Localization and functional analysis of the Smoothened gene in Apis cerana cerana

The Smoothened (Smo) gene is essential for the Hedgehog signaling pathway, which plays a critical role in tissue growth in insects. However, its specific mechanism of action in honey bees is not yet fully undertood. This study aims to localize the AcerSmo in the antennae of Apis cerana cerana using in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, we explore the impact of AcerSmo gene deficiency on olfactory recognition behavior in Apis cerana cerana using RNAi technology.