Characterization of CrufCSP1 and Its Potential Involvement in Host Location by <i>Cotesia ruficrus</i> (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), an Indigenous Parasitoid of <i>Spodoptera frugiperda</i> (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in China

• Published in: Insects
• Main Authors: Kai-Ru Han, Wen-Wen Wang, Wen-Qin Yang, Xian Li, Tong-Xian Liu, Shi-Ze Zhang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2023-12-01
• Subjects: chemosensory protein; <i>Cotesia ruficrus</i>; expression profiles; fluorescence binding assay; molecular docking; <i>Spodoptera frugiperda</i>
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4450/14/12/920

Chemosensory proteins (CSPs) are a class of soluble proteins that facilitate the recognition of chemical signals in insects. While CSP genes have been identified in many insect species, studies investigating their function remain limited. <i>Cotesia ruficrus</i> (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) holds promise as an indigenous biological control agent for managing the invasive pest <i>Spodoptera frugiperda</i> (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in China. This study aimed to shed light on the gene expression, ligand binding, and molecular docking of CrufCSP1 in <i>C. ruficrus</i>. A RT-qPCR analysis revealed that the expression of CrufCSP1 was higher in the wings, with male adults exhibiting significantly higher relative expression levels than other developmental stages. A fluorescence competitive binding analysis further demonstrated that CrufCSP1 has a high binding ability with several host-related volatiles, with <i>trans</i>-2-hexenal, octanal, and benzaldehyde showing the strongest affinity to CrufCSP1. A molecular docking analysis indicated that specific amino acid residues (Phe24, Asp25, Thr53, and Lys81) of CrufCSP1 can bind to these specific ligands. Together, these findings suggest that CrufCSP1 may play a crucial role in the process of <i>C. ruficrus</i> locating hosts. This knowledge can contribute to the development of more efficient and eco-friendly strategies for protecting crops and managing pests.