A systemically applied nanoparticle-based dsRNA biopesticide reduces Tuta absoluta survival

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Entomology
• Molecular Biology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• RNA interference (RNAi) is a gene silencing mechanism used for pest control.
• Tuta absoluta, a major tomato pest, exhibits resistance to diamide insecticides due to RyR mutations.
• Developing RNAi-based biopesticides is crucial for sustainable agriculture.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of RNA interference targeting Ryanodine receptors (RyRs) in Tuta absoluta.
• To assess the stability and safety of a chitosan-nanoformulated dsRNA targeting TaRy.
• To provide an environmentally safe RNAi control strategy for T. absoluta.

Main Methods:

• Exogenous application of Tuta absoluta RyR-specific (TaRy) dsRNA in a chitosan nanoformulation to hydroponically grown tomato plants.
• Monitoring gene expression, insect mortality, and leaf damage.
• In vitro biosafety assessments on non-target arthropods.

Main Results:

• TaRy dsRNA significantly downregulated RyR gene expression in T. absoluta.
• dsRNA treatment led to substantial insect mortality and reduced crop damage.
• Chitosan nanoformulation enhanced TaRy dsRNA stability in planta and insect tissues.

Conclusions:

• TaRy dsRNA, delivered via chitosan nanoformulation, is an effective and stable biopesticide against T. absoluta.
• The approach demonstrates significant pest control with minimal environmental risk.
• This study presents a promising RNAi-based strategy for managing T. absoluta in agriculture.