SPSL1 is essential for spermatophore formation and sperm activation in Spodoptera frugiperda

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1011073
• Publication Date: 2023-12-04T18:36:40Z
• Authors: Lansa Qian; Xu Yang; Xiaomiao Xu; Dehong Yang; Chenxu Zhu; Meiyan Yi; Honglun Bi; Yaohui Wang; Yongping Huang
• Keywords: Spermatophore; Spermatheca

The reproductive process in various species has undergone evolutionary adaptations at both the physiological and molecular levels, playing a significant role maintaining their populations. In lepidopteran insects, spermatophore is unique structure formed female system, which sperm storage activation take place. It known that formation of regulated by seminal fluid proteins derived from males. However, studies investigating genetic mechanisms behind lepidopterans have been limited. this study, our focus was on SPSL1 , gene encodes trypsin-type protein Spodoptera frugiperda pest with global invasive tendencies. Our findings revealed expression predominantly observed male tracts, disruption resulted sterility. Surprisingly, fluorescence analysis indicated absence did not affect spermatogenesis or migration within system. when females mated -mutant males, several defects were observed. These included disruptions formation, copulatory bursae, into spermathecae. Additionally, mass spectrometry highlighted reduced levels energy-related metabolites, suggesting plays an essential promoting hydrolysis reactions during copulation. Consequently, study demonstrates crucial for fertility due to its functions activation. This research provides valuable insights factors underlying processes insects sheds light potential strategies controlling