Proteomic analysis of the venom and venom sac of the woodwasp, Sirex noctilio - Towards understanding its biological impact

The female woodwasp Sirex noctilio F. (Hymenoptera: Siricidae) (Sirex) injects a mucus-associated toxic venom and symbiotic fungus into species of Pinus, which kills the trees, leading to tremendous economic lose. This study has uncovered the proteomes of venom and sac tissue of S. noctilio and elucidated important biological pathways, based on which interaction analysis shows potential interaction components with Pinus taeda. It sets the foundation for further clarifying the functions of proteins that may play key roles in killing the trees.183