Odorant-Binding Proteins OBP57d and OBP57e Affect Taste Perception and Host-Plant Preference in Drosophila sechellia

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.0050118
• Publication Date: 2007-04-12T13:15:53Z
• Authors: Takashi Matsuo; Shigeru Sugaya; Jyunichiro Yasukawa; Toshiro Aigaki; Yoshiaki Fuyama
• Keywords: Affect

Despite its morphological similarity to the other species in Drosophila melanogaster complex, D. sechellia has evolved distinct physiological and behavioral adaptations host plant Morinda citrifolia, commonly known as Tahitian Noni. The odor of ripe fruit M. citrifolia originates from hexanoic octanoic acid. is attracted these two fatty acids, whereas complex are repelled. Here, using interspecies hybrids between deficiency mutants sechellia, we showed that Odorant-binding protein 57e (Obp57e) gene involved difference species. knock-out flies for Obp57e Obp57d altered responses acid Furthermore, introduction simulans shifted oviposition site preference Obp57d/e(KO) original species, confirming contribution genes sechellia's specialization citrifolia. Our finding host-plant determination may lead further understanding mechanisms underlying taste perception, evolution plant-herbivore interactions, speciation.