ReSet- RNA interference for the control of sap-sucking insect plant pests: Scaphoideus titanus as case study

The ReSet project aims to explore the mechanism of RNAi applied to control phytoplasma insect vectors, endowed with pierce/sucking mouthparts. Research activities will be focused on the leafhopper Scaphoideus titanus (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), main vector of the grapevine Flavescence dorée (FD) phytoplasma. The presence of an effective RNAi mechanism in the organisms under study has already been described and applied in the laboratory by the Research Units involved in the Project. The control of this species currently requires mandatory repeated applications of insecticides in the vineyard, with undesired effects on the environment, human health and quality of the final product.

 

Project Leader: Luciana Galetto
IPSP personnel: Abbà Simona, Bosco Domenico, Marzachì Cristina, Palmano Sabrina, Rossi Marika, Veratti Flavio, Vallino Marta.
Start: 07/03/2023
End: 07/06/2025