Research Project: Developing the Perfect Molecular Markers and New Germplasm for Rapid Incorporation of Resistance to Soil Borne Pathogens in Soybean (Year 4)

Location: Corn Insects and Crop Genetics Research

Project Number: 5030-21220-007-060-R
Project Type: Reimbursable Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Jan 1, 2023
End Date: Dec 31, 2023

Objective:
1) Identify and characterize the candidate genes for development of ‘perfect’ molecular markers for rapid and precise incorporation of the targeted resistance into US soybean germplasm. 2) Release new cultivars and germplasm with resistance to one or more soybean pathogens.

Approach:
100+ sources will be combined for resistance to soil borne diseases caused by Phytophthora sojae, more than eight species of Pythium, Fusarium graminearum, and the brown stem rot pathogen Phialphora gregata. 1. Cooperators will develop new and improved soybean varieties and germplasm with enhanced resistance traits. 2. Cooperators and ARS PI will use mapping, whole genome expression analyses to identify the specific gene(s) contributing to resistance and determine how resistance is regulated. 3. Cooperators will use VIGS and CRIPSR/Cas9 technologies to confirm candidate genes. 4. ARS PI will use VIGS coupled with RNA-seq to confirm candidate genes and the molecular networks they control.