Nematode-resistant crops via RNAi gene silencing
This technology uses RNA interference (RNAi) to protect crops from root-lesion nematodes, tiny parasites that destroy plant tissues. By engineering plants to produce specific double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) sequences, the plant essentially 'silences' a critical gene in the nematode when the parasite attempts to feed. This specific gene is responsible for fatty acid and retinoid binding, which is vital for the nematode's survival and reproduction. When the gene is deactivated, the nematode's ability to infect the plant is severely compromised, providing a built-in biological defense mechanism.
What you could build
Genetically modified seeds or plant varieties (e.g., potatoes, apples, or corn) that are naturally resistant to Pratylenchus penetrans infection. The primary buyers would be commercial seed companies and large-scale agricultural producers.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia's diverse agricultural sector, particularly tobacco and nursery seedling producers, faces significant pressure from soil-borne pathogens and would benefit from nematode-resistant cultivars.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- KATHRYN K. KAMO, PAULO C.R. VIEIRA, JONATHAN D. EISENBACK
- Granted
- September 10, 2019
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 10407681
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.