Deciphering the Functions of Gustatory Receptors In the Recognition of Host Plant and Midgut Environment Using Knockout Silkworms

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We first used RT-PCR to investigate expression of BmGr4 gene, a member of the putative sugar clade gene family in various tissues. BmGr4 is expressed in the midgut and central nervous system (CNS). Moreover, immunohistochemistry using an anti-BmGr4 anti-serum demonstrated that BmGr4 is expressed in cells by midgut and nervous system. Furthermore, double-immunohistochemistry indicated that BmGr4 is expressed in midgut enteroendocrine cells, also in CNS neurosecretory cells. In particular, a portion of BmGr4-expressing cells, in both midgut and CNS, secretes tachykinin peptides. These results suggest that BmGr4 functions not only as a taste receptor, but also as a chemical sensor such as for the regulation of gut movement, physiological conditions, and feeding behavior of larvae.