RNA Interference Past and Future Applications in Plants

Antisense RNA was observed to elicit plant disease resistance and post-translational gene silencing (PTGS). The universal mechanism of RNA interference (RNAi) was shown to be induced by double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), an intermediate produced during virus replication. Plant viruses with a single-stranded positive-sense RNA genome have been instrumental in the discovery and characterization of systemic RNA silencing and suppression. An increasing number of applications for RNA silencing have emerged involving the exogenous application of dsRNA through spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS) that provides specificity and environmentally friendly options for crop protection and improvement.

Automated summary

Antisense RNA can induce plant disease resistance and post-translational gene silencing (PTGS). The universal mechanism of RNA interference (RNAi) is triggered by double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) produced during virus replication. Plant viruses with a single-stranded positive-sense RNA genome played a crucial role in the discovery and characterization of systemic RNA silencing and suppression. The application of dsRNA through spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS) has provided specific and environmentally friendly options for crop protection and improvement.