University of Queensland scientists have developed an environmentally friendly RNA-based spray to help combat myrtle rust, which has wiped out many Australian plants.
University of Queensland scientists have developed an environmentally friendly RNA-based spray to help combat myrtle rust, which has wiped out many Australian plants.
Developed in collaboration with Department of Agriculture and Fisheries forest pathologists, the spray induces RNA interference (RNAi) – a natural way to shut down protein translation – which means it could stop the spread of myrtle rust through bushland, home gardens and nurseries.
PhD candidate Rebecca Degnan said in the decade myrtle rust had been in Australia it had become a huge problem, with more than 350 native hosts.
“Of those plants that have been screened, only three per cent were completely unable to be infected, and more than 40 species have been deemed conservation priorities because of damage from myrtle rust,” Ms Degnan said.
Read More: The University of Queensland
Treating myrtle rust. (Photo Credit: The University of Queensland)
