Application of RNA silencing in improving plant traits for industrial use

Abstract

The discovery of RNA silencing mechanisms has transformed research into gene function and has also allowed novel traits to be developed in plants, including some for industrial applications. To silence the expression of an undesirable gene, RNA silencing may be preferable over direct gene mutation as it leads to a dominant trait. This helps in straightforward screening of the desirable phenotypes. Moreover, RNA silencing is useful in tissue, organ and time-specific silencing of the genes that may play essential roles in plant life and, therefore, direct gene mutation may not be effective. This chapter summarizes the implication of RNA silencing in improving plant traits for industrial applications. Plants developed after RNA silencing of genes that act on cellular organization or metabolism are emerging as convenient and renewable raw materials for industries producing fuels, oils, pharmaceuticals, fibres, papers, seeds and processed foods. Several genetically modified plants, which may not have use in human consumption, have nevertheless been developed for specific industrial applications and await commercial-scale cultivation. Many more industrial crops are under different stages of development by industry and research organizations.