Physiological and Biochemical Disturbances in the Insect Pests Infected with Entomopathogenic Nematodes: A comprehensive review

Abstract

The excessive and indiscriminate uses of synthetic chemical insecticides have led to many serious problems of human health, ecosystem and economics. Therefore, it is necessary to search for safe and eco-friendly alternatives. Among these promising alternatives is the use of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) for pest control. The objective of the present review was to give an insight into some of the physiological and biochemical disturbances in insects due to the infection with EPNs. Therefore, the current article discussed (1) the impaired intermediary metabolism including the main body metabolites (proteins, lipids and carbohydrates), and food consumption and utilization efficiencies; (2) the drastic effects of EPNs on some developmental and reproductive criteria of the insects; (3) the disrupted activities of major digestive enzymes including carbohydrate, protein and lipid hydrolyzing enzymes; (4) the disturbing effects of EPNs on the detoxification enzymes and the major humoral immunity-related enzymes. The disruptive effects of the EPNs on insects have suggested the potential of these entomopathogens for pest control. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive review for understanding the principal physiological and biochemical mechanisms involved in the insects to combat the EPN oxidative stress. The current review will no doubt suggest new research avenues to many investigators, and it will make a valuable contribution to the published literature. However, some points of research need more investigation in future, such as the link between humoral immunity defenses and cellular immunity defenses to understand the defense integration in insects against EPNs