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Updated: Jun 15, 2025
07:59
A Customizable Approach for the Enzymatic Production and Purification of Diterpenoid Natural Products
Published on: October 4, 2019
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Canonical terpene synthases in arthropods: Intraphylum gene transfer
Xinlu Chen1, John M Urban2,3, Jens Wurlitzer4
1Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996.
Summary
Canonical terpene synthase (TPS) genes, previously unknown in insects, were discovered via horizontal gene transfer from noninsect arthropods. These TPS genes in fungus gnats are highly expressed in males, suggesting novel roles in insect communication and evolution.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Entomology
Background:
- Insects utilize terpenoids for intra- and interspecies communication.
- Canonical terpene synthases (TPS), common in plants and microbes, were previously uncharacterized in insects, despite some insects possessing related enzymes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and evolutionary origin of canonical terpene synthase (TPS) genes in insects.
- To characterize the enzymatic activities and expression patterns of insect TPS genes.
Main Methods:
- Genome-wide screening of 361 insect genomes for TPS genes.
- Phylogenetic analysis and protein database searches to determine evolutionary relationships.
- Enzymatic assays on selected TPS enzymes from insects and related arthropods.
- Gene expression analysis in the model insect *Bradysia coprophila*.
Main Results:
- TPS genes were identified in five species of fungus gnats (Sciaridae) and in noninsect arthropods like springtails (Collembola) and mites (Acariformes).
- TPS enzymes from Sciaridae, Collembola, and Acariformes exhibited monoterpene, sesquiterpene, and/or diterpene synthase activities.
- Phylogenetic analysis suggests TPS genes were transferred from Acariformes to Sciaridae.
- In *Bradysia coprophila*, all five TPS genes showed highest expression in adult males.
Conclusions:
- Canonical TPS genes are present in insects, likely acquired through horizontal gene transfer from noninsect arthropods.
- These genes may contribute to novel terpenoid biosynthesis and communication strategies in insects, with sex- and stage-specific roles.
- This discovery highlights metabolic innovation in insects driven by inter-phylum gene transfer.
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