Efficient Control of Hazelnut Weevil (Curculio nucum) Population: Introducing CRISPRa Technology

Overview

The hazelnut industry faces severe threats from the hazelnut weevil (Curculio nucum), with infestations affecting up to 80% of yields. Relying on pesticides is environmentally unsustainable, while traditional breeding is inefficient. This project, "Fortress Nut," proposes using CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) to overexpress cell lignification-related genes (MYB-like) in Corylus avellana, accelerating shell hardening to enhance resistance during the oviposition window. Utilizing RNA-seq data and bioinformatics, key targets were identified. A Reinforcement Learning (RL) agent was employed to simulate metabolic activity, uncovering a critical "Day 12" metabolic collapse caused by high energy demands. By adjusting cell energy input parameters, the model successfully prioritized energy homeostasis alongside defense, ensuring plant viability. This rapid in-silico approach validates that CRISPRa-modified plants can achieve the desired trait(s) notably faster than traditional methods. Ultimately, this research provides a scalable, eco-friendly framework for crop protection that maximizes yield quality without the detrimental side effects of broad-spectrum pesticides.

Awards (3)

Special Award
Gold Medal
Selected for CWSF 2026

Competition history

CWSF 2026 Agriculture, Fisheries & Food

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