Metabolic remodeling in arthropod embryonic cells under starvation

In this study, we explore the adaptive mechanisms through which the tick Rhipicephalus microplus can deal with a period of starvation, using as a model the BME26 cell line. Our findings reveal that these cells not only exhibit an impressive ability to withstand starvation but also undergo subtle structural changes in response to this nutritional restriction. Additionally, our assessment of glycogen levels in these cells demonstrates a significant drop in response to fasting, both at the 24-hour and 48-hour marks. Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) transcription was increased in response to starvation. Hexokinase (HK) and pyruvate kinase (PK) had their transcriptional levels reduced, demonstrating that in these conditions, cells would be prioritizing the gluconeogenic pathway over the glycolytic pathway. Next, we checked the transcription levels of autophagy-related genes (ATG4, ATG6 and ATG8). All examined ATG transcripts were up-regulated in response to starvation, demonstrating a possible role for the autophagic pathway in supplying gluconeogenic substrates. These observations shed light on the metabolic adaptations that allow these cells to endure extended periods of starvation. Our findings not only advance our understanding of metabolic regulation in R. microplus ticks but also have broader implications for arthropods in general. Given the high conservation of these metabolic pathways among important disease vectors, this research provides valuable insights for the development of strategies aimed at controlling the populations of medically and economically relevant arthropods.