Genome-wide identification of genes involved in beetle odoriferous defensive stink gland function recognizes Laccase2 as the phenoloxidase responsible for toxic para-benzoquinone synthesis
Bibi Atika, Sabrina Lehmann, Elisa Buchberger, Musa D. Isah, Zahra Basirkazerouni, Michael Rostás, Gregor Bucher, Ernst A. Wimmer
The paper identifies 490 genes involved in beetle defensive stink gland function using RNAi screening and transcriptomics, highlighting Laccase2 as the phenoloxidase responsible for toxic para-benzoquinone synthesis.
PLoS Genetics · Dec 15, 2025Peer-reviewedGenetics