P01 – SWITCH eT: eNA mediated plant protection against Turnip yellow mosaic virus

Abstract
Turnip yellow mosaic virus, TYMV, is a major pathogen of Brassicaceae, causing severe reductions in plant size, yield and seed production. The project SWITCH eT aims at the identification and formulation of nucleic acid molecules, “eNAs” that are highly effective against viral RNA genomes by activating natural RNA-silencing mechanisms in plants. In this context, spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS) against TYMV infections will be developed and tested. The study will span from molecular screening in Arabidopsis thaliana to greenhouse trials in Brassica rapa, with an emphasis on achieving both efficiency of the antiviral effect and stability under environmental stress. The results will contribute to sustainable crop protection by offering a promising, agrochemical-free alternative for virus control!