Objective:
Project 1: (i) Map functional vic loci of F. graminearum onto an existing genetic map and localize them in the physical genomic sequence; and (ii) to clone and sequence several of these loci and prove that the vegetative incompatibility phenotype can occur in response to a difference in a single pair of alleles. Project 2: ssess the potential for combining inhibitory peptides for enhanced control of infection and disease development.

Approach:
Project 1: Make a cross in which multiple vic loci are segregating and select progeny that all have the same set of alleles at the vic loci. ORFs in the identified regions of the physical sequence will be screened for their ability to confer a vegetative incompatibility phenotype, with ORFs near or containing HET or WD0 domains in these regions tested first. ORFs corresponding to one to several vic loci will be sequenced from Z-3639 during the term of the present proposal. Project 2: assess the potential for combining inhibitory peptides for enhanced control of infection and disease development; assess the efficacy of inhibitory peptides through cycles of wet and dry conditions and in relation to stage of floral development.