Targeting nematode genes by RNA silencing.

Abstract

Abstract Despite prominent differences in lifestyles of obligate parasitic and free-living nematodes, the intensive research in characterizing genes and proteins of Caenorhabditis elegans using RNA silencing has inspired research and technological applications for parasitic nematodes. This is exemplified in dsRNA-mediated silencing of plant-parasitic nematode (PPN) genes to study their function, and demonstration of the existence of similar functional mechanisms of RNA silencing in these species. Armed with this knowledge, it then became possible to explore and identify appropriate genes of PPNs as targets for new strategies of nematode control. This chapter focuses on the methods and applications of RNA silencing to PPNs. There is no doubt that commercial implementation of biotechnology-based control strategies for nematode pests via host-induced gene silencing, for example, is now closer to reality. This advance is based on RNA silencing technology, in which research into the free-living nematode C. elegans has played a major role. Intensive efforts to address practical issues of implementation will make gene silencing technology capable of delivering effective nematode resistance for crops, either as a stand-alone approach, or in combination with alternative nematode control options.