Omics-driven strategies for integrated insect-pest and disease management

Abstract

Agriculture is increasingly challenged by insect-pests and diseases that threaten global food security, farmer livelihoods, and ecosystem stability. Conventional management strategies, particularly chemical pesticides, have offered short-term solutions but are constrained for resistance development, environmental contamination, and health concerns. This has created an urgent need for innovative, sustainable, and knowledge-driven approaches to crop protection. In this context, omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, biopesticides, microbial consortia and microbiomics, have emerged as transformative tools for integrated insect-pest and disease management (IPDM). Omics approaches offer a comprehensive understanding of biological systems by deciphering host-pathogen-pest interactions. Genomics enables the identification of resistance genes and virulence factors, while transcriptomics reveals dynamic gene expression during stress or infection. Proteomics and metabolomics uncover functional proteins and metabolites involved in defense responses, offering insights into biochemical pathways for crop protection. Microbiomics highlights the role of beneficial microbes in enhancing plant immunity and suppressing pests, opening avenues for bio-based interventions. Integration of omics data supports eco-friendly strategies such as molecular diagnostics for early detection, RNA interference (RNAi)-based pest control, and marker-assisted breeding for resistant varieties. Furthermore, omics-driven insights facilitate the development of biopesticides and microbial consortia that complement traditional IPM practices. Beyond pest control, omics contributes to reducing chemical dependency, enhancing biodiversity, improving soil and water health, empowering farmers with knowledge, and advancing climate-smart agriculture. Thus, omics technologies represent a paradigm shift in insect-pest and disease management, enabling a transition from reactive, pesticide-dependent practices to proactive, knowledge-intensive solutions. Their integration into IPDM frameworks promises resilient crops, reduced ecological footprints, and sustainable food security for future generations