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Nanoclay delivered mobile RNA for plant gene editing and crop improvement (2025-2027)

Abstract

The exogenous application of RNA for crop improvement is an emerging and attractive alternative to genetic modification of crops. This project aims to design the most biologically active nanoparticle formulations that deliver RNA into crops for enhanced yield and quality. New knowledge will be generated on the mechanism of exogenous RNA-based crop improvement. The key outcomes from the project will be new nanotechnology platforms to generate new and improved crop varieties in a much shorter timeframe than is currently possible. Exogenous application of RNA has the potential to bring significant economic benefits to Australia and globally through improved crop productivity and food quality.

Experts

Dr Anne Sawyer

Research Fellow/Senior Research officer
Centre for Horticultural Science
Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation
Affiliate of ARC Research Hub for Sustainable Crop Protection
ARC Research Hub for Sustainable Crop Protection
Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation
Advance Queensland Industry Research Fellow
School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences
Faculty of Science
Anne Sawyer
Anne Sawyer

Dr Chris Brosnan

Affiliate of ARC Research Hub for Sustainable Crop Protection
ARC Research Hub for Sustainable Crop Protection
Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation
Research Fellow/Senior Research officer
Centre for Horticultural Science
Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation
Chris Brosnan
Chris Brosnan