High-efficiency green management of potato late blight by a self-assembled multicomponent nano-bioprotectant

Potato late blight caused by Phytophthora infestans is a devastating disease worldwide. Unlike other plant pathogens, double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is poorly taken up by P. infestans, which is a key obstacle in using dsRNA for disease control. Here, a self-assembled multicomponent nano-bioprotectant for potato late blight management is designed based on dsRNA and a plant elicitor. Nanotechnology overcomes the dsRNA delivery bottleneck for P. infestans and extends the RNAi protective window. The protective effect of nano-enabled dsRNA against infection arises from a synergistic mechanism that bolsters the stability of dsRNA and optimizes its effective intracellular delivery. Additionally, the nano-enabled elicitor enhances endocytosis and amplifies the systemic defense response of the plants. Co-delivery of dsRNA and an elicitor provides a protective effect via the two aspects of pathogen inhibition and elevated plant defense mechanisms. The multicomponent nano-bioprotectant exhibits superior control efficacy compared to a commercial synthetic pesticide in field conditions. This work proposes an eco-friendly strategy to manage devastating plant diseases and pests.

Yuxi Wang, Mingshan Li, Jiahan Ying, Jie Shen, Daolong Dou, Meizhen Yin, Stephen C. Whisson, Paul R. J. Birch, Shuo Yan, Xiaodan Wang