Transcriptomic analysis reveals Apis mellifera adaptations to high temperature and high humidity

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Insect Physiology
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Temperature and humidity significantly impact honeybee (Apis mellifera) survival, growth, and reproduction.
• Greenhouse environments present challenges for honeybee pollination due to elevated temperatures and humidity.
• Limited understanding exists regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying honeybee adaptation to heat and humidity stress.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate gene expression patterns in Apis mellifera under varying temperature and humidity conditions.
• To identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and associated biological pathways involved in stress response.
• To elucidate the molecular basis of honeybee adaptation to high-temperature and high-humidity environments.

Main Methods:

• Transcriptomic analysis was employed to identify DEGs in honeybees exposed to different temperature and humidity treatments.
• Quantitative reverse transcription PCR (q-RT PCR) was used to validate the expression patterns of selected genes.
• Analysis of DEGs in pathways related to amino acid and fatty acid biosynthesis and metabolism.

Main Results:

• A total of 434 DEGs were identified under high temperature, 86 under high humidity, and 266 under combined stress.
• Differentially expressed genes were enriched in amino acid and fatty acid metabolism pathways.
• Expression levels of heat shock proteins, zinc finger proteins, serine/threonine-protein kinases, and antioxidases increased with temperature and treatment duration.

Conclusions:

• This study provides a comprehensive gene expression profile for honeybee adaptation to heat and humidity stress.
• Identified DEGs and pathways offer insights into the molecular mechanisms of heat-resistance in Apis mellifera.
• The findings lay the groundwork for future research into insect adaptation to adverse environmental conditions.