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Yi SC, Chen XH, Wu YH, Wu J, Wang JQ, Wang MQ. Identification of odorant-binding proteins and functional analysis of antenna-specific BhorOBP28 in Batocera horsfieldi (Hope). PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024; 80:4055-4068. [PMID: 38567786 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The important wood-boring pest Batocera horsfieldi has evolved a sensitive olfactory system to locate host plants. Odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) are thought to play key roles in olfactory recognition. Therefore, exploring the physiological function of OBPs could facilitate a better understanding of insect chemical communications. RESULTS In this research, 36 BhorOBPs genes were identified via transcriptome sequencing of adults' antennae from B. horsfieldi, and most BhorOBPs were predominantly expressed in chemosensory body parts. Through fluorescence competitive binding and fluorescence quenching assays, the antenna-specific BhorOBP28 was investigated and displayed strong binding affinities forming stable complexes with five volatiles, including (+)-α-Pinene, (+)-Limonene, β-Pinene, (-)-Limonene, and (+)-Longifolene, which could also elicit conformation changes when they were interacting with BhorOBP28. Batocera horsfieldi females exhibited a preference for (-)-Limonene, and a repellent response to (+)-Longifolene. Feeding dsOBP19 produced by a bacteria-expressed system with a newly constructed vector could lead to the knockdown of BhorOBP28, and could further impair B. horsfieldi attraction to (-)-Limonene and repellent activity of (+)-Longifolene. The analysis of site-directed mutagenesis revealed that Leu7, Leu72, and Phe121 play a vital role in selectively binding properties of BhorOBP28. CONCLUSION By modeling the molecular mechanism of olfactory recognition, these results demonstrate that BhorOBP28 is involved in the chemoreception of B. horsfieldi. The bacterial-expressed dsRNA delivery system gains new insights into potential population management strategies. Through the olfactory process concluded that discovering novel behavioral regulation and environmentally friendly control options for B. horsfieldi in the future. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan-Cheng Yi
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin-Hui Chen
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu-Hang Wu
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Juan Wu
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jia-Qing Wang
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Man-Qun Wang
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
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Zhang Y, Ke Z, Xu L, Yang Y, Chang L, Zhang J. A faster killing effect of plastid-mediated RNA interference on a leaf beetle through induced dysbiosis of the gut bacteria. PLANT COMMUNICATIONS 2024:100974. [PMID: 38751119 DOI: 10.1016/j.xplc.2024.100974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
The expression of double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) from the plastid genome has been proven to be an effective method for controlling herbivorous pests by targeting essential insect genes. However, there are limitations to the efficiency of plastid-mediated RNA interference (PM-RNAi) due to the initial damage caused by the insects and their slow response to RNA interference. In this study, we developed transplastomic poplar plants that express dsRNAs targeting the β-Actin (dsACT) and Srp54k (dsSRP54K) genes of Plagiodera versicolora. Feeding experiments showed that transplastomic poplar plants can cause significantly higher mortality in P. versicolora larvae compared with nuclear transgenic or wild-type poplar plants. The efficient killing effect of PM-RNAi on P. versicolora larvae was found to be dependent on the presence of gut bacteria. Importantly, foliar application of a gut bacterial strain, Pseudomonas putida, will induce dysbiosis in the gut bacteria of P. versicolora larvae, leading to a significant acceleration in the speed of killing by PM-RNAi. Overall, our findings suggest that interfering with gut bacteria could be a promising strategy to enhance the effectiveness of PM-RNAi for insect pest control, offering a novel and effective approach for crop protection based on RNAi technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqiu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Zebin Ke
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Letian Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Ling Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China.
| | - Jiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China; Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518000, China.
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Gyawali B, Rahimi R, Alizadeh H, Mohammadi M. Graphene Quantum Dots (GQD)-Mediated dsRNA Delivery for the Control of Fusarium Head Blight Disease in Wheat. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:1526-1535. [PMID: 38422985 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Graphene quantum dots (GQDs), a class of fluorescent carbon materials, have displayed significant potential in various fields such as energy devices, catalysis, sensing, bioimaging, and drug delivery. Because of their extremely small size, generally less than 100 nm, they also have tremendous potential in plant science research, especially for the delivery of nucleic acids, breaking the barrier of cell walls. In this study, we synthesized GQDs with a size range of 2-5 nm, characterized them, and surface-functionalized them with branched polyethylenimine (bPEI). We then used the surface-functionalized GQDs as carriers to deliver double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) that target two growth-and-development-related genes in Fusarium graminearum─the causative organism of the Fusarium head blight disease of wheat. The successful binding of dsRNA to GQDs-bPEIs was demonstrated through gel-shifting assays, showcasing the potential for efficient dsRNA delivery. We designed dsRNAs targeting the MGV1 and RAS1 genes of F. graminearum by using the pssRNAit pipeline, ensuring high specificity and no off-target effects. The coding sequences of the designed dsRAS1 and dsMGV1 were cloned into the L4440 vector and transformed into the Escherichia coli HT115 strain for dsRNA production. Fungal culture analysis revealed that the inclusion of dsRNAs in potato dextrose agar (PDA) media effectively slowed down the growth. Exogenous spraying experiments both in plate cultures and in intact wheat spikes demonstrated that the dsRNA:GQDs-bPEIs treatment was more effective in restricting fungal mycelium growth or the number of infected spikelets compared to naked dsRNA treatment. Our study demonstrates the promising potential of graphene quantum dots as carriers for dsRNA-based fungal disease management in wheat and other crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binod Gyawali
- Department of Agronomy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Rahim Rahimi
- School of Materials Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Houshang Alizadeh
- Campus of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Tehran 11366, Iran
| | - Mohsen Mohammadi
- Department of Agronomy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
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Yang R, Li D, Yi S, Wei Y, Wang M. Odorant-binding protein 19 in Monochamus alternatus involved in the recognition of a volatile strongly emitted from ovipositing host pines. INSECT SCIENCE 2024; 31:134-146. [PMID: 37358042 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Monochamus alternatus is the primary carrier of pine wood nematodes, which pose a serious threat to Pinus spp. in many countries. Newly emerging M. alternatus adults feed on heathy host pines, while matured adults transfer to stressed host pines for mating and oviposition. Several odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) of M. alternatus have been proved to aid in the complex process of host location. To clarify the corresponding relations between OBPs and pine volatiles, more OBPs need to be studied. In this research, MaltOBP19 showed a specific expression in the antennae and mouthparts of M. alternatus, and it was marked in 4 types of antenna sensilla by immunolocalization. Fluorescence binding assays demonstrated the high binding affinity of MaltOBP19 with camphene and myrcene in vitro. In Y-tube olfactory experiments, M. alternatus adults were attracted by camphene and RNAi of OBP19 via microinjection significantly decreased their attraction index. Myrcene induced phobotaxis, but RNAi had no significant effect on this behavior. Further, we found that ingesting dsOBP19 produced by a bacteria-expressed system with a newly constructed vector could lead to the knockdown of MaltOBP19. These results suggest that MaltOBP19 may play a role in the process of host conversion via the recognition of camphene, which has been identified to be strongly released in stressed host pines. In addition, it is proved that knockdown of OBP can be achieved by oral administration of bacteria-expressed double-stranded RNA in M. alternatus adults, providing a new perspective in the control of M. alternatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruinan Yang
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Dongzhen Li
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Forest Protection of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Ecology and Nature Conservation Institute, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing, China
| | - Shancheng Yi
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi Wei
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Manqun Wang
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
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Ma YF, Liu TT, Zhao YQ, Luo J, Feng HY, Zhou YY, Gong LL, Zhang MQ, He YY, Hull JJ, Dewer Y, He M, He P. RNA Interference-Screening of Potentially Lethal Gene Targets in the White-Backed Planthopper Sogatella furcifera via a Spray-Induced and Nanocarrier-Delivered Gene Silencing System. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:1007-1016. [PMID: 38166405 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c05659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a widespread post-transcriptional silencing mechanism that targets homologous mRNA sequences for specific degradation. An RNAi-based pest management strategy is target-specific and considered a sustainable biopesticide. However, the specific genes targeted and the efficiency of the delivery methods can vary widely across species. In this study, a spray-induced and nanocarrier-delivered gene silencing (SI-NDGS) system that incorporated gene-specific dsRNAs targeting conserved genes was used to evaluate phenotypic effects in white-backed planthopper (WBPH). At 2 days postspraying, transcript levels for all target genes were significantly reduced and knockdown of two gene orthologs, hsc70-3 and PP-α, resulted in an elevated mortality (>60%) and impaired ecdysis. These results highlight the utility of the SI-NDGS system for identifying genes involved in WBPH growth and development that could be potentially exploitable as high mortality target genes to develop an alternative method for WBPH control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Feng Ma
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Ting-Ting Liu
- Qianxinan Agricultural Technology Extension Center, Xingyi 562404, P. R. China
| | - Ya-Qin Zhao
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Juan Luo
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Hong-Yan Feng
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Yang-Yuntao Zhou
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Lang-Lang Gong
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Meng-Qi Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Yin-Yin He
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - J Joe Hull
- USDA-ARS Arid Land Agricultural Research Center, Maricopa, Arizona 20250,United States
| | - Youssef Dewer
- Phytotoxicity Research Department, Central Agricultural Pesticide Laboratory, Agricultural Research Center, 7 Nadi El-Seid Street, Dokki 12618, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ming He
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Peng He
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
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6
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Gong Z, Zhang J, Li Y, Li H, Zhang Z, Qin Y, Jiang Y, Duan Y, Li T, Miao J, Wu Y. Identification of Potential Gene Targets for Suppressing Oviposition in Holotrichia parallela Using Comparative Transcriptome Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13138. [PMID: 37685945 PMCID: PMC10487570 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Holotrichia parallela is an important plant pest. Comparative feeding experiments showed that the egg production, oviposition duration and survival rate of H. parallela beetles were significantly higher when they fed on elm leaves than when they fed on willow or purpus privet leaves. RNA sequencing was used to determine transcriptomic changes associated with oviposition. Comparative transcriptome analysis revealed that the beetles that fed on elm and willow had a total of 171 genes with differential expression. When the beetles fed on elm and purpus privet, 3568 genes had differential expression. The vitellogenesis, ovarian serine protease, odorant-binding proteins, acyl-CoA synthetase and follicle cell proteins were commonly upregulated genes in elm-fed beetles compared with those fed on willow/purpus privet leaves. The involvement of the follicle cell protein 3C gene in the regulation of oviposition was confirmed using RNA interference. The results provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying oviposition in H. parallela feeding on different host plants. This study also describes a method for identifying potentially effective genes for pest control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongjun Gong
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control of Henan Province, Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management of the Southern of North China, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (Z.G.)
| | - Jing Zhang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control of Henan Province, Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management of the Southern of North China, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (Z.G.)
| | - Yanmin Li
- Institute of Horticulture, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Huiling Li
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control of Henan Province, Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management of the Southern of North China, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (Z.G.)
| | - Ziqi Zhang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Luoyang Academy of Agricultural and Forestry Sciences, Luoyang 471027, China
| | - Yifan Qin
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control of Henan Province, Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management of the Southern of North China, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (Z.G.)
| | - Yueli Jiang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control of Henan Province, Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management of the Southern of North China, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (Z.G.)
| | - Yun Duan
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control of Henan Province, Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management of the Southern of North China, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (Z.G.)
| | - Tong Li
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control of Henan Province, Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management of the Southern of North China, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (Z.G.)
| | - Jin Miao
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control of Henan Province, Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management of the Southern of North China, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (Z.G.)
| | - Yuqing Wu
- Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control of Henan Province, Key Laboratory of Crop Integrated Pest Management of the Southern of North China, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (Z.G.)
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Vogel E, Santos D, Huygens C, Peeters P, Van den Brande S, Wynant N, Vanden Broeck J. The Study of Cell-Penetrating Peptides to Deliver dsRNA and siRNA by Feeding in the Desert Locust, Schistocerca gregaria. INSECTS 2023; 14:597. [PMID: 37504603 PMCID: PMC10380834 DOI: 10.3390/insects14070597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
RNA(i) interference is a gene silencing mechanism triggered by double-stranded (ds)RNA, which promises to contribute to species-specific insect pest control strategies. The first step toward the application of RNAi as an insecticide is to enable efficient gene silencing upon dsRNA oral delivery. The desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria is a devastating agricultural pest. While this species is responsive to dsRNA delivered by intra-hemocoelic injection, it is refractory to orally delivered dsRNA. In this study, we evaluated the capacity of five cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) to bind long dsRNA and protect it from the locust midgut environment. We then selected the CPP EB1 for further in vivo studies. EB1:dsRNA complexes failed to induce RNAi by feeding. Interestingly, we observed that intra-hemocoelic injection of small-interfering (si)RNAs does not result in a silencing response, but that this response can be obtained by injecting EB1:siRNA complexes. EB1 also protected siRNAs from midgut degradation activity. However, EB1:siRNA complexes failed as well in triggering RNAi when fed. Our findings highlight the complexity of the dsRNA/siRNA-triggered RNAi in this species and emphasize the multifactorial nature of the RNAi response in insects. Our study also stresses the importance of in vivo studies when it comes to dsRNA/siRNA delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Vogel
- Research Group of Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dulce Santos
- Research Group of Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Cissy Huygens
- Research Group of Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Behavioral and Developmental Genetics, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Paulien Peeters
- Research Group of Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stijn Van den Brande
- Research Group of Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Niels Wynant
- Research Group of Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jozef Vanden Broeck
- Research Group of Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Tu C, Zhang Y, Zhu P, Sun L, Xu P, Wang T, Luo J, Yu J, Xu L. Enhanced toxicity of entomopathogenic fungi Beauveria bassiana with bacteria expressing immune suppressive dsRNA in a leaf beetle. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 193:105431. [PMID: 37248009 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2023.105431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The entomopathogenic fungus is recognized as an ideal alternative to chemical pesticides, nonetheless, its efficacy is often limited by insect's innate immune system. The suppression of the host immunity may overcome the obstacle and promote the toxicity of the fungi. Here, by using an entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana and immune genes dsRNA-expressing bacteria, we explored the potentially synergistic toxicity of the two agents on a leaf beetle Plagiodera versicolora (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). We first determined the susceptibilities of P. versicolora to a B. bassiana 476 strain (hereafter referred to Bb476). And the immune genes were identified based on the transcriptome of Bb476 challenged beetles. Subsequently, five immune genes (PGRP1, Toll1, Domeless,SPN1,and Lysozyme) were targeted by feeding dsRNA-expressing bacteria, which produced a 71.4, 39.0, 72.0, 49.0, and 68.7% gene silencing effect, respectively. Furthermore, we found a significantly increased mortality of P. versicolora when combined the Bb476 and the immune suppressive dsRNAs. Taking together, this study highlights the importance of insect immunity in the defense of entomopathogens and also paves the way toward the development of a more efficient pest management strategy that integrates both entomopathogens and immune suppressive dsRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengjie Tu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Yuxin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Peipei Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Liuwei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Pei Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Tianjing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Jing Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Jingya Yu
- Institute of Plant Protection, Wuhan Institute of Landscape Architecture, Wuhan, China.
| | - Letian Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China.
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9
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Singewar K, Fladung M. Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) technology to control forest insect pests and fungal pathogens: challenges and opportunities. Funct Integr Genomics 2023; 23:185. [PMID: 37243792 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-023-01107-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Climate change alters the seasonal synchronization between plants and respective pests plus pathogens. The geographical infiltration helps to shift their hosts, resulting in novel outbreaks that damage forests and ecology. Traditional management schemes are unable to control such outbreaks, therefore unconventional and competitive governance is needed to manage forest pests and pathogens. RNA interference (RNAi) mediated double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) treatment method can be implemented to protect forest trees. Exogenous dsRNA triggers the RNAi-mediated gene silencing of a vital gene, and suspends protein production, resulting in the death of targeted pathogens and pests. The dsRNA treatment method is successful for many crop insects and fungi, however, studies of dsRNA against forest pests and pathogens are depleting. Pesticides and fungicides based on dsRNA could be used to combat pathogens that caused outbreaks in different parts of the world. Although the dsRNA has proved its potential, the crucial dilemma and risks including species-specific gene selection, and dsRNA delivery methods cannot be overlooked. Here, we summarized the major fungi pathogens and insect pests that have caused outbreaks, their genomic information, and studies on dsRNA fungi-and pesticides. Current challenges and opportunities in dsRNA target decision, delivery using nanoparticles, direct applications, and a new method using mycorrhiza for forest tree protection are discussed. The importance of affordable next-generation sequencing to minimize the impact on non-target species is discussed. We suggest that collaborative research among forest genomics and pathology institutes could develop necessary dsRNA strategies to protect forest tree species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Singewar
- Thünen Institute of Forest Genetics, 22927, Großhansdorf, Germany.
| | - Matthias Fladung
- Thünen Institute of Forest Genetics, 22927, Großhansdorf, Germany.
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10
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Xu W, Zhang M, Li Y, He W, Li S, Zhang J. Complete protection from Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata by expressing long double-stranded RNAs in potato plastids. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE PLANT BIOLOGY 2023; 65:1003-1011. [PMID: 36382860 DOI: 10.1111/jipb.13411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) has emerged as a powerful technology for pest management. Previously, we have shown that plastid-mediated RNAi (PM-RNAi) can be utilized to control the Colorado potato beetle, an insect pest in the Chrysomelidae family; however, whether this technology is suitable for controlling pests in the Coccinellidae remained unknown. The coccinellid 28-spotted potato ladybird (Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata; HV) is a serious pest of solanaceous crops. In this study, we identified three efficient target genes (β-Actin, SRP54, and SNAP) for RNAi using in vitro double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) fed to HV, and found that dsRNAs targeting β-Actin messenger RNA (dsACT) induced more potent RNAi than those targeting the other two genes. We next generated transplastomic and nuclear transgenic potato (Solanum tuberosum) plants expressing HV dsACT. Long dsACT stably accumulated to up to 0.7% of the total cellular RNA in the transplastomic plants, at least three orders of magnitude higher than in the nuclear transgenic plants. Notably, the transplastomic plants also exhibited a significantly stronger resistance to HV, killing all larvae within 6 d. Our data demonstrate the potential of PM-RNAi as an efficient pest control measure for HV, extending the application range of this technology to Coccinellidae pests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbo Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Miao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Yangcun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Wanwan He
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Shengchun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Jiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
- Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, 518000, China
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11
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Liu X, Zeng Y, Yang L, Li M, Fu M, Zhang S. Plagiodera versicolora feeding induces systemic and sexually differential defense responses in poplars. PHYSIOLOGIA PLANTARUM 2022; 174:e13804. [PMID: 36270748 DOI: 10.1111/ppl.13804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Dioecious plants have evolved effective defense strategies to deal with various biotic and abiotic stresses. However, little is known regarding sexual differences in their defense against herbivores. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of systemic defense responses in male and female Populus cathayana attacked by Plagiodera versicolora Laicharting. The results revealed that P. cathayana exhibits sexually differential responses to a defoliator. The percentage of damaged leaf area was greater in males than in females. Furthermore, the observed saccharide changes imply that males and females exhibit different response times to defoliators. The contents of flavonoids and anthocyanins were significantly increased in both sexes but were higher in females. Specifically, the jasmonic acid (JA) pathway plays an important role. Expression of pest-related genes further revealed that hormones induce changes in downstream genes and metabolites, and upregulation of JA ZIM-domain (JAZ) and CORONATINE INSENSITIVE 1 (COI1) was more significant in females. In the undamaged adjacent leaves, metabolite and gene changes displayed similar patterns to the damaged local leaves, but levels of JA, JAZ1, and COI1 were higher in females. Therefore, our data confirmed that plants initiate the JA pathway to defend against herbivores, that there is systematic signal transduction, and that this ability is stronger in females than in males. This study provides new insights into the resistance of dioecious plants to herbivory and adds a new theoretical basis for the systemic signal transduction of plants in response to biotic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejiao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Le Yang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Menghan Li
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingyue Fu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Sheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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12
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Willow J, Veromann E. Highly Variable Dietary RNAi Sensitivity Among Coleoptera. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:790816. [PMID: 34950174 PMCID: PMC8688912 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.790816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Many herbivorous beetles (Order Coleoptera) contribute to serious losses in crop yields and forest trees, and plant biotechnology solutions are being developed with the hope of limiting these losses. Due to the unprecedented target-specificity of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), and its utility in inducing RNA interference (RNAi) when consumed by target pest species, dsRNA-based plant biotechnology approaches represent the cutting edge of current pesticide research and development. We review dietary RNAi studies in coleopterans and discuss prospects and future directions regarding RNAi-based management of coleopteran plant pests. Herein, we also provide a balanced overview of existing studies in order to provide an accurate re-assessment of dietary RNAi sensitivity in coleopterans, despite the limitations to the existing body of scientific literature. We further discuss impediments to our understanding of RNAi sensitivity in this important insect order and identify critical future directions for research in this area, with an emphasis on using plant biotechnology approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Willow
- Chair of Plant Health, Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Plants and Crops, Laboratory of Agrozoology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Eve Veromann
- Chair of Plant Health, Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
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13
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Mehlhorn S, Hunnekuhl VS, Geibel S, Nauen R, Bucher G. Establishing RNAi for basic research and pest control and identification of the most efficient target genes for pest control: a brief guide. Front Zool 2021; 18:60. [PMID: 34863212 PMCID: PMC8643023 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-021-00444-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) has emerged as a powerful tool for knocking-down gene function in diverse taxa including arthropods for both basic biological research and application in pest control. The conservation of the RNAi mechanism in eukaryotes suggested that it should-in principle-be applicable to most arthropods. However, practical hurdles have been limiting the application in many taxa. For instance, species differ considerably with respect to efficiency of dsRNA uptake from the hemolymph or the gut. Here, we review some of the most frequently encountered technical obstacles when establishing RNAi and suggest a robust procedure for establishing this technique in insect species with special reference to pests. Finally, we present an approach to identify the most effective target genes for the potential control of agricultural and public health pests by RNAi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Mehlhorn
- Crop Science Division, Bayer AG, R&D, Pest Control, Alfred-Nobel-Straße 50, 40789, Monheim, Germany
- Department of Evolutionary Developmental Genetics, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute, GZMB, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Vera S Hunnekuhl
- Department of Evolutionary Developmental Genetics, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute, GZMB, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sven Geibel
- Crop Science Division, Bayer AG, R&D, Pest Control, Alfred-Nobel-Straße 50, 40789, Monheim, Germany
| | - Ralf Nauen
- Crop Science Division, Bayer AG, R&D, Pest Control, Alfred-Nobel-Straße 50, 40789, Monheim, Germany
| | - Gregor Bucher
- Department of Evolutionary Developmental Genetics, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute, GZMB, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
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14
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Bai J, Li L, Xu Z, Zhang Y, Liang L, Ma X, Ma W, Ma L. Mutation of glucan synthase catalytic subunit in Beauveria bassiana affects fungal growth and virulence. Fungal Genet Biol 2021; 158:103637. [PMID: 34798271 DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2021.103637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Beauveria bassiana is a well-known entomopathogenic fungus that parasitizes on a variety of insect species. Glucan in the cell wall of B. bassiana plays a crucial role in its structure and growth and is also involved in the activation of the host insect's immune system. Glucan biosynthesis is primarily regulated by glucan synthase, however, it is unclear if the glucan synthase catalytic subunit gene (GluS) affects the growth and virulence of B. bassiana. In this study, we constructed the mutant of the B. bassiana glucan synthase catalytic subunit (ΔGluS) by homologous recombination and observed that glucan synthase knockout affects both spore germination and cell area. Further enzyme-based assays along with gene expression analysis of glucan synthase revealed a significant downregulation in the mutant strains compared to the wild type of B. bassiana. Moreover, the virulence of ΔGluS strains against gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) showed no significant difference compared to the wild-type strains when injected, while the spraying gypsy moths with the conidia of ΔGluS was significantly more lethal than spraying the conidia of the wild type. Altogether, our study constructed a new, highly efficient B. bassiana mutant that can be used for pest control and provides a readily transferable method for other insect-entomopathogenic interaction studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyang Bai
- Department of Forest Protection, College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Forest Protection, College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Zhe Xu
- Department of Forest Protection, College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Forest Protection, College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Liwei Liang
- Department of Forest Protection, College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Xiaoqian Ma
- Department of Forest Protection, College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China; Institute of Forest Protection, Heilongjiang Academy of Forestry, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Wei Ma
- College of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China.
| | - Ling Ma
- Department of Forest Protection, College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China; Forest Protection Technology Innovation Center, Harbin, China.
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15
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Nitnavare RB, Bhattacharya J, Singh S, Kour A, Hawkesford MJ, Arora N. Next Generation dsRNA-Based Insect Control: Success So Far and Challenges. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:673576. [PMID: 34733295 PMCID: PMC8558349 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.673576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a method of gene silencing where dsRNA is digested into small interfering RNA (siRNA) in the presence of enzymes. These siRNAs then target homologous mRNA sequences aided by the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). The mechanism of dsRNA uptake has been well studied and established across many living organisms including insects. In insects, RNAi is a novel and potential tool to develop future pest management means targeting various classes of insects including dipterans, coleopterans, hemipterans, lepidopterans, hymenopterans and isopterans. However, the extent of RNAi in individual class varies due to underlying mechanisms. The present review focuses on three major insect classes viz hemipterans, lepidopterans and coleopterans and the rationale behind this lies in the fact that studies pertaining to RNAi has been extensively performed in these groups. Additionally, these classes harbour major agriculturally important pest species which require due attention. Interestingly, all the three classes exhibit varying levels of RNAi efficiencies with the coleopterans exhibiting maximum response, while hemipterans are relatively inefficient. Lepidopterans on the other hand, show minimum response to RNAi. This has been attributed to many facts and few important being endosomal escape, high activity dsRNA-specific nucleases, and highly alkaline gut environment which renders the dsRNA unstable. Various methods have been established to ensure safe delivery of dsRNA into the biological system of the insect. The most common method for dsRNA administration is supplementing the diet of insects via spraying onto leaves and other commonly eaten parts of the plant. This method is environment-friendly and superior to the hazardous effects of pesticides. Another method involves submergence of root systems in dsRNA solutions and subsequent uptake by the phloem. Additionally, more recent techniques are nanoparticle- and Agrobacterium-mediated delivery systems. However, due to the novelty of these biotechnological methods and recalcitrant nature of certain crops, further optimization is required. This review emphasizes on RNAi developments in agriculturally important insect species and the major hurdles for efficient RNAi in these groups. The review also discusses in detail the development of new techniques to enhance RNAi efficiency using liposomes and nanoparticles, transplastomics, microbial-mediated delivery and chemical methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul B. Nitnavare
- Division of Plant and Crop Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Department of Plant Science, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, United Kingdom
| | - Joorie Bhattacharya
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad, India
- Department of Genetics, Osmania University, Hyderabad, India
| | - Satnam Singh
- Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Regional Research Station, Faridkot, India
- Department of Biointeractions and Crop Protection, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, United Kingdom
| | - Amardeep Kour
- Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Regional Research Station, Bathinda, India
| | | | - Naveen Arora
- Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, India
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16
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Ren B, Cao J, He Y, Yang S, Zhang J. Assessment on effects of transplastomic potato plants expressing Colorado potato beetle β-Actin double-stranded RNAs for three non-target pests. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 178:104909. [PMID: 34446185 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2021.104909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference has been proved as an efficient technology for pest control through the silencing of essential genes of targeted insects. We had previously shown that the expression of double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) in plastids of plants offers a great potential for efficiently controlling Colorado potato beetle (CPB, Leptinotarsa decemlineata) (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae). However, whether these transplastomic plants have an impact on other non-target pests was not investigated. In this study, we evaluated the potential effects of transplastomic plants expression dsRNAs target CPB β-Actin (referred to as ACT plants) on three other potato pests: Myzus persicae (Hemiptera, Aphididae), Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae), and Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae). Although no effects on M. persicae or S. litura were observed by feeding ACT plants, we found that feeding H. vigintioctopunctata with ACT plants can result in its growth retardation and suppressing the gene expression of HvACT, which has 91.7% identity to CPB β-Actin and shared 66 potential 21-mer matches. Taking together, these results indicated that ACT plants had cross-resistance to H. vigintioctopunctata, another coleopteran insect with the highly conserved nucleotide sequence of β-Actin gene. It also provided an opportunity to simultaneously control L. decemlineata and H. vigintioctopunctata by RNAi induced by intermediate dsRNAs with optimized sequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bailing Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Jingnan Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Yanqiu He
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Sheng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China.
| | - Jiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China.
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17
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Guan R, Chu D, Han X, Miao X, Li H. Advances in the Development of Microbial Double-Stranded RNA Production Systems for Application of RNA Interference in Agricultural Pest Control. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:753790. [PMID: 34589476 PMCID: PMC8473835 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.753790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a valuable and revolutionary technology that has been widely applied in medicine and agriculture. The application of RNAi in various industries requires large amounts of low-cost double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). Chemical synthesis can only produce short dsRNAs; long dsRNAs need to be synthesized biologically. Several microbial chassis cells, such as Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Bacillus species, have been used for dsRNA synthesis. However, the titer, rate of production, and yield of dsRNA obtained by these microorganism-based strategies is still low. In this review, we summarize advances in microbial dsRNA production, and analyze the merits and faults of different microbial dsRNA production systems. This review provides a guide for dsRNA production system selection. Future development of efficient microbial dsRNA production systems is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruobing Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Dongdong Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xinyi Han
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuexia Miao
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Haichao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
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18
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Joga MR, Mogilicherla K, Smagghe G, Roy A. RNA Interference-Based Forest Protection Products (FPPs) Against Wood-Boring Coleopterans: Hope or Hype? FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:733608. [PMID: 34567044 PMCID: PMC8461336 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.733608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Forest insects are emerging in large extension in response to ongoing climatic changes, penetrating geographic barriers, utilizing novel hosts, and influencing many hectares of conifer forests worldwide. Current management strategies have been unable to keep pace with forest insect population outbreaks, and therefore novel and aggressive management strategies are urgently required to manage forest insects. RNA interference (RNAi), a Noble Prize-winning discovery, is an emerging approach that can be used for forest protection. The RNAi pathway is triggered by dsRNA molecules, which, in turn, silences genes and disrupts protein function, ultimately causing the death of the targeted insect. RNAi is very effective against pest insects; however, its proficiency varies significantly among insect species, tissues, and genes. The coleopteran forest insects are susceptible to RNAi and can be the initial target, but we lack practical means of delivery, particularly in systems with long-lived, endophagous insects such as the Emerald ash borer, Asian longhorn beetles, and bark beetles. The widespread use of RNAi in forest pest management has major challenges, including its efficiency, target gene selection, dsRNA design, lack of reliable dsRNA delivery methods, non-target and off-target effects, and potential resistance development in wood-boring pest populations. This review focuses on recent innovations in RNAi delivery that can be deployed against forest pests, such as cationic liposome-assisted (lipids), nanoparticle-enabled (polymers or peptides), symbiont-mediated (fungi, bacteria, and viruses), and plant-mediated deliveries (trunk injection, root absorption). Our findings guide future risk analysis of dsRNA-based forest protection products (FPPs) and risk assessment frameworks incorporating sequence complementarity-based analysis for off-target predictions. This review also points out barriers to further developing RNAi for forest pest management and suggests future directions of research that will build the future use of RNAi against wood-boring coleopterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallikarjuna Reddy Joga
- Excellent Team for Mitigation, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Kanakachari Mogilicherla
- EVA.4 Unit, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Amit Roy
- Excellent Team for Mitigation, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czechia
- EVA.4 Unit, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czechia
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19
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Wan XS, Shi MR, Xu J, Liu JH, Ye H. Interference Efficiency and Effects of Bacterium-mediated RNAi in the Fall Armyworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2021; 21:6377270. [PMID: 34581410 PMCID: PMC8477382 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/ieab073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
RNAi is an effective tool for gene function analysis and a promising strategy to provide environmentally friendly control approaches for pathogens and pests. Recent studies support the utility of bacterium-mediated RNAi as a cost-effective method for gene function study and a suitable externally applied delivery mechanism for pest control. Here, we developed a bacterium-mediated RNAi system in Spodoptera frugiperda based on four target genes, specifically, Chitinase (Sf-CHI), Chitin synthase B (Sf-CHSB), Sugar transporter SWEET1 (Sf-ST), and Hemolin (Sf-HEM). RNAi conducted by feeding larvae with bacteria expressing dsRNAs of target genes or injecting pupae and adults with bacterially synthesized dsRNA induced silencing of target genes and resulted in significant negative effects on growth and survival of S. frugiperda. However, RNAi efficiency and effects were variable among different target genes and dsRNA delivery methods. Injection of pupae with dsCHI and dsCHSB induced a significant increase in wing malformation in adults, suggesting that precise regulation of chitin digestion and synthesis is crucial during wing formation. Injection of female moths with dsHEM resulted in lower mating, fecundity, and egg hatching, signifying a critical role of Sf-HEM in the process of egg production and/or embryo development. Our collective results demonstrate that bacterium-mediated RNAi presents an alternative technique for gene function study in S. frugiperda and a potentially effective strategy for control of this pest, and that Sf-CHI, Sf-CHSB, Sf-ST, and Sf-HEM encoding genes can be potent targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Shuang Wan
- Yunnan Academy of Biodiversity, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming 650224, China
| | - Min-Rui Shi
- Yunnan Academy of Biodiversity, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming 650224, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Yunnan Academy of Biodiversity, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming 650224, China
- Key Laboratory for Forest Resources Conservation and Utilization in the Southwest Mountains of China, Ministry of Education, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming 650224, China
- Corresponding authors, e-mail: ;
| | - Jian-Hong Liu
- Yunnan Academy of Biodiversity, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming 650224, China
- Corresponding authors, e-mail: ;
| | - Hui Ye
- School of Ecology and Environment, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, China
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20
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Mehlhorn S, Ulrich J, Baden CU, Buer B, Maiwald F, Lueke B, Geibel S, Bucher G, Nauen R. The mustard leaf beetle, Phaedon cochleariae, as a screening model for exogenous RNAi-based control of coleopteran pests. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 176:104870. [PMID: 34119215 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2021.104870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a promising, selective pest control technology based on the silencing of targeted genes mediated by the degradation of mRNA after the ingestion of double-stranded (ds) RNA. However, the identification of the best target genes remains a challenge, because large scale screening is only feasible in lab model systems and it remains unclear, to what degree such data can be transferred to pest species. Here, we report on our efforts to transfer target genes found in a lab model to the mustard leaf beetle, Phaedon cochleariae. The mustard leaf beetle can be reared easily and resource-efficient in large quantities all year round and is an established chrysomelid pest for higher throughput screening approaches in the crop protection industry. Mustard leaf beetle transcriptome sequencing and assembly revealed genes orthologous to those previously described as highly efficient RNAi targets in the model beetle Tribolium castaneum. First, we observed mortality after injection of dsRNA targeting the respective orthologous genes in 2nd instar mustard beetle larvae. Next, we adopted a robust, automated multi-well plate foliar RNAi screening procedure with 2nd instar larvae of the mustard leaf beetle to assess those genes. Indeed, foliar application and oral uptake of dsRNA targeting the same genes resulted in larval mortality as well. The most effective target genes with a strong (lethal) phenotype - at dsRNA doses as low as 300 ng/leaf disc (equal to 9.6 g/ha) - were srp54k, rop, αSNAP, rpn7 and rpt3. Rather limited effects were observed after application of dsRNA targeting cactus, shibire and PP-α, though they had previously been shown to be highly lethal in red flour beetle. Importantly, our experiments demonstrated that the overall efficacy pattern obtained after oral dsRNA application was well correlated with the results obtained after dsRNA injection. RT-qPCR confirmed significant target gene knock-down after normalization by employing three reference genes shown to be stably expressed across life stages. In summary, several RNAi targeted genes elicited a strong lethal phenotype and significant target gene knock-down after feeding, suggesting P. cochleariae as a potential coleopteran screening model for foliarly applied exogenous RNAi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Mehlhorn
- Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach-Institut, GZMB, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Justus von-Liebig-Weg 11, 37077 Göttingen, Germany; Bayer AG, Crop Science Division, R&D, Pest Control, Alfred-Nobel-Str. 50, 40789 Monheim, Germany
| | - Julia Ulrich
- Bayer AG, Crop Science Division, R&D, Pest Control, Alfred-Nobel-Str. 50, 40789 Monheim, Germany
| | - Christian U Baden
- Bayer AG, Crop Science Division, R&D, Pest Control, Alfred-Nobel-Str. 50, 40789 Monheim, Germany
| | - Benjamin Buer
- Bayer AG, Crop Science Division, R&D, Pest Control, Alfred-Nobel-Str. 50, 40789 Monheim, Germany
| | - Frank Maiwald
- Bayer AG, Crop Science Division, R&D, Pest Control, Alfred-Nobel-Str. 50, 40789 Monheim, Germany
| | - Bettina Lueke
- Bayer AG, Crop Science Division, R&D, Pest Control, Alfred-Nobel-Str. 50, 40789 Monheim, Germany
| | - Sven Geibel
- Bayer AG, Crop Science Division, R&D, Pest Control, Alfred-Nobel-Str. 50, 40789 Monheim, Germany
| | - Gregor Bucher
- Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach-Institut, GZMB, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Justus von-Liebig-Weg 11, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ralf Nauen
- Bayer AG, Crop Science Division, R&D, Pest Control, Alfred-Nobel-Str. 50, 40789 Monheim, Germany.
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Effects of Delayed Mating on Mating Performance and Reproductive Fitness of the Willow Leaf Beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) under Laboratory Conditions. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12060481. [PMID: 34064084 PMCID: PMC8224285 DOI: 10.3390/insects12060481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Mating disruption is one of the most effective methods for pest management. The willow leaf beetle Plagiodera versicolora Laicharting is a serious pest of poplar and willow. We studied the effects of delayed mating on the mating performance and reproductive fitness of P. versicolora, as part of an effort to control P. versicolora using mating disruption. Delayed mating of females and males impacts their mating performance, but has only a limited impact on the females’ reproductive fitness. These results indicate that delayed mating is unlikely to contribute to the success of mating disruption, when applied to control P. versicolora. Abstract Age at mating is one of the most important factors that affect mating selection, sexual performance, and fecundity. We studied the effects of mating age on the mating performance and reproductive fitness of Plagiodera versicolora Laicharting, a serious pest of poplar and willow, by measuring the time from pairing to successful mating, mating duration, fecundity, hatching probability, and female lifespan. Delayed mating of females and males significantly prolonged the time from pairing to successful mating and the mating duration, but had no effect on the duration of the egg-laying period. Delayed mating of females did not significantly affect fecundity or egg hatching, but significantly prolonged the female lifespan. Although delayed mating of males had a significant negative impact on egg hatching, it had no effect on the lifespan or fecundity of females. These results indicate that delayed mating affects the mating performance of P. versicolora, although it has a limited effect on reproductive fitness. This suggests that delayed mating is unlikely to contribute to the success of mating disruption, when applied to control P. versicolora.
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Xu L, Xu S, Sun L, Zhang Y, Luo J, Bock R, Zhang J. Synergistic action of the gut microbiota in environmental RNA interference in a leaf beetle. MICROBIOME 2021; 9:98. [PMID: 33947455 PMCID: PMC8097945 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-021-01066-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND RNA interference (RNAi) has emerged as an efficient tool to control insect pests. When insects ingest double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) targeted against essential genes, strong gene silencing and mortality can be induced. To exert their function, dsRNA molecules must pass through the insect's gut and enter epithelial cells and/or the hemolymph. Gut bacteria are known to play multifarious roles in food digestion and nutrition, and confer protection against pathogens and parasites. Whether there is a cross talk between gut bacteria and ingested dsRNAs and whether the microbiome affects RNAi efficiency are unknown. RESULTS Here, using a leaf beetle gut microbiota system, we investigated whether gut bacteria interact with dsRNA molecules and how the gut microbiota affects RNAi responses in insects. We first showed that the leaf beetle Plagiodera versicolora (Coleoptera) is highly susceptible to RNAi. We then demonstrated that ingestion of dsRNAs by non-axenic P. versicolora larvae results in (i) significantly accelerated mortality compared with axenic larvae, and (ii) overgrowth and dysbiosis of the gut microbiota. The latter may be caused by bacterial utilization of dsRNA degradation products. Furthermore, we found that Pseudomonas putida, a gut bacterium of P. versicolora, acts as major accelerator of the death of P. versicolora larvae by transitioning from commensal to pathogenic lifestyle. CONCLUSIONS The present study illuminates the complex interplay between lethal dsRNA, the insect host, and its gut microbiota. The ingestion of dsRNA by the leaf beetle caused a dysbiosis of gut bacterial community, and the dsRNA degradation products by host insect preferentially promoted the growth of an entomopathogenic bacterium, which accelerated dsRNA lethality to the insect. Our findings reveal a synergistic role of the gut microbiota in dsRNA-induced mortality of pest insects, and provide new insights in the mechanisms of RNAi-based pest control. Video abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letian Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Shijing Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Liuwei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Yiqiu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Jing Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Ralph Bock
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
- Max-Planck-Institut für Molekulare Pflanzenphysiologie, Am Mühlenberg 1, D-14476, Potsdam-Golm, Germany
| | - Jiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China.
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Christiaens O, Niu J, Nji Tizi Taning C. RNAi in Insects: A Revolution in Fundamental Research and Pest Control Applications. INSECTS 2020; 11:E415. [PMID: 32635402 PMCID: PMC7411770 DOI: 10.3390/insects11070415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
In this editorial for the Special Issue on 'RNAi in insect pest control', three important applications of RNA interference (RNAi) in insects are briefly discussed and linked to the different studies published in this Special Issue. The discovery of the RNAi mechanism revolutionized entomological research, as it presented researchers with a tool to knock down genes, which is easily applicable in a wide range of insect species. Furthermore, RNAi also provides crop protection with a novel and promising pest control mode-of-action. The sequence-dependent nature allows RNAi-based control strategies to be highly species selective and the active molecule, a natural biological molecule known as double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), has a short environmental persistence. However, more research is needed to investigate different cellular and physiological barriers, such as cellular uptake and dsRNA degradation in the digestive system in insects, in order to provide efficient control methods against a wide range of insect pest species. Finally, the RNAi pathway is an important part of the innate antiviral immune defence of insects, and could even lead to applications targeting viruses in beneficial insects such as honeybees in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jinzhi Niu
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China;
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