Nucleic acid pesticides—the new plant protection products with great potential

Nucleic acid pesticides are a kind of polynucleotides that can bind specifically to the messenger RNA encoded by specific genes in target organisms. By silencing the expression of the corresponding genes through the naturally existing RNA interference system in target organisms, nucleic acid pesticides can interfere with the normal growth and virulence of target organisms, and protect plants from pests. Nucleic acid pesticides have been attracting increasing attention because of their higher specificity, lower research and development (R&D) cost, and less adverse impacts on the environment compared with traditional pesticides. Here, we introduce the mechanism of action, the advantages and the latest applied researches of the nucleic acid pesticides. We also summarize the research progress of detailed screening methods of effective nucleic acid pesticides. We then analyze the trend of nucleic acid pesticides in the future. All of the above provide a theoretical and practical basis for further study and application of nucleic acid pesticides.