Cedden, D., Güney, G., Debaisieux, X., Scholten, S., Rostás, M. & Bucher, G. (2024). Effective target genes for RNA interference-based management of the cabbage stem flea beetle. Insect Molecular Biology, 1-13.
doi: 10.1111/imb.12942
Abstract
The cabbage stem flea beetle (CSFB, Psylliodes chrysocephala) is a key pest of oilseedrape. The ban on neonicotinoids in the European Union due to environmental concernsand the emergence of pyrethroid-resistant populations have made the control of CSFBextremely challenging. In search of a solution, we have recently shown that RNA inter-ference (RNAi) has potential in the management of CSFB. However, the previouslytested target genes for RNAi-mediated pest control (subsequently called target genes)exhibited moderate and slow-acting lethal effects. In this study, 27 double-strandedRNAs (dsRNAs) were orally delivered to identify highly effective target genes in CSFBadults by leveraging the findings of a genome-wide RNAi screen in Tribolium castaneum.Our screen using 500 ng of dsRNA identified 10 moderately effective (> 50% mortality)and 4 highly effective target genes (100% mortality in 8–13 days). The latter mainlyincluded proteasome subunits. Gene expression measurements confirmed target genesilencing and dose–response studies revealed LD 50 values as low as 20 ng in 14 daysfollowing a single exposure to dsRNA. Four highly effective dsRNAs also inhibited leafdamage (up to 75%) and one affected locomotion. The sequences of promising targetgenes were subjected to in silico target prediction in non-target organisms, for example,beneficials such as honeybees, to design environmentally friendly dsRNAs. Overall, thestudy provides valuable insights for the development of dsRNA-based insecticidesagainst CSFB.
Keywords
dsRNA; essential gene; proteasome; Psylliodes chrysocephala; RNA interference
