Project Number: 6615-32000-044-15
Project Type: Nonfunded Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Mar 01, 2011
End Date: Apr 01, 2013

Objective:
To determine the feasibility of using a bait formulation to deliver double stranded RNA (dsRNA) complimentary to the yolk protein receptor (VgR) specific to fire ant queens to stop egg-laying.

Approach:
1) Design dsRNA to VgR from the fire ant. 2) Synthesize a dsRNA VgR that is stable and transportable across the ant digestive system via aliphatic-PEG polymer technology (NC State University patent pending). 3) Evaluate the activity of injected VgR dsRNA versus aliphatic PEG dsRNA on Vg synthesis and egg laying in fire ant queens. 4) Evaluate effects of VgR dsRNA versus aliphatic PEG dsRNA provided in nectar or other food substances by colony feeding on Vg synthesis and egg laying in fire ant queens.