Transcriptomic Alterations in Host Parasitoid Wasps Resulting in Extended Lifespan Due to PpNSRV-1 Infection

The parasitoid wasp Pteromalus puparum, a pivotal agent in agricultural ecosystem balance, experiences significant alterations in lifespan due to infection by the negative-sense single-stranded RNA virus PpNSRV-1. This study utilized RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to investigate the genetic mechanism(s) driving lifespan extension in response to this virus. Lifespan analysis, combined with RNA-seq of nearly isogenic lines of infected and uninfected wasps, yields a comprehensive temporal expression profile aligned with the P. puparum genome. Despite a modest overall impact of PpNSRV-1 on gene expression, notable effects were observed on specific gene families, such as the SPOP genes and the cytochrome P450 family. Through Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), we identified connections between the green and greenyellow modules to viral infection traits, with further functional analyses highlighting the pivotal roles of the Hedgehog, autophagy, AMPK, mTOR, p53, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. RNA interference experiment targeting the SPOP gene PPU06594-RA confirmed its role in lifespan modulation, underscoring the importance of Hedgehog pathway in the host’s adaptive response. These insights not only elucidate the complex genetic landscape of host-virus interactions but also open avenues for innovative biological pest control strategies.