Single gene seems to turn caterpillars into zombies

The insects infected with the virus dubbed LdMNPV go against nature and climb up trees, where they die and spread the infection downward, a study finds.Scientists have isolated a viral gene that induces zombie-like behavior — in caterpillars. The virus causes gypsy moth caterpillars to climb to the tops of trees, where they die and their disintegrating bodies rain infectious particles on their unsuspecting brethren below.

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