Cuticle protein gene LmCP8 is involved in the structural development of the ovipositor in the migratory locust Locusta migratoria

The ovipositor comprises the external genitalia of female insects, which plays an important role in the mating and ovipositing process of insects. However, it remains rudimentary of regional gene expression and physiological function in the ovipositor during structural development. Here, we analysed the basic structure and characteristics of the ovipositor in the migratory locust Locusta migratoria. RNA-seq analysis revealed the specialization of chitin metabolism, lipids synthesis and transport, tanning and cuticular protein genes in the ovipositor. Among them, two cuticle protein genes, LmCP8 and LmACP79, were identified, which are specifically expressed in the ovipositor. Functional analysis based on RNA interference showed that deficiency of LmCP8 affected the structural development of the ovipositor resulting in the retention of a large number of remaining unproduced oocysts in the ovary of the locusts. Our results provide a fundamental resource to investigate the structural development and physiological function of the ovipositor in L. migratoria.