RNA Insecticide Could Target Specific Pests
A novel insecticide targets a specific gene in a pest, killing only that bug species and avoiding collateral damage to beneficial insects caused by today’s pesticides. Pest Management Science describes how the RNA-based insecticide can be effective for at least 28 days when sprayed, a finding that dispels previous concerns that the genetic material would quickly degrade in rain and sunlight. The major problem with conventional insecticides is they affect non-target organisms. Before such an insecticide is ready for market, it needs more work; the cost of making RNA insecticide is currently much higher than conventional insecticides.
