Risk assessment of RNAi-based pesticides to non-target organisms: Evaluating the effects of sequence similarity in the parasitoid wasp Telenomus podisi.

RNA interference (RNAi)-based pesticides are promising novel pest management products that might reduce environmental impacts compared to other pesticides. Their sequence-guided mode of action facilitates a high species-selectivity, preventing harm on non-target organisms. However, there is currently no consensus on the minimum needed sequence similarity for efficient RNAi in insects and studies have shown that adverse effects in non-targets cannot always be ruled out a priori.

Imidacloprid-mediated alterations on the salivary glands of the Neotropical brown stink bug, Euschistus heros.

The management of the Neotropical brown stinkbug Euschistus heros (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) in soybean fields has been heavily dependent on the application of neonicotinoid insecticides. Neonicotinoids act primarily by impairing the function of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors of the nervous system. These compounds also target specific organs (e.

Liposome encapsulation and EDTA formulation of dsRNA targeting essential genes increase oral RNAi-caused mortality in the Neotropical stink bug Euschistus heros.

Background: The Neotropical stink bug Euschistus heros is a major pest in soybean fields. Development of highly species-specific pesticides based on RNA interference (RNAi) could provide a new sustainable and environmentally friendly control strategy.

Results: Here, the potential of RNAi as a pest control tool against E.