Microbe-induced gene silencing of fungal gene confers efficient resistance against Fusarium graminearum in maize

Scientists developed a new method called microbe-induced gene silencing (MIGS) to protect maize crops from a destructive fungus called Fusarium graminearum, which causes stalk rot. They engineered a beneficial fungus (Trichoderma harzianum) to produce small RNA molecules that target and disable a critical gene in the pathogenic fungus, weakening its ability to infect plants. When maize seedlings were grown with this engineered beneficial fungus, they showed significantly better growth and reduced fungal infection compared to untreated plants. This approach offers an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides and does not require genetically modifying the crop itself.