Weng Yi-ming

Horizontal transfer of an antimicrobial peptide across insects

The paper identifies horizontal gene transfer of the Drosomycin antimicrobial peptide gene across insect species, suggesting HGT contributes to immune system novelty and defense capabilities.

Genome size, rather than sociality, predicts the turnover of duplicated genes in termites and hymenopterans

Rapid termite diversification is associated with increased transposable element activity

This study links rapid termite diversification to increased transposable element activity across two evolutionary waves.

Deciphering the evolution of sex determination across the termite tree of life using high-quality genome assemblies

This study investigates the evolution of sex determination in termites using genome assemblies, finding undifferentiated sex chromosomes and varying roles of the doublesex gene.

Convergent genetic rewiring of the brain underlies termite sociality

The paper identifies genetic changes in odorant receptors and other genes associated with termite sociality across multiple species.

Horizontal gene transfers are widespread across termite genomes but do not confer metabolic innovations

Unravelling termite evolution with 47 high-resolution genome assemblies

This study sequenced 47 termite genomes, revealing genomic expansions linked to dietary evolution and ecological success in Termitidae.

Gene family evolution reveals dietary adaptations in butterflies and moths

This study identifies lineage-specific gene families in butterflies and moths, revealing dietary adaptations linked to plant detoxification and horizontal gene transfer.

Shared features underlying compact genomes and extreme habitat use in chironomid midges

This study identifies genomic features underlying compact genomes and environmental stress tolerance in chironomid midges by analyzing phylogenomic data and gene family evolution.