Renaissance BioScience Corp., a Vancouver-based leader in yeast bioengineering, has announced a new project funded by Genome BC to adapt its RNA interference (RNAi) biopesticide technology from above-ground insect pests to target soil-dwelling crop pests, starting with destructive wireworms. This initiative, detailed in a July 28 press release, could significantly expand the market for precision biopesticides and offer growers a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides.
Wireworms, the soil-dwelling larvae of click beetles, are among agriculture's most persistent and destructive pests, damaging economically important crops like potatoes, root vegetables, corn, and cereals globally. They live underground for up to five years, feeding on seeds, seedlings, and roots, making them difficult to detect and control. The project focuses on Agriotes species, responsible for substantial crop losses in Europe, North America, and other key markets. By targeting genes essential for survival conserved across two Agriotes species, Renaissance aims to develop a single product effective against multiple species.
“Wireworms are one of agriculture's most challenging insect pests because they spend up to five years as larvae below ground, where conventional control options are limited,” said Dr. John Husnik, co-CEO and Chief Scientific Officer of Renaissance BioScience. He emphasized that the project is strategically important for determining how the yeast-based RNAi platform can be extended below ground. “If we can successfully adapt our technology for below-ground pests, it opens the door to developing precision biopesticides for an entirely new range of economically costly agricultural pests,” he added.
The technical challenge of delivering RNAi in soil is significant. Renaissance's yeast-based delivery platform, combined with advanced formulation technologies, aims to protect RNAi in the harsh soil environment while promoting ingestion by wireworms. This approach overcomes key barriers to effective soil-applied RNAi biopesticides. The company has already demonstrated promise against above-ground pests, and this project could establish the foundation for future products targeting a broad range of soil-dwelling insects and larvae, supporting the growing demand for environmentally sustainable alternatives to conventional chemical pesticides.
“This support from Genome BC recognizes the tremendous potential of precision biological technologies to transform sustainable agriculture,” said Dr. Husnik. Genome BC is a not-for-profit organization that has advanced genomics research for 25 years, attracting over $1.1 billion in direct co-investment to British Columbia. Its funding of more than 600 genomics projects has enhanced healthcare and addressed environmental challenges.
For industry leaders, this development signals a potential shift in pest management strategies. If successful, Renaissance's RNAi platform could provide growers with a new tool for managing wireworms while expanding the company's commercial applications across multiple crops and agricultural markets. The project underscores the growing role of precision biotechnologies in sustainable agriculture, offering a biological alternative to chemical pesticides that are increasingly restricted or less effective.
