Search Results (822)

Rice is a key food crop worldwide, but its yield and quality are severely constrained by insect pests. As environmental and regulatory restrictions on chemical pesticides grow, developing insect-resistant rice varieties has become a sustainable way to protect food security. This review covers recent progress in functional genomics and molecular marker mapping related to insect resistance in rice. We highlight the identification, cloning, and functional analysis of resistance genes targeting major pests, including the brown planthopper, rice gall midge, white-backed planthopper, small brown planthopper, and rice leaf roller. Several important resistance genes (such as Bph14, Bph3, and Bph29) have been cloned, and their roles in rice immunity have been clarified—covering insect feeding signal recognition, activation of salicylic acid and jasmonic acid pathways, and regulation of MAPK cascades, calcium signaling, and reactive oxygen species production. We also discuss how molecular marker-assisted selection, gene pyramiding, and transgenic techniques are used in modern rice breeding. Finally, we address future challenges and opportunities, stressing the importance of utilizing wild rice germplasm, understanding insect effector–plant immune interactions, and applying molecular design breeding to create long-lasting insect-resistant rice varieties that can withstand changing pest pressures and climate conditions. Full article

The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, poses a major threat to global maize production. Reliance on synthetic pesticides has contributed to pest resistance and environmental degradation, underscoring the need for sustainable alternatives. In this study, ethanolic extracts of neem (Azadirachta indica) and moringa (Moringa oleifera), together with maize-associated bacterial isolates, were evaluated for their biocontrol potential against fall armyworm. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis for bioextract identification revealed tissue-specific chemical diversity, identifying eight key phytochemicals, including octadecanoic acid, trimethyl fluorosilane, and hexadecanoic acid in neem, and trimethyl fluorosilane, ethyl oleate, ethyl (9Z,12Z), octadecanoic acid, and benzenedicarboxylic acid in moringa extracts. Eighty-nine bacterial isolates were screened for extracellular enzyme activities (cellulase, chitinase, glucanase, and protease) and siderophore production, among which four strains, DR-55 (Bacillus subtilis), HL-7 (Bacillus cereus), HL-37 (Bacillus cereus), and DR-63 (Enterobacter sp.), exhibited >50% biocontrol efficacy under greenhouse conditions. A strong correlation (r = 0.88) was observed between in vitro antagonistic activity and greenhouse performance, validating the screening approach. Fall armyworm mortality was the highest in larvae (up to 80%), moderate in pupae (15–17%), and the lowest in adults (6–7%), respectively. Overall, plant bio-extracts and maize-associated microbial isolates represent a promising, non-hazardous strategy for sustainable fall armyworm management while preserving maize plant health. Full article

Agrobacterium tumefaciens, a destructive pathogen causing crown gall disease, results in substantial agricultural losses. Traditional chemical and existing biocontrol methods are limited by environmental pollution, pesticide resistance, and low efficacy, while bacteriophages emerge as a promising alternative due to their high host specificity, environmental compatibility, and low resistance risk. In this study, we isolated and characterized a lytic phage (PAT-A) targeting A. tumefaciens, evaluating its biological traits, genomic features, and biocontrol potential. The host strain A. tumefaciens CL-1 was isolated from cherry crown gall tissue and identified by 16S rDNA sequencing. Phage PAT-A was recovered from orchard soil via the double-layer agar method, showing a tadpole-shaped morphology (60 nm head diameter, 30 nm tail length) under transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Nucleic acid analysis confirmed a double-stranded DNA genome, susceptible to DNase I but resistant to RNase A and Mung Bean Nuclease. PAT-A exhibited an optimal MOI of 0.01, tolerated wide pH and temperature ranges, but was sensitive to UV (titer declined after 15 min of irradiation) and chloroform (8% survival at a 5% concentration). Whole-genome sequencing revealed a 44,828 bp genome with a compact structure, and phylogenetic/collinearity analyses placed it in the Atuphduvirus genus (Autographiviridae). Biocontrol experiments on tobacco plants demonstrated that PAT-A significantly reduced crown gall incidence. Specifically, simultaneous inoculation of PAT-A and A. tumefaciens CL-1 resulted in the lowest tumor incidence (12.0%), while pre-inoculation of PAT-A 2 days before pathogen exposure achieved an incidence rate of 33.3%. In conclusion, PAT-A is a novel strictly lytic phage with favorable biological properties and potent biocontrol efficacy against A. tumefaciens, enriching phage resources for crown gall management and supporting phage-based agricultural biocontrol strategies. Full article

Background: Solenopsis invicta, commonly known as the red imported fire ant (RIFA), is an important global invasive pest, and its management is challenging because of insecticide resistance and environmental problems. Methods: In this research, we applied transcriptomics to analyze the molecular responses of S. invicta worker ants exposed to different types of pesticides, beta-cypermethrin (BC) and the entomopathogenic fungus Cordyceps cicadae (CC), as well as to different concentrations of these pesticides. Results: A total of 2727 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified across all samples. The number of DEGs in the BC treatment group was significantly higher than that in the CC treatment group (2520 vs. 433), and higher concentrations resulted in more DEGs (an increase of 47 in the BC group and 229 in the CC group). KEGG pathway analysis revealed that the DEGs were significantly enriched in lipid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism, signal transduction, and membrane transport. Immune-related gene analysis showed more general down-regulation (average FPKM value in BC 741.37 to 756.06 vs. CK 1914.42) of pathogen recognition genes (PGRP-SC2) under BC stress conditions, while CC treatment resulted in increases in expression of important immune effectors such as various serine proteases. Conclusions: Overall, this study provides useful insights into the molecular basis of responses to different pesticides in S. invicta and offers a basis to develop new approaches to control this pest. Full article

Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp., RKN) penetrate the roots of plants, blocking the flow of water and nutrients, preventing plant development, and causing losses of up to 68% in production. Its management is limited by the low availability of genetically resistant materials, the inefficient use of biological controllers, and the high risk of environmental contamination from the application of pesticides. The aim of this study was to contribute to the integrated management of (RKN) through the use of chitosan. A completely randomized experimental design was used in a factorial arrangement with two applications (foliar or edaphic), two cherry tomato genotypes (IAC1687 and LA2076), and eight treatments (three concentrations of chitosan (1.5–2.0–2.5 mg/mL), commercial controls and absolute controls). The yield and nematode population components were evaluated. The cherry tomato (IAC1687) obtained the greatest yield, with 33.517.1 kg/ha and an 85% reduction in the nematode population with the application of 2.5 mg/mL of chitosan to the soil. Chitosan improved the yield components of the evaluated cultivars and reduced nematode populations, suggesting that it can be a sustainable alternative in commercial production systems, as it can help reduce the use of chemical pesticides and improve health and crop productivity. As a limitation of this study, the use of acetic acid as a solvent for chitosan potentially interfered with the results associated with the nematode population, increasing bias and imprecision as there was no blockage due to light, temperature, or irrigation. Therefore, we suggest that future research explores alternative solvents to elucidate the mechanism of action or response of chitosan. Full article

The extended application of pesticides has intensified the resistance problem in Liriomyza trifolii within Hainan Province. This study aimed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms contributing to the elevated resistance observed in this pest by employing Whole-Genome Re-sequencing (WGR) technology. Through the analysis and comparison of WGR data focusing on voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) from diverse regions and LT-S of L. trifolii in Hainan Province, we identified a total of six nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) and thirty-one synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (sSNPs) in five wild populations MY, TS, DA, TY, and JY. Among the six nsSNPs, three (PyR1: M918T, L1014F, and PyR2: T933I) have been confirmed as linked to pyrethroid resistance, while one (D IVS6: V1845I) was associated with resistance to indoxacarb. Moreover, the frequency of these four mutations generally increases with decreasing latitude. Additionally, under sustained pesticide selection pressure, L. trifolii exhibits an evolutionary pattern characterized by a dN/dS ratio (nsSNP/sSNP = 6/31 ≈ 0.19) of less than 1. Among the 31 sSNPs that held an absolute quantitative advantage, the highest occurrence frequency reached 94.44% (G2033: JY), and this sSNP occurred in all populations. In contrast, among a limited number of 6 nsSNPs, the highest occurrence frequency attained 100% (L1014F: all populations). This study substantiates that the elevated resistance observed in L. trifolii within Hainan Province can be ascribed to the presence of four nsSNPs-M922T, T933I, L1018F, and V1845I in their VGSC. Furthermore, the emergence of cross-resistance between pyrethroids and indoxacarb has been identified. This research offers a novel theoretical foundation for future investigations into the resistance mechanisms of L. trifolii. Full article

The worldwide population is anticipated to reach 10.12 billion by the year 2100, thereby amplifying the necessity for sustainable agricultural methodologies to secure food availability while reducing ecological consequences. Conventional synthetic pesticides, while capable of increasing crop yields by as much as 50%, present considerable hazards such as toxicity, the emergence of resistance, and environmental pollution. This review examines biopesticides, originating from microbial (e.g., Bacillus thuringiensis, Trichoderma spp.), plant, or animal sources, as environmentally sustainable alternatives which address pest control through mechanisms including antibiosis, hyperparasitism, and competition. Biopesticides provide advantages such as biodegradability, minimal toxicity to non-target organisms, and a lower likelihood of resistance development. The global market for biopesticides is projected to be valued between USD 8 and 10 billion by 2025, accounting for 3–4% of the overall pesticide sector, and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12–16%. To mitigate production costs, agro-industrial byproducts such as rice husk and starch wastewater can be utilized as economical substrates in both solid-state and submerged fermentation processes, which may lead to a reduction in expenses ranging from 35% to 59%. Strategies for process intensification, such as the implementation of intensified bioreactors, continuous cultivation methods, and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven monitoring systems, significantly improve the upstream stages (including strain development and fermentation), downstream processes (such as purification and drying), and formulation phases. These advancements result in enhanced productivity, reduced energy consumption, and greater product stability. Patent activity, exemplified by 2371 documents from 1982 to 2021, highlights advancements in formulations and microbial strains. The integration of circular economy principles in biopesticide production through process intensification enhances the safety, quality, and sustainability of food systems. Projections suggest that by the 2040s to 2050s, biopesticides may achieve market parity with synthetic alternatives. Obstacles encompass the alignment of regulations and the ability to scale in order to completely achieve these benefits. Full article

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a frequent pregnancy pathology with poor maternal and fetal outcomes and risk of type 2 diabetes in later life. Despite known risk factors, such as obesity, age, and familial history, new data suggest that environmental exposure to agents, such as pesticides, can play a role in the etiogenesis of GDM. Objective: The epidemiologic, experimental, and mechanistic evidence between pesticide exposure and GDM risk is summarized here, and we concentrate on recent research (2000–2025). Methods: We conducted a literature search in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for studies published from January 2000 to December 2025 using combinations of the terms “fertilizers”, “herbicides”, and “pesticides” with “diabetes mellitus” and “gestational diabetes”. After deduplication, 12 unique studies met inclusion criteria for qualitative synthesis (GDM endpoint or pregnancy glycemia with pesticide exposure). Results: Occupational and agricultural exposure to pesticides during first pregnancy was determined to be associated with a significantly increased risk of GDM through various epidemiologic studies. New studies have implicated new classes of pesticides, including pyrethroids and neonicotinoids, with higher GDM risk with first-trimester exposure. Experimental studies suggest that pesticides provide potential endocrine-disrupting chemicals that can induce insulin resistance through disruption of hormonal signaling, oxidative stress, inflammation, β-cell toxicity, and epigenetic modifications. However, significant limitations exist. Most of the evidence is observational, measurement of exposure is often indirect, and confounding factors are difficult to exclude. Notably, low dietary and residential exposure is not well studied, and dose–response relationships are undefined. Conclusions: New data indicate that pesticide exposure during early pregnancy and occupational exposure may increase the risk of GDM. Prospective cohort studies using biomonitoring, chemical mixture exposure, and geographic variation in pesticide exposure should be the focus of future research. Due to potential public health implications, preventive strategies to ensure the quality of nutrition and to reduce maternal exposure to pesticides during pregnancy are rational. Full article

Our work develops the structural mathematical framework of the REGENerative Agriculture (REGENA) Production Function, contributing to the limited global literature of regenerative farming production functions with consistency to the 2nd Law of Thermodynamics and the underlying biophysical processes for ecosystem services’ generation. The accurate structural economic modeling of regenerative farming practices comprises a first vital step for the shift of global agriculture from conventional farming—utilizing petrochemical fertilizers, pesticides and intensive tillage—to regenerative farming—utilizing local agro-ecological capital forms, such as micro-organisms, organic biomasses, no-tillage and resistant varieties. In this context, we empirically test the REGENA structural change patterns with data from eight experimental plots in six Mediterranean countries in Southern Europe and Northern Africa for three crop compositions: (a) with exclusively conventional practices, (b) with exclusively regenerative practices and (c) with mixed conventional and regenerative practices. Finally, we discuss in detail the scientific, institutional, economic and financial engineering challenges for the market uptake of regenerative farming and the contribution of REGENA for the achievement of this goal. In addition, as regenerative farming is knowledge-intensive, we review the vital aspect of Open Innovation (OI) and protected Intellectual Property (IP) business models as essential parts of regenerative farming knowledge-sharing clusters and trading alliances. Full article

Agricultural systems face mounting pressures from climate change, as rising temperatures, elevated CO₂, and shifting precipitation patterns intensify plant disease outbreaks worldwide. Conventional strategies, such as breeding for resistance, pesticides, and even transgenic approaches, are proving too slow or unsustainable to meet these challenges. Synthetic biology offers a transformative paradigm for reprogramming plant immunity through genetic circuits, RNA-based defences, epigenome engineering, engineered microbiomes, and artificial intelligence (AI). We introduce the concept of synthetic immunity, a unifying framework that extends natural defence layers, PAMP-triggered immunity (PTI), and effector-triggered immunity (ETI). While pests and pathogens continue to undermine global crop productivity, synthetic immunity strategies such as CRISPR-based transcriptional activation, synthetic receptors, and RNA circuit-driven defences offer promising new avenues for enhancing plant resilience. We formalize synthetic immunity as an emerging, integrative concept that unites molecular engineering, regulatory rewiring, epigenetic programming, and microbiome modulation, with AI and computational modelling accelerating their design and climate-smart deployment. This review maps the landscape of synthetic immunity, highlights technological synergies, and outlines a translational roadmap from laboratory design to field application. Responsibly advanced, synthetic immunity represents not only a scientific frontier but also a sustainable foundation for climate-resilient agriculture. Full article

Berry crops such as strawberry Fragaria × ananassa (Weston), raspberry Rubus idaeus L., blackberry Rubus ulmifolius Schott, 1818, and blueberry Vaccinium myrtillus L. are economically and nutritionally valuable worldwide. However, the intensive use of synthetic pesticides for pest management in these crops has led to ecological imbalance, pest resistance, and negative effects on non-target organisms and human health. The integration of biological control agents into sustainable integrated pest management (IPM) systems represents an alternative. This review compiles and evaluates current advances in the application of baculoviruses (BVs), entomopathogenic fungi (EPFs), nematodes (EPNs), predatory mites (PMs), and parasitoid wasps (PWs) for pest suppression in berry crops. Emphasis was placed on their ecological interactions, host specificity, and compatibility within IPM frameworks. The combined use of micro- and macrobiological control agents effectively reduces key pest populations. However, field efficacy remains influenced by abiotic stressors such as UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, and chemical incompatibility. The integration of native micro- and macrobiological control agents of through conservation biological control (CBC) strategies can enhance sustainability in berry production systems. Future efforts should focus on formulation improvements, adaptive management under field conditions, and synergistic interactions among microbial and arthropod natural enemies. Full article

The widespread use of antibiotics, combined with pervasive exposure to diverse environmental media, has intensified the global challenge of antibiotic resistance. Accumulating evidence reveals that beyond direct antibiotic pressure, residual non-antibiotic chemicals—despite lacking intrinsic antibacterial activity—can significantly promote the enrichment and spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in farmland soils through indirect mechanisms such as inducing oxidative stress, altering microbial community structure, and enhancing both vertical and horizontal gene transfer. To address this issue, the present study investigates the influence of representative non-antibiotic contaminants commonly detected in agricultural environments—including pesticides (e.g., Omethoate, imidacloprid, and atrazine), industrial pollutants (e.g., PCB138, BDE47, benzo [a] pyrene, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin [TCDD], and benzene), plastic-associated compounds (e.g., Polyethylene trimer, phthalates, and tributyl acetylcitrate), and ingredients from personal care products (e.g., triclosan and bisphenol A)—on ARG transmission dynamics. Leveraging bioinformatics resources such as the CARD database, PDB, AlphaFold, and molecular sequence analysis tools, we identified relevant small-molecule ligands and macromolecular receptors to construct a simulation system modeling ARG transfer pathways. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were then implemented, guided by a Plackett–Burman experimental design, to systematically evaluate the impact of individual and co-occurring pollutants. The resulting data were processed using advanced analytical tools, and MD trajectories were interpreted at the molecular level across three scenarios: an unperturbed (blank) system, single-pollutant exposures, and dual-pollutant combinations. By integrating computational simulations with machine learning approaches, this work uncovers the “co-selection” effect exerted by non-antibiotic chemical residues in shaping the environmental resistome, thereby providing a mechanistic and scientific basis for comprehensive risk assessment of agricultural non-point source pollution and the development of effective soil health management and antimicrobial resistance containment strategies. Full article

Debaryomyces hansenii, a yeast that plays an important role in several agri-food processes, is increasingly being investigated as a biological protection factor against fruit and grain pathogens because of its ability to inhibit the growth of unwanted microorganisms. Biological plant protection can be used as an alternative to pesticides, which cannot be used in organic farming. The mechanism of action associated with the biocontrol capacity of D. hansenii against Fusarium graminearum, the agent of Fusarium head blight in wheat, and its involvement in induced plant defense were studied in Triticum turgidum ssp. durum on the mRNA level. A total of 3432 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of T. turgidum ssp. durum were identified by using RNA-Seq analysis in a sample primed with D. hansenii before pathogen application in comparison to a non-protected sample. Upregulated DEGs encode the proteins involved in cell wall biosynthesis and their modification, photosynthesis, secondary metabolism, and cytoskeleton organization. Among the DEGs, candidate transcription factors as well as protein kinases involved in the signal transduction activated by D. hansenii were also shown. Priming durum wheat seedlings with D. hansenii leads to enhancing the cell wall structure, which increases plant resistance to fungal infection. Full article

The extensive and often inappropriate use of antibiotics has led to the rapid emergence and spread of antibiotic resistance, reducing their effectiveness against pathogenic microorganisms. Fosfomycin has become an increasingly important therapeutic option in both human and veterinary medicine, particularly when other antibiotics fail. This review summarises current knowledge on the occurrence of fosfomycin resistance and evaluates the role of agricultural practices in its dissemination. Multiple microbial resistance mechanisms have been identified, including genes from the fosA, fosB, and fosC families, and new determinants continue to be reported. Agriculture contributes to the environmental spread of resistance through the use of antibiotics in food-producing animals, the exchange of resistant microorganisms between humans and animals, and the application of manure as fertiliser. Fosfomycin resistance genes have been detected in livestock such as pigs, chickens, pigeons, and cows, as well as in vegetables. Their presence in soil is influenced by fertilisation, nitrogen levels, microplastics, heavy metals, and pesticide application. Additionally, climate warming may facilitate the broader dissemination of fosfomycin resistance. Despite increasing evidence, current understanding remains limited. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms driving the spread of fosfomycin resistance in agricultural environments and to develop effective monitoring strategies. Full article

Ciboria shiraiana (C. shiraiana), a pathogenic fungus, is a major threat to mulberry trees, causing mulberry sclerotinia diseases. Current control strategies primarily rely on chemical pesticides, whose long-term use leads to adverse effects such as pesticide residues, environmental pollution, and pathogen resistance. This study aimed to develop a green pesticide derived from the essential oil (EOs) of Solidago canadensis L. (S. canadensis L.) and to analyze its antifungal mechanism. SLEOs were extracted from flowers, leaves, and stems of S. canadensis L. via hydro-distillation. Their chemical composition was analyzed by GC-MS. Multivariate statistical analysis was used to assess compositional differences among SLEOs from various plant parts and evaluate the correlation between their chemical components and antifungal efficacy. The antifungal mechanism of SLEOs against C. shiraiana was investigated using an integrated approach combining transcriptomics with physiological and biochemical analyses. The EO yield varied with plant part: flowers yielded the most (1.00% ± 0.07%), followed by leaves (0.76% ± 0.04%) and stems (0.05% ± 0.01%). Flower EOs (FEOs) strongly inhibited C. shiraiana, with an EC₅₀ value of 0.642 μL/mL. α-pinene and myrcene showed the highest correlation with antifungal activity. Transcriptomic and physiological data revealed that SLEOs compromise cell wall and membrane integrity, infiltrate cells, and trigger leakage of intracellular contents. Additionally, SLEOs inhibited activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and POD), leading to intracellular ROS accumulation, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and DNA damage. SLEOs constitute a promising natural and environmentally sustainable antifungal agent. Their activity is linked to specific components and a multi-target mechanism involving membrane disruption and oxidative stress induction. This study provides a foundation for developing plant-based agents to manage mulberry sclerotinia diseases. Full article