Applications of tagging and mapping insect resistance loci in plants

Genetic resources and genes/QTLs for gram pod borer (Helicoverpa armigera Hübner) resistance in chickpea from the Western Himalayas

Helicoverpa armigera (also known as gram pod borer) is a serious threat to chickpea production in the world. A set of 173 chickpea genotypes were evaluated for H. armigera resistance, including mean larval population (MLP), percentage pod damage (PPD), and pest resistance (PR) for 2 consecutive years (year 2020 and 2021). The same core set was also genotyped with 50K Axiom CicerSNP Array. The trait data and 50,000 single nucleotide polymorphism genotypic data were used together to work out marker-trait associations (MTAs) using different genome-wide association studies models. For MLP, a total of 53 MTAs were identified, including 25 MTAs in year 2020 and 28 MTAs in year 2021. A set of three MTAs was found common in both environments. For PPD, two MTAs in year 2020 and five MTAs in year 2021 were identified. A set of two MTAs were common in both environments. Similarly, for PR, only two MTAs common in both environments were identified. Interestingly, a common MTA (Affx_123255526) on chromosome 2 (Ca2) was found to be associated with all the three component traits (MLP, PPD, and PR) of pod borer resistance in chickpea. Further, we report key genes that encode SCAMPs (that facilitates the secretion of defense-related molecules), quinone oxidoreductase (enables the production of reactive oxygen species that promotes diapause of gram pod borer), and NB-LRR proteins that have been implicated in plant defense against H. armigera. The resistant chickpea genotypes, MTAs, and key genes reported in the present study may prove useful in the future for developing pod borer-resistant chickpea varieties.

Molecular and genetic insights into secondary metabolic regulation underlying insect-pest resistance in legumes

Insect pests pose a major threat to agricultural production, resulting in significant economic losses for countries. A high infestation of insects in any given area can severely reduce crop yield and quality. This review examines the existing resources for managing insect pests and highlights alternative eco-friendly techniques to enhance insect pest resistance in legumes. Recently, the application of plant secondary metabolites has gained popularity in controlling insect attacks. Plant secondary metabolites encompass a wide range of compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids, which are often synthesized through intricate biosynthetic pathways. Classical methods of metabolic engineering involve manipulating key enzymes and regulatory genes to enhance or redirect the production of secondary metabolites in plants. Additionally, the role of genetic approaches, such as quantitative trait loci mapping, genome-wide association (GWAS) mapping, and metabolome-based GWAS in insect pest management is discussed, also, the role of precision breeding, such as genome editing technologies and RNA interference for identifying pest resistance and manipulating the genome to develop insect-resistant cultivars are explored, highlighting the positive contribution of plant secondary metabolites engineering-based resistance against insect pests. It is suggested that by understanding the genes responsible for beneficial metabolite compositions, future research might hold immense potential to shed more light on the molecular regulation of secondary metabolite biosynthesis, leading to advancements in insect-resistant traits in crop plants. In the future, the utilization of metabolic engineering and biotechnological methods may serve as an alternative means of producing biologically active, economically valuable, and medically significant compounds found in plant secondary metabolites, thereby addressing the challenge of limited availability.

Metabolic-based insecticide resistance mechanism and ecofriendly approaches for controlling of beet armyworm Spodoptera exigua: a review

The beet army worm, Spodoptera exigua, is a widely distributed polyphagous pest of economically important crops worldwide. The management of this pest insect continues to face many challenges. Despite synthetic chemicals posing a serious threat to the environment, these remain the conventional approach for controlling S. exigua in the field. An over-reliance on chemical control has not only led to selection for resistance to insecticides and to a reduction of natural enemies, but has also polluted various components of ecosystem. Given these increasing pressures on the ecosystem, there is a need to implement integrated pest management (IPM) approaches exploiting a wider range of tools (biotechnological approaches, microbial control, biological control, cultural control, and use of host plant resistance) for an alternative to chemical control. The IPM approach can not only reduce the hazard of chemical residues in the environment and associated health problems, but may also provide best strategies to control insect pests. This review synthesizes published information on insecticide resistance of S. exigua and explores alternative IPM approaches to control S. exigua.

In-field screening for host plant resistance to Delia radicum and Brevicoryne brassicae within selected rapeseed cultivars and new interspecific hybrids

Rapeseed (Brassica napus) can be attacked by a wide range of pests, for example, cabbage root fly (Delia radicum) and cabbage aphid (Brevicoryne brassicae). One of the best methods of pest management is breeding for insect resistance in rapeseed. Wild genotypes of Brassicaceae and rapeseed cultivars can be used as a source of resistance. In 2017, 2018, and 2019, field trials were performed to assess the level of resistance to D. radicum and B. brassicae within 53 registered rapeseed cultivars and 31 interspecific hybrid combinations originating from the resources of the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding of Poznań University of Life Sciences (PULS). The level of resistance varied among genotypes and years. Only one hybrid combination and two B. napus cultivars maintained high level of resistance in all tested years, i.e., B. napus cv. Jet Neuf × B. carinata – PI 649096, Galileus, and Markolo. The results of this research indicate that resistance to insects is present in Brassicaceae family and can be transferred to rapeseed cultivars. The importance of continuous improvement of rapeseed pest resistance and the search for new sources of resistance is discussed; furthermore, plans for future investigations are presented.

Identification of F3H, Major Secondary Metabolite-Related Gene That Confers Resistance against Whitebacked Planthopper through QTL Mapping in Rice

Whitebacked planthopper (WBPH) is a pest that causes serious damage to rice in Asian countries with a mild climate. WBPH causes severely rice yield losses and grain poor quality each year so needs biological control. Plants resist biotic and abiotic stress using expressing variety genes, such as kinase, phytohormones, transcription factors, and especially secondary metabolites. In this research, quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping was performed by assigning the WBPH resistance score in the Cheongcheong/Nagdong doubled haploid (CNDH) line in 2018 and 2019. The RM280-RM6909 on chromosome 4 was detected as a duplicate in 2018, 2019, and derived from Cheongcheong. This region includes cell function, kinase, signaling, transcription factors, and secondary metabolites that protect plants from the stress of WBPH. The RM280-RM6909 on chromosome 4 contains candidate genes that are similar to the flavanone 3-hydroxylase (F3H) of rice. The F3H are homologous genes, which play an important role in biosynthesis defending against biotic stress in plants. After WBPH inoculation, the relative expression level of F3H was higher in resistant line than in a susceptible line. The newly identified WBPH resistance gene F3H by QTL mapping can be used for the breeding of rice cultivars that are resistant against WBPH.

RNAi technology: a new platform for crop pest control

The insect pests are big threat in meeting the food demands for future generation. The present pest control strategies, including the existing transgenic approaches show certain limitations and are not completely successful in limiting the insect pests. However, the sequence-specific gene silencing via RNA interference (RNAi) holds a great promise for effective management of agricultural pests. RNAi is naturally occurring conserved process responsible for gene regulation and defense against pathogens. The efficacy of RNAi varies among different insect orders and also depends upon various factors, including the target gene selection, method of dsRNAs delivery, expression of dsRNAs and presence of off-target effects. RNAi-mediated silencing of different insect genes involved in various physiological processes was found to be detrimental to insects growth, development and survival. In this article, we have reviewed the potential of RNAi-based strategies for effective management of insect pests. We have also discussed the various parameters, which are to be considered for host-induced RNAi-mediated control of insect pests without producing any effect on non-target organisms and environment.

Transcriptomics of induced defense responses to greenbug aphid feeding in near isogenic wheat lines

The greenbug aphid, Schizaphis graminum (Rondani) is an important cereal pest, periodically threatening wheat yields in the United States and around the world. The single dominant gene, Gb3-based resistance is highly durable against prevailing greenbug biotypes under field conditions; however, the molecular mechanisms of Gb3-mediated defense responses remain unknown. We used Affymetrix GeneChip Wheat Genome Arrays to investigate the transcriptomics of host defense responses upon greenbug feeding on resistant and susceptible bulks (RB and SB, respectively) derived from two near-isogenic lines. The study identified 692 differentially expressed transcripts and further functional classification recognized 122 transcripts that are putatively associated to mediate biotic stress responses. In RB, Gb3-mediated resistance resulted in activation of transmembrane receptor kinases and signaling-related transcripts involved in early signal transduction cascades. While in SB, transcripts mediating final steps in jasmonic acid biosynthesis, redox homeostasis, peroxidases, glutathione S-transferases, and notable defense-related secondary metabolites were induced. Also transcripts involved in callose and cell wall decomposition were elevated SB, plausibly to facilitate uninterrupted feeding operations. These results suggest that Gb3-mediated resistance is less vulnerable to cell wall modification and the data provides ample tools for further investigations concerning R gene based model of resistance.

Genetic components and major QTL confer resistance to bean pyralid (Lamprosema indicata Fabricius) under multiple environments in four RIL populations of soybean

Bean pyralid (BP; Lamprosema indicata Fabricius) is one of the major leaf-feeding insects that affect soybean crops in central and southern China. Four recombinant inbred line populations (KY, WT, XG and SX) were tested during 2004-2006 in Nanjing, China, to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) for resistance to BP on the basis of data for rolled leaflet percentage under field infestation conditions. The mapping was performed using QTL Network V2.0 and checked with Windows QTL Cartographer V2.5 and IciMapping V2.2. The results showed that 81-92 % of the phenotypic variation was accounted for by additive QTL (27-43 %), epistatic QTL pairs (5-13 %), and collective unmapped minor QTL (38-58 %). In total, 17 QTL were detected on 11 linkage groups, of which two had additive effects, six had both additive and epistatic effects, and nine had only epistatic effects. Eight epistatic QTL pairs were observed, of which three pairs involved two QTL with additive effects, one involved one QTL with additive effect, and four involved no QTL with additive effects. Different genetic structures for BP resistance were found among the populations. Eight QTL (five additive and three epistatic pairs) were detected in KY, ten QTL (four additive and five epistatic pairs) were detected in WT, and only one additive QTL was detected in both the XG and the SX populations. BP12-1 and BP1-1 are major QTL, with the former accounting for 15, 31, and 50 % of the total genetic variation (including epistasis) in KY, WT, and XG, respectively, and the latter accounting for 13 and 32 % of the total genetic variation in KY and SX, respectively. The additive × year and epistasis × year interaction effects were negligible, indicating that the QTL were stable over the years. Because 41-68 % of the total genetic variation could not be accounted for by these QTL, the use of both identified QTL and unmapped minor QTL in breeding for BP resistance should be considered.

Molecular bases of plant resistance to arthropods

Arthropod-resistant crops provide significant ecological and economic benefits to global agriculture. Incompatible interactions involving resistant plants and avirulent pest arthropods are mediated by constitutively produced and arthropod-induced plant proteins and defense allelochemicals synthesized by resistance gene products. Cloning and molecular mapping have identified the Mi-1.2 and Vat arthropod resistance genes as CC-NBS-LRR (coiled coil-nucleotide binding site-leucine rich repeat) subfamily NBS-LRR resistance proteins, as well as several resistance gene analogs. Genetic linkage mapping has identified more than 100 plant resistance gene loci and linked molecular markers used in cultivar development. Rice and sorghum arthropod-resistant cultivars and, to a lesser extent, raspberry and wheat cultivars are components of integrated pest management (IPM) programs in Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America. Nevertheless, arthropod resistance in most food and fiber crops has not been integrated due primarily to the application of synthetic insecticides. Plant and arthropod genomics provide many opportunities to more efficiently develop arthropod-resistant plants, but integration of resistant cultivars into IPM programs will succeed only through interdisciplinary collaboration.

Exploiting natural variation to identify insect-resistance genes

Herbivorous insects are widespread and often serious constraints to crop production. The use of insect-resistant crops is a very effective way to control insect pests in agriculture, and the development of such crops can be greatly enhanced by knowledge on plant resistance mechanisms and the genes involved. Plants have evolved diverse ways to cope with insect attack that has resulted in natural variation for resistance towards herbivorous insects. Studying the molecular genetics and transcriptional background of this variation has facilitated the identification of resistance genes and processes that lead to resistance against insects. With the development of new technologies, molecular studies are not restricted to model plants anymore. This review addresses the need to exploit natural variation in resistance towards insects to increase our knowledge on resistance mechanisms and the genes involved. We will discuss how this knowledge can be exploited in breeding programmes to provide sustainable crop protection against insect pests. Additionally, we discuss the current status of genetic research on insect-resistance genes. We conclude that insect-resistance mechanisms are still unclear at the molecular level and that exploiting natural variation with novel technologies will contribute greatly to the development of insect-resistant crop varieties.

Co-localisation of host plant resistance QTLs affecting the performance and feeding behaviour of the aphid Myzus persicae in the peach tree

The architecture and action of quantitative trait loci (QTL) contributing to plant resistance mechanisms against aphids, the largest group of phloem-feeding insects, are not well understood. Comparative mapping of several components of resistance to the green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) was undertaken in Prunus davidiana, a wild species related to peach. An interspecific F(1) population of Prunus persica var. Summergrand × P. davidiana clone P1908 was scored for resistance (aphid colony development and foliar damage) and 17 aphid feeding behaviour traits monitored by means of the electrical penetration graph technique. Seven resistance QTLs were detected, individually explaining 6.1-43.1% of the phenotypic variation. Consistency was shown over several trials. Nine QTLs affecting aphid feeding behaviour were identified. All resistance QTLs except one co-located with QTLs underlying aphid feeding behaviour. A P. davidiana resistance allele at the major QTL was associated with drastic reductions in phloem sap ingestion by aphids, suggesting a phloem-based resistance mechanism. Resistance was also positively correlated with aphid salivation into sieve elements, suggesting an insect response to restore the appropriate conditions for ingestion after phloem occlusion. No significant QTL was found for traits characterising aphid mouthpart activity in plant tissues other than phloem vessels. Two QTLs with effects on aphid feeding behaviour but without effect on resistance were identified. SSR markers linked to the main QTLs involved in resistance are of potential use in marker-assisted selection for aphid resistance. Linking our results with the recent sequencing of the peach genome may help clarify the physiological resistance mechanisms.

Resistance level to an aphid potato pest varies between genotypes from the same Solanum accession

Plant resistance to aphids can be improved by introgressing resistant traits from wild Solanum species into the potato germplasm. Breeding parents are commonly selected from the different accessions of each species. Accessions originate from several seeds collected in a restricted area and are conserved as seeds in genebanks. Genetic heterogeneity may be expected between genotypes from the same accession and could influence resistance level. Working with the potato aphid, Macrosiphum euphorbiae (Thomas), and the accession PI243340 of Solanum chomatophilum (Bitter), which has been previously rated as resistant to M. euphorbiae, we genetically identified and assessed the resistance level of genotypes within the accession. A combination of two multilplex polymerase chain reactions (PCRs) discriminated the 13 plant genotypes assessed. Survival of M. euphorbiae, measured using clip cages, varied significantly between five genotypes, randomly selected among the 13 previously assessed, but did not differ between same-genotype plants. Survival among genotypes ranged from 0 to > 60% 12 d after adult molt, and the least resistant genotype exhibited survival close to the susceptible standard, Solanum tuberosum L. Our results support the use of PCR multiplex methods to assess genetic heterogeneity in wild Solanum, and suggest that within accession genetic heterogeneity is sufficient to influence resistance level to aphids. Fine screening at the genotype level is preferable when assessing resistance to aphids.

Genetic mapping of microsatellite markers around the arcelin bruchid resistance locus in common bean

The deployment in common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) of arcelin-based bruchid resistance could help reduce post-harvest storage losses to the Mexican bean weevil [(Zabrotes subfasciatus (Boheman)]. Arcelin is a member of the arcelin-phytohemagglutinin-alpha-amylase inhibitor (APA) family of seed proteins, which has been extensively studied but not widely used in bean breeding programs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate microsatellite markers for genetic analysis of arcelin-based bruchid resistance and to determine the orientation of markers and the rate of recombination around the APA locus. A total of 10 previously developed microsatellites and 22 newly developed markers based on a sequenced BAC from the APA locus were screened for polymorphism and of these 15 were mapped with an F(2) population of 157 individuals resulting from a susceptible x resistant cross of SEQ1006 x RAZ106 that segregated for both the arcelin 1 allele and resistance to the bruchid, Z. subfasciatus. Microsatellites derived from APA gene sequences were linked within 0.8 cM of each other and were placed relative to the rest of the b04 linkage group. In a comparison of genetic to physical distance on the BAC sequence, recombination was found to be moderate with a ratio of 125 kb/cM, but repressed within the APA locus itself. Several markers were predicted to be very effective for genetic studies or marker-assisted selection, based on their significant associations with bruchid resistance and on low adult insect emergence and positions flanking the arcelin and phytohemagglutinin genes.

Mapping and validation of QTLs for resistance to aphids and whiteflies in melon

Aphis gossypii and Bemisia tabaci are severe hemipteran pests of melon crops and breeding for resistance to both insects is required to reduce pesticide use. Resistance was evaluated for its effect on behaviour and biotic potential of both hemipterans in a population of recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from the cross Védrantais x PI 161375. Insect variability was considered using two A. gossypii clones and two B. tabaci populations. Two additive QTLs affected the whiteflies. Four additive QTLs and two couples of epistatic QTLs affected the aphids. Amongst them, a major QTL affects both behaviour and biotic potential of A. gossypii and therefore a same R gene induces both antixenosis and antibiosis. This major QTL colocalizes with the Vat gene belonging to the NBS-LRR gene family. No loci affected both aphids and whiteflies contrary to what was observed for the Mi1.2 gene, a NBS-LRR gene in tomato. Original populations with different allelic compositions at QTLs affecting A. gossypii were built by one inter-crossing of RILs used for the mapping process. The genetic background was shown homogeneous between these populations what allowed validating QTLs and investigating the effect of allelic combinations at QTLs. Effects of QTLs were stronger than expected and some QTLs had a wider spectrum than expected. This strategy of validation appeared rapid and low cost.

The Evolution of Resistance and Tolerance to Herbivores

Tolerance and resistance are two different plant defense strategies against herbivores. Empirical evidence in natural populations reveals that individual plants allocate resources simultaneously to both strategies, thus plants exhibit a mixed pattern of defense. In this review we examine the conditions that promote the evolutionary stability of mixed defense strategies in the light of available empirical and theoretical evidence. Given that plant tolerance and resistance are heritable and subject to environmentally dependent selection and genetic constraints, the joint evolution of tolerance and resistance is analyzed, with consideration of multiple species interactions and the plant mating system. The existence of mixed defense strategies in plants makes it necessary to re-explore the coevolutionary process between plants and herbivores, which centered historically on resistance as the only defensive mechanism. In addition, we recognize briefly the potential use of plant tolerance for pest management. Finally, we highlight unresolved issues for future development in this field of evolutionary ecology.

H22, a major resistance gene to the Hessian fly (Mayetiola destructor), is mapped to the distal region of wheat chromosome 1DS

H22 is a major resistance gene conferring high-level of antibiosis to Hessian fly [Mayetiola destructor (Say)] larvae. It was previously assigned to wheat chromosome 1D through monosomic analysis (Raupp et al. in J Hered 84:142-145, 1993). The objective of this study was to identify molecular markers that can be used for marker-assisted selection for wheat breeding, and to further map this gene toward map-based cloning. Forty-five simple sequence repeat (SSR) and sequence-tagged site (STS) markers specific to chromosome 1D were evaluated for linkage to H22 using a segregating population consisting of 192 F(2:3) families, which were derived from the cross Tugela-Dn1 x KS85WGRC01(H22). The STS Xhor2kv and SSR Xgdm33 are two flanking markers that are tightly linked to H22 at genetic distances of 0.3 and 1.0 cM, respectively. Five other SSR markers including Xgpw7082, Xwmc147, Xcfd15, Xwmc432 and Xwmc336 were also linked to H22 at the distance from 0.8 to 20.8 cM. Analysis of Chinese Spring (CS) deletion lines revealed that all the H22-linked markers are located distal to the breakpoint of del 1DS-5, indicating that the H22 gene is located at the distal 30% region on the short arm of wheat chromosome 1D. Genomic comparison suggested that the H22 gene is located in the same or similar chromosomal region as the leaf rust resistance genes Lr21 and Lr40 on 1DS, and orthologous to the H9 gene cluster of 1AS.

Molecular mapping of genes for resistance to the bean pod weevil (Apion godmani Wagner) in common bean

The bean pod weevil (Apion godmani Wagner) is a serious insect pest of common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) grown in Mexico and Central America that is best controlled by host-plant resistance available in Durango or Jalisco genotypes such as J-117. Given unreliable infestation by the insect, the use of marker-assisted selection is desirable. In the present study, we developed a set of nine molecular markers for Apion resistance and mapped them to loci on chromosomes 2, 3, 4 and 6 (linkage groups b01, b08, b07 and b11, respectively) based on genetic analysis of an F (5:10) susceptible x resistant recombinant inbred line population (Jamapa x J-117) and two reference mapping populations (DOR364 x G19833 and BAT93 x JaloEEP558) for which chromosome and linkage group designations are known. All the markers were derived from randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) bands that were identified through bulked segregant analysis and cloned for conversion to sequence tagged site (STS) markers. One of the markers was dominant while four detected polymorphism upon digestion with restriction enzymes. The other markers were mapped as RAPD fragments. Phenotypic data for the population was based on the evaluation of percentage seed damage in replicated trials conducted over four seasons in Mexico. In single point regression analysis, individual markers explained from 3.5 to 22.5% of the variance for the resistance trait with the most significant markers overall being F10-500S, U1-1400R, R20-1200S, W9-1300S and Z4-800S, all markers that mapped to chromosome 2 (b01). Two additional significant markers, B1-1400R and W6-800R, were mapped to chromosome 6 (b11) and explained from 4.3 to 10.2% of variance depending on the season. The latter of these markers was a dominant STS marker that may find immediate utility in marker-assisted selection. The association of these two loci with the Agr and Agm genes is discussed as well as the possibility of additional resistance genes on chromosome 4 (b07) and chromosome 3 (b08). These are among the first specific markers developed for tagging insect resistance in common bean and are expected to be useful for evaluating the mechanism of resistance to A. godmani.

Invasion biology of thrips

Thrips are among the stealthiest of insect invaders due to their small size and cryptic habits. Many invasive thrips are notorious for causing extensive crop damage, vectoring viral diseases, and permanently destabilizing IPM systems owing to irruptive outbreaks that require remediation with insecticides, leading to the development of insecticide resistance. Several challenges surface when attempting to manage incursive thrips species. Foremost among these is early recognition, followed by rapid and accurate identification of emergent pest species, elucidation of the region of origin, development of a management program, and the closing of conduits for global movement of thrips. In this review, we examine factors facilitating invasion by thrips, damage caused by these insects, pre- and post-invasion management tactics, and challenges looming on the horizon posed by invasive Thysanoptera, which continually challenge the development of sustainable management practices.

Genetic characterization and molecular mapping of a Hessian fly-resistance gene transferred from T. turgidum ssp. dicoccum to common wheat

A gene (temporarily designated Hdic) conferring resistance to the Hessian fly (Hf) [Mayetiola destructor (Say)] was previously identified from an accession of German cultivated emmer wheat [Triticum turgidum ssp. dicoccum (Schrank ex Schübler) Thell] PI 94641, and was transferred to the Hf-resistant wheat germplasm KS99WGRC42. The inheritance of Hdic resistance exhibited incomplete penetrance because phenotypes of some heterozygous progenies are fully resistant and the others are fully susceptible. Five simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers (Xgwm136,Xcfa2153, Xpsp2999,Xgwm33, and Xbarc263) were linked to the Hdic gene on the short arm of wheat chromosome 1A in the same region as the H9, H10, and H11 loci. Flanking markers Xgwm33 and Xcfa2153 were mapped at distances 0.6 cM proximal and 1.4 cM distal, respectively. Marker analysis revealed that a very small intercalary chromosomal segment containing Hdic was transferred from emmer wheat to KS99WGRC42. This is the first emmer-derived Hf-resistance gene that has been mapped and characterized. The Hdic gene confers a high level of antibiosis to biotypes GP and L, as well as to strains vH9 and vH13 of the Hf, which is different from the biotype reaction patterns of the known Hf-resistance genes on chromosome 1A (H5 and H11 susceptible to biotype L, H9 and H10 susceptible to strain vH9). These results suggested that Hdic is either a new gene or a novel allele of a known H gene on chromosome 1A. The broad spectrum of resistance conferred by the Hdic gene makes it valuable for developing Hf resistant wheat cultivars.

Hessian fly resistance gene H13 is mapped to a distal cluster of resistance genes in chromosome 6DS of wheat

H13 is inherited as a major dominant resistance gene in wheat. It was previously mapped to chromosome 6DL and expresses a high level of antibiosis against Hessian fly (Hf) [Mayetiola destructor (Say)] larvae. The objective of this study was to identify tightly linked molecular markers for marker-assisted selection in wheat breeding and as a starting point toward the map-based cloning of H13. Fifty-two chromosome 6D-specific microsatellite (simple sequence repeat) markers were tested for linkage to H13 using near-isogenic lines Molly (PI 562619) and Newton-207, and a segregating population consisting of 192 F(2:3) families derived from the cross PI 372129 (Dn4) x Molly (H13). Marker Xcfd132 co-segregated with H13, and several other markers were tightly linked to H13 in the distal region of wheat chromosome 6DS. Deletion analysis assigned H13 to a small region closely proximal to the breakpoint of del6DS-6 (FL 0.99). Further evaluation and comparison of the H13-linked markers revealed that the same chromosome region may also contain H23 in KS89WGRC03, an unnamed H gene (H(WGRC4)) in KS89WGRC04, the wheat curl mite resistance gene Cmc4, and a defense response gene Ppo for polyphenol oxidase. Thus, these genes comprise a cluster of arthropod resistance genes. Marker analysis also revealed that a very small intercalary chromosomal segment carrying H13 was transferred from the H13 donor parent to the wheat line Molly.

Genetic analysis of citrus leafminer susceptibility

Damage caused by the citrus leafminer (CLM), Phyllocnistis citrella, is highly dependent on the citrus flushing pattern. Chemical control is only required in young trees, both in nurseries and in newly established orchards. However, this situation is completely different in countries where the causal agent of citrus canker, the bacterium Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri exists. CLM infestation results in a higher incidence of citrus canker infection. Among preventive control strategies that provide environmentally sound and sustainable solutions, resistant or tolerant varieties remain the most economical means of insect control. The objective of the present study is to genetically analyse the resistance/susceptibility to CLM and two other traits that might be related, the deciduous behaviour and leaf area of the tree, in a progeny of citradias derived from the cross between two species with different CLM susceptibility--C. aurantium L. and Poncirus trifoliata--using linkage maps of each parent that include several resistance gene analogues. We detected two antibiosis and six antixenosis putative quantitative trait loci (QTLs) in a random sample of forty-two of those citradias. An important antibiosis QTL (R2=18.8-26.7%) affecting both percentage of infested leaves and number of pupal casts per leaf has been detected in P. trifoliata linkage group Pa7, which is in agreement with the CLM antibiotic character shown by this species, and independent from any segregating QTL involved in its deciduous behaviour. The maximum value for the Kruskal-Wallis statistic of the other putative antibiosis QTL coincides with marker S2-AS4_800 in sour orange linkage map. Given that the sequence of this marker is highly similar to several nucleotide binding site-leucine-rich repeat (NBS-LRR)-type resistance genes, it might be considered as a candidate gene for insect resistance in citrus.

H9, H10, and H11 compose a cluster of Hessian fly-resistance genes in the distal gene-rich region of wheat chromosome 1AS

H9, H10, and H11 are major dominant resistance genes in wheat, expressing antibiosis against Hessian fly [(Hf) Mayetiola destructor (Say)] larvae. Previously, H9 and H10 were assigned to chromosome 5A and H11 to 1A. The objectives of this study were to identify simple-sequence-repeat (SSR) markers for fine mapping of these genes and for marker-assisted selection in wheat breeding. Contrary to previous results, H9 and H10 did not show linkage with SSR markers on chromosome 5A. Instead, H9, H10, and H11 are linked with SSR markers on the short arm of chromosome 1A. Both H9 and H10 are tightly linked to flanking markers Xbarc263 and Xcfa2153 within a genetic distance of 0.3-0.5 cM. H11 is tightly linked to flanking markers Xcfa2153 and Xbarc263 at genetic distances of 0.3 cM and 1.7 cM. Deletion bin mapping assigned these markers and genes to the distal 14% of chromosome arm 1AS, where another Hf-resistance gene, Hdic (derived from emmer wheat), was also mapped previously. Marker polymorphism results indicated that a small terminal segment of chromosome 1AS containing H9 or H10 was transferred from the donor parent to the wheat lines Iris or Joy, and a small intercalary fragment carrying H11 was transferred from the resistant donor to the wheat line Karen. Our results suggest that H9, H10, H11, Hdic, and the previously identified H9- or H11-linked genes (H3, H5, H6, H12, H14, H15, H16, H17, H19, H28, and H29) may compose a cluster (or family) of Hf-resistance genes in the distal gene-rich region of wheat chromosome 1AS; and H10 most likely is the same gene as H9.

Discovery and utilization of QTLs for insect resistance in soybean

Insect resistance in soybean has been an objective in numerous breeding programs, but efforts to develop high yielding cultivars with insect resistance have been unsuccessful. Three Japanese plant introductions, PIs 171451, 227687 and 229358, have been the primary sources of insect resistance alleles, but a combination of quantitative inheritance of resistance and poor agronomic performance has hindered progress. Linkage drag caused by co-introgression of undesirable agronomic trait alleles linked to the resistance quantitative trait loci (QTLs) is a persistent problem. Molecular marker studies have helped to elucidate the numbers, effects and interactions of insect resistance QTLs in the Japanese PIs, and markers are now being used in breeding programs to facilitate transfer of resistance alleles while minimizing linkage drag. Molecular markers also make it possible to evaluate QTLs independently and together in different genetic backgrounds, and in combination with transgenes from Bacillus thuringiensis.

Hemipterans as plant pathogens

Integration of the tools of genetics, genomics, and biochemistry has provided new approaches for identifying genes responding to herbivory. As a result, a picture of the complexity of plant-defense signaling to different herbivore feeding guilds is emerging. Plant responses to hemipteran insects have substantial overlap with responses mounted against microbial pathogens, as seen in changes in RNA profiles and emission of volatiles. Responses to known defense signals and characterization of the signaling pathways controlled by the first cloned insect R gene (Mi-1) indicate that perception and signal transduction leading to resistance may be similar to plant-pathogen interactions. Additionally, novel signaling pathways are emerging as important components of plant defense to insects. The availability of new tools and approaches will further enhance our understanding of the nature of defense in plant-hemipteran interactions.

Molecular genetic mapping of Gby, a new greenbug resistance gene in bread wheat

The greenbug, Schizaphis graminum (Rhodani),is one of the major insect pests of wheat worldwide and it is important to develop a basic understanding of the chromosomal locations of known and new greenbug resistance genes. Gby is a new greenbug resistance gene in the wheat line 'Sando's selection 4040'. A mapping population used in this study was derived from a cross of Sando's 4040 and PI220127, a greenbug susceptible wheat land race from Afghanistan. A progeny test indicated that Gby is inherited as a single semi-dominant gene. A genetic linkage map consisting of Gby, Xgwm322 (a wheat microsatellite marker), XksuD2 (an STS marker) and 18 restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) loci was constructed. We used DNA from Chinese Spring 7A deletion lines to show that the gwm332 and ksuD2 amplified fragments mapped in this study are located on along arm of chromosome 7A. This suggests that Gby is located on wheat chromosome 7A. Gby was mapped to the area in the middle of the 'island' of putative defense response genes that are represented by RFLP markers(Xpsr l9, XZnfp, Xbcd98 and Prl b) previously mapped to the distal part of the short arm of wheat chromosome group 7. This region of chromosome 7A is characterized by a high recombination rate and a high physical density of markers which makes Gby a very good candidate for map-based cloning. The selection accuracy when theRFLP markers Xbcd98, Xpsrll9 or XZnfp and Prlb flanking Gby are used together to tag Gby is 99.78%,suggesting that they can be successfully used in marker assisted selection.

Genetic analysis and molecular mapping of a wheat gene conferring tolerance to the greenbug (Schizaphis graminum Rondani)

The greenbug, Schizaphis graminum (Rondani), is one of the major pests of wheat worldwide. The efficient utilization of wheat genes expressing resistance to greenbug infestation is highly dependent on a clear understanding of their relationships. The use of such genes will be further facilitated through the use of molecular markers linked to resistance genes. The present study involved several F(2) wheat populations derived from crosses between susceptible cultivars and resistant germplasm carrying different greenbug resistance genes. These populations were used to characterize the inheritance of a wheat gene ( Gbz) conferring tolerance to greenbug biotype I, to identify molecular markers linked to Gbz, and to investigate the relationship between Gbz and Gb3, a previously identified greenbug resistance gene. Our results indicated that Gbz is inherited as a single dominant gene. Microsatellite marker Xwmc157 is completely linked to Gbz, and Xbarc53 and Xgdm46 flank Gbz at distances of 5.1 and 9.5 cM, respectively. Selection of Gbz using marker Xwmc157 alone gives breeders 100% selection accuracy. Gbz may be placed in the distal region of the long arm of the wheat chromosome 7D. The results of allelism tests indicated that Gbz is either allelic or tightly linked to Gb3.

A new Hessian fly resistance gene (H30) transferred from the wild grass Aegilops triuncialis to hexaploid wheat

A new Hessian fly (Mayetiola destructor Say) resistance gene from Aegilops triuncialis and its transfer to hexaploid wheat via interspecific hybridisation is described. The transfer line TR-3531 (42 chromosomes), derived from the cross [(Triticum turgidum x Ae. triuncialis) x Triticum aestivum] and carrying the Heterodera avenae resistance gene Cre7, showed a high level of resistance to the M. destructor biotype prevailing in the SW of Spain. A single dominant gene (H30) seems to determine the Hessian fly resistance in this introgression line, and its linkage with an isozyme marker (Acph-U1) has also been studied. It has been demonstrated that the resistance gene H30 in the TR-3531 line is non-allelic with respect to the genes H3, H6, H9, H11, H12, H13, H18 and H21, present in wheat cultivars from the Uniform Hessian Fly Nursery (UHFN), as well as to H27, carried by the introgression line H-93-33. Advanced lines with the H30 gene were obtained by backcrossing the transfer line and different commercial wheats as recurrent parents. Several of them showed a high yield in tests carried out in the infested field. Electronic Supplementary Material is available if you access this article at http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00122-002-1182-z. On that page (frame on the left side), a link takes you directly to the supplementary material.

Relationships between salicylic acid content, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) activity, and resistance of barley to aphid infestation

It has been suggested that salicylic acid (SA) is a signal in acquired resistance to pathogens in several plants. Also, it has been suggested that infestation of plants causes an increase in the activity of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), a key phenolic biosynthesis enzyme. The purpose of this work was to investigate whether the induction of SA and PAL activity is related to the susceptibility of barley to aphid infestation. The induction of free and conjugated SA in two barley cultivars that differ in susceptibility to aphids was analyzed. Analyses of several physiological parameters showed that cv. UNA-80 was more susceptible to the aphid Schizaphis graminum than cv. LM-109. Salicylic acid was not detected in noninfested plants. Levels of free and conjugated SA in cv. LM-109 and of conjugated SA in cv. UNA-80 increased with aphid infestation, whereas the levels of free SA in cv. UNA-80 remained high under all infestation degrees. Maximum values reached in both cultivars were not significantly different. With respect to PAL activity, cv. LM-109 showed a significantly higher specific activity than cv. UNA-80, the more susceptible cultivar. The relationship between the susceptibility of a plant to aphid and SA induction and PAL activity is discussed.

Plant resistance towards insect herbivores: a dynamic interaction

Plant defences against insect herbivores can be divided into 'static' or constitutive defences, and 'active' or induced defences, although the insecticidal compounds or proteins involved are often the same. Induced defences have aspects common to all plants, whereas the accumulation of constitutive defences is species-specific. Insect herbivores activate induced defences both locally and systemically by signalling pathways involving systemin, jasmonate, oligogalacturonic acid and hydrogen peroxide. Plants also respond to insect attack by producing volatiles, which can be used to deter herbivores, to communicate between parts of the plant, or between plants, to induce defence responses. Plant volatiles are also an important component in indirect defence. Herbivorous insects have adapted to tolerate plant defences, and such adaptations can also be constitutive or induced. Insects whose plant host range is limited are more likely to show constitutive adaptation to the insecticidal compounds they will encounter, whereas insects which feed on a wide range of plant species often use induced adaptations to overcome plant defences. Both plant defence and insect adaptation involve a metabolic cost, and in a natural system most plant-insect interactions involving herbivory reach a 'stand-off' where both host and herbivore survive but develop suboptimally. Contents Summary 145 I. Introduction 146 II. Accumulation of defensive compounds and induced resistance 146 III. Signalling pathways in wound-induced resistance 147 IV. Insect modulation of the wounding response 155 V. Insects which evade the wounding response 156 VI. Insect-induced emission of volatiles and tritrophic interactions 157 VII. Insect adaptation to plant defences 160 Conclusions 163 Acknowlegements 163 References 163.

Grasses and gall midges: plant defense and insect adaptation

The interactions of two economically important gall midge species, the rice gall midge and the Hessian fly, with their host plants, rice and wheat, respectively, are characterized by plant defense via R genes and insect adaptation via avr genes. The interaction of a third gall midge species, the orange wheat blossom midge, with wheat defense R genes has not yet exhibited insect adaptation. Because of the simple genetics underlying important aspects of these gall midge-grass interactions, a unique opportunity exists for integrating plant and insect molecular genetics with coevolutionary ecology. We present an overview of some genetic, physiological, behavioral, and ecological studies that will contribute to this integration and point to areas in need of study.