Syngenta’s RNA-based biocontrol for Colorado potato beetle has equivalent field efficacy compared to commercial chemical pesticides

Syngenta’s RNA-based biocontrol for Colorado potato beetle has equivalent field efficacy compared to commercial chemical pesticides.

Authors:  Jason Vincent, Russell Slater, Alfred Rindlisbacher, Annelies Philips, Wendy Maddelein, Robert Harris, John Silverthorne, Pascale Feldmann, Andrew Scarr, Geert Plaetinck

RNA-based biocontrols are being explored as new solutions for crop protection. These biocontrols provide a new mode of action based on the naturally-occurring process of RNA interference (RNAi) and can offer advantages in flexibility for pest control over traditional chemical or trait technologies. Because nucleotide sequence complementarity is a determining factor, RNA-based biocontrols can be designed to be selective for target pests whilst minimising the potential for effects in non-target organisms. RNA-based biocontrols selective for Colorado potato beetle (CPB) (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) have been tested over several seasons in field trials at multiple locations. The results demonstrate that RNA-based biocontrol is as effective at protecting potato crops as a class-leading chemical pesticide. The potential for RNA-based biocontrol solutions to overcome resistance to conventional pesticides, provide low environmental impact and good crop tolerance has also been evaluated. Our results clearly validate RNA-based biocontrols as effective solutions for crop protection. Syngenta is developing these and other RNA-based biocontrols into commercially viable products, with new modes of action to support growers in their integrated pest management programs.