Regulatory network in heat stress response in parasitoid wasp focusing on Xap5 heat stress regulator

Insects are susceptible to elevated temperatures, resulting in impaired fertility, and shortened lifespan. This study investigated the genetic mechanisms underlying heat stress effects. We conducted RNA sequencing on Pteromalus puparum exposed to 25 degrees C and 35 degrees C, revealing transcriptional signatures. Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis uncovered heat stress-associated modules, forming a regulatory network of 113 genes. The network is naturally divided into two subgroups, one linked to acute heat stress, including heat shock proteins (HSPs), and the other to chronic heat stress, involving lipogenesis genes. We identified an Xap5 Heat Shock Regulator (XHSR) gene as a crucial network component, validated through RNA interference and quantitative PCR assays. XHSR knockdown reduced wasps' life span while directly inducing HSPs and mediating lipogenesis gene induction. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of the Drosophila XHSR homolog reduced mutants' survival, highlighting its conserved role. This research sheds light on thermal tolerance mechanisms, offering potential applications in pest control amid global warming.