Translating RNAi technology for virus and whitefly management in protected cropping systems

This research will expand the use of RNA interference (RNAi) technology from small-scale research greenhouses to large-scale commercial farming. RNAi works by targeting and disabling specific genes in pests and viruses, preventing them from damaging crops. This method involves spraying crops with specially designed RNA molecules that are highly specific for their virus targets, using a safe, environmentally friendly delivery system called BioClay. Unlike traditional pesticides, this approach is non-toxic, does not involve genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and reduces the risk of pests developing resistance.