Global and comparative proteomic profiling of overwintering and developing mountain pine beetle, Dendroctonus ponderosae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), larvae

► We used iTRAQ proteomics to examine overwintering physiology of Dendroctonus ponderosae larvae sampled in autumn and spring. ► Autumn larvae accumulate proteins involved in oxidative stress tolerance, cryoprotectant metabolism, and energy metabolism. ► Carbohydrate metabolism, oxidative stress tolerance, and cryoprotectant metabolism protein levels decrease in the spring. ► Ferritin, and enzymes that synthesize 2-deoxyglucose, glycerol, and trehalose seem to be important for winter survival. ► Levels of cytochromes P450, glutathione-S-transferases, and esterases indicate an early larval response to tree toxins.