Effect of deltamethrin on carboxylesterase gene expression in Locusta migratoria

[Objectives] To provide a theoretical basis for detecting deltamethrin detoxification and resistance risk assessment in Locusta migratoria by analyzing mRNA expression of carboxylesterase genes in response to deltamethrin exposure. [Methods] Locusts were exposed to different doses of deltamethrin and treated with deltamethrin for different periods of time in order to analyze the mRNA expression of carboxylesterase genes in response to deltamethrin. cDNAs were synthesized from the total RNA of different templates using reverse transcriptase. Real-time PCR was performed to analyze the mRNA expression of carboxylesterase genes. [Results] Exposure to different doses deltamethrin for 12 h induced the mRNA expression of LmCesA3 and LmCesE1. Except for LmCesA2, the transcription levels of the remaining carboxylesterase genes in third-instar nymphs of L. migratoria exposed to deltamethrin at LD30 were induced after different periods of deltamethrin exposure. [Conclusion] Deltamethrin induced mRNA expression in 5 carboxylesterase genes, including LmCesA1, LmCesA3, LmCesD1, LmCesE1 and LmCesI1. These results suggest that these genes play an important role in the detoxification of deltamethrin and the development of resistance to this pesticide in L. migratoria.