Location: Plant Science Research
Project Number: 6070-22000-019-040-S
Project Type: Non-Assistance Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Aug 1, 2026
End Date: Jul 31, 2030
Objective:
The goal of the research is to improve research on cereal pathogens, particularly those causing wheat head scab and powdery mildew, which drain profits from US agricultural producers. The research will enhance understanding of microorganisms in wheat heads that affect resistance to head scab based on the widely used resistance gene Fhb1. It will also improve understanding of powdery mildew populations and help breeders understand which wheat resistance genes remain effective against the mildew pathogen. Cooperator is an expert in fungal population genetics of cereals.
Approach:
Approach #1: Wheat heads with and without the resistance gene Fhb1 are collected from the field and subjected to microbiome analysis in the lab. Microorganisms associated with resistance are identified using state-of-the-art molecular techniques.
Approach #2. Wheat leaves infected with powdery mildew are collected and a population of mildew strains is developed. The strains are used on detached leaves containing single wheat resistance genes, so that the efficacy of those genes can be determined. The mildew population is characterized for its ability to spread.