Utilization of nanotechnology to improve the stability and insecticidal activity of spider venom protein Hv1a

Journal article

Background: With the advancement of nanotechnology, nano biopesticides have gained considerable attention. This study presents a novel method for enhancing the stability and efficacy of the spider venom protein ω-HXTX-Hv1a, an insecticide neurotoxin. The approach involves encapsulating this protein within chitosan cross-linked sodium tripolyphosphate nanocapsules. Such encapsulation is designed to improve the adhesion of Hv1a to leaf surfaces while protecting it from degradation induced by ultraviolet light. Results: Encapsulation of Hv1a in nanocapsules yielded significant advantages. Specifically, the insecticidal activity of nano-Hv1a was maintained at 37.19 ± 1.23%, in stark contrast to merely 1.60 ± 0.63% for Hv1a after 24 h under conditions conducive to photodegradation. Additionally, the encapsulated form demonstrated a prolonged retention time within insects, resulting in enhanced insecticidal efficacy compared to non-encapsulated Hv1a alone. The study further explored the effects of nano-Hv1a on insect growth patterns, revealing marked weight loss and sustained insecticidal activity beyond that observed with plain Hv1a. Conclusion: The findings underscore the potential of nano-Hv1a as an efficient and environmentally sustainable alternative for pest control strategies in agriculture. By improving both stability and effectiveness through advanced encapsulation techniques, this research proposes a viable complement to conventional pesticide practices. Graphical Abstract:

Authors: Zhang, J; Luo, Y; Xu, Z; Chen, S; Kai, Z

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: BioMed Central
• Journal: Chemical and Biological Technologies in Agriculture
• Volume: 12
• Issue: 1
• Article number: 37
• Publication date: 2025-03-20
• Acceptance date: 2025-03-03
• DOI: 10.1186/s40538-025-00756-4
• EISSN: 2196-5641
• Language: English
• Keywords: Chitosan nanocapsules; Insect control; Nanocapsules; Biopesticides; ω-HXTX-Hv1a