UZH researchers identify genes for fungus-resistant wheat varieties

(CONNECT) An international group of researchers led by the University of Zurich has localised gene regions in traditional wheat varieties in Asia that immunise the plants against the fungal disease yellow rust. “If such genes can be transferred to commercial wheat varieties, they could make an important contribution to combating yellow rust,” said Kentaro Shimizu from the Institute of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Sciences at the University of Zurich, who led the study, in a press release issued by the university on the research project.

For decades, the focus of targeted wheat breeding has been on developing high-yielding varieties, explains the UZH. However, their limited genetic diversity makes them susceptible to pests, diseases and climate change. Traditional varieties cultivated over generations, on the other hand, have a higher genetic diversity, which can make an important contribution to future food security. Such varieties should therefore "be preserved both in gene banks and in farmers' fields", says UZH researcher Katharina Jung. She advocates cooperation with local farmers in the use of these varieties, because the farmers' knowledge and practice have been "decisive for today's genetic diversity". ce/hs