Researchers are exploring new pest control methods for crops, focusing on RNA interference (RNAi) biopesticides. These are innovative tools that use double-stranded RNA to silence specific genes in pests. The University of Tennessee, led by Assistant Professor Tabibul Islam, received a grant of nearly $644,000 from the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture to study how these biopesticides behave in the environment.
RNAi biopesticides work by applying RNA molecules that disrupt harmful pests’ genetic functions. They can be mixed with natural polymers like chitosan, which is made from chitin found in insect shells. Chitosan is eco-friendly and aids in delivering RNA molecules effectively. However, the long-term effects of these combinations in the environment aren’t well understood yet.
Islam emphasizes that understanding how long these RNA molecules last in controlled environments is crucial. “Knowledge of their persistence and effects is vital for regulatory decisions,” he says. Controlled environment agriculture (CEA) systems, such as greenhouses and vertical farms, allow for the precise management of growth conditions. These methods help increase crop yields while conserving water and enabling year-round production.
The study aims to assess the stability of RNAi in various agricultural settings and determine its impact on beneficial microbes. The results will help agencies like the EPA, USDA, and FDA set safe usage guidelines for these biopesticides. Biopesticides, according to Islam, could play a significant role in enhancing food security in both conventional and controlled agriculture.
Recent statistics reveal that CEA systems can reduce water usage by up to 90% compared to traditional farming. With the global demand for food rising, tools like RNAi biopesticides may be key to producing more food sustainably.
This research is part of the Biotechnology Risk Assessment Grants (BRAG) program, which has invested over $6.3 million in multiple studies across various ecosystems. Such initiatives aim to ensure that new agricultural technologies are safe and effective.
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture serves multiple areas – from research to outreach – and aims to provide real-life solutions for the community.
For more details about the USDA grant program, visit the Biotechnology Risk Assessment Grants page. You can explore more about agricultural innovations at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture.
