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Wang JD, Chen YH, Zhang YX, Lin JW, Gao SJ, Tang BZ, Hou YM. Establishment of RNAi-Mediated Pest Control Method for Red Imported Fire Ant, Solenopsis invicta. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:10936-10943. [PMID: 38691835 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c00654] [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: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
RNAi plays a crucial role in insect gene function research and pest control field. Nonetheless, the variable efficiency of RNAi across diverse insects and off-target effects also limited its further application. In this study, we cloned six essential housekeeping genes from Solenopsis invicta and conducted RNAi experiments by orally administering dsRNA. Then, we found that mixing with liposomes significantly enhanced the RNAi efficiency by targeting for SiV-ATPaseE. Additionally, we observed a certain lethal effect of this dsRNA on queens by our established RNAi system. Furthermore, no strict sequence-related off-target effects were detected. Finally, the RNAi effect of large-scale bacteria expressing dsRNA was successfully confirmed for controlling S. invicta. In summary, this study established an RNAi system for S. invicta and provided a research template for the future development of nucleic acid drugs based on RNAi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-da Wang
- National Engineering Research Center of Sugarcane, State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agricultural and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, P. R. China
| | - Yao-Hui Chen
- National Engineering Research Center of Sugarcane, State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agricultural and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, P. R. China
| | - Ya-Xin Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center of Sugarcane, State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agricultural and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, P. R. China
| | - Jin-Wen Lin
- National Engineering Research Center of Sugarcane, State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agricultural and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, P. R. China
| | - San-Ji Gao
- National Engineering Research Center of Sugarcane, State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agricultural and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, P. R. China
| | - Bao-Zhen Tang
- National Engineering Research Center of Sugarcane, State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agricultural and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, P. R. China
| | - You-Ming Hou
- National Engineering Research Center of Sugarcane, State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agricultural and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, P. R. China
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Rajesh V, Jangra S, Ghosh A. Effect of silencing Thrips palmi Btk29A and COL3A1 on fitness and virus acquisition. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1254246. [PMID: 37928674 PMCID: PMC10620694 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1254246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Thrips palmi (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) is a major agricultural pest infesting over 200 plant species. Along with direct injury caused by feeding, T. palmi spreads several orthotospoviruses. Groundnut bud necrosis orthotospovirus (GBNV, family Tospoviridae, genus Orthotospovirus) is the predominant orthotospovirus in Asia, vectored by T. palmi. It is responsible for almost 89 million USD losses in Asia annually. Several transcripts of T. palmi related to innate immune response, receptor binding, cell signaling, cellular trafficking, viral replication, and apoptosis are responsive to the infection of orthotospoviruses in thrips. Expression of T. palmi tyrosine kinase Btk29A isoform X1 (Btk29A) and collagen alpha-1(III) chain-like (COL3A1) are significantly regulated post-GBNV and capsicum chlorosis orthotospovirus infection. In the present study, T. palmi Btk29A and COL3A1 were silenced and the effect on virus titer and fitness was assessed. The expression of Btk29A and COL3A1 was significantly reduced by 3.62 and 3.15-fold, respectively, 24 h post-dsRNA exposure. Oral administration of Btk29A and COL3A1 dsRNAs induced 60 and 50.9% mortality in T. palmi. The GBNV concentration in T. palmi significantly dropped post-silencing Btk29A. In contrast, the silencing of COL3A1 led to an increase in GBNV concentration in T. palmi compared to the untreated control. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the effect of silencing Btk29A and COL3A1 on the fitness and GBNV titer in T. palmi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vavilapalli Rajesh
- Insect Vector Laboratory, Advanced Centre for Plant Virology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
- Division of Entomology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | - Sumit Jangra
- Insect Vector Laboratory, Advanced Centre for Plant Virology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | - Amalendu Ghosh
- Insect Vector Laboratory, Advanced Centre for Plant Virology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
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Yuan L, Liang Q, Li Y, Dai Y, Shen J, Hu L, Xiao H, Zhang Z. Nicotine-mediated dopamine regulates short neuropeptide F to inhibit brown planthopper feeding behavior in tobacco-rice rotation cropping. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2023; 79:2959-2968. [PMID: 36966467 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7474] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The tobacco-rice rotation cropping (TRRC) is an ecologically friendly system that can both alleviate soil nicotine pollution and decrease the brown planthopper (BPH, Nilaparvata lugens Stål) fitness on rice. However, few studies on this green and effective rotational cropping system have been reported. In particular, the underlying mechanisms of TRRC on the significant reduction of field pest population at the molecular level is still unknown. RESULTS Field investigation showed that BPH population decreased significantly in TRRC than in rice-rice successive cropping (RRSC) field. In addition, the short neuropeptide F (NlsNPF) and its receptor NlA7 of BPH had half-times lower levels in the TRRC field. Behavioral bioassay indicated a 1.93-fold increase in the number of salivary flanges of the dsNlsNPF group, while BPH fitness parameters, such as honeydew, weight gain, and mortality decreased significantly. Dopamine (DA) content in BPH decreased by ~11.1% under the influence of nicotine, and its presence increased the expression levels of NlsNPF and NlA7. Exogenous DA application eliminated the inhibitory effects of nicotine on BPH feeding and restored the fitness levels of its parameters. Independent application of either a mixture of dsNlsNPF with a nanocarrier or nicotine to the normal rice field revealed that the latter could produce better effects in combination with dsRNA. CONCLUSION These findings confirmed that DA regulated NlsNPF to inhibit the BPH feeding behavior in TRRC. The results not only provided novel findings on the mechanism of pest-host interactions, but also presented new method for integrated pest management. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longyu Yuan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of High Technology for Plant Protection/Plant Protection Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qichang Liang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of High Technology for Plant Protection/Plant Protection Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Green Prevention and Control on Fruits and Vegetables in South China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanfang Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of High Technology for Plant Protection/Plant Protection Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yangsuo Dai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of High Technology for Plant Protection/Plant Protection Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianmei Shen
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Green Prevention and Control on Fruits and Vegetables in South China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liming Hu
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Green Prevention and Control on Fruits and Vegetables in South China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hanxiang Xiao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of High Technology for Plant Protection/Plant Protection Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenfei Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of High Technology for Plant Protection/Plant Protection Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
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Yadav A, Yadav K, Ahmad R, Abd-Elsalam KA. Emerging Frontiers in Nanotechnology for Precision Agriculture: Advancements, Hurdles and Prospects. AGROCHEMICALS 2023; 2:220-256. [DOI: 10.3390/agrochemicals2020016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
This review article provides an extensive overview of the emerging frontiers of nanotechnology in precision agriculture, highlighting recent advancements, hurdles, and prospects. The benefits of nanotechnology in this field include the development of advanced nanomaterials for enhanced seed germination and micronutrient supply, along with the alleviation of biotic and abiotic stress. Further, nanotechnology-based fertilizers and pesticides can be delivered in lower dosages, which reduces environmental impacts and human health hazards. Another significant advantage lies in introducing cutting-edge nanodiagnostic systems and nanobiosensors that monitor soil quality parameters, plant diseases, and stress, all of which are critical for precision agriculture. Additionally, this technology has demonstrated potential in reducing agro-waste, synthesizing high-value products, and using methods and devices for tagging, monitoring, and tracking agroproducts. Alongside these developments, cloud computing and smartphone-based biosensors have emerged as crucial data collection and analysis tools. Finally, this review delves into the economic, legal, social, and risk implications of nanotechnology in agriculture, which must be thoroughly examined for the technology’s widespread adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anurag Yadav
- Department of Microbiology, College of Basic Science and Humanities, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, District Banaskantha, Gujarat 385506, India
| | - Kusum Yadav
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226007, India
| | - Rumana Ahmad
- Department of Biochemistry, Era University, Lucknow 226003, India
| | - Kamel A. Abd-Elsalam
- Plant Pathology Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Giza 12619, Egypt
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Wang ZL, Wang YD, Cheng YQ, Ye ZH, Liu GF, Yu XP. Characterization and transcriptomic analysis of a native fungal pathogen against the rice pest Nilaparvata lugens. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1162113. [PMID: 37275152 PMCID: PMC10232905 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1162113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens, is one of the most destructive pests of rice. Given the threats posed by insecticide resistance to its control, eco-friendly strategies based on microbial pathogens emerged as a promising biocontrol alternative. In the present study, we isolated a native fungal pathogen against BPH from infected BPH cadavers and preliminarily identified as a strain of Aspergillus fumigatus based on morphological and molecular methods. Laboratory bioassay revealed that this fungal strain was highly virulent to BPH both at nymphal and adult stages, with the median lethal times (LT50) of 7.5 and 5.8 days under high conidial concentration of 1 × 109 conidia mL-1. A genome-wide view of gene expressions in BPH against fungal attack was analyzed by transcriptomic sequencing and consequently a large number of differentially expressed genes that mainly involved in host immune defense and cell detoxification were found. RNAi-mediated knockdown of an upregulated gene encoding a serine protease (NlSPN) could cause a significant decrease in BPH survival. Combination of dsRNA injection and fungal infection showed an additive effect on BPH mortality, which provided clues to develop new pest management strategies against BPH.
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Müller R, Bálint M, Hardes K, Hollert H, Klimpel S, Knorr E, Kochmann J, Lee KZ, Mehring M, Pauls SU, Smets G, Steinbrink A, Vilcinskas A. RNA interference to combat the Asian tiger mosquito in Europe: A pathway from design of an innovative vector control tool to its application. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 66:108167. [PMID: 37164239 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The Asian tiger mosquito Aedes albopictus is currently spreading across Europe, facilitated by climate change and global transportation. It is a vector of arboviruses causing human diseases such as chikungunya, dengue hemorrhagic fever and Zika fever. For the majority of these diseases, no vaccines or therapeutics are available. Options for the control of Ae. albopictus are limited by European regulations introduced to protect biodiversity by restricting or phasing out the use of pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs) or products of genome editing. Alternative solutions are thus urgently needed to avoid a future scenario in which Europe faces a choice between prioritizing human health or biodiversity when it comes to Aedes-vectored pathogens. To ensure regulatory compliance and public acceptance, these solutions should preferably not be based on chemicals or GMOs and must be cost-efficient and specific. The present review aims to synthesize available evidence on RNAi-based mosquito vector control and its potential for application in the European Union. The recent literature has identified some potential target sites in Ae. albopictus and formulations for delivery. However, we found little information concerning non-target effects on the environment or human health, on social aspects, regulatory frameworks, or on management perspectives. We propose optimal designs for RNAi-based vector control tools against Ae. albopictus (target product profiles), discuss their efficacy and reflect on potential risks to environmental health and the importance of societal aspects. The roadmap from design to application will provide readers with a comprehensive perspective on the application of emerging RNAi-based vector control tools for the suppression of Ae. albopictus populations with special focus on Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Müller
- Unit Entomology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium; Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 9, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Miklós Bálint
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (SBiK-F), Georg-Voigt-Str. 14-16, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig University, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Kornelia Hardes
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Branch of Bioresources, Ohlebergsweg 12, 35392 Giessen, Germany; BMBF Junior Research Group in Infection Research "ASCRIBE", Germany
| | - Henner Hollert
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (SBiK-F), Georg-Voigt-Str. 14-16, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Department Media-related Toxicity, Max-von-Laue-Str. 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Evolutionary Ecology and Environmental Toxicology, Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Str. 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sven Klimpel
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (SBiK-F), Georg-Voigt-Str. 14-16, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Integrative Parasitology and Zoophysiology, Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Str. 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Eileen Knorr
- Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Branch of Bioresources, Ohlebergsweg 12, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Judith Kochmann
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (SBiK-F), Georg-Voigt-Str. 14-16, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Kwang-Zin Lee
- Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Branch of Bioresources, Ohlebergsweg 12, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Marion Mehring
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (SBiK-F), Georg-Voigt-Str. 14-16, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; ISOE - Institute for Social-Ecological Research, Hamburger Allee 45, 60486 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Steffen U Pauls
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig University, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Giessen, Germany; Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum Frankfurt, Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Greet Smets
- Perseus BV, Kortrijksesteenweg 127 B1, B-9830 Sint-Martens-Latem, Belgium
| | - Antje Steinbrink
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig University, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Vilcinskas
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig University, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Giessen, Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Branch of Bioresources, Ohlebergsweg 12, 35392 Giessen, Germany.
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Yue Y, Ma C, Zhang Y, Chen HS, Guo JY, Liu TH, Zhou ZS. Characterization and Functional Analysis of OcomOBP7 in Ophraella communa Lesage. INSECTS 2023; 14:190. [PMID: 36835759 PMCID: PMC9967674 DOI: 10.3390/insects14020190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The olfactory system plays a key role in various insect behaviors, and odorant-binding proteins participate in the first step of the olfactory process. Ophraella communa Lesage is an oligophagous phytophagous insect that is a specific biological control agent for Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. The leaf beetle must identify and locate A. artemisiifolia through olfaction; however, its odorant-binding protein (OBP) function has not yet been reported. In this study, OcomOBP7 was cloned, and its tissue expression profile and binding ability were analyzed using RT-qPCR and fluorescence binding assays, respectively. Sequence analysis demonstrated that OcomOBP7 belongs to the classical OBP family. The RT-qPCR results showed that OcomOBP7 was specifically expressed in the antennae, indicating that OcomOBP7 may be involved in chemical communication. The fluorescence binding assay showed that OcomOBP7 has an extensive binding ability to alkenes. The electroantennography experiments showed that O. communa antennal response to α-pinene and ocimene decreased significantly after interference because the two odors specifically bound to OcomOBP7. In summary, α-pinene and ocimene are odorant ligands corresponding to OcomOBP7, indicating that OcomOBP7 is involved in the chemical recognition of A. artemisiifolia. Our study lays a theoretical foundation for research into O. communa attractants, which is helpful for the better biological control of A. artemisiifolia by O. communa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yue
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding 071001, China
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
- National Nanfan Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Sanya 572019, China
| | - Chao Ma
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
- National Nanfan Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Sanya 572019, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
- National Nanfan Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Sanya 572019, China
| | - Hong-Song Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
- National Nanfan Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Sanya 572019, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Biology of Crop Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning 530007, China
| | - Jian-Ying Guo
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
- National Nanfan Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Sanya 572019, China
| | - Ting-Hui Liu
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding 071001, China
| | - Zhong-Shi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
- National Nanfan Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Sanya 572019, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Biology of Crop Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning 530007, China
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Adeyinka OS, Nasir IA, Tabassum B. Host-induced silencing of the CpCHI gene resulted in developmental abnormalities and mortality in maize stem borer (Chilo partellus). PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280963. [PMID: 36745624 PMCID: PMC9901779 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
RNAi-based insecticides for crop protection have witnessed rapid improvement over the years. However, their potential to efficiently control maize stem borer (Chilo partellus) pests has remained underexplored. In this study, double-stranded C. partellus chitinase (dsCHI) toxicity was investigated in C. partellus larvae. Furthermore, we developed transgenic maize lines expressing dsRNA targeted against C. partellus chitinase transcripts and performed detached leaf insect feeding bioassays. Our results revealed that C. partellus chitinase transcript expression was significantly downregulated by 57% and 82% in the larvae. Larvae exhibited various phenotypic distortion levels across developmental stages, and 53% mortality occurred in transgenic fed larvae compared to those fed on nontransgenic leaves. In conclusion, we have identified the C. partellus chitinase gene as a potential target for RNAi-mediated control and demonstrated that oral delivery via bacteria and plant-mediated delivery are viable means of achieving C. partellus RNAi-mediated control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olawale Samuel Adeyinka
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
- Department of Chemistry, Physics and Atmospheric Sciences Jackson state University, Jackson, MS, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Idrees Ahmad Nasir
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Bushra Tabassum
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
- School of Biological Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
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Wei M, Chen A, Zhang J, Ren Y. Novel Oxygen-Dependent Degradable Immunotoxin Regulated by the Ubiquitin-Proteasome System Reduces Nonspecific Cytotoxicity. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:90-100. [PMID: 36305716 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.2c00503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The use of bacterial toxins as antitumor agents has received considerable attention. Immunotoxins based on antigen recognition of single-chain antibodies have been widely explored for cancer therapy. Despite their impressive killing effect on tumor cells, immunotoxins still display unspecific toxicity with undesired side effects. High levels of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) are well-known indicators of hypoxia in cancer cells. In this study, different linkers were employed to fuse the immunotoxin DAB389-4D5 scFv (DS) with the oxygen-dependent degradation domain (ODDD) of HIF-1α, a domain selectively facilitating the accumulation of HIF-1α under hypoxia, to construct the oxygen-dependent degradable immunotoxin DS-ODDD (DSO). The engineered fusion protein DSO-2 containing a linker (G4S)3 possesses the best killing effect on cancer cells under hypoxia and displayed considerably reduced nonspecific toxicity to normal cells under normoxic conditions. Flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and immunoblot analyses demonstrated that DSO-2 was degraded via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway regulated by the oxygen-sensitive mechanism. Western blot analysis indicated that the degradation of DSO-2 significantly decreased the activation of apoptosis-related molecules in normal cells. The engineered immunotoxin with oxygen-sensing properties developed herein is a potential therapeutic agent for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, New World Institute of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Anxiang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, New World Institute of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, New World Institute of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Yuhong Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, New World Institute of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai 200237, China
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Finetti L, Benetti L, Leyria J, Civolani S, Bernacchia G. Topical delivery of dsRNA in two hemipteran species: Evaluation of RNAi specificity and non-target effects. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 189:105295. [PMID: 36549821 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2022.105295] [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: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Double-stranded (ds) RNA-based technologies could provide novel and potential tool for pest management with efficiency and specificity of action. However, before applying this technique in the field, it is necessary to identify effective delivery methods and evaluate the non-target effects that may occur. In this article, we evaluated the effectiveness of dsRNA by topical delivery on a species of great agricultural interest, Halyomorpha halys. The specificity of action of the dsRNA was also investigated in Rhodnius prolixus, an insect phylogenetically close to H. halys. Of the three investigated genes (putative ATPase N2B, ATPase, serine/threonine-protein phosphatase PP1-β catalytic subunit, PP1, and IAP repeat-containing protein 7-B-like, IAP), IAP and ATPase were able to induce higher mortality in H. halys nymphs compared to the control, with specific concentrations for each gene targeted. However, when the same RNAs were topically delivered to both R. prolixus 2nd and 3rd instar nymphs, no gene silencing and mortality were observed. For this reason, to assess dsRNA application-mediated non-target effects, we injected both H. halys and R. prolixus specific dsRNA in R. prolixus 5th instar nymphs. When the dsRNA targeting H. halys IAP was microinjected into R. prolixus 5th instar nymphs, no mortality was observed, suggesting a strong RNAi specificity. Together, these data suggest that the topical delivery could be suitable for the dsRNA to control H. halys population. Furthermore, its specificity of action would allow treatments towards single harmful species with limited non-target effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Finetti
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada.
| | - Lorenzo Benetti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Jimena Leyria
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Stefano Civolani
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Bernacchia
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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11
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Murtaza S, Tabassum B, Tariq M, Riaz S, Yousaf I, Jabbar B, Khan A, Samuel AO, Zameer M, Nasir IA. Silencing a Myzus persicae Macrophage Inhibitory Factor by Plant-Mediated RNAi Induces Enhanced Aphid Mortality Coupled with Boosted RNAi Efficacy in Transgenic Potato Lines. Mol Biotechnol 2022; 64:1152-1163. [PMID: 35460447 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-022-00498-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Myzus persicae causes considerable losses to crops as a major pest. The damage is direct by feeding and also partly indirect because it vectors plant viruses. The currently available control strategies rely on unsafe and nonecofriendly chemical pesticide applications. Plant-mediated RNA interference (RNAi) has emerged as a powerful tool in crop protection from insect pests. Aphid salivary proteins are essential for phloem feeding and act as mediators of the complex interactions between aphids and their host plants. We documented the efficacy of dsRNA directed against macrophage inhibitory factor (MIF1) of M. persicae to induce aphid mortality and gene silencing through the generation of transgenic potato lines. A binary construct harbouring dsMIF1 driven by the CaMV35S promoter was introduced into the local potato variety 'AGB-white' by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. PCR and Southern blotting validated the transgene presence and genomic integration in seven transgenic potato lines. An in vitro detached leaf assay revealed a significantly high aphid mortality of 65% in the transgenic potato line sDW-2, while the aphid mortality was 77% in the sDW-2 transgenic line during the in planta bioassay in comparison with 19% aphid mortality in the control nontransgenic potato line. A significantly high silencing effect was observed in the mRNA expression of MIF1, which was reduced to 21% in aphids fed on the transgenic potato line sDW-2. However, variable knockdown effects were found among six other transgenic potato lines, ranging from 30 to 62%. The study concluded that plant-mediated silencing of aphid RNA induces significant RNAi in M. persicae, along with enhanced aphid mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahid Murtaza
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Bushra Tabassum
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan. .,School of Biological Sciences, University of the Punjab Quaid-I-Azam Campus, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Tariq
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Saman Riaz
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Iqra Yousaf
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Basit Jabbar
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Anwar Khan
- Department of Microbiology, BUITEMS, Quetta, Pakistan
| | | | - Mariam Zameer
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Idrees Ahmad Nasir
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
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12
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RNA Interference-Based Pesticides and Antiviral Agents: Microbial Overproduction Systems for Double-Stranded RNA for Applications in Agriculture and Aquaculture. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12062954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi)-based pesticides are pest control agents that use RNAi mechanisms as the basis of their action. They are regarded as environmentally friendly and are a promising alternative to conventional chemical pesticides. The effective substance in RNAi-based pesticides is double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) designed to match the nucleotide sequence of a target essential gene of the pest of concern. When taken up by the pest, this exerts an RNAi effect and inhibits some vital biochemical/biological process in the pest. dsRNA products are also expected to be applied for the control of viral diseases in aquaculture by RNAi, especially in shrimp farming. A critical issue in the practical application of RNAi agents is that production of the dsRNA must be low-cost. Here, we review recent methods for microbial production of dsRNAs using representative microorganisms (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas syringae, Corynebacterium glutamicum, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, and others) as host strains. The characteristics of each dsRNA production system are discussed.
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13
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Hafeez M, Li X, Chen L, Ullah F, Huang J, Zhang Z, Zhang J, Siddiqui JA, Zhou SX, Ren XY, Imran M, Assiri MA, Lou Y, Lu Y. Molecular characterization and functional analysis of cytochrome P450-mediated detoxification CYP302A1 gene involved in host plant adaptation in Spodoptera frugieprda. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:1079442. [PMID: 36762173 PMCID: PMC9906809 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.1079442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
The fall armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda is a destructive and polyphagous pest of many essential food crops including maize and rice. The FAW is hard to manage, control, or eradicate, due to its polyphagous nature and voracity of feeding. Here, we report the characterization and functional analysis of the detoxification gene CYP302A1 and how S. frugieprda larvae use a detoxification mechanism to adapt host plants. Results demonstrated that CYP302A1 expression levels were much higher in midgut tissue and the older S. frugiperda larvae. Our current studies revealed the enhanced P450 activity in the midguts of S. frugiperda larvae after exposure to rice plants as compared to corn plants and an artificial diet. Furthermore, higher mortality was observed in PBO treated larvae followed by the exposure of rice plants as compared to the corn plant. The dsRNA-fed larvae showed downregulation of CYP302A1 gene in the midgut. At the same time, higher mortality, reduced larval weight and shorter developmental time was observed in the dsRNA-fed larvae followed by the exposure of rice plant as compared to the corn plant and DEPC-water treated plants as a control. These results concluded that the inducible P450 enzyme system and related genes could provide herbivores with an ecological opportunity to adapt to diverse host plants by utilizing secondary compounds present in their host plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Hafeez
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology and Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Plant Protection and Microbiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaowei Li
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Plant Protection and Microbiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Limin Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Plant Protection and Microbiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- Integrated Plant Protection Center, Lishui Academy of Agricultural and Forestry Sciences, Lishui, China
| | - Farman Ullah
- Department of Plant Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology and Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhijun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Plant Protection and Microbiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Plant Protection and Microbiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junaid Ali Siddiqui
- College of Agriculture, College of Tobacco Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Shu-xing Zhou
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Plant Protection and Microbiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-yun Ren
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Plant Protection and Microbiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed A. Assiri
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yonggen Lou
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology and Ministry of Agriculture Key Lab of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yonggen Lou, ; Yaobin Lu,
| | - Yaobin Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Plant Protection and Microbiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yonggen Lou, ; Yaobin Lu,
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14
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Ramkumar G, Asokan R, Prasannakumar NR, Kariyanna B, Karthi S, Alwahibi MS, Elshikh MS, Abdel-Megeed A, Ghaith A, Senthil-Nathan S, Kalaivani K, Hunter WB, Krutmuang P. RNA Interference Suppression of v-ATPase B and Juvenile Hormone Binding Protein Genes Through Topically Applied dsRNA on Tomato Leaves: Developing Biopesticides to Control the South American Pinworm, Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae). Front Physiol 2021; 12:742871. [PMID: 34867448 PMCID: PMC8637209 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.742871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The South American pinworm Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Family: Gelechiidae) is one of the most devastating lepidopteran pests in the developing countries of South America, Africa, and Asia. This pest is classified as the most serious threat for tomato production worldwide. In the present study, we analyzed RNAi-mediated control through exogenously applied dsRNA delivery on tomato. The dsRNA treatments were made to target the juvenile hormone binding protein and the v-ATPase B. Both mRNA targets were cloned, validated by sequencing, and used to produce each dsRNA. After treatments the relative transcript expression was analyzed using qRTPCR to assess to efficacy of RNAi. A leaf-dip assay was used to provide late 2nd instar larvae three feeding access periods: 24, 48, and 72 h, to evaluate the effect of gene silencing of each target. Larvae were fed tomato leaves coated with five different RNAi concentrations (10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 micrograms/centimeter-squared), that suppressed two genes (juvenile hormone protein, JHBP, and vacuolar-type adenosine triphosphatase enzyme, v-ATPase). Treatments with dsRNA showed a significant increase in mortality at 24, 48, and 72 h after ingestion (P < 0.01, α = 0.05), along with reduced leaf damage, and increased feeding deterrence. The results suggest that these two RNAi products may provide a suitable treatment for control of this and other lepidopteran pests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Govindaraju Ramkumar
- Division of Biotechnology, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru, India
| | - Ramasamy Asokan
- Division of Biotechnology, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru, India
| | - N R Prasannakumar
- Division of Entomology and Nematology, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru, India
| | - B Kariyanna
- Division of Biotechnology, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru, India
| | - Sengodan Karthi
- Division of Biopesticides and Environmental Toxicology, Sri Paramakalyani Center for Excellence in Environmental Sciences, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, India
| | - Mona S Alwahibi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Soliman Elshikh
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Abdel-Megeed
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture Saba Basha, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Aml Ghaith
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Derna University, Derna, Libya
| | - Sengottayan Senthil-Nathan
- Division of Biopesticides and Environmental Toxicology, Sri Paramakalyani Center for Excellence in Environmental Sciences, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, India
| | - Kandaswamy Kalaivani
- Post Graduate and Research Center, Department of Zoology, Sri Parasakthi College for Women, Tirunelveli, India
| | - Wayne Brian Hunter
- U.S. Horticultural Research Laboratory, United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Fort Pierce, FL, United States
| | - Patcharin Krutmuang
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Innovative Agriculture Research Center, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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15
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Khalil SMS, Munawar K, Alahmed AM, Mohammed AMA. RNAi-Mediated Screening of Selected Target Genes Against Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae). JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:2177-2185. [PMID: 34197598 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjab114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Culex quinquefasciatus, a member of the Culex pipiens complex, is widespread in Saudi Arabia and other parts of the world. It is a vector for lymphatic filariasis, Rift Valley fever, and West Nile virus. Studies have shown the deleterious effect of RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated knockdown of various lethal genes in model and agricultural pest insects. RNAi was proposed as a tool for mosquito control with a focus on Aedes aegypti and Anopheles gambiae. In this study, we examined the effect of RNAi of selected target genes on both larval mortality and adult emergence of Cx. quinquefasciatus through two delivery methods: soaking and nanoparticles. Ten candidate genes were selected for RNAi based on their known lethal effect in other insects. Disruption of three genes, chitin synthase-1, inhibitor of apoptosis 1, and vacuolar adenosine triphosphatase, resulted in the highest mortality among the selected genes using the two treatment methods. Silencing the other seven genes resulted in a medium to low mortality in both assays. These three genes are also active against a wide range of insects and could be used for RNAi-based mosquito control in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayed M S Khalil
- Plant Protection Department, College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Agricultural Genetic Engineering Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, 9 Gamaa Street, Giza, Egypt
| | - Kashif Munawar
- Plant Protection Department, College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Azzam M Alahmed
- Plant Protection Department, College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed M A Mohammed
- Agricultural Genetic Engineering Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, 9 Gamaa Street, Giza, Egypt
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16
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Hunter WB, Wintermantel WM. Optimizing Efficient RNAi-Mediated Control of Hemipteran Pests (Psyllids, Leafhoppers, Whitefly): Modified Pyrimidines in dsRNA Triggers. PLANTS 2021; 10:plants10091782. [PMID: 34579315 PMCID: PMC8472347 DOI: 10.3390/plants10091782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The advantages from exogenously applied RNAi biopesticides have yet to be realized in through commercialization due to inconsistent activity of the dsRNA trigger, and the activity level of RNAi suppression. This has prompted research on improving delivery methods for applying exogenous dsRNA into plants and insects for the management of pests and pathogens. Another aspect to improve RNAi activity is the incorporation of modified 2′-F pyrimidine nucleotides into the dsRNA trigger. Modified dsRNA incorporating 32–55% of the 2′-F- nucleotides produced improved RNAi activity that increased insect mortality by 12–35% greater than non-modified dsRNA triggers of the same sequence. These results were repeatable across multiple Hemiptera: the Asian citrus psyllid (Diaphorina citri, Liviidae); whitefly (Bemisia tabaci, Aleyroididae); and the glassy-winged sharpshooter (Homalodisca vitripennis, Cicadellidae). Studies using siRNA with modified 2′-F- pyrimidines in mammalian cells show they improved resistance to degradation from nucleases, plus result in greater RNAi activity, due to increase concentrations and improved binding affinity to the mRNA target. Successful RNAi biopesticides of the future will be able to increase RNAi repeatability in the field, by incorporating modifications of the dsRNA, such as 2′-F- pyrimidines, that will improve delivery after applied to fruit trees or crop plants, with increased activity after ingestion by insects. Costs of RNA modification have decreased significantly over the past few years such that biopesticides can now compete on pricing with commercial chemical products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne Brian Hunter
- U.S. Horticultural Research Laboratory, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agriculture Research Service, Subtropical Insects Res., Fort Pierce, FL 34945, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - William M. Wintermantel
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agriculture Research Service, Crop Improvement and Protection Research, Salinas, CA 93905, USA;
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