Identification and Functional Insights of Knickkopf Genes in the Larval Cuticle of Leptinotarsa decemlineata.

ABSTRACT: The Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) is a major pest of potato crops. While Knickkopf (Knk) genes are essential for insect cuticle formation, their roles in pests like L. decemlineata remain unclear. This study aims to identify and characterize Knk genes in L. decemlineata and explore their functions in larval development and cuticle integrity. We used genomic and transcriptomic databases to identify LdKnk-family genes, validated through RT-PCR and RACE. Gene expression was analyzed at various developmental stages and tissues using qRT-PCR. RNA interference (RNAi) and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were applied to determine the functional roles of these genes. Four LdKnk-family genes were identified. Spatio-t

SUBMITTER: Zeng MZ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11354708 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature