About this Research Topic
Insects, comprising a vast and diverse group of organisms, undergo complex developmental processes tightly regulated at the molecular level. The major players in the epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA/chromatin modifications, protein/histone modifications, and microRNA regulation alone or in combination with other transcriptional regulatory events, regulate gene activity and expression patterns during development and growth. Recent research has revealed the importance of epigenetic regulation in molding insect phenotypes, from metamorphosis to behavior, and its importance for evolution, adaptation, and pest management strategies. Insects serve as an ideal model to investigate epigenetic studies because of short generation times, whole genome sequence availability, and genetic manipulation amenability.
This Research Topic aims to explore the multifaceted relationship between epigenetics and insect development, shedding light on the underlying molecular mechanisms, their evolutionary implications, and their potential applications in pest control. We seek to address important questions in the field, such as the role of epigenetic modifications in regulating developmental changes, the interplay between epigenetics and environmental factors in shaping insect phenotypes, and the development of epigenetic-based approaches for insect pest management. Recent advances in the omics field have provided remarkable insights into the epigenetic landscape of insects. Understanding these processes can enhance our ability to manipulate insect traits, proposing new avenues for managing agricultural pests and disease vectors while reducing the ecological impact of harmful chemicals.
We welcome contributions from investigators across genetics, genomics, entomology, and epigenetics to delve into various aspects of epigenetics and insect development. Potential topics of interest include, but are not limited to:
1. Mechanisms of epigenetic regulation during insect development.
2. Epigenetic plasticity and phenotypic variation in response to environmental cues.
3. Evolutionary implications of epigenetic modifications in insects.
4. Epigenetic-based approaches for sustainable insect pest management.
We invite original research articles, reviews, perspectives, and methodological papers contributing to our understanding of epigenetics in insect development. By synthesizing recent findings and exploring the unexplored potential of epigenetic research in entomology, this Research Topic aims to advance our knowledge of fundamental biological processes and practical applications in agriculture and public health.
Keywords: insect
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.