Reaper homologue IBM1 in silkworm Bombyx mori induces apoptosis upon baculovirus infection

► B. mori IBM1 induces insect cells apoptosis via the mitochondrial pathway. ► IBM1 can activate apoptosis to limit BmNPV infection at an early stage. ► BmNPV-IAP2 interacts with IBM1 to prevent excessive death and promote continued propagation.