RNA sequencing and transcriptome unravels novel genes for quinone synthesis in defensive gland of medicinal beetle Blaps rhynchopetera

Blaps rhynchopetera (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) is a medicinal beetle widely used in folk medicines in Southwest China. The defensive glands of B. rhynchopetera secrete complex defensive fluids, which are invaluable sources of bioactive substances with potential biotechnological applications. To provide a global insight on the genetic and biochemical basis of the defensive secretions, we performed RNA sequencing and transcriptome analysis to the defensive glands of B. rhynchopetera.