Rational Design, Synthesis, and Aphicidal Activity of Novel Insect Short Neuropeptide Analogs as Potential Aphid...

Area of Science:

• Insect physiology and biochemistry
• Agrochemical research and development
• Green chemistry and sustainable pest management

Background:

• Short neuropeptide F (sNPF) is an insect-specific peptide regulating vital physiological processes.
• Previous work identified an sNPF analog (I-3) with aphidicidal properties.
• Understanding the structure-activity relationship of sNPF analogs is crucial for developing new insecticides.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and synthesize novel sNPF analogs with enhanced aphidicidal activity.
• To investigate the role of N-terminal modifications in sNPF analog efficacy.
• To evaluate the safety and environmental impact of potential new insecticides.

Main Methods:

• Design of 10 sNPF analogs based on I-3 with N-terminal modifications.
• Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations to predict receptor binding.
• In vitro and in vivo assays for aphidicidal activity and non-target organism toxicity (honeybees).

Main Results:

• Compound A-1 demonstrated superior aphidicidal activity compared to I-3 and pymetrozine.
• Structure-activity relationship analysis identified N-terminal aromatic rings with specific substituents as critical for activity.
• Molecular simulations indicated enhanced binding stability of A-1 to its receptor.
• Toxicity tests confirmed A-1's safety for honeybees and low overall toxicity risk.

Conclusions:

• A-1 is a potent, selective, and eco-friendly insecticide candidate for pea aphid control.
• N-terminal modifications of sNPF analogs can significantly enhance insecticidal properties.
• This study supports the development of novel, green pesticides derived from sNPF.