RNAi and the sterile insect technique

Darrington M, Dalmay T, Morrison NI, Chapman T. Implementing the sterile insect technique with RNA interference - a review. Entomol Exp Appl. 2017 Sep;164(3):155-175. PMID: 29200471; PMCID: PMC5697603.

From the abstract: "We review RNA interference (RNAi) of insect pests and its potential for implementing sterile insect technique (SIT)-related control. The molecular mechanisms that support RNAi in pest species are reviewed in detail, drawing on literature from a range of species including Drosophila melanogaster Meigen and Homo sapiens L. ... RNAi represents a plausible, non-GM system for targeting populations of insects for control purposes, if RNAi effector molecules can be delivered environmentally (eRNAi). We consider studies of eRNAi from across several insect orders and review to what extent taxonomy, genetics, and differing methods of double-stranded (ds) RNA synthesis and delivery can influence the efficiency of gene knockdown. ..."

RNAi as insecticide

David O'Brachta at the IGT-RCN reports on insecticidal dsRNA encoded by corn, which is "moving to the field" currently "for seed production and breeding only."  Read the story here.

Breaking Report: Review of RNAi screening

Norbert and I have a new review out that discusses cell-based and in vivo RNAi in various species and emphasizes interaction of the RNAi screening field with other fields of study.

Mohr & Perrimon (2011) RNAi screening: new approaches, understandings, and organisms. Wiley Interdiscip Rev RNA. doi: 10.1002/wrna. PubMed ID: 21953743

Going for the Kill

On my desk to read today? A paper that describes using in vivo RNAi to sensitize strains, then test potential insecticides for activity that might otherwise be masked by a wild-type organism's ability to detox.

Shah et al. (2011) Insecticide detoxification indicator strains as tools for enhancing chemical discovery screens. Pest Manag Sci. doi: 10.1002/ps.2218. PMID: 21681918.