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RNAi for Fungal Disease Control: A Scientific Breakthrough Enters Global Review

  • Writer: Shujian Zhang
    Shujian Zhang
  • Nov 18
  • 1 min read

GreenLight Biosciences has achieved an important step by submitting regulatory applications in the United States, the European Union, and Brazil for the first RNA-based fungicide targeting Erysiphe necator, the fungus that causes grape powdery mildew. This is a key milestone for both the company and the broader field of sustainable crop protection.


The product utilizes RNA interference (RNAi) to precisely target the powdery mildew fungus without harming beneficial organisms, providing growers with a new, environmentally friendly approach to disease management. Moreover, it fits seamlessly into current vineyard practices, requiring no specialized equipment or storage conditions.


Powdery mildew remains one of the most costly diseases in grape growing, resulting in significant crop losses and necessitating frequent chemical treatments. Fungal pathogens have always been tough targets for RNAi due to delivery and consistency issues. Achieving effective, field-tested control is not only a significant milestone for our team but also a crucial step for the entire biologicals sector.


Although regulatory review is just one part of a longer process, this milestone marks a significant shift in the agricultural sector. The industry is transitioning from primarily chemical methods to more precise, sustainable biological tools that can complement current disease management approaches. RNAi will not replace every solution, but it adds a strong and environmentally friendly option for crop protection.


As someone contributing to RNA-based innovation at GreenLight, I’m proud to be part of a team turning ambitious scientific ideas into practical solutions for growers. Milestones like this reinforce why this work is important and why I’m excited about what’s ahead.


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