Molecular Entomology 2024, Vol.15, No.1, 8-17 http://emtoscipublisher.com/index.php/me 15 5.2 Potential of gene editing technologies in insect resistance improvement Gene editing technology, especially the CRISPR-Cas9 system, has triggered revolutionary changes in the field of biological sciences in recent years, and insect resistance improvement is precisely one of the areas in which it has exerted great potential. By precisely introducing specific modifications into the insect genome, this technology not only enhances the resistance of insects to known pathogens, but also has the potential to confer resistance to new ones. Gene editing technology allows scientists to directly target resistance-related genes that have already been identified through GWAS studies. For example, if a specific variant in a gene is associated with increased resistance to a particular pathogen, with CRISPR-Cas9, scientists can introduce that variant into a population of non-resistant insects, thereby enhancing their resistance. The precision and efficiency of this method far exceeds that of traditional breeding techniques, offering the possibility of rapidly generating new resistant insect varieties. The application of gene editing technology also faces the challenges of ethical and ecological risk assessment. In practical application, the possible ecological impacts of editing insect genomes need to be carefully considered to ensure that they do not cause irreversible negative impacts on natural ecosystems. With the development and application of the technology, it is also necessary to establish corresponding laws and regulations and ethical guidelines to ensure the responsibility and sustainability of scientific research and application. In summary, gene editing technology shows great application prospects in insect resistance improvement, which can not only provide new resistant insect species, but also deepen the understanding of insect immune mechanisms. With deeper research and technological advances, it is expected to play a greater role in areas such as pest management and agricultural production. 5.3 Importance of genetic resources conservation and biodiversity maintenance Genetic resource conservation and biodiversity maintenance is one of the global challenges currently facing the world, and plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and stability of ecosystems and guaranteeing the sustainable development of human societies. This topic is particularly important in the field of research and application of insect pathogen resistance, because the genetic diversity of insects, as a key component of ecosystems, has a direct impact on agricultural production, pathogen transmission, and the effectiveness of biocontrol strategies (Yang et al., 2022). Conservation of genetic resources is the basis for achieving resistance persistence and diversity in insect populations. Genetic diversity of insect populations is an important safeguard for their adaptation to environmental changes and resistance to pathogens. Loss of genetic diversity will make insect populations more susceptible to pathogens, reducing ecosystem stability and the sustainability of agricultural production. Conserving insect genetic resources and maintaining genetic diversity within them is an effective way to prevent the spread of diseases and increase crop yields. With the increasing impact of global warming and human activities, the living environment of insects is seriously threatened. The conservation of genetic resources and the maintenance of biodiversity are not only responsible for the current ecosystem, but also for future generations. Through the implementation of scientific conservation measures and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices, it is possible to reduce the negative impacts on biodiversity and to protect and restore the natural habitats of insects and other organisms. In summary, genetic resource conservation and biodiversity maintenance are key to ensuring the sustainability of entomopathogen resistance research and applications. By strengthening research and practice in these areas, a solid foundation can be provided for future ecosystem stabilization, agricultural production safety and the effectiveness of biological control strategies.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODY0NQ==