Solanum nigrum Fruit Extract Modulates Immune System Activity of Mealworm Beetle, Tenebrio molitor L.

Here, we report the first evidence concerning the modulation of insect immune system activity after applying Solanum nigrum fruit extract (EXT). We focused on two main issues: (1) is EXT cytotoxic for Tenebrio molitor haemocytes? and (2) how EXT affects the basic immune mechanisms of T. molitor. The results indicate cytotoxic action of 0.01 and 0.1% EXT on beetle haemocytes. Both the injection of EXT and incubating haemocytes with the EXT solution on microscopic slides significantly increased the number of apoptotic cells. However, 24 h after injection of 0.1% EXT cytotoxic effect of the tested extract probably was masked by the increased number of circulating haemocytes. Application of 0.01 and 0.1% EXT led to impairment of the activity of basic immune mechanisms such as phenoloxidase activity and the lysozyme-like antimicrobial activity of T. molitor haemolymph. Moreover, the EXT elicited significant changes in the expression level of selected immune genes. However, some of the immunomodulatory effects of EXT were different in beetles with and without an activated immune system. The obtained results are an essential step toward a complete understanding of the EXT mode of action on the T. molitor physiology and its potential usage in pest control.

Automated summary

In this study, researchers report the first evidence of insect immune system modulation after applying Solanum nigrum fruit extract (EXT). They investigated the cytotoxicity of EXT on Tenebrio molitor haemocytes and its effects on the basic immune mechanisms of T. molitor. The results showed cytotoxic action of different concentrations of EXT on beetle haemocytes and impairment of immune mechanisms in T. molitor, indicating the potential usage of EXT in pest control.