F-actin dynamics in midgut cells enables virus persistence in vector insects

Hemipteran insects that transmit plant viruses in a persistent circulative manner acquire, retain and transmit viruses for their entire life. The mechanism enabling this persistence has remained unclear for many years. Here, we determined how wheat dwarf virus (WDV) persists in its leafhopper vector Psammotettix alienus. We found that WDV caused the up-regulation of actin-depolymerizing factor (ADF) at the mRNA and protein levels in the midgut cells of leafhoppers after experiencing a WDV acquisition access period (AAP) of 6, 12 or 24 h. Experimental inhibition of F-actin depolymerization by jasplakinolide and dsRNA injection led to lower virus accumulation levels and transmission efficiencies, suggesting that depolymerization of F-actin regulated by ADF is essential for WDV invasion of midgut cells. Exogenous viral capsid protein (CP) inhibited ADF depolymerization of actin filaments in vitro and in Spodoptera frugiperda 9 (Sf9) cells because the CP competed with actin to bind ADF and then blocked actin filament disassembly. Interestingly, virions colocalized with ADF after a 24-h AAP, just as actin polymerization occurred, indicating that the binding of CP with ADF affects the ability of ADF to depolymerize F-actin, inhibiting WDV entry. Similarly, the luteovirus barley yellow dwarf virus also induced F-actin depolymerization and then polymerization in the gut cells of its vector Schizaphis graminum. Thus, F-actin dynamics are altered by nonpropagative viruses in midgut cells to enable virus persistence in vector insects.