[Metabolic engineering of (E)-ß-farnesene synthase genes for aphid-resistant genetically modified plants].

Aphids are major agricultural pests that cause significant yield losses of crops each year. (E)-ß-farnesene (EßF), as the main component of the aphid alarm pheromones, can interrupt aphid feeding and cause other conspecies in the vicinity to become agitated or disperse from their host plant. Furthermore, EßF can function as a kairomone in attracting aphid predators. EßF synthase genes, which encode enzymes that convert farnesyl diphosphate (FPP) to the acyclic sesquiterpene EßF, have been isolated and characterized from peppermint (Mentha × piperita and Mentha asiatica), Yuzu (Citrus junos), Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), sweet wormwood (Artemisia annua) and chamomile (Matricaria recutita), respectively. Transgenic plant overexpressing EßF synthase genes has been one of the most efficient strategies for aphid management. In this review, the current statuses of transgenic plants engineered for aphid resistance were summarized. The plant-derived EßF synthase genes with their potential roles in aphid management via genetic-modified (GM) approaches were reviewed. The existing problem in GM plants with EßF synthase gene, such as low EßF emission was usually detected in the transgenic plant, was discussed and the development direction in this area was proposed.