The RNA interference (RNAi) triggered by short/small interfering RNA (siRNA) was discovered in nematodes and found to function in most living organisms. RNAi has been widely used as a research tool to study gene functions and has shown great potential for the development of novel pest management strategies. RNAi is highly efficient and systemic in coleopterans but highly variable or inefficient in many other insects. Differences in double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) degradation, cellular uptake, inter- and intracellular transports, processing of dsRNA to siRNA, and RNA-induced silencing complex formation influence RNAi efficiency. The basic dsRNA delivery methods include microinjection, feeding, and soaking. To improve dsRNA delivery, various new technologies, including cationic liposome-assisted, nanoparticle-enabled, symbiont-mediated, and plant-mediated deliveries, have been developed. Major challenges to widespread use of RNAi in insect pest management include variable RNAi efficiency among insects, lack of reliable dsRNA delivery methods, off-target and nontarget effects, and potential development of resistance in insect populations.

中文翻译：

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昆虫 RNA 干扰的机制、应用和挑战。

在线虫中发现了由短/小干扰 RNA (siRNA) 触发的 RNA 干扰 (RNAi)，并发现其在大多数生物体中起作用。RNAi 已被广泛用作研究基因功能的研究工具，并显示出开发新型害虫管理策略的巨大潜力。RNAi 在鞘翅目中是高效和系统的，但在许多其他昆虫中是高度可变或低效的。双链 RNA (dsRNA) 降解、细胞摄取、细胞间和细胞内转运、dsRNA 加工成 siRNA 以及 RNA 诱导的沉默复合物形成等方面的差异会影响 RNAi 效率。基本的 dsRNA 递送方法包括显微注射、喂养和浸泡。为了改善 dsRNA 的递送，各种新技术，包括阳离子脂质体辅助、纳米粒子启用、共生体介导，和植物介导的递送，已经被开发出来。在昆虫害虫管理中广泛使用 RNAi 的主要挑战包括昆虫之间可变的 RNAi 效率、缺乏可靠的 dsRNA 传递方法、脱靶和非目标效应，以及昆虫种群中潜在的抗性发展。