Enhancing entomopathogenic fungal resources through genetic engineering- A natural and pre-emptive approach to insect pest management

Entomopathogenic fungi assume a vital role in regulating arthropod populations, positioning them as pivotal agents of control. Beyond their primary function, these fungi exhibit versatility as antagonists to plant diseases, endophytes within plants, colonizers of the rhizosphere, and promoters of plant growth. Their enzymatic arsenal includes various enzymes that collectively degrade the insect cuticle, facilitated by the synergistic actions of proteases and chitinases. Genetic engineering to improve entomopathogenic fungi as pest control tools offers unprecedented opportunities. This involves tweaking genes for better infection, targeting specific insects and expressing powerful insect-killing proteins. This offers a more effective and eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. Genetic manipulation of these fungi has been instrumental in enhancing their efficacy. Augmenting the pathogenicity of these fungi has been achieved through genetic interventions involving the incorporation of genes encoding neurotoxic peptides, proteases, antimicrobial peptides, chitinases for cuticle degradation, and peptides that influence insect physiology. The pre-emptive approach to insect pest management presents a novel and proactive paradigm for addressing the challenges posed by pest-related issues in both agricultural and ecological contexts. Integrating biological control agents proactively into integrated pest management protocols is emerging as a strategy to reduce dependence on synthetic chemicals. As a part of integrated pest management, the application of nanoparticles derived from entomopathogenic fungi, along with their natural compounds, holds promise. These innovations, when combined with other IPM components, offer superior efficacy across diverse cropping systems. These fungi used for biocontrol also need rigorous risk assessment to prevent harm to beneficial insects and ecological disruption, especially concerning pollinators.