Targeting Plant Pathogens Through LPMO Gene Silencing

We develop novel highly specific crop protection against downy mildew in lettuce and spinach, and post-harvest mould in strawberry and green beans. Host penetration by pathogens typically requires enzymatic disruption of the plant cell wall with the crystalline nature of cellulose making this challenging. Lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) play a key role in lysing bonds at the crystalline surfaces of polysaccharides allowing their rapid degradation. We recently identified a new family of LPMOs in plant pathogens. Members of this family are expressed during early stages of host infection suggesting they function to degrade the cell wall and enable the pathogen to penetrate the plant. Here we will identify key LPMOs required for virulence in two oomycete and one fungal pathogens. We will optimise application of RNAi for silencing these LPMO genes and preventing infection. A business plan for scale up and commercialisation of this novel approach will be developed.