Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 25, 2026

Application of RNA Interference in the Pinewood Nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus
Published on: March 9, 2022
Cross-kingdom RNA in plant-microbe interactions: from molecular interactions to next-generation crop protection
Borala Liyanage D Deepali1,2,3, Caiping Huang1, Wei Zhang1
1Key Laboratory of Environment Friendly Management On Fruit Diseases and Pests in North China, Institute of Plant Protection, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China.
Abstract:
Cross-kingdom RNA (CK-RNA) communication is an advanced concept that enhances our understanding of inter-kingdom interactions by uncovering RNA-mediated signaling among plants, fungi, bacteria, and viruses. This review provides a detailed overview of CK-RNA mechanisms, highlighting on plant-microbe interactions. Through RNA interference (RNAi), CK-RNA allows organisms to exchange regulatory signals that influence gene expression, defense responses, metabolism, and adaptive processes across kingdoms. Furthermore, this review highlights agricultural applications of CK-RNA, including Spray-Induced Gene Silencing (SIGS), Host-Induced Gene Silencing (HIGS) and Microbe-Induced Gene Silencing (MIGS) which offer environmentally friendly and sustainable alternatives to conventional chemical management. Overall, the integration of CK-RNAs as target and MIGS as delivery method presents a promising pathway for viable, environmentally friendly crop protection that aligns with modern goals of environmental sustainability and agricultural resilience.
Related Concept Videos
Microbe-Plant Interactions
Plant Breeding and Biotechnology
Cell Signaling in Plants
Microbial Interactions: Cooperation
RNA Interference
This process occurs naturally in cells, often through the activity of genomically-encoded microRNAs. Researchers can take advantage of this mechanism by introducing synthetic RNAs to deactivate specific genes for research or therapeutic purposes. For example, RNAi could be used...
Experimental RNAi

