Characterize cantharidin-biosynthetic enzymes in Epicauta chinensis and identify the inhibitory effects of cantharidin on the PxPSPs in Plutella xylostella

Cantharidin (C₁₀H₁₂O₄) is a monoterpene defensive toxin in insects, involved in chemical defense as well as in courtship and mating behaviors. It is also reported  to be toxic to some pests. However, little is known about the biosynthesis pathway in vivo and  the mechanism of its toxicity in insects. This poster presents 2 key enzymes that are involved in the biosynthesis of cantharidin and the inhibitory effects of cantharidin on the protein serine/threonine phosphatases (PSPs) of Plutella xylostella.