Renaissance BioScience Corp., a leader in yeast bioengineering, announced a new project funded by Genome BC to extend its yeast-based RNA interference (RNAi) biopesticide technology from above-ground insects to soil-dwelling crop pests, starting with wireworms. This initiative marks the company's first effort to adapt its RNAi platform for below-ground pests, addressing a significant challenge in sustainable agriculture.
Wireworms, the larvae of click beetles, are among agriculture's most destructive pests, damaging crops like potatoes, root vegetables, corn, and cereals worldwide. They live underground for up to five years, feeding on germinating seeds, seedlings, and roots, making them difficult to detect and control with conventional methods. The project focuses on developing a precision RNAi biopesticide targeting Agriotes species, which cause substantial losses in Europe, North America, and other key markets.
Renaissance's proprietary RNAi technology uses yeast cells to produce and deliver double-stranded RNA that silences essential genes in target pests. The new project will combine this with advanced formulation technologies to protect RNAi in the soil environment and promote ingestion by wireworms. According to Dr. John Husnik, co-CEO and Chief Scientific Officer, "Wireworms are one of agriculture's most challenging insect pests because they spend up to five years as larvae below ground, where conventional control options are limited. If we can successfully adapt our technology for below-ground pests, it opens the door to developing precision biopesticides for an entirely new range of economically costly agricultural pests."
The wireworm program complements Renaissance's ongoing development of RNAi-based biopesticides for other pests and builds on its growing portfolio. By identifying conserved essential genes across two Agriotes species, the company aims to create a targeted solution effective against multiple species with a single product. This strategic project could establish the foundation for future RNAi products targeting a broad range of soil-dwelling insects and larvae, significantly expanding the commercial applications of the platform.
"This support from Genome BC recognizes the tremendous potential of precision biological technologies to transform sustainable agriculture," added Dr. Husnik. Genome BC has advanced genomics research for 25 years, attracting over $1.1 billion in co-investment to British Columbia. For more information about Genome BC, visit www.genomebc.ca. Renaissance BioScience is a global leader in yeast bioengineering, providing solutions for agriculture, food, and health industries. Learn more at www.renaissancebioscience.com.
