1. The fatty acid elongase gene family in the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens.
- Author
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Li, Dan-Ting, Chen, Xuan, Wang, Xin-Qiu, Moussian, Bernard, and Zhang, Chuan-Xi
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NILAPARVATA lugens , *GENE families , *FATTY acids , *FATTY acid synthesis , *BODY composition - Abstract
The cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) biosynthetic pathways branches off from the synthesis of fatty acids. Fatty acid elongases (ELOs) are enzymes catalyzing the synthesis of long-chain fatty acids and thereby contribute to the diversification of CHCs. Based on bioinformatics analyses we identified 20 ELO genes in the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens. RNA interference against these genes demonstrated that 9 NlELO genes were essential for the survival of N. lugens nymphs and adults. Indeed, knockdown of NlELO s 1, 3, 4, 7 , 8, 9, 10, 12 and 18 caused lethal phenotypes with a thin and wizened body and reduced lipids in the fat body. Surface analysis by scanning electron microscopy and CHC quantification indicated that knockdown of NlELO s 2, 3, 8 and 16 additionally resulted in a smooth body surface and a decrease in CHC amounts. Therefore, we speculate that long-chain CHCs are needed for CHC attachment to the cuticle surface. CHC deficiency, in turn, resulted in increased adhesion of water droplets and secreted honeydew to the animal surface and the inability of N. lugens to survive in paddy fields with varying humidity. Our present study provides an initial comprehensive analysis of ELO gene functions in an insect, and may serve to better understand the biology of CHCs. Image 1 • Roles of 20 fatty acid elongase (ELO) genes are examined in the brown planthopper Nilaparvata lugens. • NlELO s 2, 3, 8, and 16 function in the production of cuticular hydrocarbons. • NlELO s 2, 3, 8, and 16 are important for both cuticle hydrophobicity and for water retention. • NlELO s 1, 4, 7, 9, 10, 12, and 18 play roles in development and physiology of the brown planthopper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2019
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