Method for down-regulating gene expression in fungi

摘要

The present invention concerns methods for controlling fungus infestation via dsRNA mediated gene silencing, whereby the intact fungus cell(s) are contacted with a double-stranded RNA from outside the fungal cell(s) and whereby the double-stranded RNA is taken up by the intact fungal cell(s). In one particular embodiment, the methods of the invention are used to alleviate plants from fungus pests. Alternatively, the methods are used for treating and/or preventing fungal infestation on a substrate or a subject in need of such treatment and/or prevention. Suitable fungal target genes and fragments thereof, dsRNA constructs, recombinant constructs and compositions are disclosed.