COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR FUNGAL INHIBITION USING MINICELL-BASED RNAi

A biocontrol composition comprising:

• a minicell comprising at least one polynucleotide encoding an inhibitory RNA molecule that targets a nucleic acid sequence encoding an amino acid sequence at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:18, 20, 22 or 24,
• wherein the sequence is present in a pathogen, and
• wherein the pathogen or a disease caused by the pathogen is suppressed upon application of
• the composition compared to a control pathogen lacking the application of the composition.

A method for controlling a pathogen, the method comprising the steps of:

• a. introducing into a minicell at least one polynucleotide encoding an inhibitory RNA molecule that are directed to at least one target sequence in a pathogen,
• b. applying the minicell to a subject;
• wherein the inhibitory RNA molecule causes downregulation of said at least one target sequence in the pathogen, and
• wherein the pathogen or a disease caused by the pathogen is suppressed upon application of the composition compared to a control pathogen lacking the application of the composition.

A method for preventing, treating or curing a disease or condition in a subject suffering therefrom a pathogen, the method comprising the steps of:

• a. introducing into a minicell at least one polynucleotide encoding an inhibitory RNA molecule that targets a nucleic acid sequence encoding an amino acid sequence at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:18, 20, 22 or 24,
• b. applying the minicell to the subject;
• wherein the inhibitory RNA molecule causes downregulation of said at least one target sequence in the pathogen, and
• wherein the pathogen or a disease caused by the pathogen is suppressed upon application of the composition compared to a control pathogen lacking the application of the composition.