Chinese scientists have identified a new molecular target for the development of green pesticides in a recent study, providing a potential solution to the growing problem of pest resistance to pesticides. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, pests cause a loss of 40% in global agricultural production, which annually generates economic losses of more than 220 billion dollars. This challenge requires innovative solutions for crop protection.
Yang Ching, a researcher from the Shenzhen Institute of Agricultural Genomics at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), pointed out that previous pest control methods, including spraying pesticides, using scents and introducing natural enemies, have had limited effectiveness. The main reasons are resistance to pesticides and high costs. Yang emphasizes the need to develop green pesticides, which are known for their high specificity, safety, efficacy and environmental friendliness. The key to their development lies in the identification of appropriate molecular targets.
Where do we stand with the development of green pesticides?
The research team, led by Yang, identified the ABCH protein, a specific molecular target present in insects and arthropods. At the same time, it is important to point out that the protein in question is absent in humans, mammals and plants. This protein plays a key role in the transport of lipids to the insect cuticle. Transport of lipids contributes to the formation of their lipid barrier and resistance to pesticides. The study also revealed a unique mechanism of interaction between ABCH transporters, lipids and insecticides. With this, opportunities for new approaches in pest control are opening up.
The team succeeded in developing a small molecular inhibitor that limits the function of the ABCH transporter, as well as effective ingredients for the synthesis of green pesticides. These discoveries provide the basis for the development of safe and effective agents that can significantly reduce the damage caused by pests to crops, with minimal impact on the environment.
The study represents an important contribution to entomology and pesticide science, offering new tools to control pests and improve agricultural production. The research results were published in the prestigious journal “Cell”, emphasizing the importance of this discovery for the future of sustainable agriculture and environmental protection. This innovation opens up possibilities for the global application of green pesticides, solving one of the most important challenges of modern agriculture.
Source: AgroTV
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