Spray-Applied RNA Interference Biopesticides: Mechanisms, Technological Advances, and Challenges Toward Sustainable Pest Management

Abstract

Spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS) represents a transformative paradigm in sustainable pest management, utilizing the exogenous application of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) to achieve sequence-specific silencing of essential genes in arthropod pests. Unlike transgenic approaches, sprayable RNA interference (RNAi) biopesticides offer superior versatility across crop systems, flexible application timing, and a more favorable regulatory and public acceptance profile. The 2023 U.S. EPA registration of Ledprona, the first sprayable dsRNA biopesticide targeting Leptinotarsa decemlineata, marks a significant milestone toward the commercialization of non-transformative RNAi technologies. Despite the milestone, large-scale field deployment faces critical bottlenecks, primarily environmental instability, enzymatic degradation by nucleases, and variable cellular uptake across pest taxa. This review critically analyzes the mechanistic basis of spray-applied RNAi and synthesizes the recent technological breakthroughs designed to overcome physiological and environmental barriers. We highlight advanced delivery strategies, including nuclease inhibitor co-application, liposome encapsulation, and nanomaterial-based formulations that enhance persistence on plant foliage and uptake efficiency. Furthermore, we discuss how innovations in microbial fermentation have drastically reduced synthesis costs, rendering industrial-scale production economically viable. Finally, we outline the roadmap for broad adoption, addressing essential factors such as biosafety assessment, environmental fate, resistance management protocols, and the path toward cost-effective manufacturing.