Integrative genomic and genetic analysis of nonhost resistance across Triticeae species (TritNONHOST)

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Ulrich Schaffrath; Dr. Patrick Schweizer (†)
• Subject Area: Plant Physiology
• Term: from 2009 to 2016
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 105799157

The scientific aim of this project is to identify and explore the genetic framework for nonhost resistance in wheat and barley to three pathogens of enormous economic and ecological impact causing rust (Puccinia spp.), powdery mildew (Blumeria spp.) and blast (Magnaporthe spp.) disease in cereals. A global, differential gene-expression analysis, comparing compatible host and nonhost interactions will allow the identification of common, plant species-specific and pathogen speciesspecific pathways involved in nonhost resistance in wheat and barley. Functional genomics approaches will be used to test the function of potential nonhost resistance genes in the corresponding cereal species for resistance to non-adapted as well as adapted pathogens. The functional data will be combined with quantitative genetic data from novel populations segregating for nonhost resistance, in order to provide convergent evidence for a role of candidate genes in nonhost resistance of Triticeae (Figure 1). The outputs from this project will provide us with a new level of understanding of the fundamental inner workings of the biology of nonhost resistance in cereals that will provide the European plant breeding industry with the knowledge and tools required to achieve sustainable resistance to major pathogens. The ultimate aim is to transfer the genetic components of nonhost resistance from one cereal to the other to achieve “nonhost-like” resistance to the adapted pathogen.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Netherlands, United Kingdom
• Participating Persons: Dr. Lesley Boyd, Ph.D.; Professor Dr. Rients Niks