Down‐regulation of the PxJHE2 gene elevates juvenile hormone titers and compensates for fitness costs of Bt Cry1Ac resistance in Plutella xylostella (L.)

Our findings identify PxJHE2 as a key regulator of JH homeostasis that mediates compensation of fitness costs in Bt Cry1Ac-resistant P. xylostella. Targeting PxJHE2 or its hormonal regulatory pathway may provide a promising strategy to disrupt resistance-associated compensatory mechanisms, thereby enhancing the sustainability of Bt-based pest management programs. These results further provide valuable molecular insights for the development of innovative bioinsecticide strategies.