RNAi for crop protection

The RNAi technology, which involves specific down-regulation of selected genes by expression of double-stranded RNA, has long been used for genetic engineering of plants for virus resistance. More recently, expression in plants of dsRNA corresponding to genes from nematodes or insects has been shown to provide protection against these pests when they take up the dsRNA during feeding. We are currently exploring this strategy using tobacco and tobacco hornworm (Manduca sexta) as a model system.

In addition to targeting insect pests, we also want to explore the possibilities of using RNAi for making potato plants resistant towards Phytophthora infestans, the causal agent of potato late blight.

Recent data indicate that the RNAi strategy can provide resistance against plant pathogenic fungi, possibly because dsRNA is taken up by the fungus across the haustorial membrane together with nutrients. So far, this has only been shown for ascomycete fungi (Blumeria and Fusarium) (Plant Cell 22: 3130-41 (2010); BMC Biology 8: 27 (2010)).

 

We are currently transforming potato with RNAi constructs based on selected P. infestans genes. If the RNAi technology can provide a significant level of resistance against the oomycete P. infestans, the potential economic and environmental benefits are huge, through reduced crop loss as well as reduced application of pesticides.

 

Collaborators:

Insect project:

Cornelis Grimmelikhuijzen and Frank Hauser, Dept. of Biology, KU-NAT

Philip Dix and Manfred Klaas, Dept. of Biology, National University of Ireland, Maynooth

P. infestans project:

Hanne Grethe Kirk, Landbrugets Kartoffelfond (LKF), Vandel

Bodil Jørgensen, Dept. Of Agriculture and Ecology, KU-LIFE

Steve Whisson, Scottish Crop Research Institute, Dundee