LAUSR

Abstract The silkworm Bombyx mori, an economically important insect that is usually reared indoors, is susceptible to various pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and microsporidia. As with other insects, the silkworm lacks an adaptive immune system and relies solely on innate immunity to defend itself against infection. Compared to other intensively studied insects, such as the fruit fly and tobacco hornworm, the principal immune pathways in the silkworm remain unclear. In this article, we review the literature concerning silkworm immune responses to bacteria and fungi and present our perspectives on future research into silkworm immunity. HighlightsSilkworm antifungal and antibacterial immune responses are summarized.Humoral and cellular immune mechanisms are described.Silkworm responses to pathogenic bacteria and fungi remain to be fully elucidated.Data from work on other insects allow us to draw a picture of silkworm immunity.Future research, including the effect of diet on silkworm immunity, is discussed.