Phys.Org

by University of Melbourne
The DNA sequence of a gene in wheat responsible for resisting a devastating virus has been discovered, providing vital clues for managing more resistant crops and maintaining a healthy food supply.

Wheat crops across the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Africa are frequently ravaged by wheat yellow mosaic virus, so there is high demand for wheat varieties or cultivars that can resist this virus.

Published today in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the study found the resistance gene originated in an ancient Mediterranean wild plant relative of wheat.

Study lead researcher University of Melbourne Dr. Mohammad Pourkheirandish said, "This discovery could assist with the development of more resistant wheat cultivars, increase crop yields, and reduce the use of harmful fungicides. It also emphasizes the need to preserve biodiversity to protect food supplies."

Read on: https://phys.org/news/2023-03-wheat-ancient-roots-viral-resistance.html