RNA (Ribo Nucleic Acid) has become a widely discussed molecule nowadays. Although it was seldom cited before other than in academic discussions of biology.
Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna have been using mRNA in the development of Corona vaccines. Apart from them, extensive research has been undergoing in the medical world on the use of this RNA in making corona vaccines.It has also been approved for use of RNA in the treatment of four hereditary diseases. In addition, research is underway on its use in the treatment of more than a dozen diseases.
RNAi can also become important outside of treatment. This method can be used to make environmentally friendly pesticides. A Boston-based company called Greenlight Bioscience has come forward. They are working on making RNAi-based pesticides.
Not only insects but to control crop fungi, the organization has also started working on the use of RNAi.
Apart from Greenlight, at least two more US companies are working on RNA-based pesticides. This includes an organization called Virginia Agrospares. They are working on whether RNAi can be used to control diamondback moths. Michael Helmstetter’s company is also working on this. Officials of these three organizations say they can now make RNA at a much lower cost, which can be used in the field.