RNAi-based biopesticide for sustainable banana disease control

Overview

This solution offers a new generation of biopesticides based on RNA interference (RNAi) technology to combat two of the most devastating diseases affecting banana crops: Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum, and black Sigatoka, caused by Pseudocercospora fijiensis. By applying double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) directly to plants, the technology triggers the pathogen's own gene-silencing mechanism, suppressing the genes essential for fungal growth and survival.

Unlike conventional chemical fungicides, this approach is highly specific to the target pathogen, reduces environmental impact, and supports sustainable banana production. The technology is being developed by Pablo Chong's research team at ESPOL, a leading applied-research university in Ecuador strategically positioned to serve one of the world's most important banana-producing regions.

Technical specifications

Core mechanism:

• Double-stranded RNA molecules designed to silence critical genes in F. oxysporum and P. fijiensis
• Exploits the conserved eukaryotic RNAi pathway, enabling the pathogen to silence its own essential genes upon dsRNA uptake
• Leverages the natural vascular translocation of RNA in plants, allowing systemic distribution from leaf sprays, pseudostem injections, or soil applications

Validated results:

• In vitro assays demonstrated 70% to 100% growth inhibition of F. oxysporum depending on the targeted gene
• Seven target genes validated; five achieved complete (100%) inhibition after 24 hours of co-incubation
• Testing performed in petri dishes and 96-well plates using Alamar blue viability assays
• Each assay included three biological and three technical replicates at 100,000 cells per mL

Planned delivery enhancements:

• Nanoparticle conjugation strategies to improve dsRNA stability and uptake
• Greenhouse and field trials to evaluate uptake, translocation, distribution, and accumulation of dsRNA in banana plants

Technology readiness level

The technology is currently at TRL 4 (technology validated in a laboratory environment). In vitro proof-of-concept has been completed and published, confirming effective gene silencing and pathogen inhibition. The next phase involves greenhouse experiments to validate plant uptake and systemic translocation, followed by field trials to measure disease control efficacy under real-world conditions. The full validation program is estimated to take approximately two years. The research team is actively seeking funding partnerships to support greenhouse experiments, delivery technology development, and field trial execution.