Evolution of Lepidoptera sex pheromone receptors in Ostrinia species

Sex pheromone receptors are a conserved lineage of odorant receptors within the Lepidoptera. Male moths typically respond to female-produced sex pheromone blends with sensitivity and specificity. The molecular genetic mechanisms that provide sufficient variation in male response to enable the evolution of new pheromone blends among closely related species is one topic of current investigation. Recent advances towards an understanding of pheromone receptor evolution and function within the genus Ostrinia are reviewed.