CRISPR-Cas9-Based Genome Editing in the Silverleaf Whitefly (Bemisia tabaci)

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Molecular Biology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Bemisia tabaci (MEAM1) is a significant agricultural pest and plant virus vector, causing substantial economic damage globally.
• Current control methods are hampered by the lack of effective gene editing tools for B. tabaci.
• Existing gene editing approaches in B. tabaci are challenging due to small embryo size and high post-injection mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a robust and accessible CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing protocol for Bemisia tabaci.
• To overcome the technical limitations associated with embryo microinjection in B. tabaci.
• To facilitate the application of reverse genetics for developing novel pest control strategies.

Main Methods:

• Developed the 'ReMOT Control' protocol involving the injection of CRISPR-Cas9 components into vitellogenic adult female whiteflies.
• Identified and utilized an ovary-targeting peptide ligand (BtKV) to facilitate germline transduction of the Cas9-ribonucleoprotein complex.
• Validated the efficiency and heritability of genome editing in the offspring of treated adult females.

Main Results:

• The ReMOT Control method enables efficient and heritable CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing in Bemisia tabaci offspring.
• Adult female injection is technically simpler and avoids the high mortality rates associated with embryo injection.
• The ovary-targeting peptide BtKV effectively directs the gene editing machinery to the germline.

Conclusions:

• The ReMOT Control protocol provides an accessible and efficient tool for gene editing in Bemisia tabaci.
• This advancement will enable researchers to utilize reverse genetics for functional studies in this pest.
• The developed method holds promise for creating innovative and sustainable strategies for managing Bemisia tabaci populations.