Cross-species regulation by microRNAs in insect-associated interactions

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in diverse aspects of insect biology, and some have been explored as potential tools for insect pest management. In this review, we focus on recent advances in cross-species miRNA regulation in insect interactions with microbes, plant or animal hosts. We first provide a brief overview of the general functions of miRNAs in insects. We then summarize current studies on cross-species miRNA regulation in insect interactions with associated organisms, across trophic levels, with particular emphasis on recent studies that functionally characterize translocated miRNAs. In addition, we review current efforts that exploit miRNA translocation for insect pest control. Finally, we highlight major unanswered questions and key challenges in the field of cross-species miRNA regulation. Overall, we argue that research on cross-species miRNA regulation in insect systems is rapidly expanding, although still in its infancy in insect-bacterial symbioses, holds significant potential for advancing our understanding of insect associated interactions and for developing innovative and sustainable pest control strategies.