SLU Discovery: S-gene Parakletos Governs Potato’s Sensitivity to Fungi, Bacteria, Salt, and Drought
A novel gene that regulates plants’ susceptibility to threats including fungi and drought has been discovered by researchers at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU).
Removing this gene makes plants more resilient, which may improve food security in drier, more unpredictable regions and lessen the need for chemical treatments.
The gene, Parakletos, which translates to “helper,” is connected to the plant’s stress-reactive and immunological systems. It interacts with other proteins without performing any extra tasks.
Researchers at SLU have been researching ways to increase the resistance of potato plants to diseases like late blight for several years. The method eliminates susceptibility genes (s-genes), which render plants susceptible to attacks, using gene-editing techniques like CRISPR. A novel s-gene that controls the plant’s susceptibility to dangers like fungi, bacteria, salt, and dehydration has recently been discovered by scientists. By eliminating this gene, the plant’s defenses are strengthened and fewer chemical treatments are required. Additionally, this technique might get crops ready for a future with more difficult weather.
“We know this works in potatoes and tobacco, but we’re hopeful it could be applied to other crops as well,” Erik Andreasson, professor and head of SLU’s resistance biology unit, said.
He is also the lead author of the recent paper in Nature Communications. Compared to the rest of the European union, Sweden is ahead in doing research on new genomic techniques, like gene editing, for plant protection.
Field trials have shown no negative consequences from gene removal, according to Andreasson, and it is unlikely that long-term issues will arise. However, since trials have only been conducted in one location and with one potato variety, further research is needed to confirm its broader effectiveness. The next step is expanding the project, named “Resilient Potato,” which involves several agricultural organizations.
“It’s exciting to be part of this research with great potential to improve crops,” says Desirée Börjesdotter, head of plant breeding at Lantmännen, a partner in the project.
