Knockout of the HaREase Gene Improves the Stability of dsRNA and Increases the Sensitivity of Helicoverpa armigera to Bacillus thuringiensis Toxin.

ABSTRACT: Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-induced genes are usually related to RNA interference (RNAi) mechanisms and are involved in immune-related pathways. In a previous study, we found a lepidopteran-specific nuclease gene REase that was up-regulated by dsRNA and that affected RNAi efficiency in Asian corn borer (Ostrinia furnacalis). In this study, to verify the function of REase, the homologous gene HaREase in cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) was knocked out using CRISPR/Cas9 system. We found that the midgut epithelium structure was apparently not affected in the ΔHaREase mutant [Knock out (KO)]. Transcript sequencing results showed that most of the known insect immune-related genes were up-regulated in KO. When second instar larvae were fed artifici

SUBMITTER: Guan R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6823249 | biostudies-literature | 2019

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature