Predatory fireflies and their toxic firefly prey have evolved distinct toxin resistance strategies.

ABSTRACT: Toxic cardiotonic steroids (CTS) act as a defense mechanism in many firefly species (Lampyridae) by inhibiting a crucial enzyme called Na⁺,K⁺-ATPase (NKA). While most fireflies produce these toxins internally, species of the genus Photuris acquire them from a surprising source: predation on other fireflies. The contrasting physiology of toxin exposure and sequestration between Photuris and other firefly genera suggests that distinct strategies may be required to prevent self-intoxication. Our study demonstrates that both Photuris and their firefly prey have evolved highly-resistant NKAs. Using an evolutionary analysis of the specific target of CTS (ATPα) in fireflies, and gene-editing in Drosophila, we find that the initial steps towards re

SUBMITTER: Yang L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10028858 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature