An orphan gene is essential for efficient sperm entry into eggs in Drosophila melanogaster

Genetics, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: unknown

Published: Feb. 4, 2025

Abstract While spermatogenesis has been extensively characterized in the Drosophila melanogaster model system, very little is known about genes required for fly sperm entry into eggs. We identified a lineage-specific gene, which we named katherine johnson (kj), that efficient fertilization. Males do not express kj produce and transfer are stored normally females, but from these males enter eggs with severely reduced efficiency. Using tagged transgenic rescue construct, observed KJ protein localizes around edge of nucleus at various stages undetectable mature sperm. These data suggest exerts an effect on development, loss results fertilization ability. Interestingly, lacks detectable sequence similarity to any other protein, suggesting could be orphan gene. previous bioinformatic analyses indicated was restricted group Drosophila, putative orthologs conserved synteny, male-biased expression, predicted features across genus, as well likely instances gene some lineages. Thus, present common ancestor. It unclear whether its role fertility had already evolved time or developed later lineage leading D. melanogaster. Our demonstrate new aspect male reproduction shaped by provide molecular foothold further investigating mechanism Drosophila.

Language: Английский

Chromosome-level genome of the brown lacewing Micromus angulatus (Stephens, 1836) (Neuroptera: Hemerobiidae)

Scientific Data, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 12(1)

Published: March 6, 2025

The brown lacewing Micromus angulatus (Stephens), a member within the subfamily Microminae of family Hemerobiidae, is globally distributed species and an important predatory natural enemy various agricultural forestry crop pests. Despite its global distribution significance, genomic resources for development novel pest management strategies M. Hemerobiidae remain limited. Here, we present first high-quality chromosome-level reference genome angulatus, achieved through PacBio HiFi Hi-C technologies. assembled spans 1.29 Gb, with scaffold N50 63.78 Mb, complete BUSCO score 97.00%, containing eight pseudochromosomes, demonstrates high degree continuity. Functional annotation identified 13,250 protein-coding genes, repetitive sequences, which account 83.65% genome, were also characterized. This comprehensive assembly offers robust in-depth research on genetic basis predation adaptability in supports further into understanding diversity contributing to broader knowledge group related species.

Language: Английский

Knockout of silk fibroin genes in Plutella xylostella results in decreased fitness and performance

Pest Management Science, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: unknown

Published: April 21, 2025

Abstract BACKGROUND The ability of insects to spin silk is crucial for their survival, reproduction, and interactions with the environment. diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella , a serious agricultural pest, relies on production, which influences its behavior population dynamics. RESULTS This study employed CRISPR/Cas9 technology knock out three genes, that is, fibroin heavy chain ( PxFibH ), light PxFibL fibrohexamerin PxP25 investigate roles in gland development related biological traits. We successfully generated knockout mutants, displayed defective cocoon formation developed into naked pupae. Further analysis revealed significant alterations structure various parameters, including increased larval mortality, prolonged developmental time, reduced pupal weight, shortened adult lifespan. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight importance genes production growth P. positioning them as potential targets innovative pest control strategies. © 2025 Society Chemical Industry.

Language: Английский