They identified in DBM obvious gene duplications of four gene families that participated in xenobiotic detoxification in insects, including ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter families, the P450 monooxygenases (P450s), glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) and carboxylesterase (COEs).

Notably, the further analysis highlighted the potential role of ABC transporters in detoxification.The moth preferentially feeds on economically important food crops such as rapeseed, cauliflower and cabbage.

It has developed resistance to against more than 50 insecticides, including DDT and Bt toxins, among others, and this has rendered the use of chemicals ineffective. It is estimated that the total cost associated with the damage and management of the pest is estimated to be $4-to-5 billion per year worldwide.

"The completed genome sequencing of DBM will lay a solid foundation for tracking the evolutionary mechanisms of how an insect evolves to become a successful herbivore that can defense many insecticides." said Professor Minsheng You, vice president of FAFU and leader of the research team. "The work here also provides an invaluable resource for scientists to better understand the reasons why DBM is such a serious pest and how new strategies can be developed to control insect pests."