Overexpression of defense response genes in transgenic wheat enhances resistance to Fusarium head blight.

ABSTRACT: Fusarium head blight (FHB) of wheat, caused by Fusarium graminearum and other Fusarium species, is a major disease problem for wheat production worldwide. To combat this problem, large-scale breeding efforts have been established. Although progress has been made through standard breeding approaches, the level of resistance attained is insufficient to withstand epidemic conditions. Genetic engineering provides an alternative approach to enhance the level of resistance. Many defense response genes are induced in wheat during F. graminearum infection and may play a role in reducing FHB. The objectives of this study were (1) to develop transgenic wheat overexpressing the defense response genes alpha-1-purothionin, thaumatin-like protein 1 (tlp-1), and beta-1,3-glucanase; and (2) to test the re

SUBMITTER: Mackintosh CA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1824786 | biostudies-literature | 2007 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature