Widely recognized as one of the premier functional genomics research tools, RNA interference (RNAi) has been used extensively in the post-genomics era to assign functions for genes annotated through small (expressed sequencing tags) or large (whole genome) scale sequencing efforts. Recently, the agricultural industry has recognized the potential to utilize RNAi as a mechanism to control the expression of target genes for pest control purposes resulting in a diversity of applications. Efficient delivery mechanisms, RNA stability, and RNA toxicity to the target organism remain as major technical challenges.  However, a number of different approaches are being developed to overcome these challenges including transgenic crop plants that express RNAi traits (in planta RNAi). Although RNAi-based insect pest management technologies have yet to be commercialized, they are likely to become an important pest management tool that complements existing control practices including synthetic pesticides and Bt traits.  This is especially important for target pest species, such as the western corn rootworm, where Bt traits are being challenged by resistance evolution. However, it is critical that the technology is used in a manner that is both sustainable and environmentally safe. The lack of a formalized/standardized ecological risk assessment (ERA) procedure remains as a major regulatory obstacle to integrate RNAi management approaches into sustainable pest management practices. An essential component of the ERA of RNAi plants involves in vivo RNAi toxicity testing under a defined worst-case scenario of exposure for both potential effects on non-target organisms and for resistance evolution. The studies described here are designed to answer questions directly pertaining to the risk of RNAi to non-target arthropods that are at greatest risk of exposure because of a shared environment and common molecular targets.  In addition, studies to address the potential for resistance evolution are also described.

RNA interference in insect pest management: Assessing potential benefits and risks

246th National Meeting (2013)

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