Annotation of chitin biosynthesis genes in , the Asian citrus psyllid.

The polysaccharide chitin is critical for the formation of many insect structures, including the exoskeleton, and is required for normal development. Here we report the annotation of three genes from the chitin synthesis pathway in the Asian citrus psyllid, (Hemiptera: Liviidae), the vector of Huanglongbing (citrus greening disease). Most insects have two chitin synthase (CHS) genes but, like other hemipterans, has only one. In contrast, is unusual among insects in having two UDP-N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylase (UAP) genes. One of the UAP genes is broadly expressed, while the other is expressed predominantly in males. Our work helps pave the way for potential utilization of these genes as pest control targets to reduce the spread of Huanglongbing.