Loss-of-function in testis-specific serine/threonine protein kinase triggers male infertility in an invasive moth.

ABSTRACT: Genetic biocontrol technologies present promising and eco-friendly strategies for the management of pest and insect-transmitted diseases. Although considerable advancements achieve in gene drive applications targeting mosquitoes, endeavors to combat agricultural pests have been somewhat restricted. Here, we identify that the testis-specific serine/threonine kinases (TSSKs) family is uniquely expressed in the testes of Cydia pomonella, a prominent global invasive species. We further generated male moths with disrupted the expression of TSSKs and those with TSSKs disrupted using RNA interference and CRISPR/Cas9 genetic editing techniques, resulting in significant disruptions in spermiogenesis, decreased sperm motility, and hindered development of eggs. Further explorations into the underlyin

SUBMITTER: Wei Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11450154 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature