New Antiviral Agent: Researchers have developed an RNA-based antiviral agent providing strong protection against Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV).
CMV Impact: CMV infects over 1,200 plant species, including vital crops, causing significant yield losses (e.g., 25-30% in Indian banana plantations, up to 70% in cucurbits). It leads to mosaic discoloration, stunted growth, and unmarketable fruits.
RNA Silencing: The antiviral agent uses RNA silencing, enhancing the plant’s natural defense by employing “effective dsRNA” enriched with potent siRNAs.
How it Works: Effective dsRNA are genetically engineered dsRNA enriched with highly functional siRNA. These specially selected siRNA bind to the virus’s genetic material to trigger a stronger antiviral response.
Improved Efficacy: This method, tested on Nicotiana benthamiana, reduced viral load by nearly 80% and outperformed traditional dsRNA due to efficient processing into active siRNA, thus triggering a stronger immune response.
Advantages: Precise targeting, stronger defense against viral mutations, and rapid redesign for new strains.
Next Steps: Development of spray-based solutions for field trials.
Broader Applications: The technology’s principles can be applied to other plant viruses, fungal, and bacterial diseases and insect pests.
Challenges: RNA stability in outdoor conditions, cost, scalability, and regulatory approvals remain hurdles.
Economic Impact: Plant viruses contribute to over $30 billion in crop losses annually.
