【科技日报】抑制信息素释放 实现害虫绿色防治

Group 1 - The research team successfully elucidated the complete production process of the locust aggregation pheromone (4VA) and identified the key enzymes responsible for its synthesis, which are crucial for understanding and intervening in locust behavior [1][2] - The study revealed that locusts utilize phenylalanine, the most abundant amino acid in plants, as the primary raw material for synthesizing 4VA, which is then rapidly converted through two steps [1] - A small molecule inhibitor was designed to precisely regulate the synthesis and release of 4VA, effectively disrupting locust aggregation behavior [2] Group 2 - The two key enzymes, 4VPMT1 and 4VPMT2, are identified as excellent targets for preventing locust aggregation, and the inhibitor can successfully interfere with locusts, preventing effective gathering [2] - This research provides a new approach for pest control by disrupting insect communication rather than relying on traditional pesticides, promoting sustainable agricultural pest management [2] - The findings have significant implications for ensuring food security and ecological safety by advancing pest control methods towards greener solutions [2]