Molecular Entomology 2024, Vol.15, No.1, 32-42 http://emtoscipublisher.com/index.php/me 40 agricultural sustainability. Rice is a staple food for more than half of the world's population, and insect pests pose a significant threat to its production (Yan et al., 2023). By reducing the reliance on chemical pesticides, insect-resistant rice varieties can contribute to more sustainable agricultural practices, minimizing environmental pollution and preserving soil health (Thia et al., 2020). Moreover, these varieties can enhance the resilience of rice production systems to pest outbreaks, thereby stabilizing yields and ensuring a reliable food supply (Dash et al., 2020). The widespread adoption of resistant varieties can also lead to economic benefits for farmers by reducing the costs associated with pest management and increasing overall productivity. Ultimately, the global impact of developing and deploying insect-resistant rice varieties extends beyond agriculture, contributing to the broader goals of environmental conservation and sustainable development. 6 Concluding Remarks 6.1 Summary of key findings This study has highlighted significant advancements in understanding the genetic mechanisms and breeding approaches for rice varietal resistance to insect pests. The integration of genomics, genetic mapping, and molecular biology has led to the identification and cloning of numerous resistance genes. For instance, genome-wide association studies have identified 3,502 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 59 loci associated with brown planthopper (BPH) resistance, including the novel gene Bph371. Additionally, 14 insect resistance genes have been cloned, which activate defense pathways and mechanisms such as callose deposition and secondary metabolite production. The study also underscores the importance of wild rice species as a reservoir of resistance genes. For example, the gene Bph38 from Oryza rufipogon confers high resistance to both BPH and white-backed planthopper (WBPH). Moreover, the development of multi-resistance rice varieties through transgene stacking systems has shown promising results in conferring resistance to multiple pests and diseases. Conventional breeding approaches, supplemented with advanced molecular techniques, have also been effective in developing insect-resistant rice varieties. 6.2 Implications for agriculture The findings from this study have profound implications for future rice cultivation and pest management strategies. The identification and cloning of resistance genes provide valuable genetic resources for breeding durable insect-resistant rice varieties. The integration of multiple resistance genes into a single genetic background, as demonstrated by the development of multi-resistance rice, offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to pest management. Furthermore, the use of wild rice species as a source of resistance genes can enhance the genetic diversity of cultivated rice, making it more resilient to evolving pest biotypes. The application of advanced molecular techniques, such as gene editing and marker-assisted selection, can accelerate the development of new resistant varieties, ensuring food security in the face of increasing pest pressures. In conclusion, the integration of genetic and breeding approaches holds great promise for improving rice resistance to insect pests. These advancements will not only enhance rice productivity but also contribute to sustainable agricultural practices by reducing the reliance on chemical pesticides. Future research should focus on exploring additional resistance genes, understanding the molecular mechanisms of resistance, and developing innovative breeding strategies to address the challenges posed by insect pests in rice cultivation. Acknowledgments The author extend our sincere thanks to two anonymous peer studyers for their invaluable feedback on the initial draft of this paper, whose critical evaluations and constructive suggestions have greatly contributed to the improvement of our manuscript. Conflict of Interest Disclosure The authors affirm that this research was conducted without any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.
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