Transcriptome response comparison between vector and non-vector aphids after feeding on virus-infected wheat plants

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Plant Pathology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Plant viruses interact intricately with insect vectors and non-vectors, influencing insect fitness.
• Molecular and cellular mechanisms of these interactions are not well understood.
• Aphids are significant vectors for plant viruses, impacting agriculture.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare transcriptome-level responses in vector and non-vector aphids feeding on virus-infected wheat.
• To identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to insect-virus interactions.
• To analyze key immune-related DEGs in aphids.

Main Methods:

• Transcriptome sequencing of vector (Schizaphis graminum) and non-vector (Rhopalosiphum padi) aphids.
• Differential gene expression (DEG) analysis.
• Cloning and bioinformatic analysis of key DEGs, including STAT5B.

Main Results:

• Vector aphids showed a higher number of DEGs than non-vector aphids across immune, growth, development, and reproduction pathways.
• Immune-related DEGs were upregulated in vector aphids.
• STAT5B, a gene in the JAK-STAT pathway, was upregulated in R. padi exposed to Wheat dwarf virus (WDV).

Conclusions:

• Vector aphids display a more robust molecular response to plant viruses compared to non-vector aphids.
• DEGs related to immunity, growth, and reproduction are more prevalent and upregulated in vector aphids.
• This study provides foundational insights into the differential response mechanisms of vector and non-vector insects to plant viruses.