This National Science Week, a groundbreaking new research project is putting science at the heart of defending our nations produce, by developing “plant vaccines” to protect Australia’s vegetables from viral diseases. 

Funded by Hort Innovation and Queensland Department of Primary Industries, and led by The University of Queensland (UQ), the five-year initiative is exploring how peptides – which are tiny biological molecules – can be used to prime plants to defend themselves against viruses, much like vaccines do in humans. 

To tackle this challenge, the team will use advanced plant molecular biology tools to identify promising peptide candidates and assess its ability to trigger broad immune responses in vegetable crops. In parallel, the project will also investigate beneficial bacteria from vegetable root systems that may act as natural defence primers. 

Brett Fifield, CEO at Hort Innovation explained what this could mean for Australia’s veggie growers: “The project is using advanced plant molecular biology to develop eco-friendly, scalable solutions for growers across the country. We’re combining cutting-edge science with practical farming needs to create virus-resistant crops that don’t rely on chemicals. This is science in action, using biology to solve real-world problems, which is exactly the kind of innovation we celebrate during National Science Week.” 

UQ’s Dr Mark Jackson explained further: “Just like people might get a flu shot to prepare their immune systems, we’re helping plants get ready for viral attacks using peptides. These molecules can prime the plant’s natural defences, so when a real virus shows up, the plant knows how to fight back.” 

Unlike traditional vaccines that use weakened or dead viruses, this project is investigating peptide elicitors – molecules that simulate the presence of a virus without introducing any actual pathogen. These peptides trigger a “teaching effect,” helping plants build immunity before infection occurs. 

“Peptides are like keys that fit into the plant’s immune system locks. But finding the right key is complex, as there are many peptides and receptors, and only a perfect match will trigger the defence response. Our goal is to find generalist peptides that can protect against a wide range of viruses, offering a more holistic and scalable solution for growers,” explained Dr Jackson. 

The project will be focused on Queensland growing regions, where viruses like papaya ringspot virus and zucchini yellow mosaic virus are spread rapidly by insect carriers.  

“Importantly, this research will support reduced reliance on chemical treatments by offering growers practical, eco-friendly virus control options. It will also enhance crop resilience and productivity, helping to future-proof farming systems against emerging viral threats,” added Fifield. 

Growers, advisors and industry stakeholders are encouraged to follow the project’s progress and explore future adoption of these biological tools. 

To learn more about this project and other science-led initiatives, visit horticulture.com.au