Genome-wide identification of Cytochrome P450 gene in Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in response to insecticide resistance

Abstract

The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, poses a significant threat to maize, sorghum, and cotton crops, leading to substantial economic losses of up to 80 % in severe infestations. Despite its economic impact, the characterization of Cytochrome P450 (Cyp) genes, pivotal in regulatory metabolic processes, remains unexplored. This study identifies and investigates 33 Cyp-genes involved in critical metabolic pathways. These include fatty acid metabolism, resistance mechanisms, hormone regulation affecting moulting and developmental stages, response to phytotoxins, and detoxification of insecticides.Utilizing in-silico gene expression profiling, we pinpoint key Cyp-genes—Cyp306a1-like, Cyp9e2-like, Cyp6l1-like, Cyp12b1, and Cyp6B2-like—playing critical roles in conferring resistance against four commonly used insecticides: emamectin benzoate, tetrazolium, cyantraniliprole, and spinetoram. Our findings reveal that these identified genes are essential in detoxifying chemical treatments, thus contributing to the development of resistance in fall armyworm populations. In this investigation, key genes such as Cyp306a1-like, Cyp9e2-like, and Cyp6l1-like emerge as important regulatory genes. These genes play a role in resistance and detoxification when exposed to chemical stress. This in-silico study provides insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying resistance and regulatory genes in the fall armyworm, shedding light on potential targets for controlling the notorious agricultural pest. However, further comprehensive investigations are needed to elucidate the intricate resistance mechanisms governed by these key genes, paving the way for developing novel and effective strategies for fall armyworm management in agricultural ecosystems.