Advances in Chitin Synthesis Inhibitors for Pest Control

Chitin, a naturally occurring nitrogen-containing polysaccharide biopolymer, serves as a major structural component of the insect epidermis, the peritrophic membrane of the midgut, and the tracheal system, protecting insects from chemical erosion, physical damage, and pathogen invasion. The synthesis and degradation of chitin maintain a dynamic balance in insects; any disruption to this balance can adversely affect their normal growth, development, and morphology. Chitin synthesis inhibitors (CSIs), by interfering with the biosynthetic pathway of chitin by inhibiting chitin synthase, not only offer a new direction for pest management but also open a new window for understanding complex processes in insect physiology. The mechanism of action of CSIs is fundamentally different from that of traditional insecticides; they exploit vulnerabilities in the insect's physiological processes, thereby overcoming resistance issues induced by conventional chemicals to some extent. and have attracted increasing attention in recent years. The research on CSIs is of great significance to realize efficient and environmentally friendly biological control strategies, which is helpful to promote sustainable agricultural development and reduce environmental pollution. This review summarizes recent advances in chitin synthesis inhibitors (CSIs), highlighting their potential and challenges in pest control, and offers insights for developing next-generation biopesticides with enhanced efficiency, selectivity, and sustainability.