The Tropical Fruit Forum

Citrus => Citrus General Discussion => Topic started by: Millet on November 22, 2017, 11:25:40 AM

Title: New genetically engineered virus to protect Florida's citrus come 2019
Post by: Millet on November 22, 2017, 11:25:40 AM
The Agriculture Department is expected to allow Florida citrus growers to start using a genetically engineered Tristeza virus to protect trees from citrus greening disease in early 2019. USDA is planning to issue a statewide permit once the virus is ready, likely in January 2019.
Title: Re: New genetically engineered virus to protect Florida's citrus come 2019
Post by: Citradia on November 22, 2017, 08:29:01 PM
Very interesting. Maybe it's like flu shot; a dead version of virus to lend immunity without making tree sick with tristeza.
Title: Re: New genetically engineered virus to protect Florida's citrus come 2019
Post by: Johnny Redland on November 24, 2017, 07:58:48 AM
The Agriculture Department is expected to allow Florida citrus growers to start using a genetically engineered Tristeza virus to protect trees from citrus greening disease in early 2019. USDA is planning to issue a statewide permit once the virus is ready, likely in January 2019.

Am I right to assume it will not only prevent contraction of the disease, but also cure already infected trees should they not be too far gone ?
Title: Re: New genetically engineered virus to protect Florida's citrus come 2019
Post by: FamilyJ on November 24, 2017, 08:57:16 AM
Dang Too late had to get rid of 7 citrus tress Honey-bell and Valencia, plus 5 others. But i put mango's in there place
Title: Re: New genetically engineered virus to protect Florida's citrus come 2019
Post by: citrange on November 24, 2017, 10:27:36 AM
There's a fairly low-tech explanation here

https://www.wired.com/2017/04/save-floridas-famous-oranges-scientists-race-weaponize-virus/ (https://www.wired.com/2017/04/save-floridas-famous-oranges-scientists-race-weaponize-virus/)