Sprayable dsRNA for integrated crop defense: mechanisms, delivery strategies, and translational challenges

RNA interference (RNAi)-based biocontrol agents harness the natural power of gene silencing to combat plant pests and diseases. A particularly exciting development based on the RNAi strategy is spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS), a non-transgenic approach that applies exogenous double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) or small interfering RNA (siRNA) directly to plant surfaces. This cutting-edge technology offers a sustainable, eco-friendly solution, effectively targeting harmful pests without altering the plant's genetic makeup. dsRNA triggers the RNAi mechanism and shows immense potential as a tool for integrated pest and plant disease management systems. dsRNA based biopesticides represent a novel advancement in sustainable agriculture and targeting insect pests, viruses, fungal, and bacterial pathogens. In plant protection, dsRNA is designed to target genes in pests and pathogens, offering specificity, eco-friendliness, and reduced off-target effects compared to conventional pesticides. Present challenges and prospects in the dsRNA approach, like target gene selection, stable delivery, and attachment by using nano carriers for important crop protection, are discussed. This comprehensive review synthesizes current knowledge on dsRNA mechanisms, development strategies, and applications in managing insect pest complexes and phytopathogens in key crops.