Screening of dsRNA targets in the salivary glands of Myzus persicae and development of a Trichoderma-based bio-expression system.

BACKGROUND: Aphids are globally prevalent pests that inflict considerable harm on plants. Owing to increasing pesticide resistance, it is crucial to develop environmentally sustainable and effective control methods. RNA interference (RNAi) using double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) holds great promise for pest control, but is hindered by the instability of dsRNA and the scarcity of effective target genes. This study aimed to overcome these limitations by developing a novel bio-expression system using the beneficial fungus Trichoderma asperellum. RESULTS: This study identified several salivary gland secretory protein genes that are highly expressed during the nymphal stage of Myzus persicae through transcriptome analysis across developmental stages. These genes were confirmed as RNAi targets with substantial impacts on inhibiting aphid survival and reproduction. Additionally, we successfully developed T. asperellum strains that express targeted dsRNA, confirming the incorporation and transcription of external genes in fungus. CONCLUSION: Our results validate salivary gland genes as effective RNAi targets for aphid control and, more importantly, establish a novel Trichoderma-based expression platform for stable dsRNA production, which holds promise as a potential delivery vehicle for future RNAi-based pest management following in vivo functional validation. This synergistic strategy represents a significant advance toward sustainable and targeted pest management. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.