Gene silencing is a technique to suppress the expression of a gene, so that transcription leading to the production of the protein it encodes will not occur. Several ongoing projects use this strategy to confer disease resistance in plants.  

Crown Gall: This disease, caused by the soil bacterium Agrobacterium tumefaciens, occurs in many plant species including trees crops. It causes the growth of tumors where the roots join the stem or trunk of the plant. 

Citrus Tristeza: One of the most destructive citrus diseases worldwide is caused by Citrus tristeza virus. It often occurs as mixed infections with many different strains, which presents a challenge for disease control.