Molecular study on field evolved resistance of red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferruginous) and its management through RNAi

Abstract

Molecular and proteomic study was conducted on field evolved resistance of Red Palm Weevil (Rhynchophorus ferruginous) against Parathyroid group of insecticide (Cypermethrin). Cytochrome P450 genes have been associated with insecticides resistance. Field collected population of R. ferruginous from different provinces of Pakistan was investigated for insecticides resistance development against P450 gene. Insect bioassay indicated highly significant level of LC50 values among laboratory reared and field collected population against Cypermethrin. The laboratory reared resistant population, Sindh and South Punjab collected population showed high LC50 values as compared to susceptible, Baluchistan and KPK population. The expression of P450 gene through PCR showed enhanced level of P450 gene in different Instars as well as collected population. The dsRNA specific for CYP450 gene was designed and targeted through dsRNA in thoracic region of R. ferruginous through micro-injection. Gene expression and proteomic study confirmed the down regulation of P450 gene and associated protein in dsRNA treated population. The application of ds RNA specific for CYP450 also reduced insecticide resistance in R. ferruginous. The developmental parameters were highly affected in RPW treated with dsRNA as compared to control samples treated with water or dsGFP. These results support the RNAi application as a suitable tool for the management of insecticide resistance and control of R. ferruginous.