Robust cuticular penetration resistance in the common bed bug (Cimex lectularius L.) correlates with increased steady-state transcript levels of CPR-type cuticle protein genes

► Bed bugs collected in Richmond, VA display strong cuticular penetration resistance. ► We identify 62 predicted CPR-type cuticle proteins in the bed bug. ► Almost 70% of cuticle protein transcripts are upregulated in resistant bed bugs. ► Cuticular thickening may be an important resistance mechanism in bed bugs.