Roles of insect odorant binding proteins in communication and xenobiotic adaptation

Abstract

Odorant binding proteins (OBPs) are small water-soluble proteins mainly associated with olfaction, facilitating the transport of odorant molecules to their relevant receptors in the sensillum lymph. While traditionally considered essential for olfaction, recent research has revealed that OBPs are engaged in a diverse range of physiological functions in modulating chemical communication and defense. Over the past 10 years, emerging evidence suggests that OBPs play vital roles in purifying the perireceptor space from unwanted xenobiotics including plant volatiles and pesticides, potentially facilitating xenobiotic adaptation, such as host location, adaptation, and pesticide resistance. This multifunctionality can be attributed, in part, to their structural variability and effectiveness in transporting, sequestering, and concealing numerous hydrophobic molecules. Here, we firstly overviewed the classification and structural properties of OBPs in diverse insect orders. Subsequently, we discussed the myriad of functional roles of insect OBPs in communication and their adaptation to xenobiotics. By synthesizing the current knowledge in this field, our review paper contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the significance of insect OBPs in chemical ecology, xenobiotic adaptation, paving the way for future research in this fascinating area of study.

CRISPR/Cas9 Ribo nucleoprotein complex‐mediated editing of the OBP13 gene affected the response of male Bactrocera dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae) to methyl eugenol

“…The conveyance of exogenous volatiles to the OR initiates a responsive behaviour, facilitating the discernment of volatiles from hosts or natural adversaries and the identification of potential mate pheromones. Following the activation of ORs by odorant molecules, OBPs may also function as molecular traps, refraining from neuron oversaturation (Abendroth et al, 2023). The detection and transport of pheromones in insect antennae employing OBPs were first reported in lepidopteran Antheraea polyphemus (Vogt & Riddiford, 1981).…”