Challenges associated with research on RNA viruses of insects

•Dicistroviridae and Iflaviridae are emerging families of arthropod viruses belonging to the order Picornavirales.•The establishment of cell culture and reverse genetics systems for these groups has been problematic.•Proving viral infectivity in a new cell culture system or a new virus–host association requires multiple experimental approaches.•Popular techniques used to confirm viral replication are invalid without appropriate internal controls.•Assessment of viral replication requires time course experiments.•Recommendations for researchers working on RNA viruses in insects are included.

Dicistroviridae and Iflaviridae (part of the group formerly identified as picorna-like viruses) are rapidly growing families within the order Picornavirales. Work on these emerging groups of arthropod viruses offers a unique and exciting opportunity for virologist, but this task comes with particular challenges. The lack of cell culture systems and infectious clones has imposed limitations on the advancement of study of these viruses. Here we discuss the goals and challenges regarding the establishment of controlled systems as well as some issues associated with insect RNA virology at the organismal level. These concerns apply to RNA viruses affecting other organisms for which basic research tools are limited. A list of pitfalls associated with RNA virus research along with recommendations is provided.