RNA-seq-based discovery of immunity-related genes in Meligethes aeneus

The pollen beetle (Meligethes aeneus) is a major pest of oilseed rape (Brassica napus) and other cruciferous crops in Europe displaying increasing resistance against insecticides. Here we subjected total RNA samples isolated from larval stages as well as untreated and immunized beetles (injected with different bacteria and yeast) to high through-put RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Our aim was to establish a comprehensive transcriptome, obtain developmental-specific and quantify immune-related genes.