Abstract: The invention relates to a composition and method for prolonging the shelf life of banana by using interfering RNA, said method transfers a control cassette for Musa spp. ACC oxidase into banana by a novel gene transfer method, wherein said composition comprises an interfering RNA, a gene transfer expression vector and pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, wherein said interfering RNA can inhibit/knock-down the mRNA expression of Musa spp. ACC oxidase, inhibit further the biosynthesis of ethylene in banana, thereby delay the ripening of banana, and consequently, prolong the shelf life of banana.

Abstract: The invention relates to a composition and method for prolonging the shelf life of banana by using interfering RNA. Said method transfers a control cassette for Musa spp. ACC oxidase into banana by a novel gene transfer method, wherein said composition comprises an interfering RNA, a gene transfer expression vector and pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Said interfering RNA can inhibit/knock-down the mRNA expression of Musa spp. ACC oxidase and inhibit the biosynthesis of ethylene in banana, thereby delaying the ripening of banana, and consequently, prolonging the shelf life of banana.