Overexpression of the transporter SfABCH4 contributes to metabolic resistance to triflumezopyrim in Sogatella furcifera (Hemiptera: Delphacidae).

Background

The white-backed planthopper, Sogatella furcifera (Horváth), is a major migratory pest of rice in Asia. Triflumezopyrim (TFM) is highly effective against S. furcifera, but the mechanisms underlying resistance remain poorly understood. This study investigated the contribution of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters to TFM resistance.

Results

Verapamil increased TFM toxicity by 1.4-fold in the susceptible strain and 3.7-fold in the resistant strain, suggesting a contribution of ABC transporters to TFM resistance. SfABCH4 expression was 8.89-fold higher following TFM exposure in the resistant strain. Silencing SfABCH4 increased TFM-induced mortality by 20.00-36.67%, whereas GAL4/UAS-mediated overexpression increased TFM resistance by 2.06- and 2.75-fold. SfABCH4 was also highly expressed in field populations, and its silencing increased TFM susceptibility in both the WS24 and XY24 field populations.

Conclusion

Elevated SfABCH4 expression contributes to TFM resistance in S. furcifera. These findings provide functional evidence for ABC transporter-mediated resistance and may facilitate resistance monitoring and management of S. furcifera. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.