RNA interference: a promising biopesticide strategy against the African Sweetpotato Weevil Cylas brunneus.

ABSTRACT: The African sweetpotato weevil Cylas brunneus is one of the most devastating pests affecting the production of sweetpotatoes, an important staple food in Sub-Saharan Africa. Current available control methods against this coleopteran pest are limited. In this study, we analyzed the potential of RNA interference as a novel crop protection strategy against this insect pest. First, the C. brunneus transcriptome was sequenced and RNAi functionality was confirmed by successfully silencing the laccase2 gene. Next, 24 potential target genes were chosen, based on their critical role in vital biological processes. A first screening via injection of gene-specific dsRNAs showed that the dsRNAs were highly toxic for C. brunneus. Injected doses of 200ng/mg body weight led to mortality rates of 90% or hi

SUBMITTER: Christiaens O 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5150260 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature