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Updated: Feb 28, 2026
10:14
Double-stranded RNA Oral Delivery Methods to Induce RNA Interference in Phloem and Plant-sap-feeding Hemipteran Insects
Published on: May 4, 2018
14.5K
Contact Unmodified Antisense DNA Biotechnology (CUADb)-Based Oligonucleotide Insecticides and RNA Biocontrols:
Vol Oberemok1, Kate Laikova1, Jamin Ali2
1Department of General Biology and Genetics, Institute of Biochemical Technologies, Ecology and Pharmacy, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Simferopol 295007, Russia.
Current Issues in Molecular Biology
|February 27, 2026
Summary
Novel insect control methods use DNA and RNA as active ingredients. DNA containment (DNAc) targets rRNA, while RNA interference (RNAi) targets mRNA, with species-specific efficacy for sustainable pest management.
Area of Science:
- Plant molecular genetics
- Biotechnology
- Insect pest control
Background:
- DNA and RNA are emerging as active insecticidal agents, moving beyond their genetic roles.
- Two primary mechanisms are utilized: DNA containment (DNAc) and RNA interference (RNAi).
- These nucleic acid-based strategies offer novel avenues for plant protection against insect pests.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and compare DNA containment (DNAc) and RNA interference (RNAi) technologies for insect pest control.
- To elucidate the distinct mechanisms of action for DNAc and RNAi.
- To discuss the current challenges hindering the adoption of these biotechnologies.
Main Methods:
- Review of DNA containment (DNAc) using contact unmodified antisense DNA biotechnology (CUADb) or 'genetic zipper' technology.
- Review of RNA interference (RNAi) utilizing double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) biocontrols.
- Analysis of species-specific efficacy and target mechanisms (rRNA vs. mRNA).
Main Results:
- DNAc disrupts rRNA biogenesis and ribosome production, effective against Sternorrhyncha, thrips, and mites.
- RNAi targets mRNA degradation, showing potential against Tenebrionidae and Chrysomelidae beetles.
- Efficacy of both DNAc and RNAi is species-dependent.
Conclusions:
- DNAc and RNAi represent distinct, nucleic acid-based approaches to insect pest management.
- Understanding their specific mechanisms and species-specific efficacy is crucial for successful application.
- Further research is needed to overcome challenges and promote the adoption of these advanced pest control strategies.
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