The Lifespan of Depends on the Function of the Gene, a Domesticated Gene of Drosophila LTR Retrotransposons.

(1) Background: The gene in 's genome originated from the molecular domestication of retrotransposons and retroviruses' gene. In all species, the Gagr protein homologs exhibit a conserved structure, indicative of a vital role. Previous studies have suggested a potential link between the gene function and stress responses. (2) Methods: We compared flies with gene knockdown in all tissues to control flies in physiological tests and RNA-sequencing experiments. (3) Results: Flies with the gene knockdown exhibited shorter lifespans compared to control flies. Transcriptome analysis revealed that knockdown flies showed elevated transcription levels of immune response genes. We used ammonium persulfate, a potent stress inducer, to elicit a stress response. In control flies, ammonium persulfate activated the Toll, JAK/STAT, and JNK/MAPK signaling pathways. In contrast, flies with the gene knockdown displayed reduced expression of stress response genes. Gene ontology enrichment analysis identified categories of genes upregulated under ammonium persulfate stress in control flies but not in knockdown flies. These genes are involved in developmental control, morphogenesis, and central nervous system function. (4) Conclusion: Our findings indicate the significance of the gene in maintaining immune response and homeostasis.