Optimization of parental RNAi conditions for hunchback gene in Locusta migratoria manilensis (Meyen)

Abstract

An investigation on the optimization of parental RNA interference (RNAi) conditions for hunchback (hb) gene in Locusta migratoria manilensis (Meyen) was conducted. Double stranded RNA (dsRNA) corresponding to hb gene was injected into haemocoel of female adults of L. migratoria manilensis. Embryos developed from the eggs laid by the injected adults on the 7th day after eclosion showed observable effects of RNAi for hb. The silencing effect after delivery treatment of dsRNA for hb gene was maintained for more than 21 days. A significant decrease of hb transcripts was further confirmed by Northern blot analysis. The dose of dsRNA/insect at 2 μg could trigger 96.9% RNAi effects, while silencing appeared to have no dependence on the size of dsRNA. Results suggest that parental RNAi could be employed to efficiently identify the developmental gene functions in L. migratoria manilensis. © 2009 The Authors Journal compilation © Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences.