High detoxification enzyme and gene expression level in tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta, explains resistance to fenvalerate

The tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta, is a pest that greatly harms crops. Regrettably, the application of insecticides has resulted in the emergence of resistance in the tomato leafminer. Metabolic resistance is the most prevalent form of resistance, characterized by heightened esterase activity, cytochrome P450 monooxygenase, and glutathione S-transferase enzymes encoded by specific genes. This study investigated the metabolic resistance mechanisms associated with fenvalerate resistance in the tomato leafminer and explored the genes' status. Tomato leafminer populations in Iran showed varying levels of resistance to fenvalerate; the Tehran and Urmia populations were the most resistant and sensitive, respectively. The activity level of detoxifying enzymes, particularly cytochrome P450 monooxygenase, was found to be increased in the resistant populations (i.e., Tehran) compared to the susceptible one (i.e., Urmia). Gene expression analyses showed higher transcript levels of P450, esterases, and GSTs expression levels in the resistant population compared to the susceptible population. Our findings indicated that detoxification enzymes, especially cytochrome P450 monooxygenase, and differential expression of related genes contribute to fenvalerate resistance. Identifying the specific mechanisms behind resistance could assist in pest control and resistance management programs.

High detoxification enzyme and gene expression level in tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta, explains resistance to fenvalerate Keywords:

fenvalerate , Tuta absoluta , cytochrome p450 monooxygenase , cyp306a