Fusion dsRNA designs incorporating multiple target sequences can enhance the aphid control capacity of an RNAi‐based strategy

BACKGROUND RNA interference (RNAi) is the sequence‐dependent suppression of gene expression by double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA). This is a promising strategy for the control of insect pests because dsRNA can be rationally designed to maximize efficacy and biosafety, the latter by using sequences that are found in target pests but are safe for non‐target insects. However, this has yet to be optimized in aphids, destructive sap‐sucking pests that also transmit plant viruses. We used the green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) as a case study to optimize the efficiency of RNAi by applying a novel fusion dsRNA design. RESULTS Comparative transcriptomics revealed a number of genes that are induced in feeding aphids, and eight candidate genes were chosen as RNAi targets. To improve RNAi efficiency, our fusion dsRNA design approach combined optimal gene fragments (highly conserved in several aphid species but with less homology in beneficial insects such as the predator ladybeetle Propylea japonica) from three candidate genes. We compared this RNAi‐based biological control approach with conventional chemical control using imidacloprid. We found that the fusion dsRNA strategy inhibited the aphid population to a significantly greater extent than single‐target RNAi and did not affect ladybeetle fitness, allowing an additive effect between RNAi and natural predation, whereas imidacloprid was harmful to aphids and ladybeetles. CONCLUSION Our fusion dsRNA design approach enhances the ability of RNAi to control aphids without harming natural predators. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. A fusion dsRNA design can enhance aphid control capacity. Eight aphid genes were selected as candidate RNAi targets and the fusion dsRNA design avoided off‐target risks to predators and enhanced aphid control capacity.