During the period of the grant, we expect to achieve the following:
1. Development of NILs for the SCN resistant QTL through MAB program; development of additional SSR and SNP markers for the novel QTL regions. These genetic markers and NILs will be used for fine-mapping and map-based cloning.
2. Identification of candidate genes underlying resistance to SCN through TF profiling and Solexa sequencing technology and cloning a subset of these candidate genes.
3. Characterization and functional analysis of a subset of candidate genes using genetic transformation approaches, such as the hairy root system.
4. Development of SCN resistance germplasm through molecular breeding using gene-based genetic markers.