Project Number: 5305-22000-011-04
Project Type: Trust

Start Date: Jan 01, 2006
End Date: Dec 31, 2008

Objective:
Develop small synthetic DNA constructs capable of interfering with the BCTV (curly top) infection process, based on current knowledge of "gene silencing." Insert these constructs into (1) a virus-based vector capable of delivering constructs to tobacco (test host) and tomato plants and/or (2) Agrobacterium tumefaciens for agro-inoculation of constructs to plants. Test constructs on tabacco (Nicotiana tabacum and N. benthamiana) and tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) to determine the effectiveness of each construct in preventing infection and virus accumulation. Deliver constructs to tomato through either genetic engineering or using a mechanical delivery system to essentially "vaccinate" plants against curly top.

Approach:
Use molecular biology techniques to develop genetic constructs capable of inducing gene silencing against Beet Curly Top Virus when delivered to tomato. Initial delivery methods will include virus-based vectors and Agrobacterium tumefaciens, but will not involve genetic transformation of plants. Novel methods for delivery of constructs will be explored. Documents Trust with the CA Tomato Research Institute. Log 30332. BL-1; 12/8/05. Formerly 5305-22000-010-05T (5/07).