A gene silencing of V‐ATPase subunit A interferes with survival and development of the tomato leafminer, <i>Tuta absoluta</i>
Shima Rahmani, Ali R. Bandani
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) technology is not only considered as a tool to analyze gene function, but it is also potentially considered as a strategy to develop novel biopesticide. In the current study, a double-stranded RNA specific to v-ATPase subunit A of the tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick; Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), was orally administered. A gradual decrease in the expression of the gene was observed from Day 1 to 3 and resulted in significant larval mortality. These results suggest that v-ATPases A can be considered as a promising target gene by RNAi technology to be used in the management of the tomato leafminer.
Topics & Concepts
Tuta absolutaRNA interferenceBiologyGene silencingGeneLepidoptera genitaliaGelechiidaeBiopesticideRNAProtein subunitRNA silencingBotanyGeneticsPesticideEcologyInsect Resistance and GeneticsInsect-Plant Interactions and ControlRNA and protein synthesis mechanisms