Why is this research important for Alberta ag?
Clubroot, caused by Plasmodiophora brassicae, is one of the most damaging diseases of the Brassicaceae. Glucosinolates (GSLs) are a group of defense-related compounds produced by plants that upon degradation produce isothiocyanates, thiocyanate, and nitriles, which are implicated in plant defense processed against many herbivores and pathogens including clubroot.
The indolic GSL pathway can also lead to the production of the auxin indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), a plant hormone that could contribute directly or indirectly to the extent of clubroot disease development. Preliminary analysis of a database from a recently published study that compared transcriptomic profiles of two rutabaga (Brassica napus) cultivars which show resistant and susceptible responses to P. brassicae inoculation indicates that specific gene expression changes occur in the indolic GSL pathway that are associated with clubroot resistance. To explore the potential significance of this association, gene expression changes in the GSL pathway and specific indolic GSL-related compounds produced (including IAA) in these cultivars in response to P. brassicae inoculation will be quantified.
This study will aid in understanding the link between IAA and the indolic GSL pathway in host-pathogen interactions for use in designing strategies for incorporating clubroot resistance into canola.
What benefits can producers expect from this research?
This research would have strong benefits for both Alberta and Canada. This research will serve to mitigate the impact of clubroot disease via the development of novel, genetically-improved canola that is more resistant to clubroot. Since canola is estimated to contribute more than $26.7B annually to the Canadian economy, including $7.1B to Alberta's economy, the benefits of improved canola production are likely to extend beyond the farmers themselves to Alberta and Canada as a whole.
How will these research findings reach producers on-farm?
Results will be presented at scientific meetings and conferences and will also be published in peer reviewed journals. They will also be shared on clubroot.ca, Canola Digest, Canola Watch, and through industry and scientific meetings and various newspapers and magazines.
Funded in part by the Government of Canada under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.