I am a PhD student at Aalborg University, where my research focuses on understanding how genes can be turned on and off in organisms. One of the main tools I work with is a natural process called RNA interference (RNAi). This is a mechanism found in many organisms that cells use to reduce or stop the activity of specific genes, usually as a defense against viral infections. By introducing specially designed RNA molecules that match a gene of interest, we can observe what happens when that gene is “silenced” and better understand its role and investigate changes in gene activity for all genes.
In recent months, I have been working closely with Lærke Valsted Bak Nielsen to study how this process affects Phytopthera infestans, the microorganism responsible for potato late blight. This pathogen grows in long, thread-like structures, making it a useful model for studying similar disease-causing organisms.
To observe how the pathogen grows and responds to RNAi treatment, we use an automated imaging system that can take regular pictures of samples as they grow in small wells containing liquid or gel-like growth media. A major challenge has been finding the right growth medium that allows the organism to grow well while also producing clear images.
After testing several options, we found that a rye-based medium with a specific amount of agar provided the most reliable results. We further improved this medium by carefully removing particles from the rye extract, resulting in a clear and uniform surface that allows for high-quality imaging.
This optimized setup now allows us to test many RNA molecules at the same time and quickly see how they affect the growth of P. infestans. In the future, this approach may also be used for other plant-infecting organisms, such as those that cause diseases in cereal crops.
Overall, this work supports the development of new, environmentally friendly ways to protect crops from disease, helping reduce reliance on traditional chemical pesticides.
