Abstract
RNA-mediated pathways form an important regulatory layer of myriad biological processes. In the last decade, the potential of RNA molecules to contribute to the control of agricultural pests has not been disregarded, specifically via the RNA interference (RNAi) mechanism. In fact, several proofs-of-concept have been made in this scope. Furthermore, a novel research field regarding extracellular RNAs and RNA-based intercellular/interorganismal communication is booming. In this article, we review key discoveries concerning extracellular RNAs in insects, insect RNA-based cell-to-cell communication, and plant–insect transfer of RNA. In addition, we overview the molecular mechanisms implicated in this form of communication and discuss future biotechnological prospects, namely from the insect pest-control perspective.
Highlights
Regulatory RNAs and Insect-Plant InteractionsRNAs exist in a wide variety of structures and sizes, well suited to regulate a multitude of processes
Three main routes for cell-to-cell RNA based communication have been proposed, namely via transfer of naked RNA, RNA bound to RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), and RNA-containing extracellular vesicles (EVs)
RNA molecules and their related pathways are classically described at the intracellular level
Summary
RNAs exist in a wide variety of structures and sizes, well suited to regulate a multitude of processes. Regulatory RNAs, referred to as non-coding RNAs, do not contribute directly to protein synthesis but function at various control levels to modulate gene expression These molecules act both at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels, by mediating chromatin modulation, regulating alternative splicing, inducing suppression of translation, or directing the degradation of target transcripts [1]. The CRISPRCas (clustered regularly inter-spaced short palindromic repeats and associated genes) system has attracted a lot of attention due to its exceptional potential for RNA-guided genome editing This mechanism led to the 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry [21,22]. Understanding the mechanisms of intercellular RNA transfer in insects, as well as of the communication between Animalia and Plantae, promises to contribute to the development of novel technologies These are crucial to cope with insect-related challenges, and valuable examples are RNAi-directed pest control strategies. We discuss the possible underlying transfer mechanisms and the related biotechnological prospects
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