Updated October 30, 2017:
This project was recently (Feb 2011) renewed for an additional 3 years with the objective of
resistance to Phytophtora elucidating the role of two plant defense genes on Phytophthora resistance, GmRIN and GmNDR. A BPMV-based vector for silencing both GmNDR (a & b) isoforms was generated and inoculated on soybean plants. Plants simultaneously silenced GmNDRa & b were obtained. Silencing of the two genes was confirmed by RT-PCR analysis. Construction of BPMV silencing vector targeting all four GmRIN genes is underway.
Also, a BPMV-based vector for over expressing GmRINb was generated and inoculated on soybean plants. Plants over expressing GmRINb were obtained. Over expression of GmRINb was confirmed by RT-PCR analysis
This project is still in the middle of generating results that foster the development of improved tools for disease resistance. Yet, some of the results thus far are useful for laying the groundwork for research and development in this area.