Analysis of antennal transcriptome and gustatory receptor genes in Apis cerana cerana collecting pollens from different nectar source plants

Taste perception is crucial for guiding food selection and regulating insect feeding behaviors. This study aimed to identify taste-related genes in Apis cerana cerana by analyzing antennal transcriptomes through RNA sequencing and functional annotation. Results showed 241, 135, and 102 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the YC (rapeseed pollen foragers) vs. CC (non-foraging controls), LC (pear pollen foragers) vs. CC, and LC vs. YC groups, respectively. GO annotation indicated these DEGs were enriched in functions like defense response to Gram-positive bacteria, integral component of plasma membrane, and signal transduction. KEGG analysis revealed involvement in pathways such as tyrosine metabolism and neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction. Five gustatory receptor genes were identified from the antennal transcriptome, all with complete open reading frames and seven transmembrane domains, showing high homology with those of other hymenopteran insects like Apis mellifera. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that these genes clustered with counterparts from Apis mellifera and Apis dorsata, indicating significant functional conservation. It was hypothesized that AcerGR28b and AcerGR68alike-X1 belong to the bitter receptor family, while AcerGR64f-like, AcerGR64f-likeX2, and AcerGR43a are sweet receptors. QRT-PCR verification confirmed the reliability of the transcriptome data. This study elucidated the antennal transcriptome response pattern of Apis cerana cerana to different pollens, identified key gustatory receptor genes and related pathways, providing a theoretical basis for researching the regulatory role of the taste system in feeding behavior.