Expression of heat shock protein genes in insect stress responses

The heat shock proteins (Hsps) that are abundantly expressed in insects are important modulators of insect survival. The expression of different Hsp genes are induced and modulated in insects in response to environmental inputs including abiotic stresses such as heat shock, ultraviolet radiation, chemical pesticides, as well as biotic stresses such as viruses, bacteria, fungi and other insects. This minireview will provide useful information related to the expression of Hsp genes in response to abiotic and biotic stressors as well as developmental regulation and modulation of Hsp genes involved with insect survival.