Developments in peptide-based biocontrol agents to manage insect pests

Publication date: 03/04/2025
Extent: 16 pages

Contributions by: Yousef M. Abul-Haija, Lewis J. Archibald, Alexander J. Finney, Hugh A. Nicholson, Julian A. T. Dow; and Shireen-Anne Davies, SOLASTA Bio Ltd., U.K

Chapter synopsis:

Chemical insecticides are beset by the twin problems of regulatory pressure and insect resistance. New mode-of-action Plant Protection Products (PPPs) will play a vital role in securing food for the future due to existing and emerging pest and disease pressures and will be directed against a wide range of molecular targets. Insect neuropeptides, which regulate critical life processes, could prove useful for developing alternative strategies for pest management. Recent increases in ‘omics-based data capture has allowed for improved assessment of potential neuropeptide mimetics, while expanding the potential impact with identification of new, specific, pest species targets. Rational design of neuropeptide analogues with improved efficacy, biostability and bioavailability could provide a new generation of eco-friendly, pollinator-safe bioinsecticides. Continued optimization of appropriate adjuvants and formulations for peptides, as well as green improvements to their production on a large scale, would help their adoption as a viable alternative to problematic conventional insecticides.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2024.0149.06