Evaluating the Impact of Nanoporous MCM41 Insecticide on Sitophilus oryzae (L.): Physiological and Molecular Level

Article Type

Research Article

Publication Title

Journal of Crop Health

Abstract

Nanoporous MCM41-based insecticides have emerged as eco-friendly alternatives to conventional pesticides, offering reduced mammalian toxicity. These insecticides possess desirable attributes, making them model candidates for sustainable pest control. Earlier studies demonstrated that 99.5% pure nanosilica effectively controls stored grain pests like Sitophilus oryzae (L.) at low relative humidity (r. h.) but fails at r. h. ≥ 70%. However, nanoporous MCM41 formulations effectively target pests like S. oryzae even at higher r. h. levels (60–80%). The primary action mechanism involves desiccating insects through epicuticle destruction, impairing their water barrier. Unlike diatomaceous earth (DE), MCM41 may also enter the tracheae, disrupting respiratory functions. Investigating this, we analyzed the expression of regulatory genes in S. oryzae tracheae after exposure to nanoporous MCM41 (2–4 g/kg grain) for 1 and 7 days using immunocytochemistry, electron microscopy, and SQ RT-PCR. Our findings revealed upregulation of genes like Jing, Formin3, F‑actin, Robo, and Notch within the first day of exposure, whereas expression declined after seven days. Conversely, genes FGF, PAP‑1, Dpp, and Met were downregulated, while Ras‑1 and Vilse remained unchanged. This dysregulation of growth-related genes disrupts the regulatory balance in the tracheae, ultimately causing insect mortality. These results highlight the potential of nanoporous MCM41 as a novel, effective approach to controlling stored product pests under varying environmental conditions.

DOI

10.1007/s10343-024-01098-1

Publication Date

2-1-2025

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