Synthesis and bioactivity studies of the potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) sex pheromone analogs.

Background: Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a staple food crop globally, but its production is consistently threatened by diseases and arthropod pests like the potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae). Phthorimaea operculella is often controlled by chemical applications. Sex pheromones have been used to detect, monitor, or control agricultural pests. Phthorimaea operculella sex pheromones mainly contain two chemical structures, 4E,7Z-trisadene-1-ol acetate and 4E,7Z,10Z-trisadene-1-ol acetate. However, the pheromone analogs are expected to act as mimics, synergists, antagonists, and inhibitors for pheromones and can be synthesized at a large scale.
Result: In this study, a total of 11 sex pheromone analogs of P. operculella were designed and synthesized. Results showed that the antennae exhibited a concentration-dependent response to sex pheromones and their analogs. Different analogs and dosages had significant effects on the electrophysiological response of the antennae. In the field trials, when used alone, A ₆ , B ₃ and B ₅ exhibited significant trapping effects in tobacco and potato fields. When used alternately with sex pheromone components, the analog B ₃ had significantly higher trapping effects in both tobacco and potato fields compared to the control, while combinations containing fluorinated analogs showed lower trapping effects.
Conclusion: In summary, the use of sex pheromone analogs holds great promise for integration into pest management programs. Further investigation to fine-tune dosage and duration for optimal use is still needed. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
(© 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)