# Lipid Metabolism and Circadian Regulation in Wing Polyphenism of Rhopalosiphum padi: Transcriptomic Validation of Key DEGs for Biocontrol

## TL;DR

This study identifies genes linked to wing development in a pest aphid, offering new targets for biocontrol strategies.

## Contribution

The study reveals adult-specific roles of lipid metabolism and circadian rhythm in wing polyphenism and identifies six candidate genes for RNAi-based biocontrol.

## Key findings

- 121 differentially expressed genes were identified between winged and wingless aphid morphs.
- DEGs were enriched in lipid metabolism and circadian rhythm pathways.
- Six candidate genes were identified for RNAi-based biocontrol targeting migratory aphids.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: The bird cherry-oat aphid, Rhopalosiphum padi, is a major global pest of cereal crops and exhibits wing polyphenism, producing both winged (dispersive) and wingless (reproductive) morphs. Methods: To identify potential RNAi targets that could specifically disrupt the migratory winged morph, we conducted a comparative transcriptomic analysis of adult aphids. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, annotated for their functions, and analyzed for their involvement in metabolic pathways. Results: Significant differences were observed in 121 genes between morphs: 13 were upregulated in the winged morph, while 108 were downregulated. Most DEGs were enriched in lipid metabolism and circadian rhythm pathways, suggesting that wing polymorphism may be adaptively linked to energy resource allocation strategies. Conclusions: This study firstly reveals the adult-stage-specific regulatory roles of lipid metabolism and circadian rhythm pathways in wing polyphenism, identifying six candidate genes (BCORL1, AMP-L, Pfl, Lip3L, HLFL(X7), and HLFL(X4)) for RNAi-based biocontrol strategies targeting migratory morphs.