Development of dsRNA Targeting ChiVMV Coat Protein for Protection of Ghost Pepper ( Capsicum chinense Jacq.) Against Cognate Virus

Ghost pepper ( Capsicum chinense Jacq.) production in India is severely constrained by Chilli veinal mottle virus (ChiVMV), an aphid‐transmitted potyvirus. Current management relies on integrated practices, including cultural methods, vector control and limited deployment of resistant varieties, but effective control remains challenging. In this study, we developed a non‐transgenic RNA interference (RNAi)‐based strategy to enhance resistance against ChiVMV. Double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) molecules corresponding to a fragment of the viral coat protein (CP) gene were produced in vivo using Escherichia coli DH5α and applied externally to ghost pepper foliage. Plants treated with CP‐specific dsRNA exhibited significantly reduced symptom severity and disease incidence, with infection rates reduced to 20%–35% compared with 80%–90% in untreated plants. These results indicate activation of RNAi‐mediated antiviral defense following dsRNA application. Our findings demonstrate that exogenous application of virus‐derived dsRNA can effectively suppress ChiVMV infection in ghost pepper and highlight the potential of spray‐induced gene silencing as a practical and sustainable approach for managing viral diseases in solanaceous crops.