Current and Emerging Biotech Solutions for Virus Resistance in Perennial Fruit Crops
摘要
Biotechnological advances have provided promising solutions to manage viral diseases affecting perennial fruit crops, a strategic sector of global agriculture. Innovative strategies, such as RNA interference (RNAi), CRISPR-based gene editing, gene pyramiding, and manipulation of the host microbiome, have emerged as key tools in the development of more resilient cultivars. Successful examples, such as Carica papaya L. resistant to papaya ringspot virus (PRSV) and Prunus domestica L. resistant to plum pox virus (PPV), demonstrate the potential of these cutting-edge technologies to produce high-quality, virus-resistant plants. These approaches are particularly relevant for perennial species, which present distinct challenges due to their long life cycles and the need for multi-year evaluations, factors that complicate both the development and regulatory approval of genetically modified (GM) cultivars. Furthermore, genetic variability and spontaneous mutations can drive the emergence of viral variants capable of overcoming resistance mechanisms developed through synthetic biology, raising concerns about the durability of these biotechnological solutions. Nevertheless, the integration of advanced biotechnologies remains essential for promoting a more sustainable and resilient perennial fruit sector. These tools contribute to the improvement of fruit-producing crops such as pome and stone fruits, citrus, papaya, banana, and grapevine, all of which are vital for domestic and international trade, but face significant challenges due to their susceptibility to viruses. This chapter presents the major viral diseases impacting these economically important crops and explores the forefront of development in biotechnology applied to perennial fruit-bearing plants.