Tyrosine Hydroxylase and DOPA Decarboxylase Are Associated With Pupal Melanization During Larval-Pupal Transformation in Antheraea pernyi.

ABSTRACT: In insects, melanism plays important roles in defense, immunoreactions, and body color. The underlying molecular mechanisms of melanism in different insects are diverse and remain elusive. In contrast to another silkworm, Bombyx mori, the Chinese oak silkworm, Antheraea pernyi, produces melanic pupae under natural environmental conditions. DOPA and dopamine synthesis are crucial for melanin formation. Disruption of these processes reportedly influences body colors in many insects. Most research focuses on newly emerged pupae, and the larval process preceding pupation remains unknown. Due to the large size and long pupation period in A. pernyi, the entire process was studied at least every 12 h. The expression patterns of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and DOPA decarb

SUBMITTER: Wang Q 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9022030 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature