioctopunctata inhibited oviposition, suppressed the expression of HvChS1, and lessened the positive signal of Calcofluor staining on the chorions, which suggests the reduction of a chitin-like substance (CLS) deposited on eggshells. Similarly, RNAi of LdEcR or Ldusp in L. decemlineata constrained oviposition, decreased the expression of LdUAP1 and LdChS1, and reduced CLS contents in the resultant ovaries. Knockdown of LdUAP1 or LdChS1 caused similar defective phenotypes, i.e., reduced oviposition and CLS contents in the L. decemlineata ovaries. These results, for the first time, indicate that 20E signaling activates choriogenesis in two coleopteran species. Moreover, our findings suggest the deposition of a CLS on the chorions.

Molecular characterization of the cytochrome P450 enzyme CYP18A1 in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata

In insects, the expression of 20E response genes that initiate metamorphosis is triggered by a pulse of 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E). The 20E pulse is generated through two processes: synthesis, which increases its level, and inactivation, which decreases its titer. CYP18A1 functions as an ecdysteroid 26-hydroxylase and plays a role in 20E removal in several representative insects. However, applying 20E degradation activity of CYP18A1 to other insects remains a significant challenge. In this study, we discovered high levels of Hvcyp18a1 during the larval and late pupal stages, particularly in the larval epidermis and fat body of Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata, a damaging Coleopteran pest of potatoes. RNA interference (RNAi) targeting Hvcyp18a1 disrupted the pupation. Approximately 75% of the Hvcyp18a1 RNAi larvae experienced developmental arrest and remained as stunted prepupae. Subsequently, they gradually turned black and eventually died. Among the Hvcyp18a1-depleted animals that successfully pupated, around half became malformed pupae with swollen elytra and hindwings. The emerged adults from these deformed pupae appeared misshapen, with shriveled elytra and hindwings, and were wrapped in the pupal exuviae. Furthermore, RNAi of Hvcyp18a1 increased the expression of a 20E receptor gene (HvEcR) and four 20E response transcripts (HvE75, HvHR3, HvBrC, and HvαFTZ-F1), while decreased the transcription of HvβFTZ-F1. Our findings confirm the vital role of CYP18A1 in the pupation, potentially involved in the degradation of 20E in H. vigintioctopunctata.

[Analysis of the types and functions of CD34+ cells in full-thickness skin defect wounds of normal mice and diabetic mice by single-cell RNA sequencing]

Objective: To analyze the types and functions of CD34+ cells in full-thickness skin defect wounds of normal mice and diabetic mice by single-cell RNA sequencing. Methods: This study was an experimental study. The CD34+ cell lineage tracing mouse was produced, and the visualization of CD34+ cells under the fluorescent condition was realized. Six male CD34+ cell lineage tracing mice aged 7-8 weeks (designated as diabetic group) were intraperitoneally injected with streptozotocin to establish a diabetic model, and full-thickness skin defect wounds were prepared on their backs when they reached 13 weeks old. Another 6 male CD34+ cell lineage tracing mice aged 13 weeks (designated as control group) were also subjected to full-thickness skin defect wounds on their backs. On post-injury day (PID) 4, wound tissue was collected from 3 mice in control group and 2 mice in diabetic group, and digested to prepare single-cell suspensions. CD34+ cells were screened using fluorescence-activated cell sorting, followed by single-cell RNA sequencing. The Seurat 4.0.2 program in the R programming language was utilized for dimensionality reduction, visualization, and cell clustering analysis of CD34+ cell types, and to screen and annotate the marker genes for each CD34+ cell subpopulation. Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) and gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis was performed to analyze the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of CD34+ fibroblasts (Fbs), smooth muscle cells (SMCs), keratinocytes (KCs), and chondrocyte-like cells (CLCs) in the wound tissue of two groups of mice for exploring cellular functions. Results: On PID 4, CD34+ cells in the wound tissue of both groups of mice were consisted of 7 cell types, specifically endothelial cells, Fbs, KCs, macrophages, T cells, SMCs, and CLCs. Among these, Fbs were further classified into 5 subpopulations. Compared with those in control group, the proportions of CD34+ endothelial cells, Fbs subpopulation 1, Fbs subpopulation 4, KCs, and CLCs in the wound tissue of mice were increased in diabetic group, while the proportions of CD34+ Fbs subpopulation 2, Fbs subpopulation 3, and SMCs were decreased. The marker genes for annotating CD34+ CLCs, endothelial cells, Fbs subpopulation 1, Fbs subpopulation 2, Fbs subpopulation 3, Fbs subpopulation 4, Fbs subpopulation 5, KCs, macrophages, SMCs, and T cells were respectively metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1, fatty acid binding protein 4, Gremlin 1, complement component 4B, H19 imprinted maternally expressed transcript, Dickkopf Wnt signaling pathway inhibitor 2, fibromodulin, keratin 5, CD74 molecule, regulator of G protein signaling 5, and inducible T-cell co-stimulator molecule. KEGG and GO enrichment analysis revealed that, compared with those in control group, DEGs with significant differential expression (SDE) in CD34+ Fbs from the wound tissue of mice in diabetic group on PID 4 were significantly enriched in terms related to inflammatory response, extracellular matrix (ECM) organization, regulation of cell proliferation, and aging (with Pvalues all <0.05), DEGs with SDE in CD34+ SMCs were significantly enriched in terms related to cell migration, apoptotic process, positive regulation of transcription, and phagosome (with P values all <0.05), DEGs with SDE in CD34+ KCs were significantly enriched in terms related to mitochondrial function, transcription, and neurodegenerative diseases (with P values all <0.05), and DEGs with SDE in CD34+ CLCs were significantly enriched in terms related to rhythm regulation, ECM, and viral infection (with P values all <0.05). Conclusions: CD34+ cells display high heterogeneity in the healing process of full-thickness skin defect wounds in both normal mice and diabetic mice. The significantly enriched functions of DEGs with SDE in CD34+ cell subpopulations in the wound tissue of the two mouse groups are closely related to the wound healing process.

Research insights into the chemokine-like factor (CKLF)-like MARVEL transmembrane domain-containing family (CMTM): their roles in various tumors

The chemokine-like factor (CKLF)-like MARVEL transmembrane domain-containing (CMTM) family includes CMTM1-8 and CKLF, and they play key roles in the hematopoietic, immune, cardiovascular, and male reproductive systems, participating in the physiological functions, cancer, and other diseases associated with these systems. CMTM family members activate and chemoattract immune cells to affect the proliferation and invasion of tumor cells through a similar mechanism, the structural characteristics typical of chemokines and transmembrane 4 superfamily (TM4SF). In this review, we discuss each CMTM family member's chromosomal location, involved signaling pathways, expression patterns, and potential roles, and mechanisms of action in pancreatic, breast, gastric and liver cancers. Furthermore, we discuss several clinically applied tumor therapies targeted at the CMTM family, indicating that CMTM family members could be novel immune checkpoints and potential targets effective in tumor treatment.

High-quality genome resource of Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae associated with die-back on Eucalyptus trees

OBJECTIVES

Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae is an important fungal pathogen associated with die-back, canker and shoot blight in many plant hosts with a wide geographic distribution. The aim of our study was to provide high-quality genome assemblies and sequence annotation resources of L. pseudotheobromae, to facilitate future studies on the systematics, population genetics and genomics of the fungal pathogen L. pseudotheobromae.

DATA DESCRIPTION

High-quality genomes of five L. pseudotheobromae isolates were sequenced based on Oxford Nanopore technology (ONT) and Illumina HiSeq sequencing platform. The total size of each assembly ranged from 43 Mb to 43.86 Mb and over 11,000 protein-coding genes were predicted from each genome. The proteins of predicted genes were annotated using multiple public databases, among the annotated protein-coding genes, more than 4,300 genes were predicted as potential virulence genes by the Pathogen Host Interactions (PHI) database. Moreover, the genome comparative analysis among L. pseudotheobromae and other closely related species revealed that 7,408 gene clusters were shared among them and 152 gene clusters unique to L. pseudotheobromae. This genome and associated datasets provided here will serve as a useful resource for further analyses of this fungal pathogen species.

Twist is required for muscle development of the adult legs in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata

Although muscle development has been widely studied in Drosophila melanogaster, it was a great challenge to apply to developmental processes of other insect muscles. This study was focused on the functional characterization of a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor gene twist in an herbivorous ladybird Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata. Its transcript (Hvtwist) levels were detected in all developmental stages. RNA interference (RNAi)-aided knockdown of Hvtwist at the penultimate larval instar stage impaired pupation, and caused a deformed adult in the legs. The tarsi were malformed and did not support the bodies in an upright position. The climbing ability was impaired. Moreover, around 50% of the impaired adults had a malformed elytrum. In addition, they consumed less foliage and did not lay eggs. A hematoxylin-eosin staining of the leg demonstrated that the tibial extensor (TE) and the tibial flexor (TF) muscles were originated from the femurs while levator and depressor muscles of the tarsus (TL and TD) were located in the tibia in the control adults, in which tarsal segments were devoid of muscles. RNAi treatment specific to Hvtwist expression markedly impaired TE and TF muscles in the femurs, and prevented the development of TL and TD muscles in the tibia. Therefore, our findings demonstrate Twist plays a vital role in the myogenesis in H. vigintioctopunctata adult legs.

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with continuously elevated immunoglobulin M following treatment: a case report with pathologic, immunophenotypic, and molecular analyses

A rare subtype of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) has been reported to be accompanied by elevated immunoglobulin M (IgM) paraprotein in the serum at diagnosis, called as IgMs-DLBCL. The monoclonal IgM paraprotein disappears soon after treatment in most of these patients. Here, we described a DLBCL patient with continuously elevated IgM following therapy. A 59-year-old male was diagnosed with DLBCL (GCB subtype per Hans algorithm, stage IA) with involvement of the right cervical lymph node. After six cycles of immuno-chemotherapy with the R-CHOP regimen, complete metabolic remission was achieved, but an elevated level of serum IgM persisted. To investigate the origin of elevated IgM, pathologic, immunophenotypic, and molecular analyses of lymph node and bone marrow (BM) samples were performed pre- and post-treatment. BM infiltration of lymphoplasmacytic cells, and a typical immunophenotypic profile by flow cytometry supported the diagnosis of Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM). The MCD subtype of DLBCL was identified by next-generation sequencing of the lymph node at initial diagnosis characterized by co-occurring point mutations in MYD88 L265P and CD79B. Additionally, two different dominant clonotypes of the immunoglobulin heavy chain (IGH) were detected in the lymph node and BM by IGH sequencing, which was IGHV 3-11*06/IGHJ 3*02 and IGHV 3-11*06/IGHJ 6*02, respectively, speculating to be two independent clonal origins. This study will provide a panoramic understanding of the origin or biological characteristics of DLBCL co-occurring with WM.

Helicobacter macacae MazF interplays with Escherichia coli homologs and enhances antibiotic tolerance

BACKGROUND

Toxin-antitoxin systems are highly variable, even among strains of the same bacterial species. The MazEF toxin-antitoxin system is found in many bacteria and plays important roles in various biological processes such as antibiotic tolerance and phage defense. However, no interplay of MazEF systems between different species was reported.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MazEF toxin-antitoxin system of Helicobacter macacae was examined in three Escherichia coli strains with and without endogenous MazEF knockout. In vivo toxicity, antibiotic tolerance, and live/dead staining followed by flowcytometry analysis were performed to evaluate the functionality and interplay of the toxin-antitoxin system between the two species.

RESULTS

Controlled ectopic expression of MazF of H. macacae (MazFhm) in E. coli did not affect its growth. However, in endogenous MazEF knockout E. coli strains, MazFhm expression caused a sharp growth arrest. The toxicity of MazFhm could be neutralized by both the antitoxin of MazE homolog of H.macacae and the antitoxin of MazE of E. coli, indicating interplay of MazEF toxin-antitoxin systems between the two species. Induced expression of MazFhm enhanced tolerance to a lethal dose of levofloxacin, suggesting enhanced persister formation, which was further confirmed by live/dead cell staining.

CONCLUSIONS

The MazEF toxin-antitoxin system of H. macace enhances persister formation and thus antibiotic tolerance in E. coli. Our findings reveal an interplay between the MazEF systems of H. macacae and E. coli, emphasizing the need to consider this interaction while evaluating the toxicity and functionality of MazF homologs from different species in future studies.

Requirement of Snakeskin for normal functions of midgut and Malpighian tubules in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata

Septate junctions (SJs) are located between epithelial cells and play crucial roles in epithelial barrier formation and epithelia cell homeostasis. Nevertheless, the molecular constituents, especially those related to smooth SJs (sSJs), have not been well explored in non-Drosophilid insects. A putative integral membrane protein Snakeskin (Ssk) was identified in a Coleoptera foliar pest Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata. RNA interference-aided knockdown of Hvssk at the third-instar larval stage arrested larval development. Most resultant larvae failed to shed larval exuviae until their death. Silence of Hvssk at the fourth-instar larvae inhibited the growth and reduced foliage consumption. Dissection and microscopic observation revealed that compromised expression of Hvssk caused obvious phenotypic defects in the midgut. A great number of morphologically abnormal columnar epithelial cells accumulated throughout the midgut lumen. Moreover, numerous vesicles were observed in the malformed cells of the Malpighian tubules (Mt). All the Hvssk depleted larvae remained as prepupae; they gradually darkened and eventually died. Furthermore, depletion of Hvssk at the pupal stage suppressed adult feeding and shortened adult lifespan. These findings demonstrated that Ssk plays a vital role in the integrity and function of both midguts and Mt, and established the conservative roles of Ssk in the formation of epithelial barrier and the homeostasis of epithelial cells in H. vigintioctopunctata.

Mitochondrial Inner Membrane ABC Transporter Bcmdl1 Is Involved in Conidial Germination, Virulence, and Resistance to Anilinopyrimidine Fungicides in Botrytis cinerea

Botrytis cinerea causes gray mold on thousands of plants, leading to huge losses in production. Anilinopyrimidine (AP) fungicides have been applied to control B. cinerea since the 1990s. Although resistance to AP fungicides was detected soon after their application, the mechanism of AP resistance remains to be elucidated. In this study, a sexual cross between resistant and sensitive isolates was performed, and the genomes of parental isolates and progenies were sequenced to identify resistance-related single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). After screening and verification, mutation E407K in the Bcmdl1 gene was identified and confirmed to confer resistance to AP fungicides in B. cinerea. Bcmdl1 was predicted to encode a mitochondrial protein that belonged to a half-type ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter. Although Bcmdl1 was a transporter, it did not mediate resistance to multiple fungicides but mediated resistance specifically to AP fungicides. On the other hand, reductions in conidial germination and virulence were observed in Bcmdl1 knockout transformants compared to the parental isolate and complemented transformants, illustrating the biological functions of Bcmdl1. Subcellular localization analysis indicated that Bcmdl1 was localized in mitochondria. Interestingly, the production of ATP was reduced after cyprodinil treatment in Bcmdl1 knockout transformants, suggesting that Bcmdl1 was involved in ATP synthesis. Since Mdl1 could interact with ATP synthase in yeast, we hypothesize that Bcmdl1 forms a complex with ATP synthase, which AP fungicides might target, thereby interfering with the metabolism of energy. IMPORTANCE Gray mold, caused by B. cinerea, causes huge losses in the production of many fruits and vegetables. AP fungicides have been largely adopted to control this disease since the 1990s, and the development of resistance to AP fungicides initiates new problems for disease control. Due to the unknown mode of action, information on the mechanism of AP resistance is also limited. Recently, mutations in mitochondrial genes were reported to be related to AP resistance. However, the mitochondrial process of these genes remains to be elucidated. In this study, we identified several AP resistance-related mutations by quantitative trait locus sequencing (QTL-seq) and confirmed that mutation E407K in Bcmdl1 conferred AP resistance. We further characterized the expression patterns, biological functions, subcellular localization, and mitochondrial processes of the Bcmdl1 gene. This study deepens our understanding of the mechanism of resistance to and mode of action of AP fungicides.

[Efficacy and safety of transcatheter aortic valve replacement in the treatment of severe aortic stenosis]

Objective: To investigate the efficacy and safety of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in the treatment of severe aortic stenosis. Methods: The clinical data of patients with severe aortic stenosis who underwent TAVR at the People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region between September 2016 and September 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Changes in aortic transvalvular pressure gradients, valve orifice area, and activity tolerance of patients before and after the surgery were compared. Moreover, postoperative complications and follow-up results from 30 days to 6 years after the surgery were recorded. Results: A total of 76 patients were included in the study (50 males and 26 females), with an average age of (71.3±7.6) years, including 16 rheumatic valvular diseases, 60 senile degenerative diseases, 46 bicuspid valves and 30 tricuspid valves. The success rate of the operation was 96.1% (73/76). Compared with that before the operation, the mean aortic transvalvular pressure gradients decreased [(8.5±2.8) mmHg vs (68.5±19.2) mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa),P<0.001], but the valve orifice area increased [(1.91±0.31) cm² vs (0.65±0.21) cm², P<0.001]. Likewise, six-minute walking test (6MWT) showed that walking distance was longer after the surgery [(430±13) m vs (201±28) m, P<0.001]. There were 1 case of retroperitoneal hematoma, 1 case of stricture balloon dilatation after femoral artery suture concomitant with postoperative puncture site infection, 1 case of femoral artery surgical incision, 2 cases of valve-in-valve (ViV) and 5 cases of perivalvular leakage (4 cases were mild and 1 case was moderate) after the surgery, respectively. Moreover, acute left main artery occlusion during operation occurred in 1 case, ventricular rupture during operation occurred in 1 case and the patient was transferred to valve replacement surgery and finally dead, delayed coronary artery occlusion and death happened in 1 case, and all of the above-mentioned 3 cases were due to surgical failure. Postoperative pacemaker implantation due to third-degree atrioventricular block was performed in 5 cases. There were 1 case of pulmonary embolism, 1 case of transient right limb disorder, 1 case of gastrointestinal bleeding and 1 case of urethral bleeding after the surgery, respectively. The patients were followed up for (1.0±0.1) years (30 days to 6 years), and the results showed that 2 cases died, including 1 case died suddenly at home (the cause of death was unknown) and 1 case died of acute heart failure 8 months after the surgery. Chronic heart failure occurred repeatedly in 6 cases. The quality of life of other patients improved significantly. Conclusion: TAVR is effective and safe for patients with severe aortic stenosis.

The intestinal γδ T cells: functions in the gut and in the distant organs

Located in the frontline against the largest population of microbiota, the intestinal mucosa of mammals has evolved to become an effective immune system. γδ T cells, a unique T cell subpopulation, are rare in circulation blood and lymphoid tissues, but rich in the intestinal mucosa, particularly in the epithelium. Via rapid production of cytokines and growth factors, intestinal γδ T cells are key contributors to epithelial homeostasis and immune surveillance of infection. Intriguingly, recent studies have revealed that the intestinal γδ T cells may play novel exciting functions ranging from epithelial plasticity and remodeling in response to carbohydrate diets to the recovery of ischemic stroke. In this review article, we update regulatory molecules newly defined in lymphopoiesis of the intestinal γδ T cells and their novel functions locally in the intestinal mucosa, such as epithelial remodeling, and distantly in pathological setting, e.g., ischemic brain injury repair, psychosocial stress responses, and fracture repair. The challenges and potential revenues in intestinal γδ T cell studies are discussed.

Long-Read- and Short-Read-Based Whole-Genome Sequencing Reveals the Antibiotic Resistance Pattern of Helicobacter pylori

The rates of antibiotic resistance of Helicobacter pylori are increasing, and the patterns of resistance are region and population specific. Here, we elucidated the antibiotic resistance pattern of H. pylori in a single center in China and compared short-read- and long-read-based whole-genome sequencing for identifying the genotypes. Resistance rates of 38.5%, 61.5%, 27.9%, and 13.5% against clarithromycin, metronidazole, levofloxacin, and amoxicillin were determined, respectively, while no strain was resistant to tetracycline or furazolidone. Single nucleotide variations (SNVs) in the 23S rRNA and GyrA/B genes revealed by Illumina short-read sequencing showed good diagnostic abilities for clarithromycin and levofloxacin resistance, respectively. Nanopore long-read sequencing also showed a good efficiency in elucidating SNVs in the 23S rRNA gene and, thus, a good ability to detect clarithromycin resistance. The two technologies displayed good consistency in discovering SNVs and shared 76% of SNVs detected in the rRNA gene. Taking Sanger sequencing as the gold standard, Illumina short-read sequencing showed a slightly higher accuracy for discovering SNVs than Nanopore sequencing. There are two copies of the rRNA gene in the genome of H. pylori, and we found that the two copies were not the same in at least 26% of the strains tested, indicating their heterozygous status. Especially, three strains harboring a 2143G/A heterozygous status in the 23S rRNA gene, which is the most important site for clarithromycin resistance, were found. In conclusion, our results provide evidence for an empirical first-line treatment for H. pylori eradication in clinical settings. Moreover, we show that Nanopore sequencing is a potential tool for predicting clarithromycin resistance. IMPORTANCE Helicobacter pylori resistance has been increasing in recent years. The resistance profile, which is important for empirical treatment, is region and population specific. We found high rates of resistance to metronidazole, clarithromycin, and levofloxacin in H. pylori in our center, while no resistance to tetracycline or furazolidone was found. These results provide a reference for local physicians prescribing antibiotics for H. pylori eradication. Nanopore sequencing recently appeared to be a promising technology for elucidating whole-genome sequences, which generates long sequencing reads and is time-efficient and portable. However, a relatively higher error rate of sequencing reads was also found. In this study, we compared Nanopore sequencing and Illumina sequencing for revealing single nucleotide variations in the 23S rRNA gene, which determines clarithromycin resistance, and we found that although there were a few false discoveries, Nanopore sequencing showed good consistency with Illumina sequencing, indicating that it is a potential tool for predicting clarithromycin resistance.

Site-directed transformants with E407K substitution in Bcmdl1 possesses different fitness from field anilinopyrimidine resistant isolates with E407K mutation in Botrytis cinerea

Botrytis cinerea is the causal agent of devastating disease gray mold on numerous crops worldwide. To control gray mold, anilinopyrimidine (AP) fungicides have been widely applied since the 1990s. However, the development of resistance in B. cinerea brought a new challenge to this disease control. Due to the unknown mode of action, the mechanism of AP resistance is still ambiguous. In our previous study, mutation E407K in Bcmdl1 was identified to be associated with AP resistance. Since this mutation is the major mechanism of AP resistance in our cases, it is essential to investigate the fitness of E407K strains before designing anti-resistance management strategies. Besides using field-resistant isolates with the E407K mutation, strains with E407K substitution obtained by site-directed mutagenesis were also used to estimate the specific effect of this mutation or substitution on fitness. The fitness of E407K strains were evaluated by determining mycelial growth, sporulation, conidial germination, virulence, acid production, osmotic and oxidative sensitivity, and sclerotial production and viability. Field resistant isolates with E407K mutation produced fewer sclerotia on intermediate medium (IM) but more conidia on PDA when compared with sensitive isolates, whereas site-directed transformants with E407K substitution did not show any fitness costs. The competitive ability of E407K strains was also evaluated on apple fruit using conidial mixtures at three initial ratios of resistant and sensitive isolates at 1:9, 1:1, and 9:1, respectively. Similar with fitness, impaired competitive ability was observed in field resistant isolates but not site-directed transformants at all initial ratios tested. These results indicated that field strains associated with AP resistance suffer a fitness penalty not linked directly to the E407K substitution in Bcmdl1.

In vivo pharmacodynamic study of contezolid acefosamil, a prodrug of contezolid for oral and intravenous administration

OBJECTIVES

Contezolid acefosamil is a novel O-acyl phosphoramidate prodrug of contezolid. In the current study, we aimed to systemically evaluate the efficacy of contezolid acefosamil against infections caused by multiple Gram-positive pathogens, and compare the efficacy of the prodrug by oral and intravenous administrations.

METHODS

The in vivo pharmacodynamic efficacy of contezolid acefosamil was evaluated in mouse models of systemic (with five S. aureus, three S. pneumoniae and two S. pyogenes bacterial isolates) and thigh (with two S. aureus isolates) infections using linezolid as the reference agent.

RESULTS

In both models, contezolid acefosamil administrated either orally or intravenously, demonstrated high antibacterial efficacy similar to linezolid, and the antibacterial efficacy of oral and intravenous contezolid acefosamil were comparable.

CONCLUSIONS

The high aqueous solubility and great efficacy of contezolid acefosamil support its clinical development as an injectable and oral antibiotic suitable for serious Gram-positive infections.

Large-Scale Surveys of Blackleg of Oilseed Rape (Leptosphaeria biglobosa) Revealed New Insights into Epidemics of This Disease in China

Blackleg of oilseed rape caused by Leptosphaeria maculans/L. biglobosa is a worldwide important disease. L. maculans is more virulent than L. biglobosa, so it causes a great concern for oilseed rape production. In China, blackleg (L. biglobosa) of oilseed rape was reported in the 2000s, but epidemiological features of blackleg have not been well elucidated. Moreover, whether L. maculans exists in China is still an open question. Therefore, a 5-year survey was done in China to collect blackleg-occurrence data for characterizing the features of blackleg epidemics and to identify the blackleg pathogens for assessing the risk of L. maculans invasion. The results showed that all the 19 surveyed provinces had blackleg on oilseed rape, and the most frequently occurring provinces are Gansu, Qinghai, Shaanxi, and Hubei. Phoma stem canker was the most common symptom, which was associated with stem cracks on winter oilseed rape and with stem-weevil activities on spring oilseed rape. Temperature and rainfall were the main factors for blackleg epidemics on winter oilseed rape, whereas rainfall was the main factor for blackleg epidemics on spring oilseed rape. Brassica campestris and B. juncea oilseed rapes were more susceptible than B. napus to blackleg. Oilseed rapes cultivated under the continuous dry land-cropping pattern were more prone to blackleg than those cultivated under the paddy land/dry land-cropping pattern. All 6,015 fungal isolates from blackleg plant tissues belonged to L. biglobosa. These results are helpful for understanding the blackleg epidemics of oilseed rapes and for management of this disease in China.

Disruption of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) biosynthesis pathway affects cuticle pigmentation in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata

Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is produced from guanosine triphosphate (GTP) under catalyzation of GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH), 6-pyruvoyltetrahydropterin synthase (PTPS) and sepiapterin reductase (SR), among others. In Drosophila melanogaster, BH4 and other pteridines are required for cuticle tanning and eye pigmentation. In this study, two Hvgtpch (Hvgtpch-a and Hvgtpch-b), an Hvptps and an Hvsr transcripts were identified in a serious defoliator Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata. Hvgtpch-a and Hvgtpch-b were highly expressed just before and/or right after the molt, in contrast to Hvptps and Hvsr. RNA interference (RNAi) by injection of a dsgtpch targeting the common fragment of Hvgtpch-a and Hvgtpch-b into the third instar larvae caused albino fourth-instar larvae and pupae. Around 80% of the Hvgtpch RNAi larvae failed to pupate. The remaining 20% of Hvgtpch RNAi pupated beetles did not completely remove the larval/pupal exuviae after emerged as adults and eventually died. Depletion of Hvgtpch at the fourth instar stage resulted in under-pigmented pupae and adults, with significantly low pupation and emergence rates. The Hvgtpch RNAi adults rarely moved and fed on plant leaves; they died within a week after emergence. Silence of Hvptps or Hvsr at the third- and fourth-instar stages led to similar but less serious phenotypes, with lowest influence in the Hvsr RNAi ladybirds. Moreover, RNAi of Hvgtpch, Hvptps or Hvsr did not affect coloration of the larval ocelli and pupal/adult compound eyes. Therefore, our results demonstrated that pteridines are involved in melanin formation but not in eye pigmentation in H. vigintioctopunctata. Moreover, our findings will enable the development of a dsgtpch-based pesticide to control H. vigintioctopunctata larvae.

Induced Overexpression of B Cell-Activating Factor by Triiodothyronine Results in Abnormal B Cell Differentiation in Mice

Breakdown of tolerance and abnormal activation in B cells is an important mechanism in the pathogenesis of Graves' disease (GD) and high levels of thyroid hormones (THs) can drive the progression of GD. However, the interactions between THs and abnormal activation of B cells in the context of GD are not well understood. The aim of this study was to investigate B cell-activating factor (BAFF) mediating the cross talk between THs and B cells and the possible underlying mechanisms. A high-level triiodothyronine (T3) mouse model was used to verify T3-mediated induction of overexpression of BAFF and B cell abnormal differentiation. The possible promotion of BAFF overexpression in the mice spleen macrophages during polarization to M1 by T3 was also studied. We showed that high levels of T3 can induce BAFF overexpression and lead to abnormal differentiation of B cells in the mice. While the overexpression of BAFF was observed across many tissue types in the mice, high levels of T3 could induce M1 macrophages polarization by IFN (interferon-gamma)-γ in the spleen of the mice, which in turn generated BAFF overexpression. Our findings provide a novel insight into the interactions between the endocrine and immune systems, as well as provide insight into the role of TH in the pathogenesis of GD.

Requirement of Myoglianin for metamorphosis in the beetle Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata

Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata is a serious defoliating beetle attacking Solanaceae and Cucurbitaceae plants in many Asian countries. In the present paper, we identified a putative myoglianin (myo) gene. Hvmyo was actively transcribed throughout development, from embryo to adult. RNA interference (RNAi)-aided knockdown of Hvmyo delayed larval development by more than 2 days, reduced larval body size, inhibited the growth of antennae, wings and legs and disturbed gut purge. Knockdown of Hvmyo impaired the larval-pupal transition. All the Hvmyo RNAi larvae arrested at the larval stage or formed misshapen pupae or adults. The deformed pupae and adults were partially wrapped with exuviae, bearing separated wings. Moreover, the expression levels of five ecdysteroidogenesis genes (Hvspo, Hvphm, Hvdib, Hvsad and Hvshd), a prothocicotropic hormone (PTTH)/Torso pathway gene (Hvtorso), two 20E receptor genes (HvEcR and HvUSP), and two 20E signalling genes (HvE93 and HvFTZ-F1) were as a result of HvMyo RNAi significantly lowered. Conversely, the expression of a JH biosynthesis gene (Hvjhamt), a JH receptor gene HvMet and a JH signalling gene HvKr-h1 was greatly enhanced. Although ingestion of 20E and Hal rescued the 20E signal, it could not alleviate larval performance and defective phenotypes. Our results suggest that Myo exerts four distinctive roles in ecdysteroidogenesis, JH production, organ growth and larva-pupa-adult transformation in H. vigintioctopunctata.

[Impact and mechanism of CHL1 in insulin resistant adipocytes and insulin resistant mouse model induced by high glucose and high fat]

Objective: To investigate the role and mechanism of cell adhesion molecule L1 like (CHL1) in insulin resistant adipocytes and insulin resistant mouse model induced by high glucose and high fat. Methods: The 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were randomly divided into control group (transfected with empty vector) and CHL1 overexpression group (transfected with CHL1 vector), cells were then induced to mature adipocytes by insulin, and insulin resistance was then induced by high sugar and high fat. The glucose content was measured to determine the glucose consumption of cells from the two groups. Protein expression levels of CHL1 and glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4), serine/threonine protein kinase (AKT) phosphorylation levels were detected by Western blot (WB), the mRNA expression levels of TNF-α and IL-6 were detected by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). 24 C57BL/6 adult male mouse were randomly divided into conventional diet group (regular group), high-fat diet group (high-fat group), empty vector overexpression+high-fat group and CHL1 overexpression+high-fat group (n=6 each group). CHL1 overexpression was induced by tail vein injection of lentivirus. Four months later, mice were sacrificed, body weight was determined, and the epididymal white adipose tissue was collect. Hematoxylin-eosin staining (HE) was used to observe the pathology of mouse epididymal white adipose tissue, the expression of CHL1 was evaluated by immunohistochemical staining(IHC), RT-qPCR was used to detect the mRNA expression levels of CHL1, TNF-α and IL-6 in mouse epididymal white adipose tissue. Results: In vitro, glucose consumption was significantly higher in the CHL1 overexpression group than in the control group (P<0.05), and the protein expressions of CHL1 and GLUT4 were higher in the CHL1 overexpression group than those in the control group (P<0.01), and the mRNA expressions levels of TNF-α and IL-6 were lower in the CHL1 overexpression group than those in the control group (P<0.01). In vivo, the body weight and epididymal white adipose tissue of mouse were higher in the high-fat group and the empty vector overexpression+high-fat group than those in the conventional group (P<0.01), which were lower in the CHL1 overexpression+high fat group than in the empty vector overexpression+high fat group (P<0.01). HE results showed that the volume of epididymal white adipocytes was larger in the high-fat group and the overexpression control+high-fat group than that in the conventional group, which was smaller in the CHL1 overexpression+high fat group than in the empty vector overexpression+high fat group (P<0.01). The mRNA expression levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in epididymal white adipose tissue of mice were higher in the high-fat group and the empty vector overexpression+high-fat group than those in the conventional group (P<0.01), which were lower in the CHL1 overexpression+high fat group than in the empty vector overexpression+high fat group (P<0.05). IHC results showed that protein expression of CHL1 in epididymal white adipose tissue was lower in the high-fat group and the empty vector overexpression+high-fat group than in regular group, which was upregulated in the CHL1 overexpression+high fat group than in the empty vector overexpression+high-fat group (P<0.01). RT-qPCR results showed that mRNA expression of CHL1 in epididymal white adipose tissue was lower in the high-fat group and the empty vector overexpression+high-fat group than in regular group (P<0.01), which was higher in the CHL1 overexpression+high fat group than in the empty vector overexpression+high fat group (P<0.01). Conclusion: Overexpression of CHL1 can improve insulin resistance in adipocytes and mouse insulin resistance model induced by high glucose and high fat, and the beneficial effects might be mediated by the inhibition of AKT activation and the reduction of related inflammatory responses.

Benzimidazole-Resistant Isolates with E198A/V/K Mutations in the β-Tubulin Gene Possess Different Fitness and Competitive Ability in Botrytis cinerea

Previous studies in Botrytis cinerea showed that resistance to methyl benzimidazole carbamates (MBCs) was mainly related to E198A/V/K and F200Y mutations of the β-tubulin gene, and E198V was the dominant mutation in the resistant subpopulation in Hubei Province of China, indicating that resistant mutations might influence fitness. However, little is known about the effect of each E198A/V/K mutation on fitness. In this study, the fitness and competitive ability of isolates with E198A/V/K mutations were investigated. Results showed that E198A/V/K isolates and wild-type isolates shared similar fitness components in terms of virulence, sporulation, conidial germination, oxidative sensitivity, and sclerotial production and viability. However, slower mycelial growth at 4°C, higher sensitivity to 4% NaCl, and increased sclerotial production percentage at 4°C were observed in the isolates with E198V, E198K, and E198A mutations, respectively. Competitive analysis showed that the wild-type subpopulation became dominant after three disease cycles in the absence of fungicide selection pressure, whereas the resistant subpopulation seized the space of the sensitive subpopulation upon MBC application. Unexpectedly, the frequency of E198V isolates decreased dramatically after the first disease cycle with or without fungicide selection pressure. These results suggest that MBC-resistant isolates suffer little fitness penalty but possess competitive disadvantages in the absence of fungicide selection pressure. Under fungicide selection pressure, E198V isolates could not compete with E198A/K isolates. According to the current results, there is a great possibility that the E198V mutation will lose dominance in the future in China.

Silencing uridine diphosphate N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylase gene impairs larval development in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata

BACKGROUND

Uridine diphosphate-N-acetylglucosamine (UDP-GlcNAc) diphosphorylase (UAP) catalyzes the formation of UDP-GlcNAc, the precursor for the production of chitin in ectodermally derived epidermal cells and midgut, for GlcNAcylation of proteins and for generation of glycosyl-phosphatidyl-inositol anchors in all tissues in Drosophila melanogaster.

RESULTS

Here, we identified a putative HvUAP gene in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata. Knockdown of HvUAP at the second-, third- and fourth-instar stages impaired larval development. Most resultant HvUAP hypomorphs showed arrested development at the third-, fourth-instar larval or prepupal stages, and became paralyzed, depending on the age when treated. Some HvUAP-silenced larvae had weak and soft scoli. A portion of HvUAP-depleted beetles formed misshapen pupae. No HvUAP RNA interference pupae successfully emerged as adults. Dissection and microscopic observation revealed that knockdown of HvUAP affected gut growth and food ingestion, reduced cuticle thickness, and negatively affected the formation of newly generated cuticle layers during ecdysis. Furthermore, HvUAP deficiency inhibited development of the tracheal respiratory system and thinned tracheal taenidia.

CONCLUSION

The phenotypical defects in HvUAP hypomorphs suggest that HvUAP is involved in the production of chitin. Moreover, our findings will enable the development of a double-stranded RNA-based pesticide to control H. vigintioctopunctata. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Silencing tyrosine hydroxylase or dopa decarboxylase gene disrupts cuticle tanning during larva-pupa-adult transformation in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata

BACKGROUND

The 28-spotted potato ladybird, Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata, is a notorious defoliator of many solanaceous and cucurbitaceous plants. Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and dopa decarboxylase (DDC) are responsible for cuticle tanning pathway in insects.

RESULTS

We identified HvTH and HvDDC in H. vigintioctopunctata, and found that high levels of them were accumulated just before or right after molting. Injection of dsHvTH or feeding 3-iodo-tyrosine (3-IT) at the third instar larval stage repressed tanning of the larval cuticle, reduced larval feeding, inhibited larval growth, and consequently caused 100% of larval mortality. Knockdown of HvDDC at the third instar larval stage hardly affected the coloration of larval head, and partially inhibited pigmentation of larval bodies and around 80% of the HvDDC RNAi larvae developed into albino pupae and adults. Moreover, depletion of HvTH or HvDDC at the fourth instar larval stage resulted in albino pupae and adults. The HvTH or HvDDC hypomorph adults fully or partially failed to remove the larval/pupal exuviae, possessed pale and abnormal wings, and poorly tanned heads and bodies, and eventually, struggled for several days without feeding on leaves before death.

CONCLUSION

These results show that TH and DDC play key roles in larval and adult cuticle tanning and development in H. vigintioctopunctata. Also, these findings suggest that dopa- and dopamine-originated pigments are essential for larval and adult feeding behavior and the molting process during emergence. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

RNA interference targeting Ras GTPase gene Ran causes larval and adult lethality in Leptinotarsa decemlineata

BACKGROUND

RNA interference (RNAi) is a breakthrough technology in pest control. It is highly efficient to Coleopteran pests such as the Colorado potato beetle Leptinotarsa decemlineata, a serious pest defoliator mainly attacking potatoes worldwide. The first step for effective pest control by RNAi is the development of effective and reliable target genes.

RESULTS

Our results revealed that continuous ingestion of dsLdRan for 3 days successfully silenced the target gene, inhibited larval growth and killed 100% L. decemlineata larvae. When the bioassay began at the second-, third/fourth-instar larval stages, the larval lethality mainly occurred at the fourth larval instar and prepupal stages, respectively. Importantly, consumption of dsLdRan for 3 days by the newly-emerged males and females effectively knocked down the target transcript, reduced fresh weights and caused 100% of lethality within a week. The LdRan females possessed underdeveloped ovaries.

CONCLUSION

Considering that the larvae, adults and eggs are simultaneously sited on the potato plants, bacterially-expressed dsLdRan is a potential RNAi-based strategy for managing L. decemlineata in the potato field. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

[The research progress of nervous system damage caused by diquat poisoning]

In recent years, with the withdrawal of paraquat (PQ) pesticides from the market, the number of poisoning cases caused by its substitute diquat (DQ) has shown an increasing trend year by year. Among the clinical manifestations of DQ poisoning, the damage to the central nervous system is relatively common and serious, but the specific toxicity mechanism is not clear, and there is no clear treatment. This article reviews the nervous system damage caused by DQ poisoning in order to improve the understanding systen of DQ poisoning.

[Determination of concentrations and toxicokinetics of triptolide in plasma and liver of mice by UHPLC-MS/MS]

This study aims to establish an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry(UHPLC-MS/MS) method for determining the concentrations of triptolide(TP) in plasma and liver, and to explore the toxicokinetics of TP and the relationship between TP exposure and liver injury in C57 BL/6 mice, so as to provide reference for dissecting the toxicity mechanism of TP. The liquid chromatography was conducted with ZORBAX SB-C_(18) column(3.0 mm×100 mm, 3.5 μm) and the mobile phase of methanol-0.05 mmol·L~(-1) ammonium acetate. Electrospray ionization(ESI) and multiple reaction monitoring(MRM) mode were employed for mass spectrometry. After oral administration of TP(toxic dose 600 μg·kg~(-1)), the blood and liver tissues of the C57 BL/6 mice were collected at different time points to measure the TP concentrations in plasma and liver tissues. Furthermore, the blood biochemical indexes, including alkaline phosphatase(ALP), alanine aminotransferase(ALT), aspartate aminotransferase(AST), and total bile acid(TBA), were determined. After being processed by DAS 2.0, the experiment data showed that the TP in mice had the toxicokinetic parameters of T_(max)=5 min, C_(max)=14.38 ng·mL~(-1), t_(1/2)=0.76 h, AUC_(0-t)=5.63 h·ng·mL~(-1), MRT_(0-t)=0.56 h, and CL_(Z/F)=103.19 L·h~(-1)·kg~(-1). The trend of TP concentration in mouse liver tissue was consistent with that in plasma. The concentration of TP peaked at the time point of 5 min and then decreased until TP was completely metabolized. The plasma biochemical indexes(ALT, AST, ALP, and TBA) showed no significant changes within 3 h after TP administration. TP had high clearance rate and short residence time and did not significantly increase the blood biochemical indexes in mice. The results suggested that the exposure amount of free TP in vivo cannot directly cause liver injury, which might be caused by the binding of TP to some substances or the stimulation of inflammation and immune response.

High triiodothyronine levels induce myocardial hypertrophy via BAFF overexpression

Activated B cells contribute to heart diseases, and inhibition of B‐cell activating factor (BAFF) expression is an effective therapeutic target for heart diseases. Whether activated B cells participate in the development and progression of hyperthyroid heart disease, and what induces B cells activation in hyperthyroidism are unknown. The present study aimed to determine the roles of BAFF overexpression induced by high concentrations of triiodothyronine (T3) in the pathogenesis of hyperthyroid heart disease. Female C57BL/6J mice were subcutaneously injected with T3 for 6 weeks, and BAFF expression was inhibited using shRNA. Protein and mRNA expression of BAFF in mouse heart tissues evaluated via immunohistochemistry, western blotting and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Proportions of B cells in mouse cardiac tissue lymphocytes were quantified via flow cytometry. Morphology and left ventricle function were assessed using pathological sections and echocardiography, respectively. Here, we demonstrate that compared with the control group, the proportion of myocardial B cells was larger in the T3 group; immunohistochemistry, western blotting and PCR analyses revealed increased protein and mRNA expression levels of TNF‐α and BAFF in heart tissues of the T3 group. Compared with the normal controls group, in the T3 group, the diameter of myocardial cells and some echocardiographic values significantly increased and hypertrophy and structural disorder were noticeable. Our results revealed that elevated levels of circulating T3 can promote the expression of BAFF in myocardial cells and can lead to B‐cell activation, an elevated inflammatory response and ventricular remodelling.

Identification of Monilia Species in Tibet and Characterization of M. yunnanensis in China

Samples of peach and plum fruits with brown rot symptoms were collected from Tibet in 2019 and 2020, and the causal agent was identified as Monilia yunnanensis, which represents the first characterization of Monilia spp. on peach and plum in Tibet. Morphological investigation showed that some conidia from naturally diseased fruits were larger than those observed in previously isolated M. yunnanensis. Some conidia of M. yunnanensis isolates from Tibet produced more than two, even up to six germ tubes from different parts of each conidium, instead of one or two germ tubes developing from the pointy sides of each conidium. The alignment of ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region sequences revealed that some isolates from Tibet displayed a mutation at the 374th position from adenine (A) to cytosine (C). Although abovementioned differences were observed between isolates from Tibet and other regions, phylogenetic analysis indicated that all of the M. yunnanensis isolates from different stone fruits and different regions in China were clustered together without obvious genetic differentiation. These results revealed that hosts and geographic environments did not play a major role in the evolution of M. yunnanensis.

Smad on X is vital for larval-pupal transition in a herbivorous ladybird beetle

Insect development is regulated by a combination of juvenile hormone (JH) and 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E). Production of both JH and 20E is regulated by transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) signaling. TGFβ can be classified into two branches, the Activin and Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) pathways. In Drosophila melanogaster, BMP signaling is critical for JH synthesis, whereas Activin signal is required to generate the large pulse of 20E necessary for entering metamorphosis. However, to which extent the roles of these signals are conserved remains unknown. Here we studied the role of an Activin component Smad on X (Smox) in post-embryonic development in a defoliating ladybird Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata. RNA interference (RNAi)-aided knockdown of Hvsmox inhibited larval growth, and impaired larval development. All Hvmyo RNAi larvae arrested at the fourth-instar larval stage. Moreover, knockdown of Hvsmox delayed gut and Malpighian tubules remodeling. Furthermore, the expression of a JH biosynthesis gene (Hvjhamt), a JH receptor gene HvMet and a JH response gene HvKr-h1 was greatly enhanced. Conversely, the expression levels of an ecdysteroidogenesis gene (Hvspo), a 20E receptor gene (HvEcR) and six 20E response genes (HvBrC, HvE74, HvE75, HvE93, HvHR3 and HvHR4) were significantly lowered. Knockdown of HvMet partially restored the negative phenotypes in the Hvsmox RNAi beetles. Our results suggest that Smox exerts regulative roles in JH production, ecdysteroidogenesis and organ remodeling, thus contributing to modulate the larva-pupa-adult transformation in H. vigintioctopunctata.

Vacuolar ATPase subunit F is critical for larval survival in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata

Vacuolar ATPase (vATPase) is an important proton pump in insect tissues including gut and Malpighian tubule. Subunit F, one of the 16 subunits of the vATPase holoenzyme, is not well characterized. Here, we found that two HvvATPaseF isoforms were highly expressed in the hindgut and Malpighian tubules (MT) in the 28-spotted lady-beetle Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata, an agricultural pest that feeds on Solanaceae and Cucurbitaceae. Knockdown of both HvvATPaseF variants by RNA interference (RNAi) delayed larval growth and negatively affected ecdysis and adult emergence. In the midgut, RNAi treatment resulted in the disappearance of peritrophic membrane, the reduction in the size and the impaired integrity of the gut, which was associated with sparse principle cells and an increase in TUNEL- and EdU-positive cells. Whereas the MT were opaque and the tubule lumens were full of urine in dsegfp-fed larvae, the tubules were clear and the tubule lumens were empty in the dsvATPaseF-fed larvae. HvvATPaseF knockdown was also associated with a decrease in the abundance of the fat body and the levels of glucose, trehalose, triglyceride, total soluble amino acids and proteins, and an increase in glycogen. Consistent with the known effects of sugars on chitin formation, both the expression level of a chitin biosynthesis gene and the thickness of the head capsule cuticle were reduced in the HvvATPaseF-depleted beetles. Our results demonstrated that subunit F plays an essential role in H. vigintioctopunctata development.

Silencing of Adc and Ebony Causes Abnormal Darkening of Cuticle in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata

N-β-alanyldopamine (NBAD) is a precursor of N-acylquinone sclerotin utilized for cross-linking between cuticular proteins for cuticle during insect molting. The importance of NBAD in cuticle tanning has not been well compared among different developing stages of insects. Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata, a typical polyphagous pest feeding on a large number of Solanaceae and Cucurbitaceae plants in Asian countries, displays diverse cuticle pigmentation patterns among developing stages and body regions. Here, we found that the expression of three genes (Hvadc, Hvebony, and Hvtan) involved in NBAD biosynthesis peaked in the 4-day-old pupae or 0-day-old adults of H. vigintioctopunctata. At the first, second, third, and fourth larval instar and pupal stage, their transcript levels were high just before and/or right after the molting. Moreover, they were more abundantly transcribed at the larval heads than in the bodies. RNA interference (RNAi) of either Hvadc or Hvebony at the third instar larvae selectively deepened the color of the larval head capsules, antennae, mouthpart, scoli, strumae, and legs; and depletion of the two genes blackened the pupal head capsules, antennae, mouthpart, and legs. However, the knockdown of either Hvadc or Hvebony darkened the whole bodies of the adults. Conversely, RNAi of Hvtan at the third instar stage had little influence on the pigmentation in the larvae, pupae, and adults. These findings demonstrated that Adc and Ebony are important in cuticle pigmentation of H. vigintioctopunctata and suggested that larger quantities of NBAD were present in adults and play more important roles in pigmentation than larvae/pupae.

[Acute respiratory distress syndrome caused by quetiapine poisoning: a case report]

Quetiapine is a psychotropic drug. Excessive use of quetiapine may lead to drowsiness, blurred vision, respiratory depression, hypotension and extrapyramidal reactions. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is rare due to overdose of quetiapine. On 14 February 2020, a patients with coma, respiratory arrest and hypotension due to overdose of quetiapine were admitted to our hospital. After receiving mechanical ventilation、plasma adsorption and anti-inflammatory treatment, the patient's consciousness turned clear, the machine was successfully removed and extubated, and the patient's condition was improved and discharged from hospital. We analyzed the clinical data of the patient with quetiapine poisoning, and discussed the clinical symptoms and chest CT characteristics of ARDS caused by quetiapine poisoning, in order to improve the understanding of quetiapine poisoning and improve the success rate of rescue.

DMRT2 Interacts With FXR and Improves Insulin Resistance in Adipocytes and a Mouse Model

Insulin resistance (IR) plays a critical role in cardiovascular diseases and metabolic diseases. In this study, we identified the downregulation of DMRT2 in adipose tissues from insulin-resistant subjects through bioinformatics analysis and in an insulin-resistant mouse model through experimental analysis. DMRT2 overexpression significantly attenuated HDF-induced insulin resistance and inflammation in mice. Moreover, in control and insulin-resistant differentiated mouse 3T3-L1 adipocytes, DMRT2 overexpression attenuated but DMRT2 knockdown enhanced the insulin resistance of 3T3-L1 adipocytes. DMRT2 interacted with FXR and positively regulated FXR level and transcription activity. In both control and insulin-resistant differentiated mouse 3T3-L1 adipocytes, FXR knockdown enhanced the insulin resistance and attenuated the effects of DMRT2 overexpression upon 3T3-L1 adipocyte insulin resistance. In conclusion, we identify the downregulation of DMRT2 in the insulin-resistant mouse model and cell model. DMRT2 interacts with FXR and improves insulin resistance in adipocytes.

Yellow-b, -c, -d, and -h are required for normal body coloration of Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata

The involvement of yellow genes y-b, y-c, y-e, and y-h in cuticle tanning has poorly been clarified. In the present paper, six putative yellow (y-y, y-b, y-c, y-e y-f, and y-h) genes were identified in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata. Hvy-b, Hvy-c, Hvy-e, and Hvy-h were abundantly transcribed at early larval and late pupal stages, especially in the epidermis. Accordingly, RNA interference (RNAi) experiments were performed by an injection of dsy-b, dsy-c, dsy-e, or dsy-h into the second instar larvae and 1-day-old pupae. The head capsule, scoli and strumae, and legs in the fourth-instar larvae became blacker; the blackish spots in the pupae were darkened and widened after RNAi of Hvy-b, compared with those of dsegfp-treated controls. Depletion of Hvy-b at the 1-day-old pupal stage expanded two pair of black markings on the sternum of the metathorax, and darkened the black patched on the sterna of the abdomen segments I-VI in the resultant adults. Depletion of Hvy-e caused darker pigmented adult body and elytral cuticles than those of dsegfp-introduced controls. However, there was no obvious difference in pigmentation of the black markings. Hvy-h-deficient larvae displayed dark yellow body color, whereas the body color of the dsegfp-injected control was pale yellow. There was no obvious difference in coloration of larval specific-black markings or pupal cuticle between dsHvy-h- and dsegfp-treated animals. Moreover, silence of Hvy-c at the second instar larval stage lightened black markings in the resulting larvae and pupae, but had no influence on pale yellow body color. Our results demonstrated their different roles of the four yellow genes during body pigmentation: HvY-b and HvY-c, respectively, inhibit and facilitate the coloration within dark markings, whereas HvY-e and HvY-h, respectively, repress the pigmentation in adult and larval body cuticles outside the black patches in H. vigintioctopunctata.

Reference Genes for Expression Analyses by qRT-PCR in Phthorimaea operculella (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)

Due to a lack of effective internal references, studies on functional genes in Phthorimaea operculella, a serious Lepidopteran pest attacking potatoes worldwide, have been greatly limited. To select suitable endogenous controls, ten housekeeping genes of actin (ACT), α-tubulin (α-TUB), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), elongation factor 1α (EF1α), 18S and 28S ribosomal RNA (18S, 28S), ribosomal protein genes RPL4, RPL13 and RPL27 and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were tested. Their expression levels were determined under three different experimental conditions (developmental stages, tissues/organs and temperatures) using qRT-PCR technology. The stability was evaluated with five methods (Ct value, geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper and RefFinder). The results clarified that RPL13, EF1α and RPL27 are ranked as the best reference gene combination for measuring gene expression levels among different developing stages and under various temperatures; EF1α and RPL13 are recommended to normalize the gene expression levels among diverse tissues. EF1α and RPL13 are the best reference genes in all the experimental conditions. To validate the utility of the selected reference pair, EF1α and RPL13, we estimated the tissue-biased expression level of chitin synthase A gene (PoChSA). As expected, PoChSA was abundantly expressed in ectodermally derived epidermal cells, and lowly transcribed in the midgut. These findings will lay the foundation for future research on the molecular physiology and biochemistry of P. operculella.

Integrated Microbiome-Metabolome Analysis Reveals Stage-Dependent Alterations in Bacterial Degradation of Aromatics in Leptinotarsa decemlineata

To avoid potential harm during pupation, the Colorado potato beetle Leptinotarsa decemlineata lives in two different habitats throughout its developmental excursion, with the larva and adult settling on potato plants and the pupa in soil. Potato plants and agricultural soil contain a specific subset of aromatics. In the present study, we intended to determine whether the stage-specific bacterial flora plays a role in the catabolism of aromatics in L. decemlineata. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of the operational taxonomic units (OTUs) obtained by sequencing of culture-independent 16S rRNA region enriched a group of bacterial genes involved in the elimination of mono- and polycyclic aromatics at the pupal stage compared with those at the larval and adult periods. Consistently, metabolome analysis revealed that dozens of monoaromatics such as styrene, benzoates, and phenols, polycyclic aromatics, for instance, naphthalene and steroids, were more abundant in the pupal sample. Moreover, a total of seven active pathways were uncovered in the pupal specimen. These ways were associated with the biodegradation of benzoate, 4-methoxybenzoate, fluorobenzoates, styrene, vanillin, benzamide, and naphthalene. In addition, the metabolomic profiles and the catabolism abilities were significantly different in the pupae where their bacteria were removed by a mixture of three antibiotics. Therefore, our data suggested the stage-dependent alterations in bacterial breakdown of aromatics in L. decemlineata.

RNAi for chitin synthase 1 rather than 2 causes growth delay and molting defect in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata

Chitin synthase (CHS) plays a critical role in chitin synthesis and excretion. In most insects, CHSs have been segregated into 1 and 2 classes. CHS1 is responsible for chitin production in the ectodermally-derived epidermal cells. CHS2 is dedicated to chitin biosynthesis in the midgut peritrophic matrix (PM). Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata is a serious pest of Solanaceae and Cucurbitaceae plants. In this study, we identified HvCHS1 and HvCHS2. We found that HvCHS1 was abundantly transcribed in the larval tracheae and epidermis, whereas HvCHS2 was mainly expressed in the guts. Escherichia coli HT115 expressed double stranded RNAs targeting HvCHS1 and HvCHS2 (dsCHS1 and dsCHS2) were used to immerse potato foliage and the treated leaves were provided to the newly-molted fourth- and third-instar larvae. Ingestion of dsCHS1 by the fourth-instar larvae significantly diminished the target mRNA level and had slight influence on the expression of HvCHS2. In contrast, consumption of dsCHS2 significantly lowered the target mRNA level but triggered the transcription of HvCHS1. Knockdown of HvCHS1, rather than HvCHS2, arrested larval development and impaired larva-pupa-adult transition. A large proportion of HvCHS1 hypomorphs became stunting prepupae, deformed pupae or misshapen adults. Moreover, knockdown of HvCHS1 damaged gut integrity, decreased cuticle thickness, and delayed the formation of newly-generated cuticle layer during ecdysis. Furthermore, depletion of HvCHS1 inhibited the development of trachea system and thinned tracheal taenidia. Ingestion of dsCHS1 at the third-instar stage caused similar but severe negative effects. Our results demonstrated that HvCHS1 is responsible for chitin biosynthesis during ecdysis. Moreover, HvCHS1 is a potential amenable target gene and young larvae are more susceptible to dsRNA.

LAMP Detection and Identification of the Blackleg Pathogen Leptosphaeria biglobosa 'brassicae'

Blackleg of oilseed rape is a damaging invasive disease caused by the species complex Leptosphaeria maculans (Lm)/L. biglobosa (Lb), which is composed of at least two and seven phylogenetic subclades, respectively. Generally, Lm is more virulent than Lb, but under certain conditions, Lb can cause a significant yield loss in oilseed rape. Lb 'brassicae' (Lbb) has been found to be the causal agent for blackleg of oilseed rape in China, whereas Lm and Lb 'canadensis' (Lbc) were frequently detected in imported seeds of oilseed rape, posing a risk of spread into China. To monitor the blackleg-pathogen populations, a diagnostic tool based on loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) was developed using a 615-bp-long DNA sequence from Lbb that was derived from a randomly amplified polymorphic DNA assay. The LAMP was optimized for temperature and time, and tested for specificity and sensitivity using the DNA extracted from Lbb, Lbc, Lm, and 10 other fungi. The results showed that the optimal temperature and time were 65°C and 40 min, respectively. The LAMP primer set was specific to Lbb and highly sensitive as it detected the Lbb DNA as low as 132 fg per reaction. The LAMP assay was validated using the DNA extracted from mycelia and conidia of a well-characterized Lbb isolate, and its utility was evaluated using the DNA extracted from leaves, stems, pods, and seeds of oilseed rape. The LAMP assay developed herein will help for monitoring populations of the blackleg pathogens in China and in developing strategies for management of the blackleg disease.

[Genetic diagnosis and follow-up study in pediatric neurofibromatosis 1 patients]

Objective: Based on the genetic diagnosis and follow-up study on pediatric neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) patients, interrogating the genotype-phenotype correlations of patients with NF1 mutations. Methods: 32 Patients from age of 2 months to 5 years old (17 male and 15 female) suspected for neurofibromatosis 1 were recruited during September 2016 to January 2018 in Shanghai Children's Medical Center retrospectively. Genetic diagnosis was applied to detect pathogenic variants. Long-term follow-up study were conducted to reveal progress of the disease and genotype-phenotype correlations. Results: 27 patients were detected with pathogenic NF1 variants, among them three were not reported. 3 patients inherited pathogenic variants from their NF1 diagnosed parents, all the other variants were de novo. Progressive development of phenotypes wasn't observed in most patients during the follow-up (14/27). Some patients were diagnosed with short stature, pulmonary artery stenosis and developmental delay during the follow-up(7/27). Short stature and pulmonary artery stenosis may be associated with missense mutation and severe truncation mutation of NF1 gene, respectively. Conclusions: Genetic diagnosis is required in young patients of NF1.Follow-up plan of pediatric patients should be adjusted based on genetic findings. Early follow-up of cardiovascular abnormalities should be noted in patients with missense mutation. Height development in patients with severe truncating variants are needed.

High Levels of Thyroid Hormone Impair Regulatory T Cell Function Via Reduced PD-1 Expression

CONTEXT

Regulatory T cell (Treg) dysfunction plays an important role in the development and progression of Graves' disease (GD). Programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) prompts FoxP3 in Treg expression and enhances the suppressive activity of Tregs. Whether abnormal expression of PD-1 contributes to the breakdown of Tregs and the role of thyroid hormone in the PD-1 expression of Tregs in GD remain substantially undefined.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the role of PD-1 in Treg function and triiodothyronine (T3) in PD-1 expression in patients with GD and mice treated with T3.

METHODS

We recruited 30 patients with GD and 30 healthy donors. PD-1 expression in Tregs and Treg function were determined. To evaluate the effects of thyroid hormone on PD-1 expression in Tregs, we used T3 for the treatment of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). We then treated mice with T3 to confirm the effect of thyroid hormone on PD-1 expression in Tregs and Tregs function in vivo.

RESULTS

PD-1 expression in Tregs and the suppressive function of Tregs significantly decreased in patients with GD. T3 reduced PD-1 expression in human Tregs in a concentration- and time-dependent manner in vitro. High levels of circulating T3 reduced PD-1 expression in Tregs, impaired Treg function, and disrupted T-helper cell (Th1 and Th2) balance in mice treated with T3.

CONCLUSION

Treg dysfunction in GD patients might be due to downregulation of PD-1 expression in Tregs induced by high levels of serum T3.

Photoinduced Copper-Catalyzed Asymmetric C-O Cross-Coupling

The construction of carbon-heteroatom bonds is one of the most active areas of research in organic chemistry because the function of organic molecules is often derived from the presence of heteroatoms. Although considerable advances have recently been achieved in radical-involved catalytic asymmetric C-N bond formation, there has been little progress in the corresponding C-O bond-forming processes. Here, we describe a photoinduced copper-catalyzed cross-coupling of readily available oxime esters and 1,3-dienes to generate diversely substituted allylic esters with high regio- and enantioselectivity (>75 examples; up to 95% ee). The reaction proceeds at room temperature under excitation by purple light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and features the use of a single, earth-abundant copper-based chiral catalyst as both the photoredox catalyst for radical generation and the source of asymmetric induction in C-O coupling. Combined experimental and density functional theory (DFT) computational studies suggest the formation of π-allylcopper complexes from redox-active oxime esters as bifunctional reagents and 1,3-dienes through a radical-polar crossover process.

Serum and Synovial Vancomycin Concentrations in Patients with Prosthetic Joint Infection after Intra-articular Infusion

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Vancomycin is one of the most commonly used antibiotics for intra-articular (IA) infusion in the treatment of prosthetic joint infection (PJI). This study aimed to preliminarily investigate the serum and synovial vancomycin concentrations in patients with PJI after IA infusion.

METHODS

In total, 16 patients who developed PJI were enrolled in this study; 14 of the patients were treated with IA infusion of vancomycin postoperatively, while the other 2 patients received intravenous (IV) infusion of vancomycin alone. Chemiluminescent immunoassay assay (CLIA) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were used to determine the serum and synovial vancomycin concentrations, respectively.

RESULTS

Administration of vancomycin 0.5 g once daily (qd) IA maintained a high vancomycin trough concentration in synovial fluid before the next IA dose, regardless of whether it was given in combination with IV administration. The combination vancomycin 0.5 g qd IA + vancomycin 1 g every 12 h (q12h) IV yielded relatively good trough concentrations of vancomycin in both serum and synovial fluid. The mean trough serum vancomycin concentration of patients who used vancomycin 1 g q12h IV therapy was above 10 μg/mL; however, no vancomycin was detected in their synovial fluid.

CONCLUSIONS

The rational use of IA vancomycin infusion may help to achieve effective therapeutic concentrations of vancomycin in the serum and synovial fluid of patients with PJI.

[Whole exome sequencing reveals molecular mechanisms of clear cell renal cell carcinoma with sarcomatoid differentiation]

Objective: To investigate the molecular mechanisms of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CCRCC) with sarcomatoid differentiation (CCRCCS) and to explore new therapeutic targets for CCRCCS. Methods: Whole exome sequencing was performed on the carcinomatous and sarcomatoid components of five CCRCCS cases collected from January 2017 to October 2018. A highly frequent non-synonymous mutation of cadherin 23 (CDH23) was revealed by whole exome sequencing and further studied in additional samples. The sequencing of CDH23 in 40 specimens with CCRCCS and 50 specimens with CCRCC collected from January 2008 to October 2018 were conducted using Sanger sequencing. Immunohistochemistry was carried out to detect the protein expression of CDH23 in the additional 90 cases. Results: Carcinomatous and sarcomatoid components of CCRCCS shared most of the somatic single-nucleotide variants (SSNVs) as revealed through whole exome sequencing, while the sarcomatoid component had higher overall SSNVs than carcinomatous component. A highly frequent non-synonymous mutation of CDH23 (p.Arg1804Gln) was observed both in carcinomatous and sarcomatoid components of CCRCCS that resulted in the alteration in the highly conserved calcium-binding site mediating the functions of cadherins. In the additional 90 specimens, CDH23 mutation was much frequently detected in CCRCCS than that in CCRCC samples and even the high grade CCRCC. CDH23 protein was not or weakly expressed in most CCRCCS specimens with CDH23 mutation. There was an correlation between CDH23 gene mutation and negative expression of its protein (r=0.598, P<0.01). Conclusions: The present study reveals, for the first time, that the mutation of CDH23 (p.Arg1804Gln) is a genetic risk factor for CCRCCS. It is associated with the decreased expression of CDH23 protein, resulting in the absence of cadherin function of CDH23, indicating that CDH23 mutation may be involved in the sarcomatoid transformation in CCRCCS. Thus, CDH23 might be a potential therapeutic target for CCRCCS.

The Leptinotarsa forkhead transcription factor O exerts a key function during larval-pupal-adult transition

Forkhead box O (FoxO) protein, a major downstream transcription factor of insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling/target of rapamycin pathway (IIS/TOR), is involved in the regulation of larval growth and the determination of organ size. FoxO also interacts with 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) and juvenile hormone (JH) signal transduction pathways, and hence is critical for larval development in holometabolans. However, whether FoxO plays a critical role during larval metamorphosis needs to be further determined in Leptinotarsa decemlineata. We found that 20E stimulated the expression of LdFoxO. RNA interference (RNAi)-aided knockdown of LdFoxO at the third-instar stage repressed 20E signaling and reduced larval weight. Although the resultant larvae survived through the third-fourth instar ecdysis, around 70% of the LdFoxO depleted moribund beetles developmentally arrested at prepupae stage. These LdFoxO depleted beetles were completely wrapped in the larval exuviae, gradually darkened and finally died. Moreover, approximately 12% of the LdFoxO RNAi beetles died as pharate adults. Ingestion of either 20E or JH by the LdFoxO depletion beetles excessively rescued the corresponding hormonal signals, but could not alleviate larval performance and restore defective phenotypes. Therefore, FoxO plays an important role in regulation of larval-pupal-adult transformation in L. decemlineata, in addition to mediation of IIS/TOR pathway and stimulation of ecdysteroidogenesis.

RNAi of vacuolar-type H+-ATPase genes causes growth delay and molting defect in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata

Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata is one of the most serious insect pests to a large number of nightshades and cucurbits. RNA interference (RNAi) triggered by double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) offers a reduced risk approach to control the beetle. Identification of amenable target genes and determination of appropriate life stage for dsRNA treatment are two critical steps in order to improve RNAi efficiency. In the present paper, we identified three vATPase genes, namely HvvATPaseC, HvvATPaseE and HvvATPaseH. We found that the three transcripts were widely expressed in the eggs, first- to fourth-instar larvae, prepupae, pupae and adults. They were abundantly transcribed in the hindgut and Malpighian tubules, in contrast to the epidermis and fat body. Three days' ingestion of dsvATPaseC, dsvATPaseE and dsvATPaseH by the fourth-instar larvae significantly decreased corresponding transcript level by 90.1, 88.9 and 97.2%, greatly reduced larval fresh weight by 28.0, 29.9 and 28.0%, and caused 66.7, 100 and 78.7% larval lethality respectively. Comparably, 3 days' exposure of the third-instar larvae to dsvATPaseC significantly reduced HvvATPaseC mRNA level by 89.5%, decreased approximately 80% of the larval fresh weight, and killed 100% of the treated larvae. Therefore, the three vATPase genes, especially HvvATPaseE, are potential amenable target genes and young larvae are more susceptible to dsRNA. Our findings will enable the development of the dsRNA-based pesticide to control H. vigintioctopunctata.