title: RNAi Efficiency, Systemic Properties, and Novel Delivery Methods for Pest Insect Control: What We Know So Far.
abstract: In recent years, the research on the potential of using RNA interference (RNAi) to suppress crop pests has made an outstanding growth. However, given the variability of RNAi efficiency that is observed in many insects, the development of novel approaches toward insect pest management using RNAi requires first to unravel factors behind the efficiency of dsRNA-mediated gene silencing. In this review, we explore essential implications and possibilities to increase RNAi efficiency by delivery of dsRNA through non-transformative methods. We discuss factors influencing the RNAi mechanism in insects and systemic properties of dsRNA. Finally, novel strategies to deliver dsRNA are discussed, including delivery by symbionts, plant viruses, trunk injections, root soaking, and transplastomic plants.
authors.affiliation: Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University Gent, Belgium.
authors.forename: Mallikarjuna R
authors.initials: MR
authors.lastname: Joga
authors.affiliation: Department of Crop Protection, Molecular Entomology, Federal University of Pelotas Pelotas, Brazil.
authors.forename: Moises J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Zotti
authors.affiliation: Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University Gent, Belgium.
authors.forename: Guy
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Smagghe
authors.affiliation: Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University Gent, Belgium.
authors.forename: Olivier
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Christiaens
keywords: RNA interference (RNAi); delivery; pest control; systemic RNAi; uptake