Odorant-binding protein 15 (ScerOBP15)

Odorant-binding protein 15 (ScerOBP15) is a specialized olfactory protein identified in the Angoumois grain moth, Sitotroga cerealella, a significant agricultural pest of stored grains such as wheat and maize [1, 3]. It belongs to the Plus-C OBP subfamily, which is characterized by a specific pattern of conserved cysteine residues that form a stable hydrophobic binding pocket for volatile molecules [1, 18]. ScerOBP15 is primarily expressed in the antennae of adult moths, with a notable male-biased expression pattern, suggesting a specialized role in detecting host-related or sex-specific chemical cues [3, 17]. The protein functions by binding and transporting host-plant volatiles, such as n-heptadecane and geranyl acetone, through the aqueous sensillum lymph to odorant receptors on sensory neurons [3, 23]. This process is essential for the insect's ability to locate host plants for feeding and reproduction, making ScerOBP15 a critical component of its survival strategy [6, 25]. Consequently, ScerOBP15 is considered a promising target for the development of sustainable pest management tools, such as highly specific attractants or repellents [3, 4]. By disrupting the moth's olfactory-guided behaviors, researchers aim to create environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional broad-spectrum pesticides [1, 26].

Other names

Sitotroga cerealella odorant-binding protein 15S. cerealella OBP15Plus-C odorant-binding protein 15

Binds and transports hydrophobic volatile odorants from the environment through the aqueous sensillum lymph to odorant receptors (ORs) located on the dendritic membrane of olfactory sensory neurons.