Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the Hsp gene superfamily in Asian long-horned beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis)

The environmental adaptability of insects has been a key focus of ecological research. As molecular chaperones, Heat shock proteins (Hsps) play an important role in insect responses to environmental stress. Anoplophora glabripennis is a destructive pest of broad-leaved trees such as poplars. The ability to adapt to low temperature is an important factor for successful colonization of A. glabripennis in new diffusion area. However, the roles of Hsp in the stress responses in A. glabripennis have not been established. In this study, we identified 47 Hsp genes, including 3 Hsp90, 14 Hsp70, 9 Hsp60, and 21 sHsp genes. The Hsp gene family expanded substantially in A. glabripennis. The differences in expression patterns may be related to the type and intensity of stress. Larval overwintering transcriptomes showed that 13 Hsp genes were not induced during overwintering and 21 Hsp genes were involved in the regulation of life activities under non-stress conditions. In a quantitative RT-PCR analysis, AglaHsp90-2 responded more quickly under gradient cooling treatments; AglaHsp90-2 and AglaHsp90- 3 were sensitive to treatment at 0 ? for 6 h under instantaneous cooling. Our results provide a theoretical basis for clarifying the molecular mechanism of Hsp genes in A. glabripennis in responsing to environmental stresses.

Automated summary

In this study, 47 Hsp genes have been identified in Anoplophora glabripennis, a destructive pest that is able to adapt to low temperatures. The expression patterns of these Hsp genes vary depending on the type and intensity of stress. Some Hsp genes were not induced during overwintering, while others were involved in the regulation of normal life activities. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis showed that certain Hsp genes responded more quickly to temperature changes.