Project Number: 1275-21000-140-09
Project Type: Specific C/A

Start Date: Sep 01, 1999
End Date: Aug 31, 2004

Objective:
The objectives of this research are to evaluate advanced potato selections from the Beltsville potato breeding program for resistance to late blight and common scab, and processing ability. Screen for resistance to potato scab in Solanum species at the seedling stage in the greenhouse and in field studies. Investigate the role of autophagy in disease resistance.

Approach:
The goal is to increase genetic resistance to fungal and bacterial disease in potatoes with processing ability. Increase genetic resistance to fungal and bacterial disease in potatoes accelerated by molecular mapping of genes identified with resistance. Analyze simple and complex carbohydrates in potato germplasm with disease resistance developed by Vegetable Laboratory scientists. Develop populations for molecular mapping of resistance genes for late blight and common scab, and processing ability. A seedling assay will be developed based on our previous experience with Arabidopsis. Seed from a Solanum population that is segregating for resistance will be screened for scab resistance. Resistant seedlings will be evaluated for their scab reactions in field trials. This research will benefit potato growers and consumers by reducing crop loss and improving tuber quality. Investigate the molecular biology and physiology of the autophagy mechanism and determine its relationship to resistance.

Project Team

Haynes, Kathleen Jones, Richard Deahl, Kenneth Baker, Con Theophanes Solomos - Professor (301)504-7405

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003   FY 2002   FY 2001   FY 2000

Related National Programs

Plant, Microbial & Insect Genetic Res., Genomics, & Genetic Improv. I (301)   Plant Diseases (303)