Genome Editing of TAS4, MIR828, and Targets MYBA6/A7: A Critical Test of Xylella fastidiosa Infection and Spreading Mechanisms in Pierce’s Disease

Manipulating gene expression is critical to exploring gene function and a useful tool for altering commercial traits. Quality improvements depend on applying new genetic insights and new technologies to accelerate breeding through improved genotyping and phenotyping methods, and by increasing the available genetic diversity in germplasm. The proposed work on fundamental processes of plant RNA interference interactions with Xylella fastidiosa leverages translational science from model organisms to the market, with potential for broad impacts on agriculture and understanding the mechanisms of pathogen resistance. The molecular approaches supported by this project can have significant impacts on viticulture by: (i) applying deep knowledge from model plant species to grapes; (ii) facilitating optimal selection of parents for breeding and immediate selection of elite progeny with multiple desirable traits; (iii) circumventing biological and societal limits to genetic engineering; (iv) acce