Mechanisms, applications, and challenges of insect RNA interference

Kun Yan Zhu, Subba Reddy Palli

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

384 Scopus citations

Abstract

The RNA interference (RNAi) triggered by short/small interfering RNA (siRNA) was discovered in nematodes and found to function in most living organisms. RNAi has been widely used as a research tool to study gene functions and has shown great potential for the development of novel pest management strategies. RNAi is highly efficient and systemic in coleopterans but highly variable or inefficient in many other insects. Differences in double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) degradation, cellular uptake, inter- and intracellular transports, processing of dsRNA to siRNA, and RNA-induced silencing complex formation influence RNAi efficiency. The basic dsRNA delivery methods include microinjection, feeding, and soaking. To improve dsRNA delivery, various new technologies, including cationic liposome-assisted, nanoparticle-enabled, symbiont-mediated, and plant-mediated deliveries, have been developed. Major challenges to widespread use of RNAi in insect pest management include variable RNAi efficiency among insects, lack of reliable dsRNA delivery methods, off-target and nontarget effects, and potential development of resistance in insect populations.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)293-311
Number of pages19
JournalAnnual Review of Entomology
Volume65
DOIs
StatePublished - 2020

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
Copyright © 2020 by Annual Reviews. All rights reserved.

Keywords

  • RNAi efficiency
  • RNAi pathway
  • dsRNA delivery
  • pest management
  • systemic RNAi

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics
  • Insect Science

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