MicroRNA-Mediated Host Immune Genes Manipulation Benefits AcMNPV Proliferation in Spodoptera frugiperda

Abstract

Spodoptera frugiperda is a highly destructive migratory pest that threatens various crops globally. Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) is an effective biocontrol agent against lepidopteran pests. Here, we explored the molecular mechanisms underlying the immune response to AcMNPV infection in S. frugiperda. RNA-seq and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analyses identified the Toll, IMD, and apoptosis pathways as primary immune responses. Investigation into AcMNPV-induced apoptosis in the S. frugiperda cell line (Sf9) revealed that the Toll pathway activated the JNK via the TRAF6 (TNF receptor-associated factor 6) adapter. In addition, AcMNPV-induced the differential expression of several host-encoded microRNAs (miRNAs), with significant negative regulatory effects, on S. frugiperda antiviral immune genes. RNAi and miRNA-mimic mediated silencing of these genes resulted in increased AcMNPV proliferation. Our findings reinforce the potential of AcMNPV as a potent biocontrol agent and further our understanding of developing biotechnology-based targeted pest control agents.

Dual Guardians of Immunity: FoRab10 and FoRab29 in Frankliniella occidentalis Confer Resistance to Tomato Spotted Wilt Orthotospovirus

“…Approximately 76% of plant viruses are transmitted by Hemipteroid assemblage insects, such as aphids, whiteflies, leafhoppers, planthoppers, and thrips . Over a long evolutionary process, these vector insects and various plant viruses have developed complex and intricate symbiotic relationships. − Plant viruses primarily spread by manipulating the behavior and physiological processes of their hosts. − However, host insects are protected through their immune mechanisms against xenobiotics. − Autophagy, which is mediated by autophagy-related proteins (ATGs), is the primary mechanism of immunity against plant viruses in insects. This process involves the biogenesis and maturation of autophagosomes, which are subsequently directed to lysosomes for degradation. − Recent studies have highlighted the involvement of Rab GTPase in the regulation of autophagy and immunity in plants and animals. , …”

BmRRS1 Protein Inhibits the Proliferation of Baculovirus Autographa californica Nucleopolyhedrovirus in Silkworm, Bombyx mori

“…Baculovirus is widely used as an insecticide for pest control in agriculture and forestry. AcMNPV can cross-infect more than 30 lepidopteran pests [ 2 ], including Spodoptera frugiperda [ 3 ]. AcMNPV has a wider host domain than other baculoviruses both in vitro and in vivo.…”