Institut für Resistenzforschung und Stresstoleranz
The PrimedWheat consortium aims to systematically record the genetic variability of wheat with regard to its response to useful soil microorganisms (microbiomes) and to use it for breeding purposes in the future. Useful microorganisms can trigger a reaction in plants, the so-called priming, which manifests itself agronomically in an increase in biomass (yield) and increased resistance to diseases and pests. The genetics of this phenomenon is difficult to grasp, but education and subsequent breeding could contribute to a considerable reduction in the use of plant protection products and fertilisers. In PrimedWheat, we will investigate complex interactions between (i) wheat genetics, (ii) beneficial microorganisms, and (iii) the plant immune system. Molecular genetic and a GWAS (Genome-wide association study) analysis of the generated data will be used to elucidate the genetic basis of priming. The cultivation of wheat will become more difficult in the future due to extreme weather periods due to climate change and the low genetic diversity of the varieties used today, as well as due to the political requirements of severely restricted access to effective plant protection products. Novel strategies in wheat cultivation are therefore essential for the food supply of the population.
Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture
