Science AI Journal
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · Research topic

Open research questions in Insect Resistance and Genetics

175 gap statements mined from Insect Resistance and Genetics papers in our 4.5M-paper local library, which holds 963 papers on the topic — drawn mostly from each paper's own stated research gap, future-work, challenge and limitation notes, and its abstract. The ones listed below are a selection still marked open; each names the study that raised it, with a DOI link where the paper has one.

Choosing where to publish on Insect Resistance and Genetics? See the ranked Biology journals.

What the literature leaves open

  • Lack of identification and phylogenetic relationship of the detoxification genes in P. versicolora. Limited understanding of the role of detoxification genes in P. versicolora.

    Identification and Characterization of the Detoxification Genes from the Transcriptome of Plagiodera versicolora · 2026 · DOI

  • The underlying constraints on the effectiveness of RNA interference in Heteroptera are not well understood. The current state of knowledge on RNAi in Heteroptera is limited, and more research is needed to identify the context-specific constraints on its effectiveness.

    What Shapes RNA Interference Responsiveness in Heteroptera (Insecta: Hemiptera)? An Evidence-Constrained Multilevel Framework for Experimental Design and Optimisation · 2026 · DOI

  • The need to account for individual variation in morphological traits. The challenge of developing a robust method for distinguishing migratory-ecotype individuals.

    Morphological Trait Analysis Showed the Existence of a Migratory Ecotype in the Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda · 2026 · DOI

  • Limited understanding of molecular mechanisms of pyrethroid resistance.

    Integrated transcriptomic and variant analysis reveals molecular mechanisms of pyrethroid resistance in a genetically homogenized Cas9 strain of Aedes aegypti · 2026 · DOI

  • The evolution of resistance is a rapid and ongoing process, outpacing our interventions. The lack of engagement between different taxonomic groups and disciplines. The need for sustainable solutions that incorporate genetic tools and evolutionary theory.

    Resolving resistance adaptations: an integrated, evolutionary perspective across taxonomic borders · 2026 · DOI

  • Further studies will be required to elucidate the potential roles of VipR beyond the control of BtPAI-1-associated insecticidal genes. Further studies are required to investigate the evolutionary role of the VipR transcription regulator. Modulating vipR expression could represent a promising strategy for improving the efficacy of Bt-based pesticides.

    Bacillus thuringiensis pathogenicity islands encode regulatory circuits controlling insecticidal Cry toxin expression during vegetative growth · 2026 · DOI

  • The lack of understanding of the regulatory mechanisms controlling insecticidal Cry toxin expression in Bacillus thuringiensis during vegetative growth. The unclear role of pathogenicity islands (PAIs) in encoding regulatory circuits for toxin expression.

    Bacillus thuringiensis pathogenicity islands encode regulatory circuits controlling insecticidal Cry toxin expression during vegetative growth · 2026 · DOI

  • Lack of effective target genes for RNAi-based pest management. Limited understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying P. xylostella development and resistance.

    Knockdown of vATPase subunit A impairs larval-pupal development in Plutella xylostella · 2026 · DOI

  • The need to classify the P450 proteins into distinct clans based on their phylogenetic relationships.

    Functional Annotation and Comparative Analysis of Cytochrome P450 Protein Family Genes in Nine Chironomidae Species · 2025 · DOI

  • Chironomidae species remain largely uncharacterized in terms of P450 protein annotation. There is a need to understand the evolutionary processes and the physiological functions of P450 proteins in Chironomidae species. The study aims to fill this gap by annotating and comparing Cytochrome P450 protein family genes in nine Chironomidae species.

    Functional Annotation and Comparative Analysis of Cytochrome P450 Protein Family Genes in Nine Chironomidae Species · 2025 · DOI

  • Current control strategies for cotton aphids have limitations. There is a need for new, effective methods for controlling cotton aphids. The primary insecticidal active components of Bacillus velezensis TRM82367 were not previously identified.

    Investigation into the Active Substance of Bacillus velezensis TRM82367 for Killing Aphis gossypii · 2025 · DOI

  • The complexity of the genome assembly process, including the need for high-quality sequencing data and robust bioinformatic tools. The challenge of annotating gene families and predicting protein-coding genes. The need for a comprehensive understanding of the evolutionary trajectory of C. megacephala.

    A High-Quality Chromosome-Level Genome Assembly and Comparative Analyses Provide Insights into the Adaptation of Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius, 1794) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) · 2025 · DOI

  • The lack of a high-quality pseudo-chromosome genome for C. megacephala. The need for a comprehensive understanding of the evolutionary trajectory of C. megacephala. The importance of elucidating the adaptation of C. megacephala to its environment.

    A High-Quality Chromosome-Level Genome Assembly and Comparative Analyses Provide Insights into the Adaptation of Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius, 1794) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) · 2025 · DOI

  • There are no commercial Bt formulations that control the red imported fire ant. The Cry3A toxin has not been previously reported to control fire ants.

    Biochemical Features of the Cry3A Toxin of Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. tenebrionis and Its Toxicity to the Red Imported Fire Ant Solenopsis invicta · 2025 · DOI

  • The lack of understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying pest resistance to Bt toxins. The need for effective resistance management strategies. The requirement for innovative approaches to delay or prevent the evolution of pest resistance.

    Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis Cry Toxins in Lepidopteran Pests: An Updated Research Perspective · 2025 · DOI

  • The need for alternative control methods to chemical insecticides. The lack of effective biological control methods against the European corn borer. The need for a combination of biological control methods to improve grain yield and reduce stalk damage.

    Biological Solutions for Higher Maize Yield and Reduced Stalk Damage Caused by the European Corn Borer, Ostrinia nubilalis (Hübner) · 2025 · DOI

  • The study identifies the challenge of high costs and limited market availability of biopesticides. The research highlights the challenge of skepticism about the efficacy of biopesticides among farmers. The paper notes the challenge of reliance on conventional pesticides and the need for regulatory changes to promote biopesticide adoption.

    The Difficult Decision of Using Biopesticides: A Comparative Case-Study Analysis Concerning the Adoption of Biopesticides in the Mediterranean Region · 2025 · DOI

  • Limited understanding of the biological functions of SeRNases. Difficulty in delivering RNAi to insect pests effectively.

    Effects of Double-Stranded RNA Degrading Nucleases on RNAi Efficiency in Beet Moth Spodoptera exigua (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) · 2025 · DOI

  • The functional role of HSC70 as an effector in herbivorous insects remains poorly characterized. The mechanisms of HSC70 secretion and function in plant-insect interactions are not well understood. The effect of HSC70 knockout on the moth's development and adaptation to its host plant is unknown.

    HSC70-3 in the Gut Regurgitant of Diamondback Moth, Plutella xylostella: A Candidate Effector for Host Plant Adaptation · 2025 · DOI

  • The study only evaluated the potential ecological risks of RNAi-based transgenic cotton on H. axyridis, - The experiment was conducted in a controlled environment, - The sample size was limited to 20 larvae per replicate, - The study did not assess the long-term effects of transgenic cotton on H.

    Assessment of Potential Toxic Effects of RNAi-Based Transgenic Cotton on the Non-Target Predator Harmonia axyridis · 2025 · DOI

  • Compare CH1 with currently cultivated maize varieties in China with respect to key agronomic traits, including grain yield, kernel quality, maturity period, lodging resistance, and drought tolerance. Assess the cost-effectiveness of CH1 seeds and the potential trade-offs between pest resistance and yield performance under field conditions.

    A Maize Germplasm Is Resistant to Fall Armyworm: From Life Table Analysis to Greenhouse Assays · 2026 · DOI

  • Adoption of a holistic approach to control insects and weeds, - Identification of the selective pressures created by xenobiotics, - Development of strategies that mitigate resistance emergence and its costs…

    Resolving resistance adaptations: an integrated, evolutionary perspective across taxonomic borders · 2026 · DOI

  • The intrinsic complexity of resistance mechanisms, - The continual introduction of novel active ingredients with unprecedented modes of action, - The understanding of insecticide resistance remains…

    Insect Odorant-Binding Proteins (OBPs) and Chemosensory Proteins (CSPs): Mechanisms and Research Perspectives in Mediating Insecticide Resistance · 2025 · DOI

  • Evaluation of the long-term effects of transgenic cotton on H.

    Assessment of Potential Toxic Effects of RNAi-Based Transgenic Cotton on the Non-Target Predator Harmonia axyridis · 2025 · DOI

  • Further studies on the functional roles of HSC70-3, - Investigation of the mechanisms underlying HSC70-3 secretion…

    HSC70-3 in the Gut Regurgitant of Diamondback Moth, Plutella xylostella: A Candidate Effector for Host Plant Adaptation · 2025 · DOI

Most-cited papers in Insect Resistance and Genetics

Most recent work

Find a gap in your own Insect Resistance and Genetics sub-topic

This page shows what the Insect Resistance and Genetics literature already flags as unresolved. To narrow it to your specific question, search the Research Gap Finder: the search is free with a free account and lists the papers closest to your topic first. Unlocking that topic (50 credits, charged once) fills the comparison table from our 4.5M-paper local library and writes the gaps from its rows.

Open the Research Gap Finder →

Related topics in Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Gut microbiota and health
3,552 open questions
Extracellular vesicles in disease
1,364 open questions
Antibiotic Resistance in Bacteria
1,198 open questions
Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics
1,050 open questions
RNA modifications and cancer
1,034 open questions
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
1,028 open questions
Genetic Associations and Epidemiology
970 open questions
Mitochondrial Function and Pathology
824 open questions
Open questions raised by papers listed on this page include: (1) Lack of identification and phylogenetic relationship of the detoxification genes in P. versicolora (“Identification and Characterization of the Detoxification Genes from the…”, 2026); (2) The underlying constraints on the effectiveness of RNA interference in Heteroptera are not well understood (“What Shapes RNA Interference Responsiveness in Heteroptera (Insecta:…”, 2026); (3) The lack of engagement between different taxonomic groups and disciplines (“Resolving resistance adaptations: an integrated, evolutionary perspective…”, 2026); (4) Further studies will be required to elucidate the potential roles of VipR beyond the control of BtPAI-1-associated insecticidal genes (“Bacillus thuringiensis pathogenicity islands encode regulatory circuits…”, 2026); (5) Lack of effective target genes for RNAi-based pest management (“Knockdown of vATPase subunit A impairs larval-pupal development in Plutella…”, 2026). 175 gap statements have been mined from Insect Resistance and Genetics papers in our 4.5M-paper local library, which holds 963 papers on the topic; the gaps come from whichever of those papers state one. They are mostly the research gaps the authors state and the papers' abstracts, plus future-work, limitations and challenges passages. The ones listed below are a selection still marked open; each names the study that raised it, with a DOI link where the paper has one, so you can read the original claim in context.

Tools for your next paper

Gaps & Literature SearchFind open questions in any field — 120,000+ open gaps mined from our own library.Pre-CheckIs your paper ready? Acceptance odds for top, mid and open/emerging journals, in seconds.Journal FinderA ranked shortlist of target journals from a 17,500-venue index.Duplicate Publication CheckerCheck for prior publication across 7 sources and our local library.Citation GeneratorFreeA DOI or title → APA, MLA, Vancouver, Chicago, BibTeX, RIS. No signup.Graphical Abstract MakerFreeTurn your findings into a colorblind-safe graphical abstract.

How Pre-Check worksHow AI Review works

Compare the category — Honest roundups of the AI research tools, ours listed alongside the alternatives.

Command palette

Jump anywhere, run any action.