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
