Project Number: 5442-21000-036-02
Project Type: Trust

Start Date: Aug 01, 2010
End Date: Jul 31, 2015

Objective:
The objective of this research is to transform barley with genes that may reduce Fusarium head blight and/or DON contamination, derive homozygous lines expressing the transgenes, and test the lines in the field.

Approach:
Genes with potential to reduce FHB and DON are being identified by collaborators using model systems. They will send us constructs containing candidate genes which we will insert into barley using particle bombardment and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation techniques. Plants will be regenerated and tested for the presence and expression of the genes. Progeny will be evaluated in the lab to identify homozygous lines. These will be tested in replicated trials in ND and MN to determine the effects on FHB and DON. Genes that improve resistance will be crossed into advanced lines and cultivars to see if the transgenes provide an additive effect with the resistance genes being bred in by traditional methods.