Database Research SummariesEvaluation of Second generation PAD4 over-expressing transgenics to soybean aphids and soybean cyst nematode
Research Focus
The focus of this project is to utilize a biotechnological approach to enhance plant immunity.
Objectives
- Continue evaluation of subsequent generations of PAD4 over expressers for resistance against the soybean aphid.
- Begin evaluation of PAD4 over-expressers for resistance against the soybean cyst nematode.
- Generate sufficient seed for field assays.
Results
- Four T1 plants from the transgenic events E1, E2, & E5 and five T1 plants from the transgenic events E3 & E6 were evaluated. Tissue was collected from the unifoliate leaves from plants at the V0 stage were used for DNA extraction. Polymerase chain reaction indicated that although all plants contained the BAR gene (Selectable marker indicating presence of pVN001) not all of them contained the PAD4 gene.
- The T1 plants were also evaluated PAD4 expression using RT-PCR. RNA collected from the plants derived from each individual transformation event was pooled. High levels of PAD4 expression were observed in E2, E3 & E4 plants compared to E1 and E6 plants.
- The plants derived from the transgenic events E2, E3 and E4 show increased resistance to soybean aphids. On the other hand, plants derived from the E1 and E6 transformation events that show little to no expression of PAD4 support aphid populations similar to those observed on the non-transgenic control.
- Seeds collected from the T2 plants were evaluated for response to aphid infestation. In the T2 generation, we observed that plants derived from the five independent transgenic experiments showed enhanced resistance to aphid infestation.
Importance
This project will increase plant vigor and resistance to specific pests.
For more information about this research project, please visit the National Soybean Checkoff Research Database.
Funded in part by the soybean checkoff.
