Development of efficient RNAi methods in the corn leafhopper Dalbulus maidis, a promising application for pest control. Issue 7 (5th May 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dalaisón‐Fuentes, Lucía Inés; Pascual, Agustina; Gazza, Elías; Welchen, Elina; Rivera‐Pomar, Rolando; Catalano, María Inés
• Is Part Of: Pest management science. Volume 78:Issue 7(2022)
• Page Start: 3108
• Page End: 3116
• Publication Date: 2022-05-05
• Subjects: Hemiptera -- phytophagous -- corn stunt -- pest management -- gene silencing; Pests -- Control -- Periodicals; Pesticides -- Periodicals; 632.9
• DOI: 10.1002/ps.6937
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1526-498X

Abstract

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The corn leafhopper Dalbulus maidis is the main vector of important stunting pathogens that affect maize production. Currently, there are no effective methods available to manage this pest without adverse impact on the environment. In this context, genomic‐based technologies such as RNA interference (RNAi) provide a more environmentally friendly pest control strategy. Therefore, we aimed to assess the application of RNAi in D. maidis and determine the function of a candidate gene related to insect reproduction and propagation. RESULTS: We have characterized the core RNAi genes and evaluated the functionality of the RNAi machinery. We assessed the potential of RNAi technology in D. maidis via injection or ingestion of double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) to adult females. We chose Bicaudal C ( BicC ) as a target gene due to its important role during insect oogenesis. Administration of dsRNA BicC caused significant reductions in the transcript levels (fold changes up to 170 times) and ovipositions. Phenotypic analysis of the ovaries revealed alterations in oocyte development, providing additional confirmation for our results and supporting the idea that Dmai ‐ BicC is a key player of D. maidis oogenesis. CONCLUSION: This is, to our knowledge, the first report of efficient RNAi in D. maidis . We believe our findings provide a starting point for future control strategies against one of the most important maize pests in the Americas. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry. Abstract : This study provides evidence of a functional RNAi machinery in D. maidis . On the basis of our results, we propose that oogenesis‐related genes, such as Dmai ‐ BicC, are promising targets by inducing reproductive arrest of the females, hence preventing pest propagation.