Project
Downy mildew resistance in wild lettuce populations
Lettuce downy mildew disease, caused by the pathogen Bremia lactucae, is a recurring problem in lettuce cultivation. Downy mildew (Dm) resistance genes introgressed in lettuce cultivars are often rapidly broken by new Bremia strains. Consequently, there is an ongoing demand for the discovery of novel variants of resistance genes suitable for incorporation into lettuce breeding programs.
Wild Lactuca germplasm is believed to harbour a broad spectrum of naturally evolved resistance against various Bremia pathotypes. While the genetic basis of several Dm resistance genes has been elucidated, there remains limited knowledge regarding the frequency and variability of these genes in natural lettuce populations. Our research endeavours to assess the genetic diversity of Dm resistance genes within populations of wild lettuce species, with the aim of enhancing strategies for exploring germplasm and breeding for resistance in lettuce.