Location: Foodborne Toxin Detection and Prevention Research
Project Number: 2030-42000-039-007-S
Project Type: Non-Assistance Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Sep 25, 2016
End Date: Sep 24, 2019
Objective:
Analyze the complex modes of action of atoxigenic Aspergillus flavus (Biocontrol agent, BCA) to control toxigenic ones. Apply genomics and transcriptomics technologies to gain deeper and more accurate insights on the interactions of atoxigenic (biocontrol agent, BCA) and toxigenic A. flavus to inhibit aflatoxin biosynthesis and reproduction.
Approach:
Atoxigenic variants with deletion in aflatoxin biosynthestic genes were identified for developing next generation biocontrol agents. In order to achieve effective biocontrol of toxigenic Aspergillus flavus present in the crop production field, it is essential to have genomic data of the deletion strain and transcriptomic analysis of the biocontrol interactions. The data will define metabolic genes and defense genes expression levels of the deletion atoxigenic strain for effective elimination of aflatoxin. The information is useful for suitable formulation for field application of the biocontrol agents. The transcritomic analysis will also provide supporting data for the competence of the biocontrol agents.
