UGA researchers have developed a uniquely specific nematode resistance technology by identifying a gene from root-knot nematode salivary glands that is associated with root-knot nematode parasitism of crops and then using RNAi specific to that gene to inactivate it via genetically modifed plants. This technology provides a novel form of transgenic root-knot nematode control for resistance to multiple specices of this pathogen. Patent Status: To date UGARF\'s patented technology is the only comprehensive root-knot nematode resistance RNAi technology that can provide market exclusivity to a licensee. UGA\'s comprehensive root-knot nematode technology patent portfolio is strong both in the U.S. and internationally. Issued claims are directed to transgenic plants engineered to express RNAi specific for a nematode gene referred to as 16D10. The claims are not limited to a specific siRNA or RNAi sequence. These claims can be used to exclude competitors from making using importing or selling transgenic plants expressing any RNAi in plants for inhibiting expression of the 16D10 gene in nematodes which should be compelling to a potential licensee of this patented technology.
Unique specificity to the major plant parasitic root-knot nematodes specifically 4 species - Meloidogyne arenaria M. hapla M. incognita and M. javanica - whereas broad spectrum resistance can harm the environment by also targeting non-parasitic nematodes and other beneficial organisms.
To date UGARF's patented technology is the only comprehensive root-knot nematode resistance RNAi technology that can provide market exclusivity to a licensee. UGA's comprehensive root-knot nematode technology patent portfolio is strong both in the U.S. and internationally. Issued claims are directed to transgenic plants engineered to express RNAi specific for a nematode gene referred to as 16D10. The claims are not limited to a specific siRNA or RNAi sequence. These claims can be used to exclude competitors from making using importing or selling transgenic plants expressing any RNAi in plants for inhibiting expression of the 16D10 gene in nematodes which should be compelling to a potential licensee of this patented technology.