Effect of transgenic ACT potato on growth, development and enzyme activity of Leptinotarsa decemlineata

The Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata, as one of the world quarantine pests, causes devastating the damage to solanaceae crops. Targeting the β-Actin (ACT) transgene in potato plants can induce a lethal RNAi response of CPBs. In this study, we investigated the effects of different potato varieties (transgenic ACT, wild-type WT and commercial variety Holland 15) on the development, survival and enzyme activity of CPB. The results showed that after CPBs at various developmental stages feeding on ACT leaves, both the leaf area consumed and the body weight decreased with increasing feeding duration (P < 0.05). The activities of detoxification enzymes (CarE, GST, AKP/ALP), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and protective enzymes (SOD, CAT, POD) in the 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th instar larvae and adults of CPB were significantly higher in beetles fed on transgenic ACT than those of wild-type WT and Holland 15 (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the growth, development, or enzyme activity of CPBs after feeding on transgenic ACT, wild-type WT and Holland 15 potato tubers at different instar stages. This paper explores the effects of transgenic ACT potatoes on the development, survival and enzyme activity of CPBs. It provides insights into the safety of transgenic ACT potatoes and supports sustainable control methods against pests.