Next-generation biological control: the need for integrating genetics and genomics
Author
Leung, Kelley; Chinchilla-Ramírez, Milena; González-Cabrera, Joel; Paspati, Angeliki; Pérez-Hedo, Meritxell; Urbaneja, Alberto; Beukeboom, Leo W.; Pannebakker, Bart A.Date
2020Cita bibliográfica
Leung, K., Ras, E., Ferguson, K. B., Ariëns, S., Babendreier, D., Bijma, P., ... & Chattington, S. R. (2020). Next‐generation biological control: the need for integrating genetics and genomics. Biological Reviews.Abstract
Biological control is widely successful at controlling pests, but effective biocontrol agents are now more difficult to import
from countries of origin due to more restrictive international trade laws (the Nagoya Protocol). Coupled with increasing
demand, the efficacy of existing and new biocontrol agents needs to be improved with genetic and genomic approaches.
Although they have been underutilised in the past, application of genetic and genomic techniques is becoming more feasible
from both technological and economic perspectives. We review current methods and provide a framework for using
them. First, it is necessary to identify which biocontrol trait to select and in what direction. Next, the genes or markers
linked to these traits need be determined, including how to implement this information into a selective breeding program.
Choosing a trait can be assisted by modelling to account for the proper agro-ecological context, and by knowing which
traits have sufficiently high heritability values. We provide guidelines for designing genomic strategies in biocontrol programs,
which depend on the organism, budget, and desired objective. Genomic approaches start with genome sequencing
and assembly. We provide a guide for deciding the most successful sequencing strategy for biocontrol agents. Gene
discovery involves quantitative trait loci analyses, transcriptomic and proteomic studies, and gene editing. Improving biocontrol
practices includes marker-assisted selection, genomic selection and microbiome manipulation of biocontrol
agents, and monitoring for genetic variation during rearing and post-release. We conclude by identifying the most promising
applications of genetic and genomic methods to improve biological control efficacy