Unlocking nature’s arsenal: molecular breeding and biotechnological applications to use plant secondary metabolites against insect herbivores

Plants have evolved a diverse array of secondary metabolites as part of their defense mechanisms against insect herbivores. These bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolics, and glucosinolates, deter herbivory and play crucial roles in signaling, plant–insect interactions, and adaptation to environmental stress. Many of these compounds serve as chemical deterrents and/or repellents against insect herbivory and possess potential applications in agriculture. Harnessing the power of plant secondary metabolites (PSMs) through molecular breeding and biotechnological interventions offers promising avenues for sustainable pest management strategies. This review explores the current understanding of plant–insect interactions, focusing on the role of secondary metabolites in plant defense mechanisms. We discuss recent advancements in molecular breeding techniques and biotechnological approaches aimed at enhancing the production and efficacy of these compounds against insect herbivores. Furthermore, we discussed the potential challenges and future directions in utilizing PSMs as eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic pesticides in integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. Overall, unlocking the arsenal of PSMs presents exciting opportunities for developing novel insect pest control measures while promoting sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation.