Biological Control of Insect Pests Using Entomopathogenic Enzymes: Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract

Interest in using entomopathogenic enzymes as eco-friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides has grown with the increasing demand for sustainable pest management. These enzymes, such as proteases, chitinases, and lipases, selectively target the structural and physiological features of the insect pest, degrading protective barriers and disrupting vital processes. When used appropriately, the bacterial enzymes also offer additional benefits. This review examines the significance of entomopathogenic enzymes in pest control, highlighting recent technological developments to improve enzyme production, stability, and delivery. Advances in microbial fermentation, genetic engineering, and nanoencapsulation have reduced cost reduction and enhanced enzyme resilience for outdoor applications. The integration of these enzymes with other biocontrol agents, such as microbial insecticides and natural predators, and their compatibility within an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) framework are also discussed. However, challenges include high production costs, environmental degradation, specificity limitations, and regulatory hurdles. Further research is needed to address these issues, making enzyme-based strategies more viable for large-scale applications. We identified research gaps, including the need for cost-effective production techniques, stabilized enzymes for application under diverse field conditions, and streamlined regulatory requirements. As biotechnology advances, developing custom-made enzymes for specific pests will expand the potential for safer and more effective pest control methods. Entomopathogenic enzymes represent a promising shift towards sustainable agriculture, offering targeted and environmentally friendly safe pest management alternatives.