Tuesday, December 11, 2007 - 1:55 PM
1016

Gene silencing as a tool for termite control?

Michael E Scharf, mescharf@ufl.edu1, Xuguo Zhou, joezhou@ufl.edu2, Faith M. Oi, foi@ufl.edu3, and Marsha M. Wheeler, marsha.wheeler@gmail.com2. (1) University of Florida, Entomology & Nematology, PO Box 110620, Gainesville, FL, (2) University of Florida, Entomology, PO Box 110620 Bldg. 970 Natural Area Drive, Gainesville, FL, (3) University of Florida, Entomology and Nematology, PO Box 110620, Building 970 Natural Area Drive, Gainesville, FL

Recent advances in molecular biology have made gene silencing in insects a reality. RNA interference (RNAi) is the primary tool available for this purpose. In termites, RNAi is a proven research tool that has begun to elucidate molecular mechanisms of termite sociality. However, while it is a proven research tool, the utility of RNAi as a tool for termite control remains to be fully realized. Perceived barriers include target identification, delivery strategies, safety to non-target organisms, and acceptance by the public and regulatory agencies. This presentation will overview recent successes, as well as provide a synopsis of currently perceived barriers.


Species 1: Isoptera Rhinotermitidae Reticulitermes flavipes (eastern subterranean termite)
Species 2: Isoptera Rhinotermitidae Coptotermes formosanus (Formosan subterranean termite)