Abstract: In order to study the functions of chemosensory proteins (CSPs) of Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) in olfactory recognition, we cloned and expressed the chemosensory protein HarmCSP6 of H. armigera in prokaryotic cell. This protein was expressed in the form of dipolymer, which was certified by Western blotting and fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC). The results of expression profiles showed that the HarmCSP6 gene was highly expressed in male and female antennae, and was expressed to a certain extent in female legs and wings. The binding experiment with 22 kinds of odorant chemicals indicated that HarmCSP6 could bind obviously with aldehydes and terpenes. By studying the binding affinity, some special binding odorants can be selected. This may provide the theoretical basis for developing attractants and repellents of the cotton bollworm.

Key words: Helicoverpa armigera, chemosensory protein, prokaryotic expression, fluorescence quantitative PCR, dipolymer, binding experiment