The Study of Cell-Penetrating Peptides to Deliver dsRNA and siRNA by Feeding in the Desert Locust, Schistocerca gregaria

RNA(i) interference is a gene silencing mechanism triggered by double-stranded (ds)RNA, which promises to contribute species-specific insect pest control strategies. The first step toward the application of RNAi as an insecticide enable efficient upon dsRNA oral delivery. desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria devastating agricultural pest. While this species responsive delivered intra-hemocoelic injection, it refractory orally dsRNA. In study, we evaluated capacity five cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) bind long and protect from locust midgut environment. We then selected CPP EB1 for further in vivo studies. EB1:dsRNA complexes failed induce feeding. Interestingly, observed that injection small-interfering (si)RNAs does not result response, but response can be obtained injecting EB1:siRNA complexes. also protected siRNAs degradation activity. However, well triggering when fed. Our findings highlight complexity dsRNA/siRNA-triggered emphasize multifactorial nature insects. study stresses importance studies comes dsRNA/siRNA delivery systems.