Current scenario of RNAi-based hemipteran control

RNA interference (RNAi) is an homology-dependent gene silencing mechanism that is a feasible and sustainable avenue for the management of hemipteran pests. Commercial implementation of RNAi-based control strategies is impeded by limited knowledge about the mechanism of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) uptake, the function of core RNAi genes and systemic RNAi mechanisms in hemipteran insects. This review briefly summarizes recent progress in RNAi-based studies aimed to reduce insect populations, viral transmission and insecticide resistance focusing on hemipteran pests. This review explores RNAi-mediated management of hemipteran insects and offers potential solutions, including in silico approaches coupled with laboratory-based toxicity assays to circumvent potential off-target effects against beneficial organisms. We further explore ways to mitigate degradation of dsRNA in the environment and the insect such as stacking and formulation of dsRNA effectors. Finally, we conclude by considering nontransformative RNAi approaches, concatomerization of RNAi sequences and pyramiding RNAi with active constituents to reduce dsRNA production and application cost, and to improve broad-spectrum hemipteran pest control. (c) 2020 Society of Chemical Industry

Automated summary

RNA interference (RNAi) is a promising approach for managing hemipteran pests, but commercial implementation faces challenges such as limited knowledge about dsRNA uptake mechanisms and RNAi gene functions. This review highlights recent progress in RNAi-based studies aimed at reducing insect populations, viral transmission, and insecticide resistance in hemipteran pests. It also explores potential solutions to improve RNAi-mediated management of hemipteran insects, including in silico approaches and formulation of dsRNA effector to minimize off-target effects and improve broad-spectrum pest control.