Genome-wide exploration of metabolic-based pyrethroid resistance mechanism inHelicoverpa armigera

Abstract

ABSTRACTTo elucidate the deltamethrin resistance mechanism inHelicoverpa armigera, we explored mutations at the deltamethrin target site, genomic level variations between insecticide-susceptible and -resistant strains, and differences in gene expression patterns between the strains. Known pyrethroid resistance-associated point mutations within the voltage-gated sodium channel were undetected in the cDNA and gDNA of resistant strains or field populations. The whole-genomede novoassembly of a Korean resistant strain was performed (GCA_026262555.1), and 13 genomes of susceptible and resistant individuals were re-sequenced using field populations. Approximately 3,369,837 variants (SNPs and indels) were compared with our referenceH. armigeragenome, and 1,032,689 variants were identified from open reading frames. A resistance-specific CYP3 subfamily gene with five variants (CYP321A1v1–v5) was identified in the resistant strains, indicating the potential role of these variants in resistance. RNA-seq analysis identified 36,720 transcripts from 45 Illumina RNA-seq datasets of the fat body, gut, and the rest of the body. Differential gene expression analysis revealed some differently overexpressed detoxification enzyme genes in the resistant strains, particularly cytochrome P450 genes. This finding was consistent with the results of bioassay tests using PBO-based synergists, further supporting the role of detoxification enzymes in resistance. Therefore,H. armigeramay acquire deltamethrin resistance through a combination of actions, including the overexpression of various detoxification enzymes, such as CYP3 subfamilies (CYP321A5) and cuticular proteins. The five variants of CYP321A subfamily identified in this study may serve as a basis for understanding insecticide resistance at the molecular level and can be applied as diagnostic markers for resistance.Key MessagesKnown resistance-related mutations were undetected in all the resistant strains or field populations.No specific resistance-associated variations were identified at the genomic level.The expression pattern of the CYP3 subfamily genes was strongly correlated with the level of resistance.Genes other than CYP337B3 are also involved in the development of high-level resistance.Resistance developed as a result of changes in the expression of detoxification genes rather than target site modification through mutation.