Centre : Central Potato Research Institute(CPRI)
Name of the technology :
Management of potato bacterial wilt through RNAi approach
Since none of the potato genotypes including wild species has resistance genes, the identification and discovery of resistance gene/s for successful breeding programme is the challenging task. Therefore, we attempted one strategy to understand the candidates genes required for susceptibility (plant disease susceptibility factors) Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) is a powerful tool for analysing gene function. Based on this principle, we carried out VIGS technology to screen the genes related to disease susceptibility using potato variety “Kufri Jyoti”. The Ralstonia solanacearum responsive genes i.e. PAP2 gene were randomly cloned into the pTRV2 vector and transformed into Agrobacterium tumefaciens, and then inoculated into Kufri Jyoti to create VIGS plants. We screened a VIGS plant that barely showed wilting symptoms after inoculation with the pathogen R. solanacearum. Resistant plant showed accelerated cell death, rapid accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). To authenticate the silencing and resistant nature of the VIGS plants, performed qRT-PCR, showed reduced expression of PAPA2 and increased expression of FGS2 (Flagellin Sensing receptor gene) to achieve effective resistance against R. solanacearum. Based on this proof concept, we developed RNAi construct for developing resistance against bacterial wilt.
Development of bacterial wilt resistant varieties.
Eco-friendly management of bacterial wilt.
Status of Commercialization : Not applicable