Two genes, named 2A6 and 2A12, and their corresponding cDNAs have been cloned and characterized from the Hessian fly [Mayetiola destructor(Say)]. Both genes encode proteins with secretion signals and both of them are primarily expressed in salivary glands, suggesting that the proteins encoded by them are likely secreted into host plants during feeding. The 2A6 gene has one small intron (89 bp) and encodes a putative protein with 79 amino acids. The first 18 amino acids constitute a putative signal peptide for secretion. Thus, this gene can encode a mature protein of 7.1 kD with an isoelectric point of 9.63. The 2A12 gene contains 3 small introns and encodes a putative protein with 234 amino acids. The first 19 amino acids constitute a putative secretion signal. Therefore, the 2A12 gene can encode a mature protein of 23.4 kD with an isoelectric point of 5.91. Even though both of the genes are mainly expressed in salivary glands, the expression profiles between them are quite different in insects at different developmental stages. The 2A6 gene was expressed in all larvae of different instars as well as in pupae. In contrast, the 2A12 gene is almost exclusively expressed in the first instar larvae. Both genes are not expressed in adults.
Species 1: Diptera Cecidomyiidae Mayetiola destructor (Hessian fly)
Keywords: gene expression, salivary gland
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