Field Trial to Evaluate dsRNAs Triggering Gene Silencing to Kill Emerald Ash Borer

Project Abstract Title: EAB vaccines for ash—from the lab to the field Project Director: Lynne Rieske-Kinney RNAi technology is a next generation pest management approach with increasing utility in agriculture and in forestry. It is an innovative molecular approach that takes advantage of a naturally occurring cellular immune response that is activated when the cell encounters double- stranded RNA (dsRNA) typical of viral infection. We can manipulate that pathway by orally introducing carefully designed dsRNAs, triggering the pathway, silencing essential genes, and causing rapid insect mortality. RNAi works against emerald ash borer (EAB), an unprecedented invader whose management has frustrated urban and wildland forest managers since its discovery in the US in 2002. Chemical suppression is possible, but impractical. Biological control can be successful but is slow acting. Innovative EAB management tools are clearly needed. RNAi technology represents a viable emerging strategy against EAB with proven lab and greenhouse results. My lab has developed emerald ash borer specific gene silencing technology to the point where it is ready for field evaluation, which is the focus of this project. This project addresses the FHP mission of sustaining the health, diversity, and productivity of our forests to meet the needs of present and future generations. This project fulfills FHP’s vision of creating and maintaining healthy resilient forests; it will improve forest conditions by promoting healthy, productive forest ecosystems by protecting trees and forests from insect outbreaks. This project directly addresses STDP Priority 3, protection and improvement of the health of our rural, wildland, and urban forests through development of silvicultural and other pest management tools and methods that improve, maintain, and restore forest health.