Micro RNA cross-kingdom regulation of aphid/Buchnera symbiosis

Aphids, notorious agricultural pests, rely on an obligate nutritional endosymbiont, Buchnera aphidicola, for their feeding success. Therefore, exploiting this symbiosis offers a promising avenue for integrated aphid management. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as pivotal regulators in host-microbe interactions, influencing gene expression across kingdoms. Our project aims to characterize aphid miRNAs involved in regulating Buchnera gene expression via a cross- kingdom manner. Our preliminary findings suggest that five miRNAs expressed in aphid bacteriocyte, the host cells harboring Buchnera, may translocate to Buchnera and regulate Buchnera gene expression. We will further explore the cross-kingdom regulation of these miRNAs across various aphid species, including the pea aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum) and the green peach aphids (Myzus persicae), among others. Furthermore, we will assess the function of these miRNAs in regard to aphid fitness, including survival and reproduction. The miRNAs have shown insecticidal properties, and/or their targets, will be further developed as agents or tools, such as RNA interference agents or gene-edited crops for aphid control in agricultural settings. Results from this project will enhance our understanding of miRNA regulation of insect/bacterial symbioses, which remain poorly understood, but hold significant potential for developing innovative pest management strategies.