Efficient nanoparticle ‐based CRISPR‐Cas13d induced mRNA disruption of an eye pigmentation gene in the white‐backed planthopper, Sogatella furcifera

In this study, the smallest Cas13 family member, Cas13d, and guide RNAs (gRNAs) were complexed with a versatile nanomaterial (star polycation, SPc) to generate a proof-of-concept RNA-editing platform capable of disrupting mRNA expression of the eye pigmentation genetryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (SfTO) in white-backed planthoppers (WBPHs). The resulting red-eye phenotype was present in 19.76% (with SPc) and 22.99% (without SPc) of the treatment groups and was comparable to the red-eye phenotype generated following conventional RNA interference knockdown (22.22%). Furthermore, the Cas13/gRNA phenotype manifested more quickly than RNA interference. Consistent with the expected Cas13d mechanism,SfTO transcript levels were significantly reduced. Taken together, the results indicate that the SPc-CRISPR-Cas13d/gRNA complex negatively impacted expression of the target gene. These findings confirm the utility of this novel mRNA disruption system in insects and lay the foundation for further development of these tools in the implementation of green agricultural pest management tactics.

Source: Insect Science - May 19, 2023 Category: Biology Authors: Yun ‐Feng Ma, Meng‐Qi Zhang, Lang‐Lang Gong, Xuan‐Zheng Liu, Gui‐Jun Long, Huan Guo, J. Joe Hull, Youssef Dewer, Ming He, Peng He Tags: ORIGINAL ARTICLE Source Type: research