Tag: RNA interference

The State of Insect Resistance to Transgenic Bt Crops

Crops engineered to produce insecticidal proteins from the bacteria Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) have had many noteworthy successes in the past 25 years, but resistance to Bt crops has evolved in numerous instances, as well. A new research review examines global patterns of resistance to Bt crops and outlines strategies for maximizing sustainability of this important tool for pest management.

Entomology Today 1 month ago 1 Comment

RNAi Insecticide Offers Promise for Managing Colorado Potato Beetle

A study evaluating one of the first insecticides developed to use RNA interference as a mode of action finds significant effects on mobility, pupation, and reproduction of the target insect, the Colorado potato beetle.

Bacteria Can Be Used for RNA Interference in Insects

Bacteria in the gut of disease-bearing insects — including the mosquito which carries the Zika virus — can be used as a Trojan horse to help control the insects’ population, […]

Discovery May Lead to “Anti-Viagra” for Insects

Kansas State University entomologists have helped identify a neuropeptide named natalisin that regulates the sexual activity and reproductive ability of insects. Using a genetic tool called RNA interference, or RNAi, […]