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Mutant mosquitos make insecticide-resistance monitoring key to controlling Zika

A recent study by Emory University highlights the importance of insecticide-resistance monitoring in controlling the spread of Zika and other mosquito-borne diseases. The research found that applying insecticides like deltamethrin in areas with high resistance can be ineffective, emphasizing the need for targeted control measures.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJun 19, 2017

Reversing pest resistance to biotech cotton: The secret is in the mix

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that interbreeding genetically engineered cotton with non-Bt cotton can delay and even reverse evolution of resistance by pests. This novel strategy involves planting a mix of Bt and non-Bt seeds, which generates a random mixture of plants within fields.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 8, 2017

New study shows how plants fight off disease

A University of Queensland-led study has highlighted the minute details of how plant immune systems lead to resistance against diseases. Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the interactions between immune receptors and their signals, which are crucial for plant resistance.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2017

Pest control: Wicked weeds may be agricultural angels

A study by Cornell University researchers suggests that certain weeds, like milkweed, can be beneficial to crops and the environment. By incorporating these weeds into agricultural systems, farmers may reduce their reliance on pesticides and herbicides, while also supporting biodiversity and pollinator health.

SourceCornell University·JournalWeed Science·DateNov 11, 2016

John Innes Centre scientists solve 60-year-old Septoria mystery

Plant breeders have struggled to combine high yield and resistance to Septoria in wheat varieties, but John Innes Centre researchers have found a genetic connection between the two traits. The study reveals that nearly 60 years ago, breeding decisions inadvertently linked increased susceptibility to Septoria with higher yields.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalMolecular Plant Pathology·DateOct 21, 2016

Sayonara, kudzu bug?

US soybean crop is under threat from the kudzu bug, but research has found that some wild relatives of soybeans have developed resistance to the pest. These adapted plants have built defense mechanisms against pests, including limiting the ability of nymphs to survive.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateAug 17, 2016

Breeding wildness back into our fruit and veg

Wild tomato varieties exhibit dual resistance against whiteflies, which damages plants by extracting sap, creating honeydew, and transmitting viruses. Breeding these traits into commercial tomatoes could offer a sustainable solution for controlling the pest.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAgronomy for Sustainable Development·DateFeb 9, 2016

Widespread convergence in toxin resistance by predictable molecular evolution

A study by Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine researchers reveals that evolution can be highly predictable in terms of developing toxin resistance. Convergent evolution of two amino acid changes in a specific gene leads to the development of toxin resistance in various animals, including insects, reptiles, and mammals.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 7, 2015

Researchers at LSTM unlock the secret of multiple insecticide resistance in mosquitoes

Researchers at LSTM have discovered the combination of genetic mutations that enable mosquitoes to develop multiple and extreme-level resistance to insecticides. The study identifies two key genes, CYP6M2 and CYP6P3, which are highly expressed in resistant mosquitoes and can confer resistance across different classes of insecticides.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 21, 2014

Scientists offer recommendations for delaying resistance to Bt corn in western corn rootworm

Western corn rootworm has shown resistance to Bt corn proteins, but a new study recommends using an integrated pest management approach to delay further resistance. The authors suggest rotating crops, using different Bt proteins, and implementing long-term monitoring to prolong the effectiveness of management strategies.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Integrated Pest Management·DateNov 26, 2013

Surprise superconductor

Scientists found superconductivity in carbon disulfide at -449°F, a highly disordered state that defies conventional understanding of superconductivity. The discovery could lead to new insights into the interplay between superconductivity, magnetism, and structural disorder.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2013

Louse genetics offer clues on human migrations

A new genetic analysis of human lice from around the world sheds light on their evolution, disease transmission, and resistance to insecticides. The study's findings suggest that lice can be used as a tool to understand human migration patterns and test ideas about human evolution.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 27, 2013

Trouble on the horizon for GM crops?

A study by researchers at the University of Arizona found that pest populations are evolving resistance to genetically modified cotton plants, which produce toxins derived from Bacillus thuringiensis. The discovery highlights the need for closer monitoring and countering of pest resistance to biotech crops.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 19, 2012

Integrated weed management best response to herbicide resistance

Increased use of glyphosate-type herbicides has led to a dramatic increase in genetically-resistant weeds, according to Penn State researchers. Integrated weed management programs, including planting cover crops and using mechanical control methods, can lower herbicide use by up to 94% while maintaining profit margins.

SourcePenn State·JournalBioScience·DateFeb 9, 2012