ARS | Publication request: INCREASING RESISTANCE TO PLANT PATHOGENS IN COTTON UTILIZING BIOTECHNOLOGY.

Submitted to: Pacifichem Symposium
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: December 15, 2000
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: Pathogen attacks initiate a cascade of events in plants including the biosynthesis of low molecular weight antimicrobial compounds called phytoalexins. Current evidence supports the concept that phytoalexin synthesis is an essential component in the resistance response in cotton. The most resistant cotton plants are quick to recognize the pathogen's presence and produce higher concentrations of phytoalexins. To further augment resistance, we are identifying key biosynthetic steps that can be altered to produce more potent phytoalexins. These steps include utilizing antisense constructs to block the biosynthesis of cotton's less effective phytoalexins, and introducing foreign genes that will lead to more potent phytoalexins. The antisense constructs are designed to block the methylation of desoxyhemigossypol, which forms the less toxic phytoalexin desoxyhemigossypol-6-methyl ether. Foreign gene research is focused on genes from kenaf that are required for the biosynthesis of the potent antibiotic o-hibiscanone. Progress toward these goals will be presented.