Double-stranded RNA confers resistance to pepper mottle virus in Nicotiana benthamiana

Abstract RNA interference (RNAi) is a regulatory mechanism of gene expression mediated by small RNAs. By using the RNAi technique, exogenous double-stranded (dsRNA) designed to target mRNA, suppresses levels in plants. In this study, we adopted as tool protect plants from viruses. We and synthesized several dsRNAs targeting pepper mottle virus (PepMoV) genes HC-Pro NIb. When used on Nicotiana benthamiana plants, these protected plant against viral infection over specific period. optimizing dsRNA injection time, protection efficiency could be maximized. It seems that dsRNA-derived RNA-induced silencing complex was able defend host instantly. Furthermore, each different regions within transcript had varying effects survival middle part both NIb dsRNAs, highest growth inhibitory effect observed. An RLM-5? RACE performed leaves infected with PepMoV after treatment it observed most mRNA cleavages occurred close 3? position mRNA. These results suggest can vaccine platform for crop protection.