Utilization of nanotechnology to improve the stability and insecticidal activity of spider venom protein Hv1a

With the advancement of nanotechnology, nano biopesticides have gained considerable attention. This study presents a novel method for enhancing the stability and efficacy of the spider venom protein ω-HXTX-Hv1a, an insecticide neurotoxin. The approach involves encapsulating this protein within chitosan cross-linked sodium tripolyphosphate nanocapsules. Such encapsulation is designed to improve the adhesion of Hv1a to leaf surfaces while protecting it from degradation induced by ultraviolet light. Encapsulation of Hv1a in nanocapsules yielded significant advantages. Specifically, the insecticidal activity of nano-Hv1a was maintained at 37.19 ± 1.23%, in stark contrast to merely 1.60 ± 0.63% for Hv1a after 24 h under conditions conducive to photodegradation. Additionally, the encapsulated form demonstrated a prolonged retention time within insects, resulting in enhanced insecticidal efficacy compared to non-encapsulated Hv1a alone. The study further explored the effects of nano-Hv1a on insect growth patterns, revealing marked weight loss and sustained insecticidal activity beyond that observed with plain Hv1a. The findings underscore the potential of nano-Hv1a as an efficient and environmentally sustainable alternative for pest control strategies in agriculture. By improving both stability and effectiveness through advanced encapsulation techniques, this research proposes a viable complement to conventional pesticide practices.