Invention:
This invention utilizes RNA interference techniques to produce a transgenic cotton strain that is resistant to cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD). These transgenic cotton plants do not produce the characteristic curling of the leaves and do not accumulate the virus. Furthermore, it produces resistance against multiple forms of the virus. This invention has the potential to protect cotton crops from one of the most devastating diseases they encounter.
Background:
As the most used fiber in the world, cotton is grown in sixty countries that produce over 100 million new bales annually. The most devastating disease to cotton is cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD), which is caused by several begomoviral species transmitted through an insect known as the Whitefly. The disease is distinguished by the thickening of the leaf veins, causing a curl in the leaf. This virus greatly affects the cotton crop yield as well as the quality of the cotton that is produced. Historically, Pakistan has experienced the largest impact of CLCuD, where the disease has previously reduced cotton yields by over 30%, a $5 billion loss. The disease has recently spread and is now affecting cotton crops in China and the Philippines as well. Without a proper cure or preventative measures, CLCuD has the potential to result in further cotton production loss.
Applications:
- Prevention of cotton leaf curl disease in the cotton industry
Advantages:
- Increases resistance against multiple begomoviral species
- Applicable to multiple cotton varieties
- Potential to increase cotton production
Status: issued U.S. patent #11,441,158
