Targeting the microRNA pathway core genes, Dicer 1 and Argonaute 1, negatively affects the survival and fecundity of Bemisia tabaci.

Together, our results showed that silencing the miRNA pathway core genes reduced the miRNA levels followed by reduced fecundity and survival of B. tabaci, which highlighted the importance of the miRNA pathway in this insect. The miRNA core genes are attractive targets for developing an RNAi-based strategy for targeting this notorious insect pest. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.