RNA: Molecules of Great Possibilities
Ribonucleic acids, or RNA, are something most of us remember from biology lessons and drawings of characteristic, twisted strands. RNA has become famous – if such a term can be used to refer to these difficult events – during the fight against coronavirus. Some COVID-19 vaccines have been produced using mRNA technology. As we read on the European Vaccination Information Portal: "mRNA vaccines contain instructions for human cells on how to produce an antigenic protein. These instructions come in the form of a molecule called messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA)".
The possibilities of using mRNA in medicine do not end there, however. Currently, work is underway to use these molecules in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and even some cancers.
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Are you ready for change? What is agriculture 5.0?
From hospitals to fields
Scientists have found that RNA, in addition to protecting our bodies from diseases, can also be used to protect plants. For this purpose, the phenomenon of RNA interference (RNAi) is used. This complicated process, in simple terms, involves blocking the proper activity of genes by RNA interference molecules. According to reports, such technology can be used in all types of pesticides against a wide range of pests.
In the United States, at the beginning of this year, it became possible to introduce this technology into agricultural practice. The insecticide Calantha, intended to combat the Colorado potato beetle, was registered. The name of the active substance contained in the preparation is ledprona, which is double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), which activates the RNA interference process in the pest's body. In the body of the Colorado potato beetle that consumes the dsRNA contained in the preparation, a gene that the insect needs to survive is silenced. According to studies, 90% of Colorado potato beetle larvae died within 6 days of applying the insecticide.
What is particularly important is that specific dsRNA can be directed to combat a given pest without threatening other, beneficial insects. Tests have shown that ledprona and dsRNA in the insecticide Calantha affect only the PSMB5 gene in the Colorado potato beetle and two closely related insect species that are also pests.
A genetically modified corn variety has also appeared on the American market, which has the ability to produce dsRNA on its own, making it resistant to the corn rootworm. However, as scientists point out, RNA interference technology used in the form of insecticides for spraying crops can find application in production systems where the use of GMO varieties is not permitted. They also see a great chance for the dissemination of RNAi pesticides in Europe.
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Numerous spider mites in corn. Leaves dry out prematurely 
