ARS | Publication request: Effects of antinutrient and toxic proteins on Hessian fly (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) larvae: Potential for transgenic resistance in wheat to complement native resistance

Submitted to: Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting North Central Branch
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: March 26, 2011
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: Results from a recent evaluation of 21 of the 33 resistance (R) genes in wheat to Hessian fly documented that only 5 would provide protection of wheat in the southeastern United States where Hessian fly is a major pest. These results confirmed the need for new approaches to deployment of R genes and discovery of novel genetically engineered approaches to resistance that will complement native resistance. We have developed an in planta translocation feeding assay for Hessian fly larvae to initially screen antinutrient and toxic proteins as candidates for transgenic resistance. While some of the antinutrient/toxic proteins we have evaluated may not kill infesting Hessian fly larvae quickly enough to prevent damage to a specific plant they should prevent larvae from completing their development and virulent genotypes from emerging into field populations. Results from these studies will enable transgenic resistance in wheat to Hessian fly and significantly enhance the durability of deployed R genes.