2021 journal article

Genome evolution in an agricultural pest following adoption of transgenic crops

PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, 118(52).

author keywords: Helicoverpa zea; Bt resistance; temporal genomic change; polygenic adaptation
MeSH headings : Animals; Bacillus thuringiensis / genetics; Crops, Agricultural; Evolution, Molecular; Genome, Insect / genetics; Insecticide Resistance / genetics; Male; Moths / genetics; Pest Control, Biological; Plants, Genetically Modified
UN Sustainable Development Goal Categories
2. Zero Hunger (Web of Science; OpenAlex)
Source: Web Of Science
Added: February 28, 2022

SignificanceEvolution of resistance to management approaches in agricultural landscapes is common and results in economic losses. Early detection of pest resistance prior to significant crop damage would benefit the agricultural community. It has been hypothesized that new genomic approaches could track molecular signals of emerging resistance and trigger efforts to preempt widespread damage. We tested this hypothesis by quantifying genomic changes in the pestHelicoverpa zeaover a 15-y period concurrent with commercialization of transgenicBacillus thuringiensis–expressing crops and their subsequent loss of efficacy. Our results demonstrate the complex nature of evolution in agricultural ecosystems and provide insight into the potential and pitfalls of using genomic approaches for resistance monitoring.