Molecular characterization of insecticide resistance genes in colombian andean agricultural pests

Overview

This research initiative focuses on the molecular characterization of genes associated with resistance to chemical insecticides in agricultural pests found within the agroecosystems of Colombia's Andean region. The Andean mountain range is hypothesized to act as a natural barrier that isolates pest populations between North/Central America and South America, potentially leading to distinct genetic profiles and differing resistance-linked genes in pests of economic importance. By identifying these regional genetic differences, the project aims to generate actionable intelligence for crop protection and integrated pest management strategies tailored to local conditions.

Technical specifications

Key research activities:

• Collection of pest insects, including Helicoverpa armigera and Helicoverpa zea, from crops of agricultural importance across the Colombian Andean region
• DNA extraction from collected specimens
• Sequencing of genomic regions known to be associated with insecticide resistance, such as P450 gene families
• Construction of gene accumulation and migration maps to visualize the distribution and movement of resistance genes across geographic zones
• Comparative genetic analysis between South American pest populations and those from Central and North America to identify distinct resistance markers

Target applications:

• Informing insecticide resistance management programs for key agricultural pests
• Supporting development of region-specific crop protection strategies
• Contributing baseline genetic data for monitoring resistance gene flow in Andean agroecosystems

Technology readiness level

The project is at an early research stage, focused on field collection, laboratory molecular analysis, and genetic sequencing of pest populations. Future validation will involve building comprehensive resistance gene maps through systematic sampling across multiple crops in the Colombian Andean region. The research is positioned to generate foundational genetic data that can support downstream applications in agricultural biotechnology and pest management.