Locking Out Viruses

Aphids are a well-known foe of anyone who grows plants, whether they’re farmers or home gardeners. The tiny insects harm plants by sucking sap from them, but they’re also very good at spreading viruses that are bad for plants – including important crops. One ARS researcher found a breakthrough way to keep aphids and the diseases they spread at bay, using the infamous spike protein that’s located on the outside of viruses. Find out more about how this game-changing technology can save plants.