A comparative review of RNAi delivery systems for shrimp aquaculture and future directions

Shrimp aquaculture, while a vital global industry, faces persistent threats from viral, bacterial, fungal and parasitic diseases. Notable of all these pathogens is the white spot syndrome virus (WSSV), which remains a problem of the shrimp aquaculture industry. RNA interference (RNAi) has emerged as a promising antiviral strategy, offering sequence-specific gene silencing. This review comprehensively examines the various RNAi molecules (dsRNA, siRNA, miRNA, shRNA, lhRNA) employed in shrimp disease control, detailing their mechanisms of action and target genes. We explore diverse dsRNA production methods, including invitro transcription, chemical synthesis, Dicer-generated siRNAs, and cost-effective in vivo bacterial systems. Critically, the review analyzes innovative dsRNA delivery systems, from injection and immersion to oral delivery and nanoparticle-mediated approaches, addressing the challenges of scalability and practicality in shrimp farming. Here we compare the different delivery systems and their efficiency in viral mitigation. This review also highlights the potential of RNAi to revolutionize shrimp disease management, emphasizing the need for further research to optimize delivery methods and ensure sustainable implementation in aquaculture.