Project Number: 5442-21000-035-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Oct 01, 2010
End Date: Dec 13, 2013

Objective:
To map genes for Fusarium head blight (FHB) resistance and low mycotoxin contamination, and for pests such as Russian wheat aphid; Develop improved green plant regeneration techniques from barley tissue cultures for genotype-independent genetic engineering of disease and pest resistance; Develop transgenic barley lines expressing combinations of pathogen response and anti-DON genes, test gene expression, and evaluate for effects on Fusarium graminearum and other fungal pathogens.

Approach:
Single quantitative trait locus (QTL) lines for loci involved in FHB and mycotoxin resistance from Zhedar 2 will be developed by backcrossing, fine-mapped using all available molecular markers, and characterized in replicated field trials. Candidate genes from collaborative projects will be verified by inserting the genes into susceptible cultivars via transformation, and testing homozygous progeny in the field. RWA resistance genes in ARS germplasm releases will be mapped using a variety of molecular markers. The involvement of ethylene in tissue culture regeneration will be tested by manipulating ethylene levels with inhibitors and precursors. Optimal timing for ethylene exposure will be determined and tested using commercial barley cultivars. Genes responsible for ethylene perception, synthesis and regulation will be isolated and characterized by following their expression through the tissue culture process. Antifungal and antitoxin genes will be inserted into a commercial barley cultivar using particle bombardment. Resulting lines will be tested in the lab for gene expression using northern and western analyses, and in the field for reaction FHB and other diseases. BSL1 & BSL1-P: Obj. 1 – No IBC approval required; Obj. 2 – Certified 8/1/2010 (8/1/2010-7/31/2013); Obj. 3 – Certified 6/11/2009 (6/11/2009-6/10/2012)