Integrin β Regulates the Hepatopancreas Antiviral Innate Immune System by Affecting the Expression of Antimicrobial Peptides in Penaeus vannamei

Penaeus vannamei aquaculture production accounts for the majority of total shrimp aquaculture output, but it has suffered a severe decline in production and economic losses due to WSSV disease. Therefore, elucidating the relationship between the host immune system and pathogens is crucial for shrimp disease prevention and control. Integrins, as receptor-related molecules, have been shown to participate in various physiological functions, including cell migration, organismal development, and the pathogenesis of multiple diseases. However, the regulatory mechanisms of integrin genes in the shrimp immune system remain unclear. This study reports that integrins may regulate the Toll, IMD, and STAT signaling pathways in P. vannamei by influencing Spätzle, TLR, and Domeless, thereby affecting the shrimp’s innate immune system against diseases. Additionally, integrins can inhibit viral entry and replication. Through RNA interference (RNAi) experiments, it was found that knocking down Pv-Integrin β increases the viral load of white spot syndrome virus (WSSV), making shrimp more susceptible to WSSV and giving rise to increasing mortality. Further research indicates that Pv-Integrin β acts as an upstream recognition receptor in the disease resistance immune pathway, influencing other signaling pathway receptors to regulate the innate immune system. Importantly, knocking down Pv-Integrin β upregulates the expression of antimicrobial peptides such as ALF1 and ALF2, but reduces the expression of Crustin1, Crustin2 and prophenoloxidase. In conclusion, this study reveals that Pv-Integrin β regulates the disease resistance immune signaling pathways by affecting the related receptors.