Development of Novel Control Strategies For Diseases Caused By Cellular and Sub-cellular Pathogens

Objective 1: Develop novel plant virus-based expression vectors through the characterization of plant virus and viroid genomes. [NP 303, C2, PS2A] ? Sub-objective 1.A. Characterize the genome expression strategies of plant viruses for vector development. ? Sub-objective 1.B. Develop novel plant virus-based expression vectors utilizing modules derived from plant viruses, viroids, and plant genes. Objective 2: Identify changes in host gene expression and small RNA-mediated regulation associated with viroid and virus infection and spread as targets for disease management. [NP 303, C2, PS2A, PS2B] ? Sub-objective 2.A. Perform a functional analysis of genes and proteins involved in protein phosphorylation pathways in virus and viroid infection to identify targets for disease control. ? Sub-objective 2.B Identify the roles of viroid-specific small RNAs in plant disease. Objective 3: Develop strategies using plant viruses for the production of antimicrobials for the prevention, treatment, and control of plant and animal diseases. [NP 303, C2, PS2A] ? Sub-objective 3.A. Evaluate novel functional proteins for control of plant diseases. ? Sub-objective 3.B. Develop functionally active proteins in plants for treatment and control of animal diseases.