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Xie M, Wang Q, Zhou N, Yu S, Zhang G, Yang S, Zhang J. Engineering a novel entomopathogenic strain Pseudomonas chlororaphis for efficient production of double-stranded RNAs and pest control. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2025; 81:3263-3272. [PMID: 39921313 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8699] [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: 12/10/2024] [Revised: 01/20/2025] [Accepted: 01/23/2025] [Indexed: 02/10/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND RNA interference (RNAi)-based pesticides are emerging as the next generation of pest control solutions. We have previously identified Pseudomonas chlororaphis strain R3-3, which exhibits toxicity towards Plagiodera versicolora. RESULTS We engineered a mutant strain derived from R3-3, named P. chlororaphis BM, through knocking out the RNase III gene and incorporating a T7 RNA polymerase expression system to boost dsRNA production. We revealed that P. chlororaphis BM produced comparable amounts of dsRNA to the strain E. coli HT115 (DE3) while maintaining its insecticidal activity. Importantly, insect feeding bioassays demonstrated that P. chlororaphis BM expressing dsRNA targeted β-Actin (encoding β-actin protein) of P. versicolora and Srp54K (encoding signal recognition particle protein 54 k) of Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata exhibited enhanced insecticidal efficacy compared to E. coli HT115 (DE3). CONCLUSIONS The development of P. chlororaphis BM, a novel dsRNA-expressing bacterium, holds promise for pest management due to its robust dsRNA production and sustained insecticidal activity. This research paves the way for leveraging biocontrol bacteria in RNAi-based pest management strategies. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qinghai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Niexin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Saisai Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Guiming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Sheng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 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, China
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Zheng H, Hua M, Jiang M, Jiang C, Xi Y, Deng J, Xu H, Zeng B, Zhou S. Transgenic expression of mAChR-C dsRNA in maize confers efficient locust control. PLANT COMMUNICATIONS 2025; 6:101316. [PMID: 40091346 DOI: 10.1016/j.xplc.2025.101316] [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: 08/13/2024] [Revised: 12/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2025] [Indexed: 03/19/2025]
Abstract
Plant-mediated RNA interference (RNAi), in which double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) targeting insect genes are expressed in plants for insect ingestion, has shown great potential for the control of herbivorous insect pests. Locusts, which are among the most destructive agricultural insect pests, appear to be resistant to orally delivered naked dsRNA. Moreover, the feasibility of using plant-mediated RNAi to suppress target gene expression in locusts remains unclear. Using the migratory locust Locusta migratoria, we report that the C-type muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR-C), a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) belonging to the bioamine receptor subfamily, plays a pivotal role in chitin metabolism by regulating genes responsible for chitin synthesis and degradation. Knockdown of locust mAChR-C via injection of dsRNA caused defective nymph molting and metamorphosis, accompanied by malformation, arrested development, and impaired motility. Notably, locusts fed transgenic maize expressing locust mAChR-C dsRNAs exhibited defective phenotypes similar to those subjected to mAChR-C dsRNA injection. In contrast, ingestion of transgenic maize expressing locust mAChR-C dsRNA had no significant effects on non-target insects, including the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda, the cotton bollworm Helicoverpa armigera, the Asian corn borer Ostrinia furnacalis, and the oriental armyworm Mythimna separata. Our results suggest that transgenic expression of locust mAChR-C dsRNA is an effective RNAi approach for locust control and offers a promising eco-friendly strategy for locust management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyuan Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, Henan, China
| | - Mengke Hua
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, Henan, China
| | - Mina Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, Henan, China
| | - Chunran Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, Henan, China
| | - Yuxi Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, Henan, China
| | - Jingcai Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, Henan, China
| | - Huijing Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, Henan, China
| | - Baojuan Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, Henan, China
| | - Shutang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, Henan, China.
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Maienfisch P, Koerber K. Recent innovations in crop protection research. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2025; 81:2406-2418. [PMID: 39344983 PMCID: PMC11981984 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8441] [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: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
As the world's population continues to grow and demand for food increases, the agricultural industry faces the challenge of producing higher yields while ensuring the safety and quality of harvests, operators, and consumers. The emergence of resistance, pest shifts, and stricter regulatory requirements also urgently calls for further advances in crop protection and the discovery of new innovative products for sustainable crop protection. This study reviews recent highlights in innovation as presented at the 15th IUPAC International Congress of Crop Protection Chemistry held in New Delhi, in 2023. The following new products are discussed: the insecticides Indazapyroxamet, Dimpropyridaz and Fenmezoditiaz, the fungicides Mefentrifluconazole and Pyridachlomethyl, the nematicide Cyclobutrifluram, the herbicides Rimisoxafen, Dimesulfazet, and Epyrifenacil as well as the abiotic stress management product Anisiflupurin. In addition, the latest innovative research areas and discovery highlights in all areas of crop protection will be presented, including insecticidal alkyl sulfones and 1,3,4-trisubstituted pyrazoles, fungicidal picolinamides, herbicidal ketoenols, and trifluoromethylpyrazoles, as well as the latest advances in crop enhancement and green pest control research. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
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4
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Li C, Holmes EC, Shi W. The diversity, pathogenic spectrum, and ecological significance of arthropod viruses. Trends Microbiol 2025:S0966-842X(25)00081-2. [PMID: 40240215 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2025.03.005] [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: 11/24/2024] [Revised: 02/25/2025] [Accepted: 03/10/2025] [Indexed: 04/18/2025]
Abstract
Research on arthropod viruses initially focused on those associated with diseases in vertebrates, particularly humans, as well as in plants of economic importance. However, the more recent deployment of metatranscriptomic sequencing of diverse arthropod species has facilitated the discovery of a multitude of novel arthropod viruses, in turn revealing that pathogenic viruses represent only a small component of the arthropod virome. In addition, arthropods may play a pivotal role in viral evolution and ecological dynamics, and have the potential to act as reservoirs for pathogens affecting vertebrates or plants. Due to active interactions between arthropod populations and diverse organisms - including fungi, plants, vertebrates, and even other arthropods in both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems - there is an increased risk of the spillover of arthropod viruses to other organisms, including mammals. Herein, we review our current understanding of the diversity and ecology of arthropod viruses. We outline what is known about pathogenic arthropod viruses in diverse host types and emphasize the unique niche of arthropods as the source of emerging viral infectious diseases. Finally, we describe the evolutionary interactions between arthropod viruses and their hosts in ecosystems, at the same time highlighting their ecological significance with respect to regulating host populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cixiu Li
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Clinical and Basic Medicine, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Ji'nan 250117, China; Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Universities of Shandong, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Ji'nan 250117, China; School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Ji'nan 250117, China
| | - Edward C Holmes
- School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Weifeng Shi
- Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; Shanghai Institute of Virology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
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5
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Chen P, Lan Y, Ding S, Du R, Hu X, Zhang H, Yu H, Xu L, Li C, Lin F, Du L, Umida I, Ray R, Liu T, Liang Y, Niu D, Liu H, Zhou T, Zhao H. RNA interference-based dsRNA application confers prolonged protection against rice blast and viral diseases, offering a scalable solution for enhanced crop disease management. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE PLANT BIOLOGY 2025. [PMID: 40226962 DOI: 10.1111/jipb.13896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2025] [Indexed: 04/15/2025]
Abstract
Rice production is severely impacted by pathogens such as Magnaporthe oryzae and the rice stripe virus (RSV). Ineffectiveness in controlling viruses and the excessive use of fungicides have proven traditional chemical pesticides increasingly inadequate. RNA interference (RNAi) represents a cutting-edge approach for combating crop diseases, especially in rice. This study addresses the critical gap in scalable, effective RNAi-based rice disease management by exploring the potential of spray-applied small RNA (sRNA) and double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) molecules. We utilized dsRNAs produced by in vitro transcription and bacterial expression systems and employed layered double hydroxides (LDH) to enhance RNA stability, absorption, and efficacy. Our research demonstrated that modified sRNAs could effectively penetrate M. oryzae cell membranes and inhibit conidial germination and appressorium formation, while LDH-conjugated dsRNAs provided prolonged and enhanced protection against both rice blast and rice stripe diseases. Most importantly, dsRNA treatments resulted in improved agronomic traits or increased crop yields by protecting against blast and stripe diseases. This study also validated the compatibility of these RNA molecules with industrial production methods, highlighting their potential as a scalable and eco-friendly option for managing crop diseases at the gene level. This work not only offers a new direction for rice disease control but also provides a foundation for the broader application of RNAi technology in agricultural pest management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural and Forestry Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Ying Lan
- Key Laboratory of Food Quality and Safety, Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, China
| | - Shaochen Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural and Forestry Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Ruonan Du
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural and Forestry Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural and Forestry Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Han Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural and Forestry Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Hanxi Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural and Forestry Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Le Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural and Forestry Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Chenyang Li
- Key Laboratory of Food Quality and Safety, Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, China
| | - Feng Lin
- Key Laboratory of Food Quality and Safety, Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, China
| | - Linlin Du
- Key Laboratory of Food Quality and Safety, Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, China
| | - Isashova Umida
- Department of plant protection, Andijan agricultural and Agrotechnology Institute, Kuyganyor, 170600, Uzbekistan
| | - Rumiana Ray
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Tong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Green Prevention and Control of Tropical Plant Diseases and Pests, College of Plant Protection, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
| | - You Liang
- College of Agricultural, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Dongdong Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural and Forestry Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Hongxia Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural and Forestry Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Tong Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Food Quality and Safety, Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, China
| | - Hongwei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural and Forestry Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
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6
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Lin S, Zhang Q, Bai S, Yang L, Qin G, Wang L, Wang W, Cheng C, Zhang D, Lu C, Yuan J, Li J, Yang H, Gu X, Han X. Beyond species and spatial boundaries: Enabling long-distance gene silencing in plants via guanidinium-siRNA nanoparticles. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2025; 23:1165-1177. [PMID: 39918074 PMCID: PMC11933838 DOI: 10.1111/pbi.14575] [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: 11/07/2024] [Revised: 12/15/2024] [Accepted: 12/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2025]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) has been widely used in agriculture. However, it is well accepted that common methods of plant RNAi are species-dependent and lack systematic efficiency. This study designed a thiolated siRNA nanoparticle, guanidinium (Gu+)-containing disulfide assembled siRNA (Gu+-siRNA), demonstrating remarkable species independence and efficient systemic gene silencing across different plant species. Our results indicate that this approach effectively utilizes the plant vascular system to deliver siRNA, enabling long-distance gene silencing across both monocot and dicot plants, such as rice and Arabidopsis. By applying this method, we successfully targeted and silenced key genes like STM, WER, MYB23, GD1, EIL1, and EIL2, which regulate plant development and enhance salt tolerance. This delivery system significantly expands the application of RNAi technology across different plants, serving as a valuable tool for advancing agricultural biotechnology, enhancing crop resistance, and improving agricultural productivity, while aligning with global goals for sustainable food production and crop improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shujin Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life SciencesXiamen UniversityFujianChina
| | - Qian Zhang
- Biotechnology Research InstituteChinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijingChina
- Artemisinin Research Center, the Institute of Chinese Materia MedicaChina Academy of Chinese Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Shiyan Bai
- College of Biological Science and EngineeringFuzhou UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Liwen Yang
- Biotechnology Research InstituteChinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Guannan Qin
- Key Laboratory of Biological Breeding for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of AgricultureFujian Agriculture and Forestry UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Liyuan Wang
- College of Biological Science and EngineeringFuzhou UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Wenbin Wang
- College of Biological Science and EngineeringFuzhou UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Cui Cheng
- College of Biological Science and EngineeringFuzhou UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Da Zhang
- College of Biological Science and EngineeringFuzhou UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Chunhua Lu
- College of Biological Science and EngineeringFuzhou UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Jifeng Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life SciencesXiamen UniversityFujianChina
| | - Jingying Li
- College of Biological Science and EngineeringFuzhou UniversityFuzhouChina
| | | | - Xiaofeng Gu
- Biotechnology Research InstituteChinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Xiao Han
- College of Biological Science and EngineeringFuzhou UniversityFuzhouChina
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7
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Xie J, Wang S, Zhuang Z, Wang X, Lin M, Liu X. Exploring the role of CYP6AB328 in spinetoram resistance and growth and development of Phthorimaea absoluta. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2025; 208:106316. [PMID: 40015908 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2025.106316] [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: 11/25/2024] [Revised: 01/02/2025] [Accepted: 01/28/2025] [Indexed: 03/01/2025]
Abstract
Phthorimaea absoluta is a major agricultural pest, affecting tomatoes and other solanaceous crops. Insect cytochrome P450 is a key enzyme that metabolizes xenobiotics (insecticides and plant toxins) and regulates endogenous compounds, but the functions of specific CYP genes in P. absoluta remain unclear. This study analyzed the expression pattern of 97 CYP genes in two regional populations of P. absoluta from Xinjiang, China. CYP6AB328 was identified as the most significantly overexpressed in the strain from Yining city (YN) compared to the strain from Alaer city (Ala), its expression level exhibited a positively correlated with the accumulating resistance of spinetoram. Following the cloning and sequence analysis of the target gene, it was named CYP6AB328. Additionally, a leaflet delivery system demonstrated the relatively stable presence of dsCYP6AB328 in the leaves from 12 to 24 h. The expression level of CYP6AB328 was significantly reduced by 68.9 % in 2nd instar larvae treated with 7.5 μg/200 μL dsCYP6AB328 at 48 h. Knockdown CYP6AB328 significantly increased susceptibility to spinetoram in the SPI-S strain (belongs to YN strain) and markedly decreased the spinetoram resistance ratio in the resistant strain (SPI-R: 250.57-fold). Notably, silencing CYP6AB328 inhibited nearly all 1st instar larvae fully mining the leaves, resulting in mortality up to 95.3 %, while in 2nd instar larvae, it prolonged leaf-mining time, reduced leaf damage, extended the development time of 2nd to 4th instar, caused 18 % larval abnormality and achieved an 84.4 % mortality on the 6th day of treatment. In summary, our findings indicate that CYP6AB328 plays an important role in promoting development of spinetoram resistance and growth and development of P. absoluta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingang Xie
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering/National Demonstration Center for Experimental Biology Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
| | - Shengyu Wang
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering/National Demonstration Center for Experimental Biology Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
| | - Ziyan Zhuang
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering/National Demonstration Center for Experimental Biology Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
| | - Xinhai Wang
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering/National Demonstration Center for Experimental Biology Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
| | - Minghao Lin
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering/National Demonstration Center for Experimental Biology Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
| | - Xiaoning Liu
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering/National Demonstration Center for Experimental Biology Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China.
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8
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Kong L, Xu J, Shen W, Zhang S, Xu Z, Zhu KY. Development and evaluation of RNA microsphere-based RNAi approaches for managing the striped flea beetle (Phyllotreta striolata), a globally destructive pest of Cruciferae crops. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2025; 81:1529-1538. [PMID: 39584569 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8557] [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: 08/21/2024] [Revised: 11/07/2024] [Accepted: 11/08/2024] [Indexed: 11/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND RNA interference (RNAi) technology has emerged as a promising strategy for species-specific management of agricultural pests. However, the application of this technology has been significantly hindered by the instability of the interfering RNA molecules in the insect body after ingestion leading to variations in the susceptibility to the RNA triggers across different taxonomic groups of insects. Therefore, it is necessary to develop new approaches that will overcome these challenges associated with the use of RNAi-based insect pest management strategies. This study explored the use of RNA microspheres (RMS) synthesized via rolling-circle transcription (RCT) technology as a potential method for managing striped flea beetle (Phyllotreta striolata), a globally destructive pest of Cruciferae crops. RESULTS The synthesized RMS against the genes encoding reticulocalbin (RMS-PsRCN) and ribosomal RNA (RMS-PsrRNA) were highly effective in both silencing their target genes and causing increased P. striolata adult mortality. Relative expression levels of the target genes RMS-PsRCN and RMS-PsrRNA were decreased by 74.9% and 68.92%, respectively, in RMS fed adults, compared with the control adults fed RMS-EGFP. Consequently, the adult mortalities were 81.7% and 73.3% when fed RMS-PsRCN and RMS-PsrRNA, respectively, compared with 8.3% in the control adults. Furthermore, movements of adults fed RMS-PsRCN and RMS-PsrRNA were decreased by 70.2% and 55.7%, respectively, compared with the control adults. CONCLUSIONS This study shows the potential of using RMS to suppress the expression of target genes and subsequently produce significant mortality rates and behavioral changes in RMS-fed adult P. striolata. These findings underscore the promises and viability of using RMS as an effective strategy for gene function studies and species-specific management of agricultural important insect pests. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linghao Kong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiazheng Xu
- Laboratory of Artificial Intelligence for Education, School of Computer Science and Technology, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weihong Shen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Songhan Zhang
- Agriculture Technology Extension Service Center of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiping Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Kun Yan Zhu
- Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
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9
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Zhang W, Wang R, Li Y, Li D, Wang X, Wen X, Feng Y, Liu Z, Ma S, Zhang X. Engineered Pine Endophytic Fungus Expressing Double-Stranded RNA Targeting Lethal Genes to Control the Plant-Parasitic Nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus. PHYTOPATHOLOGY 2025; 115:224-233. [PMID: 39718567 DOI: 10.1094/phyto-07-24-0203-r] [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: 12/25/2024]
Abstract
The pine wood nematode (PWN), Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, is one of the most serious invasive forest pests, responsible for pine wilt disease. Currently, there are no effective, environmentally friendly control methods available. RNA interference technology has been extensively utilized to screen functional genes in eukaryotes and to explore sustainable pest management approaches through genetic engineering. In this study, we identified 353 predicted lethal genes in PWN by comparing its genome with those of lethal genes from Caenorhabditis elegans. We selected five predicted lethal genes (Bxy1177, Bxy1239, Bxy1104, Bxy667, and BxyAK1) with identification values exceeding 60% to evaluate their nematicidal effects on PWN. We tested the double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) of these genes using two methods: first, soaking in a synthesized dsRNA solution in vitro, and second, feeding on a dsRNA-engineered endophytic fungus, Fusarium babinda. Following dsRNA ingestion, either through soaking or fungal feeding, the expression of genes Bxy1177, Bxy667, Bxy1104, and BxyAK1 was significantly suppressed. Notably, nematode populations that consumed fungi expressing dsL1177 and dsAK1 showed substantial declines over time. These findings provide novel insights and a practical foundation for employing endophytic fungi-expressed dsRNA in sustainable pest management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Forest Protection of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Ecology and Nature Conservation Institute, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing l00091, China
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Ruijiong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Forest Protection of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Ecology and Nature Conservation Institute, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing l00091, China
| | - Yongxia Li
- Key Laboratory of Forest Protection of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Ecology and Nature Conservation Institute, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing l00091, China
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
- Kunyushan Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Yantai 264100, China
| | - Dongzhen Li
- Key Laboratory of Forest Protection of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Ecology and Nature Conservation Institute, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing l00091, China
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Xuan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Forest Protection of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Ecology and Nature Conservation Institute, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing l00091, China
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Xiaojian Wen
- Key Laboratory of Forest Protection of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Ecology and Nature Conservation Institute, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing l00091, China
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Yuqian Feng
- Key Laboratory of Forest Protection of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Ecology and Nature Conservation Institute, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing l00091, China
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Zhenkai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Forest Protection of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Ecology and Nature Conservation Institute, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing l00091, China
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
- Kunyushan Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Yantai 264100, China
| | - Shuai Ma
- Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing l00091, China
| | - Xingyao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Forest Protection of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Ecology and Nature Conservation Institute, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing l00091, China
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
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Tan J, Sheng CW, Karthi S, Jiang N, Zhang C, Du H, Zhao K, Liu S, Li MY, Chen J. New Insights into Expanding the Insecticidal Spectrum of dsRNA Mediated by the High Sequence Identity between dsRNA and Nontarget mRNA. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2025; 73:4605-4616. [PMID: 39948051 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c12803] [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: 02/27/2025]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is being used to develop methods to control pests, yet its widespread application is limited by the high comprehensive application cost of dsRNAs. Here, we utilized the high identity matching between double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) and nontarget genes to achieve expanding the dsRNA insecticidal spectrum. First, we found that dsRNA was more likely to induce off-target effects in genes with higher transcript levels and higher sequence identity; the existence of either a completely contiguous matching sequence exceeding 15 nt or a partially contiguous matching sequence of 24 nt between genes can lead to off-target effects in Tribolium castaneum. Accordingly, we successfully interfered with T. castaneum and Laodelphax striatellus using dsRNA targeted against Nilaparvata lugens. Additionally, the use of dsRNA targeting L. striatellus effectively interfered with N. lugens, both instances resulting in lethal effects. Moreover, the dsRNA spray method proved to be more efficient than the rice seedling soaking method to deliver dsRNA. Our research offers new insights into expanding the insecticidal spectrum of dsRNA mediated by a high degree of sequence identity between genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Tan
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory for Green Pesticide Development and Application, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, PR China
| | - Cheng-Wang Sheng
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory for Green Pesticide Development and Application, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, PR China
| | - Sengodan Karthi
- Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40546, United States
| | - Nan Jiang
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory for Green Pesticide Development and Application, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, PR China
| | - Chenyu Zhang
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory for Green Pesticide Development and Application, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, PR China
| | - Haochen Du
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory for Green Pesticide Development and Application, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, PR China
| | - Kezhi Zhao
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory for Green Pesticide Development and Application, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, PR China
| | - Su Liu
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory for Green Pesticide Development and Application, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, PR China
| | - Mao-Ye Li
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory for Green Pesticide Development and Application, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, PR China
| | - Jiasheng Chen
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory for Green Pesticide Development and Application, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, PR China
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Qiao H, Jiang Q, Zhao J, Xiao L, Zhu-Salzman K, Xu D, Xu G, Shen J, Gu A, Hao D, Yan S, Tan Y. Nano-delivery platform with strong protection and efficient delivery: preparation of self-assembled RNA pesticide with dual RNAi targets against Apolygus lucorum. J Nanobiotechnology 2025; 23:93. [PMID: 39920702 PMCID: PMC11806883 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-025-03155-x] [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: 08/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2025] [Indexed: 02/09/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND RNA pesticide is regarded as the "third revolution in the history of pesticides". However, the double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is easily degraded in the environment, and its delivery efficiency is not sufficient for pest management. This study aimed to construct a star polycation (SPc)-based delivery platform with strong protection and efficient delivery to develop a self-assembled RNA pesticide with dual RNA interference (RNAi) targets. RESULTS The nanocarrier SPc was applied to assemble with dsRNA via electrostatic interaction, hydrogen bond and Van der Waals force, and the self-complexation with SPc formed nanoscale dsRNA/SPc complex. The SPc could protect the dsRNA from the degradation by midgut fluid or RNase A, thus significantly increasing the stability of dsRNA under various environmental conditions. Meanwhile, the SPc was able to improve the translocation of dsRNA across insect cuticle, and increase its plant uptake. Then, dsECR-A and dsTre-1 fragments were individually screened, and the dsECR-A and dsTre-1 fragments with good control effects were co-expressed in pET28-BL21 (DE3) RNase III - system to prepare the dsECR-A + Tre-1/SPc complex. Both topical application and spraying of dsECR-A + Tre-1/SPc complex could effectively control a piercing-sucking agricultural pest Apolygus lucorum. The SPc-loaded dsECR-A + Tre-1 could up-regulate endocytosis-related genes and down-regulate cuticle biosynthesis-related genes, which primarily inhibited insect growth and development. CONCLUSIONS Our study comprehensively demonstrated the advantages of SPc-based dsRNA delivery platform, and developed a self-assembled RNA pesticide with dual RNAi targets, which provided a reference for the design of novel RNA pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Qiao
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, People's Republic of China
| | - Qinhong Jiang
- Department of Plant Biosecurity and MOA Key Laboratory of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, People's Republic of China
| | - Liubin Xiao
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, People's Republic of China
| | - Keyan Zhu-Salzman
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Dejin Xu
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangchun Xu
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Shen
- Department of Plant Biosecurity and MOA Key Laboratory of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Aiguo Gu
- Jiangsu Product Quality Testing & Inspection Institute, Nanjing, 210007, People's Republic of China
| | - Dejun Hao
- College of Forestry, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, People's Republic of China.
| | - Shuo Yan
- Department of Plant Biosecurity and MOA Key Laboratory of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yongan Tan
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, People's Republic of China.
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12
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Duan Y, Wang Y, Yang F, Gao Y, Liu Z, Zhang P, Lu J, Fan R, Zhou X, Yang J, Ren M. Molecular target for sprayable double-stranded RNA-based biopesticide against Amphitetranychus viennensis (Acari, Tetranychidae). Int J Biol Macromol 2025; 289:138982. [PMID: 39706416 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.138982] [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] [Received: 08/16/2024] [Revised: 12/12/2024] [Accepted: 12/17/2024] [Indexed: 12/23/2024]
Abstract
Amphitetranychus viennensis, a destructive pest mite of fruit plants in Europe and Asia, poses a serious challenge due to its adaptability and resistance to multiple acaricides. RNA interference (RNAi)-based technologies offer a promising alternative to address this emerging issue. In this study, we screened for candidate genes that can be targeted for spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS). Suppression of AvSrp54k, AveIF4A-1, AvHel31B, AvCOPB2 and AvProsbeta5 led to a significantly higher mortality and caused minor damages to leaf discs in comparison to the controls. Among them, AvCOPB2 and AvProsbeta5 were the best candidates with the highest mortality (>95 %) and minimal leaf damages (<13 %). Given that LdProsbeta5 is the active ingredient of the first sprayable dsRNA-based biopesticide, Ledprona, against the Colorado Potato Beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata, we examined the suitability of AvProsbeta5 in managing A. viennensis. In comparison to the control, A. viennensis population was suppressed by >95 % at day-17, and the plant defoliation rate decreased to 0 at day-24. Our combined results not only provide two viable molecular targets for sprayable dsRNA-based biopesticides, but also confirm the practical implications of SIGS in managing A. viennensis, one of the most destructive arthropod pests in orchards and ornamental plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanpeng Duan
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan 030031, Shanxi, China
| | - Yifei Wang
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan 030031, Shanxi, China
| | - Fan Yang
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan 030031, Shanxi, China
| | - Yue Gao
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan 030031, Shanxi, China
| | - Zhongfang Liu
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan 030031, Shanxi, China
| | - Pengjiu Zhang
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan 030031, Shanxi, China
| | - Junjiao Lu
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan 030031, Shanxi, China
| | - Renjun Fan
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan 030031, Shanxi, China
| | - Xuguo Zhou
- Department of Entomology, School of Integrative Biology, College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
| | - Jing Yang
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan 030031, Shanxi, China.
| | - Meifeng Ren
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan 030031, Shanxi, China.
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13
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Guo C, Bin Z, Zhang P, Tang J, Wang L, Chen Y, Xiao D, Guo X. Efficient production of RNA in Saccharomyces cerevisiae through inducing high level transcription of functional ncRNA-SRG1. J Biotechnol 2025; 398:66-75. [PMID: 39638152 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2024.11.021] [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] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 11/12/2024] [Accepted: 11/30/2024] [Indexed: 12/07/2024]
Abstract
RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) is an essential component of organisms and is widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Saccharomyces cerevisiae, recognized as a safe strain, is widely used for RNA production. In this study, the S. cerevisiae W303-1a was used as a starting strain and molecular modifications were made to the functional ncRNA-SRG1 to evaluate the effect on RNA production. At the same time, its transcriptionally associated helper genes (Spt2, Spt6 and Cha4) were overexpressed and the culture medium was supplemented with serine to induce SRG1 transcription, to increase SRG1 transcription levels and investigate its effect on intracellular RNA levels. The results showed that the intracellular RNA content of the recombinant strain W303-1a-SRG1 was 10.27 %, an increase of 11.15 % compared to the starting strain (W303-1a, with an intracellular RNA content of 9.24 %). On this basis, a gene co-overexpression strain-W303-1a-SRG1-Spt6 was constructed. Simultaneously, the addition of 2 % serine strategy was used to increase the transcription level of SRG1 and RNA content of the recombinant strain. The intracellular RNA of the recombinant strain reached 11.41 %, an increase of 23.38 % compared to the starting strain (W303-1a, without serine supplementation). In addition, the growth performance of the strain was assessed by measuring the SRG1 transcription level in the strain and plotting the growth curve. Therefore, we found that improving the transcription level of ncRNA can be used as a new idea to construct S. cerevisiae with high RNA content, which provides a strong help for subsequent research in related fields. This work provides a new strategy for increasing the nucleic acid content of S. cerevisiae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Can Guo
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of Ministry of Education, Tianjin Industrial Microbiology Key Lab, College of Biotechnology of Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China; Liquor Making Biological Technology and Application of Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhiqiang Bin
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of Ministry of Education, Tianjin Industrial Microbiology Key Lab, College of Biotechnology of Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China; Liquor Making Biological Technology and Application of Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan, China
| | - Pengjie Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of Ministry of Education, Tianjin Industrial Microbiology Key Lab, College of Biotechnology of Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China; Liquor Making Biological Technology and Application of Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan, China
| | - Jing Tang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of Ministry of Education, Tianjin Industrial Microbiology Key Lab, College of Biotechnology of Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China; Liquor Making Biological Technology and Application of Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan, China
| | - Lianqing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of Ministry of Education, Tianjin Industrial Microbiology Key Lab, College of Biotechnology of Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China; Liquor Making Biological Technology and Application of Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan, China
| | - Yefu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of Ministry of Education, Tianjin Industrial Microbiology Key Lab, College of Biotechnology of Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China; Liquor Making Biological Technology and Application of Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Microbial Metabolism and Fermentation Process Control, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Dongguang Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of Ministry of Education, Tianjin Industrial Microbiology Key Lab, College of Biotechnology of Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China; Liquor Making Biological Technology and Application of Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Microbial Metabolism and Fermentation Process Control, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Xuewu Guo
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of Ministry of Education, Tianjin Industrial Microbiology Key Lab, College of Biotechnology of Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China; Liquor Making Biological Technology and Application of Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Microbial Metabolism and Fermentation Process Control, Tianjin 300457, China.
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14
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Zainali N, Alizadeh H, Delavault P. Gene silencing in broomrapes and other parasitic plants of the Orobanchaceae family: mechanisms, considerations, and future directions. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2025; 76:243-261. [PMID: 39289888 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erae388] [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: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 09/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
Holoparasites of the Orobanchaceae family are devastating pests causing severe damage to many crop species, and are nearly impossible to control with conventional methods. During the past few decades, RNAi has been seen as a promising approach to control various crop pests. The exchange of small RNAs (sRNAs) between crops and parasitic plants has been documented, indicating potential for the development of methods to protect them via the delivery of the sRNAs to parasites, a method called host-induced gene silencing (HIGS). Here we describe various approaches used for gene silencing in plants and suggest solutions to improve the long-distance movement of the silencing triggers to increase the efficiency of HIGS in parasitic plants. We also investigate the important biological processes during the life cycle of the parasites, with a focus on broomrape species, providing several appropriate target genes that can be used, in particular, in multiplex gene silencing experiments. We also touch on how the application of nanoparticles can improve the stability and delivery of the silencing triggers, highlighting its potential for control of parasitic plants. Finally, suggestions for further research and possible directions for RNAi in parasitic plants are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nariman Zainali
- Department of Agronomy and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
- Unité en Sciences Biologiques et Biotechnologies, UMR 6286, Nantes Université, CNRS, F-44000 Nantes, France
| | - Houshang Alizadeh
- Department of Agronomy and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
| | - Philippe Delavault
- Unité en Sciences Biologiques et Biotechnologies, UMR 6286, Nantes Université, CNRS, F-44000 Nantes, France
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15
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Julian-Chávez B, Siqueiros-Cendón TS, Torres-Castillo JA, Sinagawa-García SR, Abraham-Juárez MJ, González-Barriga CD, Rascón-Cruz Q, Siañez-Estrada LI, Arévalo-Gallegos S, Espinoza-Sánchez EA. Silencing ACE1 Gene with dsRNA of Different Lengths Impairs Larval Development in Leptinotarsa decemlineata. INSECTS 2024; 15:1000. [PMID: 39769602 PMCID: PMC11678036 DOI: 10.3390/insects15121000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2024] [Revised: 12/04/2024] [Accepted: 12/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2025]
Abstract
In the search for effective strategies to control the Colorado Potato Beetle, RNA interference technology has emerged as a promising method due to its capacity to suppress genes selectively. Factors such as the target gene and double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) length are critical for optimizing gene silencing efficiency. In this study, we designed and synthesized in vitro dsRNAs of varying lengths targeting the ACE1 gene, which encodes the AChE1 isoform of acetylcholinesterase in the beetle. All tested dsRNA lengths (222 bp, 543 bp, 670 bp, and 870 bp) promoted transcript reduction. The 670 bp dsRNA was the most effective, reducing transcript levels by approximately 40% by day seven, followed by the 543 bp dsRNA. No significant differences were observed between the 222 bp and 870 bp dsRNAs. Furthermore, all of the dsRNA lengths resulted in reduced weight gain and increased mortality in larvae, with the 670 bp dsRNA showing the highest mortality rate, leaving only 63% larval survival, a trend that persisted through day nine. These findings emphasize that dsRNA length is a key factor in the silencing response, underscoring the importance of selecting the optimal length while considering the gene's target, stability, and delivery methods. This study contributes to establishing design criteria for dsRNA, aiding in the development of more effective and sustainable pest management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Julian-Chávez
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, Circuito Universitario S/N Nuevo Campus Universitario, Chihuahua 31125, Chihuahua, Mexico; (B.J.-C.); (T.S.S.-C.); (Q.R.-C.); (L.I.S.-E.); (S.A.-G.)
| | - Tania S. Siqueiros-Cendón
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, Circuito Universitario S/N Nuevo Campus Universitario, Chihuahua 31125, Chihuahua, Mexico; (B.J.-C.); (T.S.S.-C.); (Q.R.-C.); (L.I.S.-E.); (S.A.-G.)
| | - Jorge Ariel Torres-Castillo
- Instituto de Ecología Aplicada, Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, Ave. División del Golfo 356, Col. Libertad, Ciudad Victoria 87019, Tamaulipas, Mexico;
| | - Sugey Ramona Sinagawa-García
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Francisco Villa S/N Col. Ex hacienda El Canadá, General Escobedo 66050, Nuevo León, Mexico;
| | - María Jazmín Abraham-Juárez
- Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Libramiento Norte León Km 9.6, Irapuato 36821, Guanajuato, Mexico;
| | - Carmen Daniela González-Barriga
- Laboratorio de Cultivo de Tejidos, División de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Av. Heroico Colegio Militar 4700, Nombre de Dios, Chihuahua 31100, Chihuahua, Mexico;
| | - Quintín Rascón-Cruz
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, Circuito Universitario S/N Nuevo Campus Universitario, Chihuahua 31125, Chihuahua, Mexico; (B.J.-C.); (T.S.S.-C.); (Q.R.-C.); (L.I.S.-E.); (S.A.-G.)
| | - Luis Ignacio Siañez-Estrada
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, Circuito Universitario S/N Nuevo Campus Universitario, Chihuahua 31125, Chihuahua, Mexico; (B.J.-C.); (T.S.S.-C.); (Q.R.-C.); (L.I.S.-E.); (S.A.-G.)
| | - Sigifredo Arévalo-Gallegos
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, Circuito Universitario S/N Nuevo Campus Universitario, Chihuahua 31125, Chihuahua, Mexico; (B.J.-C.); (T.S.S.-C.); (Q.R.-C.); (L.I.S.-E.); (S.A.-G.)
| | - Edward Alexander Espinoza-Sánchez
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, Circuito Universitario S/N Nuevo Campus Universitario, Chihuahua 31125, Chihuahua, Mexico; (B.J.-C.); (T.S.S.-C.); (Q.R.-C.); (L.I.S.-E.); (S.A.-G.)
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16
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Qiao H, Chen J, Dong M, Shen J, Yan S. Nanocarrier-Based Eco-Friendly RNA Pesticides for Sustainable Management of Plant Pathogens and Pests. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 14:1874. [PMID: 39683262 DOI: 10.3390/nano14231874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2024] [Revised: 11/18/2024] [Accepted: 11/20/2024] [Indexed: 12/18/2024]
Abstract
The production of healthy agricultural products has increased the demand for innovative and sustainable plant protection technologies. RNA interference (RNAi), described as post-transcriptional gene silencing, offers great opportunities for developing RNA pesticides for sustainable disease and pest control. Compared with traditional synthesized pesticides, RNA pesticides possess many advantages, such as strong targeting, good environmental compatibility, and an easy development process. In this review, we systematically introduce the development of RNAi technology, highlight the advantages of RNA pesticides, and illustrate the challenges faced in developing high-efficiency RNA pesticides and the benefits of nanocarriers. Furthermore, we introduce the process and mechanism of nanocarrier-mediated RNAi technology, summarize the applications of RNA pesticides in controlling plant pathogens and pests, and finally outline the current challenges and future prospects. The current review provides theoretical guidance for the in-depth research and diversified development of RNA pesticides, which can promote the development and practice of nanocarrier-mediated RNAi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Qiao
- Department of Plant Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jingyi Chen
- Department of Plant Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Min Dong
- Department of Plant Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jie Shen
- Department of Plant Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Shuo Yan
- Department of Plant Biosecurity, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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17
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Martins KKM, Vianna SA, Francisconi AF, Scaketti M, Konzen ER, Zucchi MI. Neotropical palms: from their conservation to economic potential. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 15:1487297. [PMID: 39649810 PMCID: PMC11620900 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1487297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2024] [Accepted: 10/21/2024] [Indexed: 12/11/2024]
Abstract
Palms (Arecaceae) are an important group of plants widely distributed throughout the world. The Arecaceae family comprises a great diversity of species, however, many of them are threatened with extinction due to their unbridled exploitation in search of economically important resources. An overview of palms biology will be presented, with emphasis on genetics and genomic resources of several species, as well as their socioeconomic impact worldwide, highlighting the main advances in recent research. Our discussion also covers the demand for urgent measures toward conservation and preservation of palms since they play key roles in maintaining biodiversity and providing essential ecosystem services. Fundamentally, this article is to raise awareness about the importance of palms and to encourage the protection and conservation of these valuable species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kauanne Karolline Moreno Martins
- Biology Institute, State University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
- Genetics and Genomics Conservation Laboratory – UNICAMP/USP, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Suelen Alves Vianna
- Renewable Acelen – Research & Innovation Department - Plant Genetic Breeding Sector, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Flávia Francisconi
- Genetics and Genomics Conservation Laboratory – UNICAMP/USP, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Genetics, University of São Paulo – USP, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Matheus Scaketti
- Biology Institute, State University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
- Genetics and Genomics Conservation Laboratory – UNICAMP/USP, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Enéas Ricardo Konzen
- Center for Limnological, Coastal and Marine Studies, Interdisciplinary Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Imbé, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Maria Imaculada Zucchi
- Genetics and Genomics Conservation Laboratory – UNICAMP/USP, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
- Secretariat of Agriculture and Food Supply of São Paulo State, APTA, UPDR, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
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18
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Gao Y, Cai T, Yu C, Zeng Q, Wan Y, Song L, He S, Li J, Wan H. A putative endonuclease reduces the efficiency of oral RNA interference in Nilaparvata lugens. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024; 80:5771-5779. [PMID: 39007259 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8307] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The RNA interference (RNAi) efficiency of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) delivery to insects by various methods is different and the reduced efficacy of feeding dsRNA is partly due to the presence of DNA/RNA non-specific endonuclease in the insect gut. However, the mechanism leading to the low RNAi efficiency of Nilaparvata lugens by feeding remains elusive. RESULTS In this study, we identified a putatively DNA/RNA non-specific endonuclease gene in the N. lugens genome database that was highly expressed in the first nymphal instar and the midgut. Different expression levels of NldsRNase after feeding and injection suggested that NldsRNase might interfere with oral RNAi in N. lugens. A co-delivery RNAi strategy further revealed that the presence of NldsRNase reduces RNAi efficiency. In vitro dsRNA degradation experiments also showed that the stability of dsRNA was higher in a gut mixture from nymphs injected with dsNldsRNase. These results support the idea that the low oral RNAi response observed in N. lugens is likely due to the presence of NldsRNase. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides insight into the differences in RNAi response between the injection and feeding of dsRNA in N. lugens and sheds light on the mechanisms underlying the reduced efficacy of RNAi via feeding. These findings may help to inform the development of more-effective RNAi-based strategies controlling N. lugens and other insect pests. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Tingwei Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Chang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qinghong Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yue Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ludan Song
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shun He
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianhong Li
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hu Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, China
- 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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19
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Zhou Y, Zhang Y, Xu K, Liu R, Liu W, Ma H, Yang W. Chitin Deacetylase 1 Gene as an Optimal RNAi-Based Target for Controlling the Tomato Leaf Miner Tuta absoluta. INSECTS 2024; 15:838. [PMID: 39590437 PMCID: PMC11595049 DOI: 10.3390/insects15110838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2024] [Revised: 10/09/2024] [Accepted: 10/18/2024] [Indexed: 11/28/2024]
Abstract
Chitin is a critical component of both the exoskeleton and internal structures of insects, which can protect insects from mechanical damage, dehydration and pathogen infection, and plays a significant role in the molting process. Chitin deacetylases (CDAs), key enzymes involved in chitin metabolism, are widely distributed among arthropods and microorganisms. In this study, we identified a CDA gene, TaCDA1, in the invasive insect species Tuta absoluta (Meyrick). Sequence analysis demonstrated a high degree of similarity to CDAs in other insects, revealing the presence of three conserved domains. Quantitative analysis showed that the TaCDA1 gene exhibited peak expression during the pupal stage, particularly within the epidermis. The suppression of TaCDA1 expression through RNA interference in T. absoluta pupae significantly impacted the expression of genes associated with chitin metabolism, increasing mortality and developmental abnormalities during the pupa-adult transition and reducing the pupal weight. Furthermore, soaking gene-specific dsRNA resulted in elevated mortality rates during the larva-pupa transition, causing the inability to form new cuticles or undergo ecdysis, as confirmed by subsequent histological observations. The oral administration of dsTaCDA1 + sucrose solution did not significantly impact NtCDA1 expression or the mortality rate compared to the dsGFP + sucrose solution control in the non-target insect Nesidiocoris tenuis. This study demonstrated that TaCDA1 is a potential and safe target for pest control of T. absoluta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangfan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Surveillance and Management of Invasive Alien Species in Guizhou Education Department, College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang 550005, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.L.); (W.Y.)
| | - Yu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Surveillance and Management of Invasive Alien Species in Guizhou Education Department, College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang 550005, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.L.); (W.Y.)
| | - Kangkang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Surveillance and Management of Invasive Alien Species in Guizhou Education Department, College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang 550005, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.L.); (W.Y.)
| | - Ruiyu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Surveillance and Management of Invasive Alien Species in Guizhou Education Department, College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang 550005, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.L.); (W.Y.)
| | - Wenbiao Liu
- Yunnan Yuantianhua Co., Ltd. Research and Development Center, Kunming 650228, China;
| | - Hang Ma
- Yunnan Yuantianhua Co., Ltd. Research and Development Center, Kunming 650228, China;
| | - Wenjia Yang
- Key Laboratory of Surveillance and Management of Invasive Alien Species in Guizhou Education Department, College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang 550005, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.L.); (W.Y.)
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20
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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; 5:100974. [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] [MESH Headings] [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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21
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Li P, Song W, Zhang Y, Yang Y, Li S, Zhang J. Drought stress enhances plastid-mediated RNA interference for efficient the willow leaf beetle management. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 204:106037. [PMID: 39277364 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.106037] [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: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/17/2024]
Abstract
Plastid-mediated RNA interference has emerged as a promising and effective approach for pest management. By expressing high levels of double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) in plastid that target essential pest genes, it has been demonstrated to effectively control certain herbivorous beetles and spider mites. However, as plants are sessile organisms, they frequently experience a combination of biotic and abiotic stresses. It remains unclear whether abiotic stress, such as drought stress, influences the accumulation of dsRNAs produced in plastids and its effectiveness in controlling pests. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of drought stress on dsACT expression in transplastomic poplar plants and its control efficiency against the willow leaf beetle (Plagiodera versicolora). Our findings revealed that drought stress did not significantly affect the dsRNA contents in transplastomic poplar plants, but it did lead to higher mortality of insect larvae. This increased mortality may be attributed to increased levels of jasmonic acid and cysteine proteinase inhibitor induced by water deficit. These results contribute to understanding of the mechanisms linking water deficit in plants to insect performance and provide valuable insights for implementing appropriate pest control strategies under drought stress conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Wenlei Song
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Yiqiu Zhang
- 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
| | - 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; 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 Branch, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, China..
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22
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Wang Y, Li X, Zhu C, Yi S, Zhang Y, Hong Z. Plant-derived artificial miRNA effectively reduced the proliferation of aphid (Aphidoidea) through spray-induced gene silencing. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024; 80:4322-4332. [PMID: 38647144 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aphids (Hemiptera: Aphididae) are notorious sap-sucking insects that rampantly threaten agricultural production worldwide. Current management against aphids in the field heavily relies on chemical pesticides, which makes economical and eco-friendly methods urgently needed. Spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS) offers a powerful and precise approach to pest management. However, the high costs and instability of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) regulators applied for downstream RNA interference (RNAi) still limit this strategy. It remains uncertain if RNAi regulators applied in SIGS could extend to small RNA (sRNA), especially miRNA. RESULTS We chose two sRNA sequences, miR-9b and miR-VgR, whose corresponding targets ABCG4 and VgR are both essential for aphid growth and development. The efficacy of these sequences was initially verified by chemically synthetic single-stranded RNA (syn-ssRNA). Through spray treatment, we observed a significantly decreased survival number and increased abnormality rate of green peach aphids fed on the host under laboratory conditions. Based on our previous study, we generated transgenic plants expressing artificial miR-9b (amiR-9b) and miR-VgR (amiR-VgR). Remarkably, plant-derived amiRNA exerted potent and long-lasting inhibitory efficacy with merely one percent concentration of chemical synthetics. Notably, the simultaneous application of amiR-9b and amiR-VgR exhibited superior inhibitory efficacy. CONCLUSION We explored the potential use of sRNA-based biopesticide through SIGS while investigating the dosage requirements. To optimize this strategy, the utilization of plant-derived amiRNA was proposed. The results suggested that attributed to stability and durability, deploying amiRNA in pest management is a potential and promising solution for the field application. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, NJU Advanced Institute for Life Sciences (NAILS), School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuanlin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, NJU Advanced Institute for Life Sciences (NAILS), School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chenghong Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Sciences, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shijie Yi
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, NJU Advanced Institute for Life Sciences (NAILS), School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Sciences, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhi Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, NJU Advanced Institute for Life Sciences (NAILS), School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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23
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Yu Q, Tungsuchat-Huang T, Ioannou A, Barkan A, Maliga P. Posttranscriptional tuning of gene expression over a large dynamic range in synthetic tobacco chloroplast operons. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 119:2437-2449. [PMID: 39031552 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.16930] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
Achieving optimally balanced gene expression within synthetic operons requires regulatory elements capable of providing a spectrum of expression levels. In this study, we investigate the expression of gfp reporter gene in tobacco chloroplasts, guided by variants of the plastid atpH 5' UTR, which harbors a binding site for PPR10, a protein that activates atpH at the posttranscriptional level. Our findings reveal that endogenous tobacco PPR10 confers distinct levels of reporter activation when coupled with the tobacco and maize atpH 5' UTRs in different design contexts. Notably, high GFP expression was not coupled to the stabilization of monocistronic gfp transcripts in dicistronic reporter lines, adding to the evidence that PPR10 activates translation via a mechanism that is independent of its stabilization of monocistronic transcripts. Furthermore, the incorporation of a tRNA upstream of the UTR nearly abolishes gfp mRNA (and GFP protein), presumably by promoting such rapid RNA cleavage and 5' exonucleolytic degradation that PPR10 had insufficient time to bind and protect gfp RNA, resulting in a substantial reduction in GFP accumulation. When combined with a mutant atpH 5' UTR, the tRNA leads to an exceptionally low level of transgene expression. Collectively, this approach allows for tuning of reporter gene expression across a wide range, spanning from a mere 0.02-25% of the total soluble cellular protein. These findings highlight the potential of employing cis-elements from heterologous species and expand the toolbox available for plastid synthetic biology applications requiring multigene expression at varying levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiguo Yu
- Waksman Institute of Microbiology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, 08854, USA
| | | | - Alexander Ioannou
- Waksman Institute of Microbiology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, 08854, USA
| | - Alice Barkan
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon, 97403, USA
| | - Pal Maliga
- Waksman Institute of Microbiology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, 08854, USA
- Department of Plant Biology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08901, USA
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24
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Li WT, Lin JY, Liu JJ, Hafeez M, Deng SW, Chen HY, Ren RJ, Rana MS, Wang RL. Molecular insights into the functional analysis of P450 CYP321A7 gene in the involvement of detoxification of lambda-cyhalothrin in Spodoptera frugiperda. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 203:106009. [PMID: 39084775 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.106009] [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: 05/04/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith), is a widely recognized global agricultural pest that has significantly reduced crop yields all over the world. S. frugiperda has developed resistance to various insecticides. Insect cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYPs or P450s) play an important role in detoxifying insecticides, leading to increased resistance in insect populations. However, the function of the specific P450 gene for lambda-cyhalothrin resistance in S. frugiperda was unclear. Herein, the expression patterns of 40 P450 genes in the susceptible and lambda-cyhalothrin-resistant populations were analyzed. Among them, CYP321A7 was found to be overexpressed in the resistant population, specifically LRS (resistance ratio = 25.38-fold) derived from a lambda-cyhalothrin-susceptible (SS) population and FLRS (a population caught from a field, resistance ratio = 63.80-fold). Elevated enzyme activity of cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s) was observed for LRS (2.76-fold) and the FLRS (4.88-fold) as compared to SS, while no significant differences were observed in the activities of glutathione S-transferases and esterases. Furthermore, the knockdown of CYP321A7 gene by RNA interference significantly increased the susceptibility to lambda-cyhalothrin. Remarkably, the knockdown of CYP321A7 reduced the enzymatic activity of P450 by 43.7%, 31.9%, and 22.5% in SS, LRS, and FLRS populations, respectively. Interestingly, fourth-instar larvae treated with lambda-cyhalothrin at the LC30 dosage had a greater mortality rate due to RNA interference-induced suppression of CYP321A7 (with increases of 61.1%, 50.0%, and 45.6% for SS, LRS, and FLRS populations, respectively). These findings suggest a link between lambda-cyhalothrin resistance and continual overexpression of CYP321A7 in S. frugiperda larvae, emphasizing the possible importance of CYP321A7 in lambda-cyhalothrin detoxification in S. frugiperda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan-Ting Li
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Modern Eco-agriculture and Circular Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Heyuan Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Heyuan 517000, China; Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jia-Yu Lin
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Modern Eco-agriculture and Circular Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Heyuan Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Heyuan 517000, China; Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jia-Jie Liu
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Modern Eco-agriculture and Circular Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Heyuan Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Heyuan 517000, China; Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Muhammad Hafeez
- Department of Horticulture, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA; USDA-ARS Horticultural Crops Research Unit, 3420 NW Orchard Avenue, Corvallis, OR 97330, USA
| | - Shi-Wen Deng
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Modern Eco-agriculture and Circular Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Heyuan Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Heyuan 517000, China; Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Hong-Yu Chen
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Modern Eco-agriculture and Circular Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Heyuan Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Heyuan 517000, China; Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Rong-Jie Ren
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Modern Eco-agriculture and Circular Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Heyuan Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Heyuan 517000, China; Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Muhammad Shoaib Rana
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Modern Eco-agriculture and Circular Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Heyuan Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Heyuan 517000, China; Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Rui-Long Wang
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Modern Eco-agriculture and Circular Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Heyuan Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Heyuan 517000, China; Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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25
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Jiang YX, Li MY, Han Q, Tan JL, Wang ZY, Jing TZ. Transgenic poplar (Populus davidiana×P. bolleana Loucne) expressing dsRNA of insect chitinase gene: lines identification and resistance assay. JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2024; 24:21. [PMID: 39225032 PMCID: PMC11369501 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/ieae087] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Poplar is a valuable tree species that is distributed all over the world. However, many insect pests infest poplar trees and have caused significant damage. To control poplar pests, we transformed a poplar species, Populus davidiana × P. bolleana Loucne, with the dsRNA of the chitinase gene of a poplar defoliator, Clostera anastomosis (Linnaeus) (Lepidoptera: Notodontidae), employing an Agrobaterium-mediated approach. The transgenic plant has been identified by cloning the T-DNA flanking sequences using TAIL-PCR and quantifying the expression of the dsRNA using qPCR. The toxicity assay of the transgenic poplar lines was carried out by feeding the target insect species (C. anastomosis). The results showed that, in C. anastomosis, the activity of chitinase was significantly decreased, consistent with the expression on mRNA levels, and the larval mortality was significantly increased. These results suggested that the transgenic poplar of dsRNA could be used for pest control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Xiao Jiang
- College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Man-Yu Li
- College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Qing Han
- College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Jia-Lin Tan
- College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Zi-Yan Wang
- College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Tian-Zhong Jing
- College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
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26
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Li JQ, Chen YW, Wang Q, Yin MZ, Ma S, Liu Q, Sun XY, Zhang WJ, Yang YY, Mang DZ, Zhu XY, Sun L, Zhang YN. Gustatory Receptor 206 Participates in the Foraging Behavior of Larvae of Polyphagous Pest Spodoptera litura. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:12003-12013. [PMID: 38748811 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c01434] [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: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Insect gustatory receptors (GRs) aid in the precise identification of deterrent or stimulant compounds associated with food, mating, and egg-laying. Thus, they are promising targets for developing efficient insecticides. Here, 61 GRs in the chemosensory organs of Spodoptera litura larvae and adults were identified. Among them, SlitGR206 exhibited larval labium (LL)-specific expression characteristics. To explore the role of SlitGR206, a bacterial expression system was established to produce high-quality double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) and suppress SlitGR206 expression in LL. Subsequent behavioral assessments revealed that SlitGR206 silencing influenced larval feeding preferences and absorption. Moreover, it was found to reduce the ability of larvae to forage the five crucial host odorants. These findings demonstrate that SlitGR206 likely plays an indirect regulatory role in host recognition, consequently affecting foraging behavior. This provides a crucial foundation for the analysis of functional diversity among insect GRs and the precise development of nucleic acid pesticides in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Qiao Li
- Anhui Engineering Research Center for Green Production Technology of Drought Grain Crops, College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei 235000, China
| | - Yu-Wen Chen
- Anhui Engineering Research Center for Green Production Technology of Drought Grain Crops, College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei 235000, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310008, China
- The Key Laboratory for Quality Improvement of Agricultural Products of Zhejiang Province, College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou311300,China
| | - Mao-Zhu Yin
- Suzhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Suzhou 234000, China
| | - Sai Ma
- Anhui Engineering Research Center for Green Production Technology of Drought Grain Crops, College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei 235000, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Anhui Engineering Research Center for Green Production Technology of Drought Grain Crops, College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei 235000, China
| | - Xin-Yao Sun
- Anhui Engineering Research Center for Green Production Technology of Drought Grain Crops, College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei 235000, China
| | - Wen-Jing Zhang
- College of Life Science, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, China
| | - Yan-Yan Yang
- Graduate School of Bio-Application and Systems Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Koganei 2-24-16, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Ding-Ze Mang
- College of Life Science, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, China
- Graduate School of Bio-Application and Systems Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Koganei 2-24-16, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Xiu-Yun Zhu
- Anhui Engineering Research Center for Green Production Technology of Drought Grain Crops, College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei 235000, China
| | - Liang Sun
- Key Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Breeding of Special Economic Animals and Plants, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310008, China
| | - Ya-Nan Zhang
- Anhui Engineering Research Center for Green Production Technology of Drought Grain Crops, College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei 235000, China
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Yang J, Zhang Y, Zhang Z, Ren M, Wang Y, Duan Y, Gao Y, Liu Z, Zhang P, Fan R, Zhou X. The development of an egg-soaking method for delivering dsRNAs into spider mites. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 201:105905. [PMID: 38685227 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.105905] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Recently, the first sprayable RNAi biopesticide, Ledprona, against the Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata, has been registered at the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Spider mites (Acari: Tetranychidae), a group of destructive agricultural and horticultural pests, are notorious for rapid development of insecticide/acaricide resistance. The management options, on the other hand, are extremely limited. RNAi-based biopesticides offer a promising control alternative to address this emerging issue. In this study, we i) developed an egg-soaking dsRNA delivery method; ii) evaluated the factors influencing RNAi efficiency, and finally iii) investigated the potential mode of entry of this newly developed egg-soaking RNAi method. In comparison to other dsRNA delivery methods, egg-soaking method was the most efficient, convenient/practical, and cost-effective method for delivering dsRNAs into spider mites. RNAi efficiency of this RNAi method was affected by target genes, dsRNA concentration, developmental stages, and mite species. In general, the hawthorn spider mite, Amphitetranychus viennensis, is more sensitive to RNAi than the two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, and both of them have dose-dependent RNAi effect. For different life stages, egg and larvae are the most sensitive life stages to dsRNAs. For different target genes, there is no apparent association between the suppression level and the resultant phenotype. Finally, we demonstrated that this egg-soaking RNAi method acts as both stomach and contact toxicity. Our combined results demonstrate the effectiveness of a topically applied dsRNA delivery method, and the potential of a spray induced gene silencing (SIGS) method as a control alternative for spider mites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.
| | - Yuying Zhang
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Zhonghuan Zhang
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Meifeng Ren
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Yifei Wang
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Yuanpeng Duan
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Yue Gao
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Zhongfang Liu
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Pengjiu Zhang
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Renjun Fan
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Xuguo Zhou
- Department of Entomology, School of Integrative Biology, College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA..
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Tabara M, Harada M, Kuriyama K, Sakamoto T, Takeda A, Fukuhara T, Tabunoki H. Biochemical characterization of Bombyx mori Dicer-2 that dices double-stranded RNAs into 20-nt small RNA. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 116:e22118. [PMID: 38713637 DOI: 10.1002/arch.22118] [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: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
We detected enzymatic activity that generates 20-nucleotide (nt) RNA from double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) in crude extracts prepared from various silkworm (Bombyx mori) organs. The result using knocked-down cultured cells indicated that this dicing activity originated from B. mori Dicer-2 (BmDcr2). Biochemical analyses revealed that BmDcr2 preferentially cleaves 5'-phosphorylated dsRNAs at the 20-nt site-counted from the 5'-phosphorylated end-and required ATP and magnesium ions for the dicing reaction. This is the first report of the biochemical characterization of Dicer-2 in lepidopteran insects. This enzymatic property of BmDcr2 in vitro is consistent with the in vivo small interfering RNA profile in virus-infected silkworm cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Midori Tabara
- Ritsumeikan-Global Innovation Research Organization, Ritsumeikan University, Shiga, Japan
| | - Mayuko Harada
- Department of Biological Production, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazunori Kuriyama
- Department of Applied Biological Sciences, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takuma Sakamoto
- Department of Biological Production, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Takeda
- Ritsumeikan-Global Innovation Research Organization, Ritsumeikan University, Shiga, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Fukuhara
- Department of Applied Biological Sciences, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
- Institute of Global Innovation Research, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tabunoki
- Department of Biological Production, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
- Institute of Global Innovation Research, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
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29
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Han P, Rodriguez-Saona C, Zalucki MP, Liu SS, Desneux N. A theoretical framework to improve the adoption of green Integrated Pest Management tactics. Commun Biol 2024; 7:337. [PMID: 38499741 PMCID: PMC10948852 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06027-6] [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: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Sustainable agriculture relies on implementing effective, eco-friendly crop protection strategies. However, the adoption of these green tactics by growers is limited by their high costs resulting from the insufficient integration of various components of Integrated Pest Management (IPM). In response, we propose a framework within IPM termed Multi-Dimensional Management of Multiple Pests (3MP). Within this framework, a spatial dimension considers the interactive effects of soil-crop-pest-natural enemy networks on pest prevalence, while a time dimension addresses pest interactions over the crop season. The 3MP framework aims to bolster the adoption of green IPM tactics, thereby extending environmental benefits beyond crop protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Han
- Institute of Biodiversity, School of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, China.
- Southwest United Graduate School (SWUGS), Kunming, 650092, China.
| | - Cesar Rodriguez-Saona
- Department of Entomology, Rutgers University P.E. Marucci Center, Chatsworth, NJ, USA.
| | - Myron P Zalucki
- School of the Environment, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
- Shandong Engineering Research Center for Environment-Friendly Agricultural Pest Management, College of Plant Health and Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Shu-Sheng Liu
- Institute of Insect Sciences, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Nicolas Desneux
- Université Cote d'Azur, INRAE, CNRS, UMR ISA, 06000, Nice, France
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Chen J, Sheng CW, Peng Y, Wang K, Jiao Y, Palli SR, Cao H. Transcript Level and Sequence Matching Are Key Determinants of Off-Target Effects in RNAi. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:577-589. [PMID: 38135672 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c07434] [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: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) pesticides, those based on RNA interference (RNAi) technology utilizing dsRNA, have shown potential for pest control. However, the off-target effects of dsRNA pose limitations to the widespread application of RNAi and raise concerns regarding potential side effects on other beneficial organisms. The precise impact and underlying factors of these off-target effects are still not well understood. Here, we found that the transcript level and sequence matching jointly regulate off-target effects of dsRNA. The much lower expressed target genes were knocked down to a lesser extent than genes with higher expression levels, and the critical sequence identity of off-target effects is approximately 80%. Moreover, off-target effects could be triggered by a contiguous matching sequence length exceeding 15 nt as well as nearly perfectly matching sequences with one or two base mismatches exceeding 19 nt. Increasing the dosage of dsRNA leads to more severe off-target effects. However, the length of mismatched dsRNA, the choice of different RNAi targets, and the location of target sites within the same gene do not affect the severity of off-target effects. These parameters can be used to guide the design of possibly selective sequences for RNAi, optimize the specificity and efficiency of dsRNA, and facilitate practical applications of RNAi for pest control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiasheng Chen
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
| | - Cheng-Wang Sheng
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
| | - Yingchuan Peng
- Institute of Entomology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China
| | - Kangxu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Grains and Oils Quality Control and Processing, College of Food Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Finance and Economics, Nanjing 210046, China
| | - Yaoyu Jiao
- Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40546, United States
| | - Subba Reddy Palli
- Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40546, United States
| | - Haiqun Cao
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
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Dalaisón-Fuentes LI, Pascual A, Crespo M, Andrada NL, Welchen E, Catalano MI. Knockdown of double-stranded RNases (dsRNases) enhances oral RNA interference (RNAi) in the corn leafhopper, Dalbulus maidis. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 196:105618. [PMID: 37945254 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2023.105618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
The leafhopper Dalbulus maidis is a harmful pest that causes severe damage to corn crops. Conventional chemical pesticides have negative environmental impacts, emphasizing the need for alternative solutions. RNA interference (RNAi) is a more specific and environmentally friendly method for controlling pests and reducing the negative impacts of current pest management practices. Previous studies have shown that orally administered double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is less effective than injection protocols in silencing genes. This study focuses on identifying and understanding the role of double-stranded ribonucleases (dsRNases) in limiting the efficiency of oral RNAi in D. maidis. Three dsRNases were identified and characterized, with Dmai-dsRNase-2 being highly expressed in the midgut and salivary glands. An ex vivo degradation assay revealed significant nuclease activity, resulting in high instability of dsRNA when exposed to tissue homogenates. Silencing Dmai-dsRNase-2 improved the insects' response to the dsRNA targeting the gene of interest, providing evidence of dsRNases involvement in oral RNAi efficiency. Therefore, administering both dsRNase-specific and target gene-specific-dsRNAs simultaneously is a promising approach to increase the efficiency of oral RNAi and should be considered in future control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía I Dalaisón-Fuentes
- Centro de BioInvestigaciones (Universidad Nacional del Noroeste de la Provincia de Buenos Aires-CICBA), Avenida Presidente Frondizi 2650 (2700), Pergamino, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones y Transferencias del Noroeste de la provincia de Buenos Aires (CITNOBA-CONICET), Monteagudo 2772 (2700), Pergamino, Argentina
| | - Agustina Pascual
- Centro de BioInvestigaciones (Universidad Nacional del Noroeste de la Provincia de Buenos Aires-CICBA), Avenida Presidente Frondizi 2650 (2700), Pergamino, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones y Transferencias del Noroeste de la provincia de Buenos Aires (CITNOBA-CONICET), Monteagudo 2772 (2700), Pergamino, Argentina.
| | - Mariana Crespo
- Centro de BioInvestigaciones (Universidad Nacional del Noroeste de la Provincia de Buenos Aires-CICBA), Avenida Presidente Frondizi 2650 (2700), Pergamino, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones y Transferencias del Noroeste de la provincia de Buenos Aires (CITNOBA-CONICET), Monteagudo 2772 (2700), Pergamino, Argentina
| | - Nicolás L Andrada
- Centro de BioInvestigaciones (Universidad Nacional del Noroeste de la Provincia de Buenos Aires-CICBA), Avenida Presidente Frondizi 2650 (2700), Pergamino, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones y Transferencias del Noroeste de la provincia de Buenos Aires (CITNOBA-CONICET), Monteagudo 2772 (2700), Pergamino, Argentina
| | - Elina Welchen
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología del Litoral (CONICET-UNL), Cátedra de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María I Catalano
- Centro de BioInvestigaciones (Universidad Nacional del Noroeste de la Provincia de Buenos Aires-CICBA), Avenida Presidente Frondizi 2650 (2700), Pergamino, Argentina; Centro de Investigaciones y Transferencias del Noroeste de la provincia de Buenos Aires (CITNOBA-CONICET), Monteagudo 2772 (2700), Pergamino, Argentina
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32
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Brizzee C, Mysore K, Njoroge TM, McConnell S, Hamid-Adiamoh M, Stewart ATM, Kinder JT, Crawford J, Duman-Scheel M. Targeting Mosquitoes through Generation of an Insecticidal RNAi Yeast Strain Using Cas-CLOVER and Super PiggyBac Engineering in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1056. [PMID: 37998862 PMCID: PMC10672312 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The global deployment of RNAi yeast insecticides involves transitioning from the use of laboratory yeast strains to more robust strains that are suitable for scaled fermentation. In this investigation, the RNA-guided Cas-CLOVER system was used in combination with Piggybac transposase to produce robust Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains with multiple integrated copies of the Sh.463 short hairpin RNA (shRNA) insecticide expression cassette. This enabled the constitutive high-level expression of an insecticidal shRNA corresponding to a target sequence that is conserved in mosquito Shaker genes, but which is not found in non-target organisms. Top-expressing Cas-CLOVER strains performed well in insecticide trials conducted on Aedes, Culex, and Anopheles larvae and adult mosquitoes, which died following consumption of the yeast. Scaled fermentation facilitated the kilogram-scale production of the yeast, which was subsequently heat-killed and dried. These studies indicate that RNAi yeast insecticide production can be scaled, an advancement that may one day facilitate the global distribution of this new mosquito control intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corey Brizzee
- Demeetra Ag Bio, 2277 Thunderstick Dr. Suite 300, Lexington, KY 40505, USA; (C.B.); (S.M.); (J.T.K.)
| | - Keshava Mysore
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1234 Notre Dame Ave., South Bend, IN 46617, USA; (K.M.); (T.M.N.); (M.H.-A.); (A.T.M.S.)
- Eck Institute for Global Health, The University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
| | - Teresia M. Njoroge
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1234 Notre Dame Ave., South Bend, IN 46617, USA; (K.M.); (T.M.N.); (M.H.-A.); (A.T.M.S.)
- Eck Institute for Global Health, The University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
| | - Seth McConnell
- Demeetra Ag Bio, 2277 Thunderstick Dr. Suite 300, Lexington, KY 40505, USA; (C.B.); (S.M.); (J.T.K.)
| | - Majidah Hamid-Adiamoh
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1234 Notre Dame Ave., South Bend, IN 46617, USA; (K.M.); (T.M.N.); (M.H.-A.); (A.T.M.S.)
- Eck Institute for Global Health, The University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
| | - Akilah T. M. Stewart
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1234 Notre Dame Ave., South Bend, IN 46617, USA; (K.M.); (T.M.N.); (M.H.-A.); (A.T.M.S.)
- Eck Institute for Global Health, The University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
| | - J. Tyler Kinder
- Demeetra Ag Bio, 2277 Thunderstick Dr. Suite 300, Lexington, KY 40505, USA; (C.B.); (S.M.); (J.T.K.)
| | - Jack Crawford
- Demeetra Ag Bio, 2277 Thunderstick Dr. Suite 300, Lexington, KY 40505, USA; (C.B.); (S.M.); (J.T.K.)
| | - Molly Duman-Scheel
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1234 Notre Dame Ave., South Bend, IN 46617, USA; (K.M.); (T.M.N.); (M.H.-A.); (A.T.M.S.)
- Eck Institute for Global Health, The University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
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Yu C, Li J, Zhang Z, Zong M, Qin C, Mo Z, Sun D, Yang D, Zeng Q, Wang J, Ma K, Li J, Wan H, He S. Metal-Organic Framework-Based Insecticide and dsRNA Codelivery System for Insecticide Resistance Management. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:48495-48505. [PMID: 37787656 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c09074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Targeted silencing of resistance-associated genes by specific double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is an attractive strategy for overcoming insecticide resistance in insect pests. However, silencing target genes of insect pests by feeding on dsRNA transported via plants remains challenging. Herein, a codelivery system of insecticide and dsRNA is designed by encapsulating imidacloprid and dsNlCYP6ER1 within zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) nanoparticles to improve the susceptibility of Nilaparvata lugens (Stål) to imidacloprid. With an average particle size of 195 nm and a positive surface charge, the derived imidacloprid/dsNlCYP6ER1@ZIF-8 demonstrates good monodispersity. Survival curve results showed that the survival rates of N. lugens treated with imidacloprid and imidacloprid@ZIF-8 were 82 and 62%, respectively, whereas, in the imidacloprid/dsNlCYP6ER1@ZIF-8 treatment group, the survival rate of N. lugens is only 8%. Pot experiments demonstrate that the survival rate in the imidacloprid/dsNlCYP6ER1@ZIF-8 treatment group was much lower than that in the imidacloprid treatment group, decreasing from 54 to 24%. The identification of NlCYP6ER1 expression and the fluorescence tracking of ZIF-8 demonstrate that ZIF-8 can codeliver dsRNA and insecticide to insects via rice. Safety evaluation results showed that the dsNlCYP6ER1@ZIF-8 nanoparticle had desirable biocompatibility and biosafety to silkworm. This dsRNA and insecticide codelivery system may be extended to additional insecticides with potential resistance problems in the future, greatly enhancing the development of pest resistance management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Yu
- The Center of Crop Nanobiotechnology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, No. 1 Shizishan Street, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Jiaqing Li
- The Center of Crop Nanobiotechnology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, No. 1 Shizishan Street, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zhang
- The Center of Crop Nanobiotechnology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, No. 1 Shizishan Street, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Mao Zong
- The Center of Crop Nanobiotechnology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, No. 1 Shizishan Street, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Chuwei Qin
- The Center of Crop Nanobiotechnology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, No. 1 Shizishan Street, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Ziyao Mo
- The Center of Crop Nanobiotechnology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, No. 1 Shizishan Street, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Dan Sun
- The Center of Crop Nanobiotechnology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, No. 1 Shizishan Street, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Disi Yang
- The Center of Crop Nanobiotechnology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, No. 1 Shizishan Street, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Qinghong Zeng
- The Center of Crop Nanobiotechnology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, No. 1 Shizishan Street, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Jiayin Wang
- The Center of Crop Nanobiotechnology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, No. 1 Shizishan Street, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Kangsheng Ma
- The Center of Crop Nanobiotechnology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, No. 1 Shizishan Street, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Jianhong Li
- The Center of Crop Nanobiotechnology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, No. 1 Shizishan Street, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Hu Wan
- The Center of Crop Nanobiotechnology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, No. 1 Shizishan Street, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Shun He
- The Center of Crop Nanobiotechnology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, No. 1 Shizishan Street, Wuhan 430074, China
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Xu Z, Wang G, Luo J, Zhu M, Hu L, Liang S, Li B, Huang X, Wang Y, Zhang G, Zhang C, Zhou Y, Yuan D, Chen T, Chen L, Ma W, Gao W, Lindsey K, Zhang X, Ding F, Jin S. The chromosome-scale reference genome of mirid bugs (Adelphocoris suturalis) genome provides insights into omnivory, insecticide resistance, and survival adaptation. BMC Biol 2023; 21:195. [PMID: 37726763 PMCID: PMC10510153 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01666-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adelphocoris suturalis (Hemiptera: Miridae) is a notorious agricultural pest, which causes serious economic losses to a diverse range of agricultural crops around the world. The poor understanding of its genomic characteristics has seriously hindered the establishment of sustainable and environment-friendly agricultural pest management through biotechnology and biological insecticides. RESULTS Here, we report a chromosome-level assembled genome of A. suturalis by integrating Illumina short reads, PacBio, 10x Chromium, and Hi-C mapping technologies. The resulting 1.29 Gb assembly contains twelve chromosomal pseudomolecules with an N50 of 1.4 and 120.6 Mb for the contigs and scaffolds, respectively, and carries 20,010 protein-coding genes. The considerable size of the A. suturalis genome is predominantly attributed to a high amount of retrotransposons, especially long interspersed nuclear elements (LINEs). Transcriptomic and phylogenetic analyses suggest that A. suturalis-specific candidate effectors, and expansion and expression of gene families associated with omnivory, insecticide resistance and reproductive characteristics, such as digestion, detoxification, chemosensory receptors and long-distance migration likely contribute to its strong environmental adaptability and ability to damage crops. Additionally, 19 highly credible effector candidates were identified and transiently overexpressed in Nicotiana benthamiana for functional assays and potential targeting for insect resistance genetic engineering. CONCLUSIONS The high-quality genome of A. suturalis provides an important genomic landscape for further investigations into the mechanisms of omnivory, insecticide resistance and survival adaptation, and for the development of integrated management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongping Xu
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Guanying Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jing Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Mingju Zhu
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Lisong Hu
- Spice and Beverage Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Wanning, Hainan, China
| | - Sijia Liang
- Academy of Industry Innovation and Development, Huanghuai University, Zhumadian, Henan, China
| | - Bo Li
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Crop Biotechnology, Institute of Nuclear and Biological Technology, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wulumuqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Xingxing Huang
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ying Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Guangyu Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Can Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Daojun Yuan
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Taiyu Chen
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Lizhen Chen
- Hubei Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management Key Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Weihua Ma
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Henan Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, School of Life Science, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, China
| | - Keith Lindsey
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK
| | - Xianlong Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Fang Ding
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Plant Pathology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Shuangxia Jin
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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Sall IM, Flaviu TA. Plant and mammalian-derived extracellular vesicles: a new therapeutic approach for the future. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1215650. [PMID: 37781539 PMCID: PMC10534050 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1215650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: In recent years, extracellular vesicles have been recognized as important mediators of intercellular communication through the transfer of active biomolecules (proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids) across the plant and animal kingdoms and have considerable roles in several physiological and pathological mechanisms, showing great promise as new therapeutic strategies for a variety of pathologies. Methods: In this study, we carefully reviewed the numerous articles published over the last few decades on the general knowledge of extracellular vesicles, their application in the therapy of various pathologies, and their prospects as an approach for the future. Results: The recent discovery and characterization of extracellular vesicles (EVs) of diverse origins and biogenesis have altered the current paradigm of intercellular communication, opening up new diagnostic and therapeutic perspectives. Research into these EVs released by plant and mammalian cells has revealed their involvement in a number of physiological and pathological mechanisms, such as embryonic development, immune response, tissue regeneration, and cancer. They are also being studied as potential biomarkers for disease diagnosis and vectors for drug delivery. Conclusion: Nanovesicles represent powerful tools for intercellular communication and the transfer of bioactive molecules. Their molecular composition and functions can vary according to their origin (plant and mammalian), so their formation, composition, and biological roles open the way to therapeutic applications in a variety of pathologies, which is arousing growing interest in the scientific community. Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03608631.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tabaran Alexandru Flaviu
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Bélanger S, Kramer MC, Payne HA, Hui AY, Slotkin RK, Meyers BC, Staub JM. Plastid dsRNA transgenes trigger phased small RNA-based gene silencing of nuclear-encoded genes. THE PLANT CELL 2023; 35:3398-3412. [PMID: 37309669 PMCID: PMC10473229 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koad165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Plastid transformation technology has been widely used to express traits of potential commercial importance, though the technology has been limited to traits that function while sequestered in the organelle. Prior research indicates that plastid contents can escape from the organelle, suggesting a possible mechanism for engineering plastid transgenes to function in other cellular locations. To test this hypothesis, we created tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum cv. Petit Havana) plastid transformants that express a fragment of the nuclear-encoded Phytoene desaturase (PDS) gene capable of catalyzing post-transcriptional gene silencing if RNA escapes into the cytoplasm. We found multiple lines of direct evidence that plastid-encoded PDS transgenes affect nuclear PDS gene silencing: knockdown of the nuclear-encoded PDS mRNA and/or its apparent translational inhibition, biogenesis of 21-nucleotide (nt) phased small interfering RNAs (phasiRNAs), and pigment-deficient plants. Furthermore, plastid-expressed dsRNA with no cognate nuclear-encoded pairing partner also produced abundant 21-nt phasiRNAs in the cytoplasm, demonstrating that a nuclear-encoded template is not required for siRNA biogenesis. Our results indicate that RNA escape from plastids to the cytoplasm occurs generally, with functional consequences that include entry into the gene silencing pathway. Furthermore, we uncover a method to produce plastid-encoded traits with functions outside of the organelle and open additional fields of study in plastid development, compartmentalization, and small RNA biogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Bélanger
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, 975 N. Warson Road, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA
| | - Marianne C Kramer
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, 975 N. Warson Road, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA
| | - Hayden A Payne
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, 975 N. Warson Road, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA
| | - Alice Y Hui
- Plastomics Inc, 1100 Corporate Square Drive, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA
| | - R Keith Slotkin
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, 975 N. Warson Road, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Blake C Meyers
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, 975 N. Warson Road, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA
- Division of Plant Science and Technology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Staub
- Plastomics Inc, 1100 Corporate Square Drive, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA
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Li D, Li HY, Zhang JR, Wu YJ, Zhao SX, Liu SS, Pan LL. Plant resistance against whitefly and its engineering. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1232735. [PMID: 37711302 PMCID: PMC10498545 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1232735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Plants face constant threats from insect herbivores, which limit plant distribution and abundance in nature and crop productivity in agricultural ecosystems. In recent decades, the whitefly Bemisia tabaci, a group of phloem-feeding insects, has emerged as pests of global significance. In this article, we summarize current knowledge on plant defenses against whitefly and approaches to engineer plant resistance to whitefly. Physically, plants deploy trichome and acylsugar-based strategies to restrain nutrient extraction by whitefly. Chemically, toxic secondary metabolites such as terpenoids confer resistance against whitefly in plants. Moreover, the jasmonate (JA) signaling pathway seems to be the major regulator of whitefly resistance in many plants. We next review advances in interfering with whitefly-plant interface by engineering of plant resistance using conventional and biotechnology-based breeding. These breeding programs have yielded many plant lines with high resistance against whitefly, which hold promises for whitefly control in the field. Finally, we conclude with an outlook on several issues of particular relevance to the nature and engineering of plant resistance against whitefly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Li
- Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Heng-Yu Li
- Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jing-Ru Zhang
- Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Jie Wu
- Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shi-Xing Zhao
- Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shu-Sheng Liu
- Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Li-Long Pan
- Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- The Rural Development Academy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Yang J, Zhang Y, Zhao J, Gao Y, Liu Z, Zhang P, Fan R, Xing S, Zhou X. Target gene selection for RNAi-based biopesticides against the hawthorn spider mite, Amphitetranychus viennensis (Acari: Tetranychidae). PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2023; 79:2482-2492. [PMID: 36866409 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, RNA interference (RNAi)-based biopesticide, a species-specific pest control alternative, has been deregulated and commercialized in the US and Canada. The hawthorn spider mite, Amphitetranychus viennensis Zacher, is a major pest for rosaceous plants, which has been controlled primarily by synthetic pesticides. To address the emerging resistance issues in A. viennensis, we initiated a project to develop RNAi-based biopesticides. RESULTS In this study, we (i) developed a dietary RNAi system for A. viennensis using leaf disc, (ii) assessed the suitability of multiple control genes to distinguish sequence-specific silencing from non-specific effects within this RNAi system, and (iii) screened for the target gene candidates. As a result, β-Glucuronidase (GUS), an enzyme derived from E. coli and a broadly used reporter for plants is the appropriate control for A. viennensis RNAi, while green fluorescent protein (GFP), is not suitable due to its significantly higher mortality than the other controls. For target gene screening, suppression was confirmed for all the candidates, including two housekeeping genes (Vacuolar-type H + -ATPase subunit A (V-ATPase A) and Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase, (GAPDH)), and three genes associated with development (ATP-dependent RNA Helicase DDX3Y (Belle), CREB-binding protein (CBP), and Farnesoic acid O-methyltransferase (FaMet)). Knocking down of V-ATPase A resulted in the highest mortality (~ 90%) and reduced fecundity (over 90%) than other candidates. As for the genes associated with development, suppression of Belle and CBP, led to approximately 65% mortality, as well as 86% and 40% reduction in fecundity, respectively. Silencing of FaMet, however, had negligible biological impacts on A. viennensis. CONCLUSION The combined efforts not only establish an effective dsRNA delivery method, but also provide potential target genes for RNAi-based biopesticides against A. viennensis, a devastating invasive pest for fruit trees and woody ornamental plants throughout Asia and Europe. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University/Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yuying Zhang
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University/Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, China
- College of Plant Protection, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Jin Zhao
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yue Gao
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University/Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, China
| | - Zhongfang Liu
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University/Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, China
| | - Pengjiu Zhang
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University/Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, China
| | - Renjun Fan
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University/Shanxi Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture, Taiyuan, China
| | - Shuping Xing
- Research Institute of Applied Biology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xuguo Zhou
- Department of Entomology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Shen GM, Ma T, Chen XR, Chen L, Liu GM, Jie LY, Adang M, He L. Retinoid X receptor 1 is a specific lethal RNAi target disturbing chitin metabolism during hatching of Tetranychus cinnabarinus. Int J Biol Macromol 2023:125458. [PMID: 37348587 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) can be developed as an alternative method of chemical pesticides for pest control. In this study, we noticed a specifically expressed gene (retinoid X receptor 1, TcRXR1) in the egg stage of T. cinnabarinus. RNAi was applied to investigate the function of TcRXR1. Results showed that with continuous feeding of dsTcRXR1, the larvae of T. cinnabarinus could still successfully develop to adult, which was in accordance with the low expression of TcRXR1 out of egg stage. High mortality of eggs was observed after eggs were treated with dsTcRXR1. To investigate the downstream genes of TcRXR1, the RNA samples after successful RNAi of TcRXR1 were analyzed by transcriptome analysis. According to function annotation of differentially expressed genes, 6 genes were selected for their potential function with the phenotype of dsTcRXR1, and among them, a chitinase gene (TcCHT-E) attained a high expression level in the late stage of egg, peaking just after the expression peak of TcRXR1. Mortality of eggs was observed under the effect of dsTcCHT-E as well as dsTcRXR1. In conclusion, TcRXR1 is a specific RNAi target for control of T. cinnabarinus, and its lethal mechanism might be disturbing chitin metabolism hatching of egg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang-Mao Shen
- College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ting Ma
- College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xing-Ru Chen
- College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Chen
- College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guang-Ming Liu
- College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Luo-Yan Jie
- Key Laboratory of Green Prevention and Control of Agricultural Transboundary Pests of Yunnan Province, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Yunnan, China
| | - Michael Adang
- Department of Entomology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Lin He
- College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.
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Guo M, Gao R, Nanda S, Li Y, Guo C, Zhou X, Zhang Y, Yang C, Pan H. RNAi assays in the striped flea beetle (Phyllotreta striolata) suggest Psγ-COPI and PsArf1COPI as potential molecular targets for pest control. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 193:105428. [PMID: 37248006 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2023.105428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Phyllotreta striolata (Fabricius), commonly known as the striped flea beetle (SFB), is a notorious insect pest that attacks Brassicaceae plants worldwide, leading to tremendous economic losses. RNA interference (RNAi) has been proposed as a promising strategy for sustainable and eco-friendly pest control. In this study, a total of nine housekeeping genes including PsVATPA, PsHSP90, PsEF1A, PsRPL6, PsRPS24, PsActin, PsTUBA, PsRPS18, and PsRPL4 were evaluated under four different conditions (organization, population, sex, and RNAi). PsEF1A and PsVATPA were identified as the best reference genes for RNAi bioassay. Furthermore, a total of 24 target genes were selected to investigate their RNAi effects in SFB adults with double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs), five of them showed significant mortality (28.00% to 70.00%), namely Psα-COPI, Psβ-COPI, PsRPS18, Psγ-COPI, and PsArf1COPI. We found that gene transcript levels of the two most lethal genes, Psγ-COPI and PsArf1COPI, were significantly decreased after treated with the target dsRNAs either by feeding or injection method. The findings from this study demonstrated that the introduction of dsRNAs via oral feedings or injection induces the RNAi-mediated silencing of target genes and can lead to insect mortality. Overall, the identified target genes can be explored in developing RNAi-based insecticides for SFB control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mujuan Guo
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Ran Gao
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Satyabrata Nanda
- MS Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, 761200, India
| | - Yingqiu Li
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Changfei Guo
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xuguo Zhou
- Department of Entomology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, 40546, USA
| | - Youjun Zhang
- Department of Plant Protection, Institute of Vegetables and Flowers, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Chunxiao Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Huipeng Pan
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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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: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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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Wang X, Faucher J, Dhandapani RK, Duan JJ, Palli SR. Potential effects of RNA interference of Asian longhorned beetle on its parasitoid. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2023; 79:1557-1565. [PMID: 36529841 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7328] [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: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is important to understand how non-target insects such as parasitoids may be impacted directly or indirectly by RNA interference with double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) that has emerged as a novel pest control tool. We examined the potential effects of a dsRNA targeting an inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) of the Asian longhorned beetle Anoplophora glabripennis on its gregarious larval ectoparasitoid Ontsira mellipes, directly on adult wasp's survival via injection of 4 μg of dsIAP per wasp, and indirectly on the detectability and suitability of host larvae injected with 2, 4 or 8 μg of dsIAP per larva. RESULTS Compared with no injection or injection with a control dsGFP targeting a region of gene coding for a green fluorescence protein (GFP), dsIAP did not affect adult wasp's survival. Ontsira mellipes locates hosts in the wood by sensing their movement. Host larvae did not completely cease movement after the injection of dsIAP and were still detected and parasitized. Clutch size was reduced and only 3.8% of the parasitoid offspring developed into adults on host larvae treated at the highest dose. However, clutch size was not affected and 25.5% of the parasitoid offspring developed into adults on host larvae treated at the lowest dose. The fitness of developed wasps (development time, sex ratio, body size, and fecundity) was not affected when compared to the control treatments. No dsIAP was detected in parasitoid larvae. CONCLUSION The results show no direct effect of the dsRNA on its parasitoid, but the potential indirect effect of dsRNA-affected host on the parasitoid, which may be minimized through optimizing dsRNA dosage to promote compatible applications of both management options for this invasive forest pest. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingeng Wang
- Beneficial Insects Introduction Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Jessica Faucher
- Beneficial Insects Introduction Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Ramesh Kumar Dhandapani
- Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Jian J Duan
- Beneficial Insects Introduction Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Subba Reddy Palli
- Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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Wang Q, Luo C, Wang R. Insecticide Resistance and Its Management in Two Invasive Cryptic Species of Bemisia tabaci in China. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076048. [PMID: 37047017 PMCID: PMC10094485 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The sweet potato whitefly Bemisia tabaci is a major agricultural pest with a wide host range throughout the world. The species designation for B. tabaci includes numerous distinct cryptic species or biotypes. Two invasive B. tabaci biotypes, MEAM1 (B) and MED (Q), were found in China at the end of the 20th century and at the beginning of the 21st century. MEAM1 (B) and MED (Q) show higher pesticide resistance levels than native strains, and the levels of resistance vary with changes in insecticide selection pressure. Recent studies have revealed metabolic resistance mechanisms and target site mutations in invasive B. tabaci strains that render them resistant to a range of insecticides and have uncovered the frequency of these resistance-related mutations in B. tabaci populations in China. Novel pest control agents, such as RNA-based pesticides and nano-pesticides, have achieved effective control effects in the laboratory and are expected to be applied for field control of B. tabaci in the future. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of resistance developed by these invasive B. tabaci populations since their invasion into China. We also provide suggestions for ecologically sound and efficient B. tabaci control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Chen Luo
- Institute of Plant Protection, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Ran Wang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
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Wu M, Zhang Q, Dong Y, Wang Z, Zhan W, Ke Z, Li S, He L, Ruf S, Bock R, Zhang J. Transplastomic tomatoes expressing double-stranded RNA against a conserved gene are efficiently protected from multiple spider mites. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2023; 237:1363-1373. [PMID: 36328788 DOI: 10.1111/nph.18595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Spider mites are serious pests and have evolved significant resistance to many chemical pesticides, thus making their control challenging. Several insect pests can be combated by plastid-mediated RNA interference (PM-RNAi), but whether PM-RNAi can be utilized to control noninsect pests is unknown. Here, we show that three species of spider mites (Tetranychus evansi, Tetranychus truncatus, and Tetranychus cinnabarinus) take up plastid RNA upon feeding. We generated transplastomic tomato plants expressing double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) targeted against a conserved region of the spider mite β-Actin mRNA. Transplastomic plants exhibited high levels of resistance to all three spider mite species, as evidenced by increased mortality and suppression of target gene expression. Notably, transplastomic plants induced a more robust RNAi response, caused higher mortality, and were overall better protected from spider mites than dsRNA-expressing nuclear transgenic plants. Our data demonstrate the potential of PM-RNAi as an efficient pest control measure for spider mites and extend the application range of the technology to noninsect pests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
- Max-Planck-Institut für Molekulare Pflanzenphysiologie, Am Mühlenberg 1, D-14476, Potsdam-Golm, Germany
| | - Qi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Yi Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Zican Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Wenqin Zhan
- 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
| | - Shengchun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Lin He
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Stephanie Ruf
- Max-Planck-Institut für Molekulare Pflanzenphysiologie, Am Mühlenberg 1, D-14476, Potsdam-Golm, Germany
| | - Ralph Bock
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, 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, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
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45
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Rafique A, Afroz A, Zeeshan N, Rashid U, Khan MAU, Irfan M, Chatha W, Khan MR, Rehman N. Production of Sitobion avenae-resistant Triticum aestivum cvs using laccase as RNAi target and its systemic movement in wheat post dsRNA spray. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0284888. [PMID: 37163535 PMCID: PMC10171587 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the wheat biotic stresses, Sitobion avenae is one of the main factors devastating the wheat yield per hectare. The study's objective was to find out the laccase (lac) efficacy; as a potential RNAi target against grain aphids. The Sitobion avenae lac (Salac) was confirmed by Reverse Transcriptase-PCR. Gene was sequenced and accession number "ON703252" was allotted by GenBank. ERNAi tool was used to design 143 siRNA and one dsRNA target. 69% mortality and 61% reduction in lac expression were observed 8D-post lac DsRNA feeding. Phylogenetic analysis displayed the homology of grain aphid lac gene with peach potato, pea, and Russian wheat aphids. While Salac protein was found similar to the Russian grain, soybean, pea, and cedar bark aphid lac protein multi-copper oxidase. The dsRNAlac spray-induced silencing shows systematic translocation from leaf to root; with maximum lac expression found in the root, followed by stem and leaf 9-13D post-spray; comparison to control. RNAi-GG provides the Golden Gate cloning strategy with a single restriction ligation reaction used to achieve lac silencing. Agrobacterium tumefaciens mediated in planta and in-vitro transformation was used in the study. In vitro transformation, Galaxy 2012 yielded a maximum transformation efficiency (1.5%), followed by Anaj 2017 (0.8%), and Punjab (0.2%). In planta transformation provides better transformation efficiencies with a maximum in Galaxy 2012 (16%), and a minimum for Punjab (5%). Maximum transformation efficiency was achieved for all cultivars with 250 μM acetosyringone and 3h co-cultivation. Galaxy 2012 exhibited maximum transformation efficiency, and aphid mortality post-feeding transgenic wheat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Rafique
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Gujrat, Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Amber Afroz
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Gujrat, Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Nadia Zeeshan
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Gujrat, Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Umer Rashid
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Gujrat, Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan
| | | | - Muhammad Irfan
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Gujrat, Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Waheed Chatha
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Gujrat, Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ramzan Khan
- National Institute for Genomics and Advanced Biotechnology, National Agricultural Research Centre, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Nazia Rehman
- National Institute for Genomics and Advanced Biotechnology, National Agricultural Research Centre, Islamabad, Pakistan
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Bharathi JK, Anandan R, Benjamin LK, Muneer S, Prakash MAS. Recent trends and advances of RNA interference (RNAi) to improve agricultural crops and enhance their resilience to biotic and abiotic stresses. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2023; 194:600-618. [PMID: 36529010 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2022.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Over the last two decades, significant advances have been made using genetic engineering technology to modify genes from various exotic origins and introduce them into plants to induce favorable traits. RNA interference (RNAi) was discovered earlier as a natural process for controlling the expression of genes across all higher species. It aims to enhance precision and accuracy in pest/pathogen resistance, quality improvement, and manipulating the architecture of plants. However, it existed as a widely used technique recently. RNAi technologies could well be used to down-regulate any genes' expression without disrupting the expression of other genes. The use of RNA interference to silence genes in various organisms has become the preferred method for studying gene functions. The establishment of new approaches and applications for enhancing desirable characters is essential in crops by gene suppression and the refinement of knowledge of endogenous RNAi mechanisms in plants. RNAi technology in recent years has become an important and choicest method for controlling insects, pests, pathogens, and abiotic stresses like drought, salinity, and temperature. Although there are certain drawbacks in efficiency of this technology such as gene candidate selection, stability of trigger molecule, choice of target species and crops. Nevertheless, from past decade several target genes has been identified in numerous crops for their improvement towards biotic and abiotic stresses. The current review is aimed to emphasize the research done on crops under biotic and abiotic stress using RNAi technology. The review also highlights the gene regulatory pathways/gene silencing, RNA interference, RNAi knockdown, RNAi induced biotic and abiotic resistance and advancements in the understanding of RNAi technology and the functionality of various components of the RNAi machinery in crops for their improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jothi Kanmani Bharathi
- Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ramaswamy Anandan
- Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Lincy Kirubhadharsini Benjamin
- Horticulture and Molecular Physiology Lab, School of Agricultural Innovations and Advanced Learning, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sowbiya Muneer
- Horticulture and Molecular Physiology Lab, School of Agricultural Innovations and Advanced Learning, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Muthu Arjuna Samy Prakash
- Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India.
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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: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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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48
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Transgenic Improvement for Biotic Resistance of Crops. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214370. [PMID: 36430848 PMCID: PMC9697442 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Biotic constraints, including pathogenic fungi, viruses and bacteria, herbivory insects, as well as parasitic nematodes, cause significant yield loss and quality deterioration of crops. The effect of conventional management of these biotic constraints is limited. The advances in transgenic technologies provide a direct and directional approach to improve crops for biotic resistance. More than a hundred transgenic events and hundreds of cultivars resistant to herbivory insects, pathogenic viruses, and fungi have been developed by the heterologous expression of exogenous genes and RNAi, authorized for cultivation and market, and resulted in a significant reduction in yield loss and quality deterioration. However, the exploration of transgenic improvement for resistance to bacteria and nematodes by overexpression of endogenous genes and RNAi remains at the testing stage. Recent advances in RNAi and CRISPR/Cas technologies open up possibilities to improve the resistance of crops to pathogenic bacteria and plant parasitic nematodes, as well as other biotic constraints.
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Yang X, Liu S, Lu W, Du M, Qiao Z, Liang Z, An Y, Gao J, Li X. Delta and jagged are candidate target genes of RNAi biopesticides for the control of Nilaparvata lugens. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1023729. [PMID: 36466326 PMCID: PMC9715739 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1023729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The brown planthopper (BPH; Nilaparvata lugens) is an important pest in rice cultivation, and chemical pesticide over-use and ineffectiveness of existing Bt transgenic rice against piercing-sucking insects make novel control methods necessary. RNA interference (RNAi) biopesticide is a new type of product with high efficiency and specificity and are simple to use. The Notch signaling pathway has extensive and important physiological functions and plays a key role in the development of insects. In this study, two key ligand genes of the Notch signaling pathway, delta (dl) and jagged (jag), were selected and their lethal effects and functional analysis were systematically evaluated using a stable short-winged population (Brachypterous strain) and a long-winged population (Macropterous strain) of BPHs. The full-length coding sequences of Nldl and Nljag comprised 1,863 and 3,837 base pairs, encoding 620 and 1,278 amino acids, respectively. The nucleic acid sequences of Nldl and Nljag were identical between the two strains. The expression levels of Nldl and Nljag were relatively high in the head of the nymphs, followed by those in the abdomen. Through RNAi treatment, we found that injection of BPH nymphs of both strains with dsNldl (10-50 ng/nymph) or dsNljag (100 ng/nymph) produced lethal or teratogenic effects. dsRNA treatment showed excellent inhibitory effects on the expression of target genes on days 1 and 5, suggesting that RNAi rapidly exhibits effects which persist for long periods of time in BPHs. Taken together, our results confirm the potential of Nldl and Nljag as target genes of RNAi biopesticides, and we propose optimized dosages for the control of BPHs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xifa Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shaokai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Northwestern Loess Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture/College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Wenhui Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mengfang Du
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhuangzhuang Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhen Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yiting An
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science/Henan International Laboratory for Green Pest Control/College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
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50
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Ribeiro TP, Vasquez DDN, Macedo LLP, Lourenço-Tessutti IT, Valença DC, Oliveira-Neto OB, Paes-de-Melo B, Rodrigues-Silva PL, Firmino AAP, Basso MF, Lins CBJ, Neves MR, Moura SM, Tripode BMD, Miranda JE, Silva MCM, Grossi-de-Sa MF. Stabilized Double-Stranded RNA Strategy Improves Cotton Resistance to CBW ( Anthonomus grandis). Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13713. [PMID: 36430188 PMCID: PMC9691246 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232213713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cotton is the most important crop for fiber production worldwide. However, the cotton boll weevil (CBW) is an insect pest that causes significant economic losses in infested areas. Current control methods are costly, inefficient, and environmentally hazardous. Herein, we generated transgenic cotton lines expressing double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) molecules to trigger RNA interference-mediated gene silencing in CBW. Thus, we targeted three essential genes coding for chitin synthase 2, vitellogenin, and ecdysis-triggering hormone receptor. The stability of expressed dsRNAs was improved by designing a structured RNA based on a viroid genome architecture. We transformed cotton embryos by inserting a promoter-driven expression cassette that overexpressed the dsRNA into flower buds. The transgenic cotton plants were characterized, and positive PCR transformed events were detected with an average heritability of 80%. Expression of dsRNAs was confirmed in floral buds by RT-qPCR, and the T1 cotton plant generation was challenged with fertilized CBW females. After 30 days, data showed high mortality (around 70%) in oviposited yolks. In adult insects fed on transgenic lines, chitin synthase II and vitellogenin showed reduced expression in larvae and adults, respectively. Developmental delays and abnormalities were also observed in these individuals. Our data remark on the potential of transgenic cotton based on a viroid-structured dsRNA to control CBW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuanne P. Ribeiro
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- Biotechnology and Molecular Biology Department, Federal University of Brasilia (UnB), Brasilia 70910-900, DF, Brazil
| | - Daniel D. N. Vasquez
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- Genetic and Molecular Biology Department, Catholic University of Brasilia (UCB), Brasilia 71966-700, DF, Brazil
| | - Leonardo L. P. Macedo
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | - Isabela T. Lourenço-Tessutti
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | - David C. Valença
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | - Osmundo B. Oliveira-Neto
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Integrated Faculties of the Educational Union of Planalto Central, Brasilia 70675-760, DF, Brazil
| | - Bruno Paes-de-Melo
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | | | - Alexandre A. P. Firmino
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- Max Planck Institute Molecular Plant Physiol, 14476 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Marcos F. Basso
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | - Camila B. J. Lins
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | - Maysa R. Neves
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | - Stefanie M. Moura
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | | | | | - Maria C. M. Silva
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
| | - Maria F. Grossi-de-Sa
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
- Genetic and Molecular Biology Department, Catholic University of Brasilia (UCB), Brasilia 71966-700, DF, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT Plant Stress Biotech), Embrapa, Brasilia 70770-917, DF, Brazil
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