Article
Entomology
Sufang Deng, Junxiu Wang, Enbo Ma, Jianzhen Zhang, Shuping Xing
Summary: This study investigated the function of LmTDRD5 in Locusta migratoria. Knockdown of LmTdrd5 in males resulted in decreased sperm count and sperm length, as well as downregulation of germ cell marker genes. Knockdown of LmTdrd5 in females affected ovarian development and oocyte maturation. Therefore, LmTdrd5 plays an important role in locust reproduction.
Article
Fisheries
J. A. Rodrigues-Filho, B. C. Araujo, P. H. Mello, C. E. O. Garcia, V. F. D. Silva, W. Li, B. Levavi-Sivan, R. G. Moreira
Summary: The reproductive activity of captive dusky groupers was evaluated using non-lethal tools. The plasma profile of gonadal steroids and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) was measured, and the effects of human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) and 17 beta-estradiol (E2) implants on vitellogenesis were investigated. Results showed that captivity had a negative impact on vitellogenesis in E. marginatus.
Article
Entomology
Junxiu Wang, Tingting Li, Sufang Deng, Enbo Ma, Jianzhen Zhang, Shuping Xing
Summary: Insect reproduction is crucial for maintaining population abundance, with RNA helicase DEAD-box protein 6 (DDX6) identified as a key player in female locust reproduction, offering a new target for locust biological control.
Review
Cell Biology
Kiyoshi Soyano, Takafumi Amagai, Tomofumi Yamaguchi, Yuji Mushirobira, Wen-Gang Xu, Nhan Thanh Pham, Ryosuke Murata
Summary: Groupers are important fish species widely found in tropical and subtropical areas, playing a significant role in coastal ecosystems and fisheries. Research is focused on understanding the reproductive and gonadal development mechanisms of groupers to facilitate their aquaculture, as well as studying the ecological mechanism of sex change and reproductive physiology, with a particular focus on the endocrine system. Recently, research on groupers has also aimed to understand the impact of ocean warming and man-made chemicals on coastal environments. However, knowledge about the physiology and ecology of these fish, especially their reproductive physiology, is limited, due to challenges associated with conducting breeding experiments using wild populations.
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Lukasz Oldak, Patrycja Milewska, Sylwia Chludzinska-Kasperuk, Kamil Grubczak, Joanna Reszec, Ewa Gorodkiewicz
Summary: This study focused on quantifying cathepsin B, D, and S in gliomas, exploring their correlation with patient age, tumor size, and each other. The research led to the development of a diagnostic method for distinguishing different grades of glioma and identifying independent markers using cathepsins.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MEDICINE
(2022)
Article
Fisheries
Pauline Jehannet, Arjan P. Palstra, Ignacio Gimenez Nebot, Henk Schipper, William Swinkels, Leon T. N. Heinsbroek, Hans Komen
Summary: The effects of eel-specific recombinant gonadotropins (rGTHs) on oocyte development in European eels were tested in this study. The results showed that treatment with recombinant luteinizing hormone (rLH) induced oocyte development in vitro, and treatment with recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (rFSH) followed by rLH stimulated sexual maturation in vivo. Larvae were produced for the first time by rGTH treatment alone, but further optimization is needed for dosage and timing.
Article
Fisheries
Eleni Servou, Eudoxia Schismenou, Stylianos Somarakis
Summary: This study examined the oocyte recruitment and development pattern of the European sardine, a commercially important fish with indeterminate fecundity. The study found that the recruitment and development of oocytes remained stable throughout the spawning season, with the final maturation of the advanced batch triggering the recruitment of new oocytes and the deposition of yolk in primary vitellogenic oocytes. This study provides important information for understanding reproduction and its drivers in fish with indeterminate fecundity at the individual and population level.
Article
Biology
Xiaoqing Zhang, Lin Jin, Guoqing Li
Summary: Coleoptera is the largest taxa of animals by far, and their strong reproductive capacity is partially attributed to effective vitellogenesis regulated by the 20E signaling, as discovered in the two beetle species studied in this paper.
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Jingzhe Song, Nan Zhu, Xinchen Pan, Lu Guo, Xiang Kong
Summary: This study investigated the expression and significance of Cathepsin C (Cat C) and Cathepsin D (Cat D) in the serum and placenta of nonpregnant women, pregnant women in different trimesters, and patients with preeclampsia (PE). The results showed that the levels of Cat C were significantly lower in the first trimester compared to the nonpregnant group, while Cat D levels were significantly higher. Cat C and D levels increased in the second and third trimesters, with no significant difference between the two trimesters. In patients with PE, Cat C levels were significantly higher and Cat D levels were significantly lower than in the third trimester, and these levels were correlated with the severity of PE.
REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY AND ENDOCRINOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Sandeep Goyal, Ketul V. Patel, Yadav Nagare, Digambar B. Raykar, Santosh S. Raikar, Atul Dolas, Princy Khurana, Rajath Cyriac, Sharad Sarak, Mukesh Gangar, Anil K. Agarwal, Aditya Kulkarni
Summary: This study describes the design, optimization, and evaluation of novel non-peptidic acylguanidine based small molecule inhibitors of Cathepsin D, leading to the identification of an optimized lead 24e with improved microsomal stability and potency. This compound could serve as a potential candidate for further preclinical studies against diseases where Cathepsin D plays a key role.
BIOORGANIC & MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Melody Wahl, Tom Levy, Rivka Manor, Eliahu D. Aflalo, Amir Sagi, Joseph Aizen
Summary: This study identified and characterized the genes encoding GPA2 (MrGPA2), GPB5 (MrGPB5), and LGR1 (MrLGR1) in the giant freshwater prawn and revealed their spatial expression patterns in females. Loss-of-function experiments demonstrated a possible ligand-receptor interaction between MrGPA2/MrGPB5 and MrLGR1, and the knockdown of MrGPA2/MrGPB5 resulted in reduced MrVg levels in the hepatopancreas. Additionally, loss-of-function of MrLGR1 led to increased MrVgR expression and larger oocytes in the ovary. These findings provide insight into the role of GPA2/GPB5-LGR1 in female reproduction.
FRONTIERS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Fabian O. Ramos, Marcela Nouzova, Leonardo L. Fruttero, Jimena Leyria, Rodrigo Ligabue-Braun, Fernando G. Noriega, Lilian E. Canavoso
Summary: This study cloned and sequenced the Dipetalogaster maxima Methoprene-tolerant (DmaxMet) transcript and used molecular modelling to identify the structure and JH binding site of the receptor. Functional studies revealed that the JH receptor plays a crucial role in ovarian development by regulating the transcription and protein levels of vitellogenin and lipophorin. These findings provide valuable insights into the epidemiology of Chagas' disease.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Kayvon Pedram, Nouf N. Laqtom, D. Judy Shon, Alessandro Di Spiezio, Nicholas M. Riley, Paul Saftig, Monther Abu-Remaileh, Carolyn R. Bertozzi
Summary: Mucins play important roles in various human diseases, and studying their biosynthesis and inhibition of glycosylation is significant. Our research challenges the traditional view by showing that heavily O-glycosylated mucin domains can be proteolytically degraded in mammalian tissues without prior deglycosylation. This finding provides insights into the endogenous pathways for glycoprotein catabolism.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2022)
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Yeye Du, Xingyong Chen, Han Yang, Linghong Sun, Congcong Wei, Wanli Yang, Yutong Zhao, Zhengquan Liu, Zhaoyu Geng
Summary: This study investigated the reproductive hormones, expressions of oocyte vitellogenesis receptor (OVR) at different laying periods, and localization in Wanxi White goose. The results showed that LH concentration was lowest during peak laying period, while E2 concentration was highest during early laying period. The gene expression of OVR was highest at ceased laying period and higher in developing follicles. C/EBP alpha was identified as the key transcription factor promoting OVR expression in goose follicle granulosa cells.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Xiaosen Ouyang, Willayat Y. Wani, Gloria A. Benavides, Matthew J. Redmann, Hai Vo, Thomas van Groen, Victor M. Darley-Usmar, Jianhua Zhang
Summary: Lysosomes are crucial for protein and organelle degradation and homeostasis, with cathepsins playing a key role in protein quality control. Overexpression of CTSD can reduce the toxicity of protein aggregates and extend the lifespan of certain mutant mice.
ACTA PHARMACEUTICA SINICA B
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Mayara J. Prado, Shripriya Singh, Rodrigo Ligabue-Braun, Bruna V. Meneghetti, Thaiane Rispoli, Cristiane Kopacek, Karina Monteiro, Arnaldo Zaha, Maria L. R. Rossetti, Amit V. Pandey
Summary: In this study, we investigated the pathogenicity of uncharacterized variants in the CYP21A2 gene reported in Brazilian and Portuguese populations. Through computational analysis and functional assays, we determined how these mutations affect the protein structure and activity, providing insights for the diagnosis and management of CYP21A2 deficiency.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Bianca Villavicencio, Rodrigo Ligabue-Braun, Hugo Verli
Summary: This study investigated the structural characteristics of glycocins using a computational approach and found that glycosylation can affect the flexibility and structural behavior of peptides. Specifically, the C-terminal tail in glycocin F-like peptides serves as a regulator for their structured regions, indicating the versatility of glycocins and their potential use in molecular engineering.
JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL INFORMATION AND MODELING
(2022)
Editorial Material
Neurosciences
Carla Denise Bonan, Celia Regina Ribeiro da Silva Carlini
CURRENT NEUROPHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
A. N. Haddad, J. Leyria, A. B. Lange
Summary: Neuropeptides and their receptors play a crucial role in regulating physiological and behavioral processes in insects. In this study, the tachykinin receptor (Rhopr-TKR) was identified and cloned from Rhodnius prolixus, which is a vector of Chagas disease. The findings suggest that tachykinin signaling regulates lipid and carbohydrate homeostasis via the insulin signaling pathway.
GENERAL AND COMPARATIVE ENDOCRINOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Angela B. Lange, Jimena Leyria, Ian Orchard
Summary: This review focuses on the female reproductive system of Rhodnius prolixus and its coordination in egg production. Classical (neuro)endocrinological studies have provided insights into the effects of feeding and mating on egg production, and recent molecular analyses have confirmed and expanded this model. Understanding the reproductive biology of R. prolixus is crucial for controlling the transmission of Chagas disease.
GENERAL AND COMPARATIVE ENDOCRINOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Augusto F. Uberti, Natalia Callai-Silva, Matheus V. C. Grahl, Angela R. Piovesan, Eduarda G. Nachtigall, Cristiane R. G. Furini, Celia Regina Carlini
Summary: Alzheimer's disease (AD) causes dementia and memory loss in the elderly. Research suggests a possible association between Helicobacter pylori infection and tauopathies such as AD, potentially mediated by the bacterium's urease enzyme.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Areej N. Al-Dailami, Jimena Leyria, Ian Orchard, Angela B. Lange
Summary: The study investigated the cloning and characterization of glycoprotein hormone GPA2/GPB5 and its receptor in the fifth instar Rhodnius prolixus. It was found that GPA2/GPB5 and LGR1 were most highly expressed in the central nervous system and Malpighian tubules, with RNA interference of LGR1 leading to weight loss and increased mortality in unfed insects. Additionally, insects with reduced LGR1 consumed smaller blood meals and had higher mortality rates post-feeding.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jimena Leyria, Riya Philip, Ian Orchard, Angela B. Lange
Summary: Insulin-like peptides (ILPs) are crucial hormones found in all organisms, and a newly discovered ILP called gonadulin has been found to be highly expressed in the reproductive system of Rhodnius prolixus insects. In this study, it was observed that impairment of the gonadulin signaling cascade inhibited ovulation and oviposition, leading to egg retention. Understanding the reproductive processes in R. prolixus could provide insights for the development of biopesticides to control insect populations and disease transmission.
INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Fabian O. Ramos, Marcela Nouzova, Leonardo L. Fruttero, Jimena Leyria, Rodrigo Ligabue-Braun, Fernando G. Noriega, Lilian E. Canavoso
Summary: This study cloned and sequenced the Dipetalogaster maxima Methoprene-tolerant (DmaxMet) transcript and used molecular modelling to identify the structure and JH binding site of the receptor. Functional studies revealed that the JH receptor plays a crucial role in ovarian development by regulating the transcription and protein levels of vitellogenin and lipophorin. These findings provide valuable insights into the epidemiology of Chagas' disease.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jimena Leyria, Ian Orchard, Angela B. Lange
Summary: In adult females of several insect species, juvenile hormones (JHs) play a role as gonadotrophic hormones, regulating egg production and successful hatching through the JHSB(3) signaling pathway.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jimena Leyria, Samiha Benrabaa, Marcela Nouzova, Fernando G. G. Noriega, Lilian Valadares Tose, Francisco Fernandez-Lima, Ian Orchard, Angela B. B. Lange
Summary: This study used the Rhodnius prolixus model to investigate the importance of nutrition, insulin signaling, and two main types of insect lipophilic hormones, juvenile hormone (JH) and ecdysteroids, in successful reproduction. The results showed that insulin and allatoregulatory neuropeptides mainly drive the increase in JH levels after a blood meal, and JH in turn regulates its own biosynthesis by controlling the expression of key enzymes. Additionally, insulin stimulates the synthesis and release of ecdysteroids from the ovary. This study emphasizes the complexity of the endocrine signal network and how they coordinate a successful reproductive cycle.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Carlo Frederico Moro, Fabio C. S. Nogueira, Carlos Gabriel Moreira Almeida, Rafael Real-Guerra, Pedro Ferrari Dalberto, Cristiano V. Bizarro, Rodrigo Ligabue-Braun, Celia R. Carlini
Summary: Ureases catalyze the hydrolysis of urea into carbamate and ammonia. Most plant ureases are composed of hexamers of a single chain subunit. Canatoxin, a neurotoxic protein isolated from jack bean seeds, was found to be a lower molecular mass and less active isoform of the abundant jack bean urease (JBU). Stabilization of Canatoxin was achieved by treatment with low concentration of formaldehyde, preventing its oligomerization. Peptide analysis and de novo sequencing confirmed that Canatoxin is an isoform of JBU, and formaldehyde treatment modified amino acids at the protein's surface to prevent hexamer formation and inactive aggregation.
JOURNAL OF BIOMOLECULAR STRUCTURE & DYNAMICS
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Yuri Correia Barreto, Raquel Soares Oliveira, Bruna Trindade Borges, Maria Eduarda Rosa, Ana Paula Zanatta, Carlos Gabriel Moreira de Almeida, Lucia Vinade, Celia Regina Carlini, Chariston Andre Dal Belo
Summary: In recent decades, the entomotoxicity of JBU and its derived peptides has been studied due to their widespread interaction with different species of insects and their potential as natural insecticides. This study investigated the neurotoxic effects of JBU in Nauphoeta cinerea cockroaches by examining the monoaminergic pathways involved. The results showed that JBU significantly decreased exploratory activity, induced neuromuscular blockade, and decreased the number of neural action potentials.
PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Leah Lucy Joscelyne Fitzpatrick, Vincent Nijman, Rodrigo Ligabue-Braun, K. Anne-Isola Nekaris
Summary: The evolution of venom and the selection pressures acting on toxins have been extensively studied in recent decades. However, research on mammalian toxins has been limited due to the scarcity of venomous mammal species. With advances in genomics and transcriptomics, the availability of toxin sequences from venomous mammals has increased. This study presents the rates of selection acting upon venomous mammal toxins using branch- and site-specific selection models, revealing both episodic and pervasive selection acting on the toxins.