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Updated: Jan 18, 2026

VIGS-Mediated Forward Genetics Screening for Identification of Genes Involved in Nonhost Resistance
Published on: August 23, 2013
Sustainable protection of multiple hosts against polyphagous pests using Plant Probiotic-Based Gene Silencing
Jing Chen1, Rong Zhang1, Xun Zhang2
1Key Laboratory of Forest Protection of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Ecology and Nature Conservation Institute, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing, 100091, China.
None:
RNAi is a gene-silencing mechanism mediated by double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) molecules and is a promising pest control technology. However, challenges, such as limited persistence or narrow plant protection spectra in current RNAi application strategies, hinder its effectiveness against polyphagous pests. Here, we report an approach using plant probiotics to express dsRNA, propelling sustainable protection of multiple host plants. A Bacillus strain isolated from host plants of the polyphagous pest Hyphantria cunea, was engineered to express dsRNA targeting the pest. The modified SH-F8 strain significantly reduced H. cunea pupation rates and increased mortality by disrupting both energy metabolism and cuticle formation. The engineered SH-F8 strain exhibited successful colonization in two host plant species of H. cunea under field conditions, with enhanced population densities appearing under high-temperature/high-humidity conditions. This approach, termed 'Plant Probiotic-Based Gene Silencing' (PPGS), may offer a sustainable solution for multi-plant protection against polyphagous pests.
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