Generic approach for the development of genetic sexing strains for SIT applications
Closed for Proposals
Project Type
Coordinated Research ProjectProject Code
D44003
CRP
2192
Approved Date
4 December 2018Project Status
ClosedStart Date
27 March 2019Expected End Date
28 March 2025Completed Date
4 August 2025Participating Countries
Argentina, Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Cameroon, China, Czech Republic, Germany, France, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Greece, Guatemala, Israel, Italy, Mexico, Pakistan, Thailand, United States of America, South AfricaDescription
The objective of this CRP is to develop generic approaches for the development of genetic sexing strains for sterile insect technique applications will have the following outputs:
-Assessment of at least two generic strategies that can be followed to solving the problem of developing GSS: 1) the development of strains that have conditional, sex-specific (female-specific) lethal phenotypes and 2) strains with altered sex determination and development pathways resulting in skewed sex ratios (male-only).
-Assessment of approaches to successfully implement these strategies and of particular interest are those that are the most widely applicable with respect to the number of target species to which the solution could be implemented with a minimum of research and development.
-Use of generic approaches to develop genetic sexing strains that reduce research and development time and costs, allowing SIT programs to be more readily developed and implemented against more pest species.
Objectives
The main objective of this CRP is the development and evaluation of generic approaches for the construction of genetic sexing strains (GSS) to be used for sterile insect technique (SIT) applications, as part of AW-IPM programs, to control populations of agricultural pests and disease vectors.
Specific Objectives
To develop generic strategies for the construction of GSS for SIT applications
To assess the efficiency, applicability and the range of the species transferability of the generic approaches
To evaluate, at small scale, GSS developed through the generic approaches
To develop generic strategies for the construction of GSS for SIT applications
To assess the efficiency, applicability and the range of the species transferability of the generic approaches
To evaluate, at small scale, GSS developed through the generic approaches
Impact
Developing efficient and genetically stable genetic sexing strains (GSS) is crucial for improving the cost-effectiveness and scalability of the sterile insect technique (SIT) used in pest and vector control. Traditional genetic methods have been successfully applied to certain species, but they depend on irradiation-induced chromosomal translocations and extensive screening, making them labour-intensive and time-consuming. Although transgenic methods offer greater precision, they face regulatory and societal challenges that hinder their widespread adoption.
The generic neoclassical genetic approach, utilizing CRISPR/Cas genome editing, offers a groundbreaking solution by enabling the targeted introduction and linkage of sexing traits across various insect species. This method combines the robustness of classical genetics with the precision of genome engineering, facilitating the rapid and stable development of GSS. It allows for the identification and modification of conserved selectable markers, their integration into sex-specific chromosomal regions, and the reduction of recombination-induced genetic instability.
Future research should focus on refining CRISPR-based gene knock-in strategies, especially in highly heterochromatic sex-determining regions, and evaluating the long-term genetic stability and field performance of newly developed GSS. Advances in genomic sequencing, transcriptomics, and bioinformatics will be essential in overcoming current limitations and ensuring the broad applicability of neoclassical GSS across diverse pest species.
By incorporating modern genome editing into established SIT frameworks, the neoclassical genetic approach provides a scalable, precise, and transferable method for developing the next generation of genetic sexing strains. This will enhance global area-wide integrated pest management (AW-IPM) programs and contribute to more sustainable and effective insect population suppression strategies.
Relevance
The use of GSS enhances the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of SIT applications. However, GSS are not available for most of the SIT target species because the classical method is based on stochastic mutational events, and it is time-consuming. Novel generic methods developed in the frame of the CRP set a fast and targeted way for constructing high quality genetic sexing strains.
In addition, the CRP contributes significantly to achieving several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting its relevance to global development priorities:
1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger: By advancing genetic sexing strain (GSS) technologies for the sterile insect technique (SIT), the CRP supports sustainable agriculture by reducing pest populations, minimizing crop losses, and enhancing food security.
2. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being: The CRP fosters the development of SIT approaches for vector control, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides and mitigating health risks associated with vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue.
3. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production: Promoting eco-friendly pest control methods aligns with responsible production practices, reducing environmental impacts and pesticide residues in agricultural production systems.
4. SDG 13: Climate Action: Climate-resilient pest control strategies developed under this CRP address the challenges of invasive pest species exacerbated by climate change, supporting sustainable agricultural adaptation.
5. SDG 15: Life on Land: By offering innovative pest management strategies, the CRP contributes to preserving biodiversity, protecting ecosystems from invasive pests, and reducing the ecological footprint of agricultural practices.
6. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals: The CRP fosters global collaborations, including partnerships with EU projects such as Horizon Europe REACT and multiple international stakeholders, to integrate and implement sustainable pest control solutions.