Gut single‐nucleus RNA sequencing reveals that NPF receptor regulates feeding behavior through mitochondrial energy metabolism

enteroendocrine cells displayed pronounced downregulation of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) genes, including COX1, COX2, ATP6, and CYTB, indicating mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired energy metabolism. Together, these results establish NPFR as a key regulator linking gut-derived neuropeptide signaling to metabolic energy balance and feeding behavior. This study provides the first integrative evidence connecting neuropeptide signaling with intestinal mitochondrial function in a major Lepidopteran pest, offering new molecular insights into insect adaptation and identifying NPFR as a promising target for environmentally sustainable pest management strategies.