Perspectives of RNAi, CUADb and CRISPR/Cas as Innovative Antisense Technologies for Insect Pest Control: From Discovery to Practice

Pest management has entered a new era with the emergence of three innovative antisense technologies: RNA interference (RNAi), contact unmodified antisense DNA biotechnology (CUADb), and CRISPR/Cas systems. These approaches function through sequence-specific nucleic acid duplex formation and guided nuclease activity, offering unprecedented precision for targeted pest control. While RNA-guided systems such as RNAi and CRISPR/Cas were originally discovered in non-insect models as fundamental biological defense mechanisms (primarily against viruses), the DNA-guided CUADb system was first identified in insect pests as a practical pest control tool, with its broader role in ribosomal RNA (rRNA) biogenesis recognized later. These discoveries have revealed an entirely new dimension of gene regulation, with profound implications for sustainable pest management. Although RNAi, CUADb, and CRISPR/Cas share some mechanistic similarities, they differ in their mode of action, specificity, and applicability. No single approach provides a universal solution for all insect pests; instead, each is likely to be most effective against specific pest groups. Moreover, these technologies allow for rapid adaptation of control strategies to overcome target-site resistance, ensuring long-term efficacy. This review summarizes the core functional characteristics, potential applications, and current limitations of each antisense technology, emphasizing their complementary roles in advancing environmentally sustainable pest control. By bridging foundational biological discoveries with applied innovations, this work offers new perspectives on integrating these tools into modern pest management frameworks.