Invention:
This invention is for a novel bioinsecticide for use in combatting Bemisia tabaci B mitotype NAF-ME cryptic species, the whitefly pest. This new method utilizes piRNA gene splicing techniques to incite lethal phenotypes into the target with increased targeting and specificity for use in other mechanisms.
Background:
RNAi technology falls under the plant-incorporated protectant (PIP) category. Before the first PIP product was registered in 1995, EPA required that PIP products be thoroughly tested to ensure they meet federal safety standards before they were used on human food and livestock feed crops. Since their initial development, RNAi technology has met challenges in stability of RNA used as well as within siRNA-based RNAi where a double-stranded RNA precursor is essential for operation. This new technology features piRNA gene splicing with the ability to manipulate specific strands with increased stability via tetraloop sequences. This new specific splicing allows for more availability for processing on large scales.
Applications:
- Novel method of piRNA gene splicing for development of bioinsecticide for whiteflies
Advantages:
- Only requiring single RNA strand for development
- Not dependent on sequence structure
- Opportunities for inclusion of additional strands
- Increased specificity and availability
