Maize mosaic virus platform for gene expression and genome editing in maize
A plant rhabdovirus-based delivery system for high-level protein expression, Cas9 nuclease delivery, and sgRNA expression in maize. Enables targeted genome editing to improve crop resistance to biotic and abiotic stressors, with applications in trait development, insecticidal protein delivery, and pest vector control.
Overview
This technology leverages an infectious clone of maize mosaic virus (MMV), a plant rhabdovirus, as a versatile delivery platform for gene expression and genome editing in maize. The system enables high-level expression of proteins and reporter genes, and delivers both Cas9 nucleases and single guide RNAs (sgRNAs) directly into maize cells. By providing an efficient route to introduce genetic modifications, the platform supports crop improvement efforts targeting resistance to biotic and abiotic stressors. The virus also serves as a delivery vehicle for functional proteins, such as insecticidal proteins, and offers potential strategies for controlling its insect vector, Peregrinus maidis, a major pest of maize breeding programs.
Technical specifications
- Virus platform: Infectious clone of maize mosaic virus (MMV) engineered for high-level heterologous gene expression
- Replication hosts: MMV replicates in tobacco, maize, and the planthopper vector Peregrinus maidis
- Delivery capabilities: Constructs designed to deliver sgRNAs, Cas9 nucleases, and proteins (including insecticidal proteins)
- Workflow: Methods developed for moving virus inoculum from tobacco to maize
- Current status: Reporter gene expression demonstrated in maize; sgRNA-carrying viruses confirmed viable and infectious; sgRNA/Cas9 constructs assembled and undergoing proof-of-concept testing for genome editing in maize
- Ongoing optimization: Refining reporter gene placement within the viral genome to maximize carrying capacity and expression levels
Technology readiness level
The MMV platform has reached proof-of-concept stage. High-level reporter gene expression has been validated in maize, and viruses carrying sgRNAs have been confirmed as viable and infectious. Constructs carrying both sgRNA and Cas9 have been assembled, with testing underway to demonstrate genome editing in maize. Optimization of gene placement and delivery methods is ongoing. The technology is positioned for early-stage collaborative validation with industry partners interested in maize trait development and crop improvement.
About North Carolina State University
North Carolina State University is a large, comprehensive public land‑grant research university in Raleigh. Its on‑campus research and technology park co‑locates corporate R&D groups, government partners, and faculty labs, enabling shared facilities, prototyping, and agile contracting. Located in North Carolina’s Research Triangle, partners tap a dense regional ecosystem while engaging through a statewide extension network and a mature co‑op program that deliver field deployment and workforce pipelines. Multiple pilot and demonstration facilities support scale‑up and validation toward pre‑commercial readiness. Research is supported by competitive funding from major federal agencies, including NSF, USDA, DOE, and DOD, and a dedicated technology transfer office with clear IP pathways helps accelerate commercialization.
delivered to your inbox.