An introduction to RNA

RNA is present in all known life forms and plays an essential role in numerous biological processes, including transcription (where genetic code stored in DNA is converted to a more transportable RNA-based format), translation (of proteins that are also essential for life), and interference (e.g., to regulate gene expression).

Consequently, RNA molecules are being studied as potential products in many fields including agriculture agriculture and animal health.

RNA can be transformative for plant health:

• Plant health—where the natural process for recycling double-stranded RNA can be leveraged to stop the production of specific protein necessary for the pest or pathogen to function. This forms the basis for targeted biopesticide against parasites (e.g protecting bee hives from Varroa mites)