Development of dsRNA as a Sustainable Bioinsecticide: From Laboratory to Field

Foliar-applied double stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) is a new mode of action biopesticide for crop protection against insects. Orally delivered dsRNA can be designed to specifically initiate RNA interference (RNAi) to downregulate mRNA for essential gene sequences unique to target insect pests. The stringent requirement for sequence specificity results in RNAi-mediated control of pests while avoiding negative impacts on non-target organisms. GreenLight Biosciences' proprietary cell free RNA synthesis platform provides a breakthrough process for cost-effective manufacture of large-scale quantities of dsRNA for commercial field application. GreenLight Biosciences uses its RNA platform to produce the first sprayable dsRNA bioinsecticide product targeting the Colorado potato beetle (CPB), Leptinotarsa decemlineata. Double stranded RNA homologous to the coding sequence for the CPB proteasome subunit beta type-5 (PSMB5) gene was characterized for biological efficacy and target gene knock-down in laboratory and greenhouse experiments. Field studies in potato-growing regions across the United States demonstrated the ability of GreenLight's CPB product to provide protection against CPB feeding damage equivalent to traditional chemical products. Low persistence under field settings and sequence-based evidence for lack of non-target effects support the long-term sustainability profile of PSMB5 dsRNA. The PSMB5 dsRNA for control of CPB was given the active ingredient common name of Ledprona. Cost effective production of dsRNA will enable commercialization of Ledprona and additional new products with improved environmental safety profiles.