Identification, expression profiling, and functional characterization of trehalase genes ( OaTRE1 and OaTRE ) in Oedaleus asiaticus (Orthoptera: Acridoidea)

To understand the roles of trehalase-encoding genes (OaTRE1 and OaTRE) in Oedaleus asiaticus, the OaTRE1 and OaTRE genes were identified and analyzed. Real-time PCR was used to analyze their spatial and temporal expression patterns, while RNA interference (RNAi) was applied to explore their functions in growth and development. OaTRE1 and OaTRE possess open reading frames of 1,587 and 1,800 bp, encoding 528 and 599 amino acids, respectively. Both genes were differentially expressed across developmental stages and tissues. RNAi-mediated knockdown of OaTRE1 and OaTRE significantly reduced the survival rate of 4th instar nymphs of Oedaleus asiaticus at 96 h post-injection. RNAi-mediated knockdown of OaTRE1 and OaTRE significantly reduced chitin content in Oedaleus asiaticus. Gene expression was upregulated by injections of 20-hydroxyecdysone and downregulated by validamycin, suggesting that trehalase genes are primarily involved in morphogenesis during metamorphosis and adulthood. These findings highlight trehalase as a critical regulator of insect development and a promising molecular target for the development of eco-friendly strategies to control the destructive grassland pest Oedaleus asiaticus.