During the long history of sericulture, the domesticated silkworm has various differentiated into a number of races and strains as can be seen today. Up to 95% of the mutant strains of silkworm in the world are collected and systematically preserved in Japan. They are not only important genetic resources for the research work in Japan but also precious inheritance of human beings. Silkworms are widely used by researchers to study on genetics, physiology, biochemistry, and pathology. Recently, along with the progress of the "silkworm genome project", analysis of genes with special functions ranging from feeding habits and taste, to the resistance and sensitivity to pathogens such as viruses, fungi, and bacteria, and to mold is conducted intensively. These results make silkworm, a Lepidoptera insect, a premier model for studies of pest control and will facilitate the production of new pesticides. Likewise, their relatively large size makes silkworm a good model for the study of brain. With transgenic technologies such as transposon tagging, it is easy to generate mutants related to action pattern, ecology, morphology, and physiology. Comparing mutants with the normal silkworm, we can elucidate the fascinating system of brain, specifically in brain building, and some of these molecules involving mutants may be of value. This project aims to improve the quality of silkworm resources with more detail trait information and establish a system so that we can supply more reproductive and more stable materials. |
