Question

How is RNAi technology used to create pest resistant plants? [3]

Answer 1

RNAi technology involves silencing of a specific mRNA sequence due to a complementary dsRNA molecule that binds to it and prevents translation of the mRNA (silencing). [1]

This method can be used to create pest resistance plant from pest like nematodes. Using Agrobacterium vectors, nematode-specific genes were introduced into the host plant. The introduction of DNA produced both sense and anti-sense RNA in the host cells forming a double stranded (dsRNA) that silenced the specific mRNA of the nematode which protected the plant from the parasite. [3]