In a Perspective published in Nature Plants, researchers from IBMP and their collaborators examine the potential of nanocarriers to improve plant protection against viral diseases. This approach relies on the use of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), which can activate the plant’s natural RNA interference mechanisms and thereby inhibit viral replication.
Despite encouraging results, the efficient delivery of dsRNA into plant cells remains a major challenge. The authors review the different nanocarrier systems developed in recent years—including lipid nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, nanoclays, and biodegradable polymers—and discuss the biological barriers that still limit their effectiveness.
The Perspective highlights the need for a better understanding of RNA transport mechanisms within plant tissues in order to translate these technological advances into sustainable solutions for crop protection.
Among the authors are IBMP researchers Ana Rocío Sede and Manfred Heinlein, whose expertise in plant–virus interactions and intracellular trafficking contributes to advancing RNA-based antiviral strategies for agriculture.
