Gene expression profile of P. japonica challenged with distinct soil microbiomes

Several field observations on larvae of Popillia japonica in two islands of Azores allow us to hypothesize the soil microbiome was modulating the development of larvae. In this assay we design a semi-field assay to challenge first instar of P. japonica with two distinct soils. After a short time of exposition, we extract RNA from exposed larvae to analyze for the rate of expression of genes related with defenses reaction, rates of metabolism and detoxication.Based on a series of field observations on Popillia japonica larvae in two islands of the Azores, we have formulated a hypothesis suggesting that the soil microbiome may play a significant role in modulating the development of these larvae. To investigate this hypothesis, we have designed a semi-field assay in which first-instar larvae of P. japonica are challenged with distinct soil microbiomes.In this assay, the larvae are exposed to the different soils for a specified period. Following the exposure, we extract RNA from the larvae to analyze the rate of gene expression associated with defense reactions, metabolic processes, and detoxification pathways. By examining the expression levels of these genes, we aim to gain insights into the larvae's response to the soil microbiome and its potential impact on their development.