# The Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Zucchini-Induced Changes in the Host Adaptation of Cotton- and Cucumber-Type Aphis gossypii

## TL;DR

This study explores how zucchini affects the adaptation of two types of aphids, revealing molecular pathways involved in their host adaptation.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific genes and pathways involved in zucchini-induced host adaptation in Aphis gossypii biotypes.

## Key findings

- Both Hap1 and Hap3 A. gossypii biotypes showed body size enlargement on zucchini.
- Transcriptomic analysis identified 17 co-differentially expressed genes linked to insulin metabolism and detoxification.
- Findings contribute to understanding phenotypic plasticity and resistance management in aphids.

## Abstract

The polyphagous aphid Aphis gossypii exhibits host-specific biotypes, notably the cotton (Hap1) and cucumber (Hap3) types. While both can adapt to new hosts via zucchini induction, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Our investigation revealed that both Hap1 and Hap3 A. gossypii underwent significant body size enlargement following host transfer to zucchini. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that zucchini-mediated host adaptation in the A. gossypii biotypes (Hap1/Hap3) involves insulin metabolism and detoxification pathways, with 17 co-differentially expressed genes (e.g., Col-I (type I collagen), CYP450 6a13, peroxidase) potentially critical for adaptation. The findings provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms regulating A. gossypii phenotypic plasticity and contribute to the development of resistance management strategies.