A new REACT-supported study published in the Bulletin of Entomological Research explores how Enterobacter-based dietary supplements influence the thermal performance of sterile Mediterranean fruit flies. The findings provide valuable insights into nutrition, microbiota and cold-stress recovery, contributing to the optimisation of Sterile Insect Technique programmes.
A new “neoclassical” genetic strategy is redefining how Genetic Sexing Strains are built for the Sterile Insect Technique. By integrating CRISPR/Cas9 editing, comparative genomics and targeted gene-rescue systems, researchers demonstrate a faster and more precise path to creating reliable sex-specific markers. This rational, design-driven approach overcomes the limits of traditional random mutagenesis, opening the door to scalable, cross-species GSS development for both agricultural pests and disease-carrying vectors.
CRISPR gene editing is opening new possibilities for sustainable pest control. A recent study demonstrates how disrupting a single gene—the white pupae (wp) gene—creates visible, stable white-pupae mutants in three major Bactrocera fruit fly species. These mutants make early sex separation easier and more reliable, strengthening the efficiency of Sterile Insect Technique programs. By enabling a cross-species, insecticide-free approach to population suppression, the work marks a significant step toward greener agricultural protection.
In the face of mounting agricultural threats from climate change and invasive pests, scientists are advancing pest control with precision genetic engineering. A recent review by REACT researchers in Insect Science showcases breakthrough innovations enhancing the sterile insect technique (SIT), a method known for eco-friendly pest suppression. From CRISPR/Cas9-driven systems and fluorescent sex-sorting to gene drives and tetracycline-repressible lethality, these tools offer scalable, targeted alternatives to traditional SIT methods. This research marks a significant leap toward sustainable, high-efficiency pest management strategies.
10th IOBC-WPRS Working Group Meeting
DATE
22.–24. Nov 2026
LOCATION
OAC, Chania, Crete
The IOBC-WPRS Working Group “Modern Biotechnology in Integrated Plant Production” invites you to a joint meeting held in collaboration with the EU-funded project REACT.
Submit your abstract now → Register for the conference →MORE INFORMATION: iobc-wprs.react-insect.eu
