Rna-based plant vaccination platform for fungal pathogen protection in trees and perennial crops

Overview

This project aims to extend a proven RNA-based plant vaccination platform to fungal pathogens for the first time. The technology uses an engineered subviral agent (~2,600 nucleotides) that infects plants and continuously generates siRNAs in vivo throughout the plant's lifespan. Unlike conventional RNAi approaches that require repeated spray applications or genetic modification, this method enables a single application to provide lifetime protection for long-lived trees, vines, and bushes.

The platform is designed as a "plug-and-play" system where siRNA sequences can be swapped to target different pathogens. The company has already validated the approach against viruses and bacteria in citrus, apple, grape, olive, and kiwi crops, with testing completed in vitro and in tobacco model plants. This initiative targets powdery mildew fungi, leveraging the knowledge that fungi are known to take up siRNAs in plants.

Technical specifications

Key features:

• Subviral delivery vector (~2,600 nt) engineered to accept siRNA inserts
• Single-application design providing lifelong protection
• No genetic modification required
• Plug-and-play platform adaptable to multiple pathogen targets
• Continuous in vivo siRNA generation throughout plant lifespan

Validation approach for fungal application:

• Identify critical mRNA targets required for powdery mildew survival
• Design and produce siRNAs targeting identified mRNAs
• Test siRNA efficacy in vitro against the fungus
• Incorporate successful siRNAs into the delivery vector
• Validate engineered vector stability
• Inoculate N. benthamiana with engineered vector, then challenge with powdery mildew and compare to controls

Technology readiness level

The core delivery platform has been validated over two years of development, with successful proof-of-concept demonstrated against viral and bacterial pathogens in model plants. The subviral vector has been engineered and tested for stability. This specific project represents the first extension to fungal targets and is projected to be completable within 12 months. The approach builds on established siRNA design and validation processes already proven against multiple pathogen classes.