Dinâmica da degradação de dsrna puro e encapsulado no solo

Abstract

Protecting crops against pathogens is a complex challenge due to the variability of these pathogens in terms of time, space and genotype, in addition to their evolutionary capacity, which often overcomes plant resistance. Recently, RNA interference (RNAi) has been studied as a promising strategy for controlling plant pathogens. RNAi is an antiviral defense mechanism present in eukaryotic organisms that silences homologous genes, both transcriptionally and post-transcriptionally. The application of products based on double-stranded RNA has shown potential as a new solution for managing phytopathogens, offering efficiency and specificity superior to conventional methods, being able to target and selectively affect phytopathogens, acting specifically on pathogens, minimizing the impact on other non-target species. The methodology used in this study involved the encapsulation of dsRNA in nanoparticles composed of chitosan and HDL, with the aim of evaluating its viability in soil. Soil samples were collected, to which dsRNA was applied, and the genetic material was extracted and analyzed at different times, ranging from 24 to 1440 hours. Quantification of dsRNA in soil was determined by reverse transcription and real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The results revealed that the HDL treatment resulted in a greater amount of dsRNA detected in the soil, indicating a greater permanence and accumulation of the material in the soil. These findings highlight the efficiency of the methodology used to detect and stabilize dsRNA in soil, surpassing less satisfactory results from previous studies. These findings provide valuable insights for pathogen control in crops, highlighting the potential of this methodology to strengthen phytosanitary management and contribute to food security.