Among the next generation pest management tools being scrutinized for crop production are RNA interference (RNAi)–based biopesticides. A researcher with the University of Tennessee Department of Plant Sciences will lead a team to evaluate their value by examining the persistence of RNAi molecules in the environment after use.
Assistant Professor Tabibul Islam has received a grant from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture of nearly $644,000 to generate first-of-its-kind data to record the environmental fate and ecotoxicological effects of novel RNAi-based biofungicides. The study will assist federal regulatory agencies in making evidence-based decisions about the effects of genetically engineered organisms in the environment.
Controlled environment agriculture (CEA) production systems optimize plant growth by tightly managing environmental factors like light, temperature, humidity and nutrients within enclosed structures. These systems, including greenhouses and vertical farms, utilize technologies like hydroponics, aeroponics, and aquaponics to increase yields, reduce water usage and enable year-round, local production.
"Our project will determine the persistence of specific RNA structures in soils, soil-less substrates, and hydroponic crop production systems. Additionally we will evaluate whether the modifications have detrimental effects on the microbiota and beneficial microbes," explains Islam. "Our findings will support the EPA, USDA and FDA in developing guidelines for the safe use of biofungicides."
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