A brief review of most widely used modern insecticides and prospects for the creation of DNA insecticides

Abstract

The need for insecticides cannot be questioned but many of them cause great harm to the environment. This warrants further research aimed at the development of safe preparations. Understanding the structure and mode of action of the modern insecticides as well as the risks associated with their use is important for the development of effective and selective insecticides. The most marketable preparations will be those combining the best properties of the existing insecticides. In our opinion, this condition is met by DNA insecticides, preparations based on nucleic acids. They have some unique features, such as a topical application, the small size of oligonucleotides, the use of single-stranded DNA molecules, and the use of viral anti-apoptotic genes. These features distinguish DNA insecticides from other post-genomic means of plant protection that are currently under development. DNA insecticides can combine the best characteristics of modern insecticides, namely, affordability, fast action of chemical insecticides, and selectivity of biological preparations.