RNA interference in Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata): A potential strategy for pest control

Colorado potato beetle (CPB), Leptinotarsa decemlineata, is a notorious destructive pest that mainly feeds on the leaves of potato and several other solanaceous plants. CPB is widely recognized for its adaptation to a remarkable variety of host plants and diverse climates, and its high resistance to insecticides and Bacillus thuringiensis toxins. RNA interference (RNAi) is a sequence-specific, endogenous gene silencing mechanism evoked by small RNA molecules that is used as a robust tool for virus and pest control. RNAi has been extensively tested for CPB management by employing various target genes and delivery methods. This article reviews the screening of RNAi target genes, efficient RNAi delivery systems, and factors affecting RNAi efficiency in CPB, which may help understand the mechanisms of RNAi and its application in CPB control strategy.