Sequence optimization and multiple gene-targeting improve the inhibitory efficacy of exogenous double-stranded RNA against pepper mottle virus in Nicotiana benthamiana

Abstract Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-induced interference is a promising agricultural technology for crop protection against various pathogens. Recent advances in this field have enhanced the overall efficiency with which approach inhibits pathogenic viruses. Our previous study verified that treatment of Nicotiana benthamiana plants dsRNAs targeting helper component-proteinase ( HC-Pro ) and nuclear inclusion b NIb genes protected plant from pepper mottle virus (PepMoV) infection. The aim was to improve inhibitory efficacy by optimizing target sequences their length multiple via co-treatment dsRNAs. Each two were divided into three shorter compartments we found :mid-1st :mid-3rd showed significantly superior antiviral potency than other fragments, including parent dsRNA. In addition, confirmed produced greater inhibition PepMoV replication obtained individual dsRNA treatment. Complementing our study, will provide future directions designing enhancing dsRNA-mediated technologies.