Nanoparticle-mediated RNA delivery for improved single-copy insertions in plants
Utilizing lipid nanoparticles and carbon nanotubes for the exogenous delivery of silencing RNA to disrupt specific gene pathways, enhancing single-copy T-DNA insertions in various plant species.
Overview
This innovative solution leverages the delivery of silencing RNA using proprietary lipid nanoparticle (LNP) and carbon nanotube (CNT) technologies to improve the efficiency of single-copy T-DNA insertions in plants. By transiently disrupting genes involved in classical nonhomologous end joining (cNHEJ) and polymerase theta-mediated end joining (TMEJ) pathways, this approach reduces undesirable multi-copy integrations. This method is poised to offer species- and tissue-independent applications across diverse plant species, enhancing genetic engineering precision.
Technical specifications
- Utilizes IP-protected LNP and CNT technologies developed for RNA stabilization and effective delivery.
- Targets transient gene disruption in cNHEJ and TMEJ pathways to limit multi-copy T-DNA insertions.
- Enhances RNA stability against degradation, improving silencing efficacy.
- Compatible with established agrobacterium-explant co-cultivation transformation pipelines.
- Potential applications in various plant species and tissues, leveraging natural small RNA delivery mechanisms observed in fungi-plant interactions.
Technology readiness level
Currently assessed at Technology Readiness Level 5, with ongoing validation efforts including designing targeted siRNA/pre-miRNA and evaluating insertion frequencies through molecular techniques such as southern blots, ddPCR, and sequencing. Initial attempts will focus on optimizing the delivery and integration process across different plant species.
About UC Berkeley
UC Berkeley is a comprehensive public research university of global scale, known for cross‑disciplinary inquiry and a high‑intensity research culture. Industry engages on campus through shared user facilities, project‑based collaborations, and embedded innovation spaces, with proximity to a U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory enabling joint programs and access to specialized instrumentation. Its Bay Area location connects partners to deep talent pipelines and a dense startup ecosystem, enabling rapid prototyping and iteration alongside regional suppliers and investors. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as the National Science Foundation, Department of Energy, National Institutes of Health, and DARPA. A dedicated technology transfer office streamlines IP, sponsored research, material transfer agreements, and startup formation, complemented by accelerators and proof‑of‑concept resources.
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