Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 12
Resistance to LateBlight in Potato
Jadwiga SliwkaandEwaZimnoch-Guzowska
Abstract
This chapter presents a summary of research on potato's resistance to its most devastating pathogen,
Phytophthora infestans . Beginning with the infamous emergence of potato late blight in Europe,
the chapter continues with the history of breeding potatoes resistant to this disease that began soon
afterwards. We discuss changing trends in breeding, from the introduction of qualitative resistance,
through the elimination of qualitative resistance in favor of quantitative resistance, then to the coming
back into fashion of major resistance (R) genes. Also reviewed are the species from the Solanum
genus that are exploited in potato breeding as sources of resistance to late blight. We then focus on
R genes, their origins, identification, localization, and sequence, if known. R genes, as described in
the literature to date, are grouped according to their position in ten loci on the potato genetic map.
Their effectiveness in tubers and in the foliage, as well as the spectrum of provided resistance are
described whenever data are available. In the case of some R genes, the corresponding P. infestans
effectors have already been identified. We mention also quantitative resistance loci (QTLs), when they
overlap with the positions of the R genes. Recently the number of identified R genes for late blight
resistance has grown quickly. Both P. infestans and potato genomes have been sequenced, providing
vast resources for studying interactions between these organisms, which researchers hope will result
in more efficient and successful breeding of late blight resistant potatoes.
of potato harvested are China, India, and the
Russian Federation ( www.faostat.fao.org ). The
level of potato consumption is stable in Western
Europe and North America but is increasing in
Africa and Asia. In the last five decades, growth
in the potato production area in developing
countries has exceeded that of all other food
crops. Potato is a significant element in the food
security chain in developing countries in South
America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. For that
Introduction
Potato Solanum tuberosum L. is one of the
main strategic crops worldwide. It is the fourth
most important staple crop after rice, wheat,
and maize. Potato is produced in more than
100 countries and it is an important food for
more than a billion people. The global total crop
production exceeded 329 Mt in 2009. Major
potato producing countries with more than 30 Mt
 
Search WWH ::




Custom Search