Transcriptomic profiling of the reproductive mode switch in the pea aphid in response to natural autumnal photoperiod

► Aphids were reared outdoor in summer and autumn when they respectively reproduce parthenogenetically or sexually. ► We compared the transcriptome of aphid heads collected at the two seasons using a 7166 cDNAs custom microarray. ► Transcripts involved in the neuro-endocrine system such as Juvenile Hormone signalization were found to be regulated. ► A differential expression of heat shock protein genes was found, suggesting a response of aphids to other abiotic factors.