Endophytic Bacterial RNA Delivery for Plant Pathogen Biocontrol

The patent uses bacteria as intermediary organisms to deliver inhibitory RNA molecules to plants. Instead of directly modifying plant genetics (transgenic approach), the bacteria serve as a mediator that produces and delivers the RNA molecules that suppress pathogen and pest genes. This indirect approach avoids creating transgenic plants while still achieving biocontrol, thereby reducing social opposition and regulatory restrictions while maintaining disease and pest resistance.

The patent replaces chemical pesticides with a biological mechanism involving bacteria that produce inhibitory RNA molecules. Instead of applying external chemicals that pollute the environment, the system uses living organisms (bacteria) that naturally colonize plants and produce RNA molecules that specifically target and silence pathogen and pest genes. This substitution eliminates chemical pollution and health risks while maintaining control effectiveness through sequence-specific RNA interference.

The patent employs bacteria that naturally colonize plant surfaces and tissues to deliver inhibitory RNA molecules. The bacteria utilize their own natural colonization mechanisms and metabolic processes to produce, transport, and deliver the RNA molecules directly to the plant-pathogen interface. This self-service approach leverages the bacteria's inherent biological capabilities rather than requiring complex external delivery systems, thereby improving delivery efficiency while maintaining sustainability and reduced chemical input.