The application of RNA interference (RNAi) as an alternative to traditional insecticides requires innovative research to improve the cost-benefit efficiency and durability of the technology. A crucial step in this optimization process involves the development of reliable delivery methods. Two primary approaches, transformative and topical, present distinct challenges and advantages. Targeting the cotton boll weevil (CBW), we have demonstrated proof-of-concept by producing genetically engineered cotton plants expressing modified RNAi molecules in the form of a viroid-like molecule, effectively silencing multiple essential genes in the CBW. This structured molecule exhibits resistance to early processing within the plant, thereby enhancing delivery efficiency. Our GM lines lead to deleterious phenotypes in the first generation of treated insects due to the knockdown of chitin synthase gene, as well as in their offspring by the silencing of vitellogenin. In addition, we performed a topical delivery method enhanced by nanoparticles to protect RNAi molecules, ensuring their stability for direct application against CBW. Utilizing cationic polymers such as chitosan and polyethyleneimine, which are less toxic and costly than current pesticides, we efficiently enhanced the stability of RNAi molecules. Encapsulated RNAi molecules induced up to an 80% increase in knockdown and double the lethality in larvae compared to non-encapsulated molecules. Presently, we are exploring a copolymer delivery system to further refine the nanoformulations. Nonetheless, several challenges remain to be addressed, including long-term stability and large-scale production. We believe that advancements in fields such as nanomaterials, artificial intelligence and bioinformatics will significantly contribute to surmounting these challenges.