July 08, 2024 | SynBio |
Researchers from the Federal University of Espírito Santo and the Federal University of Viçosa, Brazil, reviewed the impact of plant viral diseases on tropical fruit crops, a critical issue contributing to significant agricultural losses, estimated to exceed USD 30 billion annually for exporting countries. The study highlights the importance of understanding virus biology and genomics to develop effective strategies for virus resistance in plants. The review focuses on the potential of genetic modification and gene editing techniques to enhance plant resistance. By targeting specific gene regions crucial for viral establishment, these modifications can disrupt the infection process, enabling plants to resist or better respond to viral attacks while maintaining their productivity. The study provides an overview of the incidence and diversity of viral infections in tropical fruits and examines recent advances in creating virus-resistant genetically edited crops. Special attention is given to genetically modified products that have successfully reached the market, showcasing the progress and practical applications of these biotechnological approaches in mitigating the damage caused by plant viruses in the tropical fruit industry.