Nanocarrier delivered dsRNA: an efficient method for controlling the malignant invasive golden apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata)

Pomacea canaliculata, commonly known as the golden apple snail, is one of the world's top 100 worst invasive alien species. Its widespread invasion has led to reduced agricultural yields, water pollution, and human health risks. While several control methods have been proposed, they often pose environmental and biodiversity risks. In this study, we developed a stable, efficient, and specific molluscicide by combining RNA interference (RNAi) with nanomaterials. We targeted the PcATP5F1A gene using dsRNA, significantly increasing mortality in P. canaliculata and reducing the expression of this gene. The results demonstrated that dsPcATP5F1A@PEG-PLys(SH) substantially enhanced the gene silencing effect and mortality rates in P. canaliculata. Furthermore, the dsRNA@nanoparticle complexes exhibited remarkable stability, even in the presence of RNase A. To investigate the mechanism, we employed FITC-conjugated synthetic dsPcATP5F1A to trace fluorescence signals in P. canaliculata tissues. The signals concentrated in the hepatopancreas, and histological examination revealed disrupted connective tissue and widened interstitial spaces. The biosafety test results indicated that dsPcATP5F1A posed no risk to non-target organisms sharing the same ecological niche. These findings confirm PcATP5F1A as an effective RNA pesticide target, with dsPcATP5F1A@PEG-PLys(SH) offering an environmentally friendly solution for controlling P. canaliculata and mitigating its invasion.