An Insight into Genomics of Mulberry Silkworm

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to review the genetic basis of mulberry silkworm to understand the mystery of silk production and the silkworm’s role as a model organism. Data regarding mulberry silkworm’s genetic diversity, genetic bases of silk production, gene mapping and chromosomal properties was reviewed. Findings illustrated that genetic variability exists among mulberry silkworms of different geographical regions. Hence, it acts as an indicator of the genetic bases of silk production since it is higher in males, although sex is primarily determined by females. Studies have revealed that chromosomes in mulberry silkworm are holocentric and gene mapping provides an insight into the accurate location of silk genes on chromosomes. It is concluded that the genetic study of silkworm is useful due to its commercial and economic significance and it is the crucial need of sericulture industry to enhance its output by collecting information about superior silkworm breeds. Hence, further research should be carried out to explore the hidden facts about mulberry silkworm.