iTRAQ-based quantitative proteome revealed metabolic changes of Sitophilus zeamais in response to terpinen-4-ol...

Terpinen-4-ol has high insecticidal activity towards the stored-grain pest Sitophilus zeamais, a key pest of cereals worldwide. Comparative proteomic analysis can identify proteins related to the response to terpinen-4-ol fumigation in S. zeamais, improving our understanding of the mechanisms behind the insecticidal activity and the detoxification of terpinen-4-ol in insects.

Using an isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ)-based strategy, 2761 proteins were obtained from S. zeamais adults. Comparative proteomic analysis showed that 215 proteins were upregulated and 129 were downregulated after exposure to terpinen-4-ol. Based on functional classifications, differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were enriched in the carbohydrate, energy and xenobiotics metabolism pathways. DEPs associated with lactose, sucrose and starch metabolism were identified, including alcohol dehydrogenase, aldose reductase, β-galactosidase, maltase, and myrosinase. Among detoxification-related proteins, the levels of 14 cytochrome P450s, seven glutathione S-transferases, and three UDP-glucuronosyltransferases were altered, most of which were upregulated after exposure to terpinen-4-ol.

Metabolic changes indicated that terpinen-4-ol could affect the energy supply and potentially be metabolized and detoxified by various enzymes in S. zeamais. The results provide a foundation for further functional studies of key proteins mediated by terpinen-4-ol. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.