An open-access platform for banana genome exploration and genetic improvement.

This project consists of 3 work packages (WP) which can stand on their own but will lead to a synergistic output upon combining their results. WP 1: New strategies to develop fungus resistance in banana. The delivery of fungus resistant plants requires - among others - the non-toxic action of at least one protein that confers durable resistance under precise regulation. To this end, several novel promoters and candidate genes will be isolated and evaluated in banana. The purpose is generation of basic knowledge on molecular mechanisms underlying fungal disease resistance in plants and the generation of prototype plants that represent novel tools in reaching durable disease resistance in banana as well as in other crop plants. WP 2: Transgenic engineering for drought resistance and the role of trehalose biosynthesis genes in drought stress response of banana. It is well known that certain organisms including some plants can survive desiccation for many years. A common feature in these organisms is the presence of trehalose. Recently, a novel type of trehalose biodynthesis gene that holds great promise for the improvement of stress tolerance in plants has been identified. We will use this novel gene to improve stress tolerance in banana. In addition, we will identify genes from a desert resurrection plant that may increase drought and oxidative stress tolerance. These genes will also be introduced in banana. WP 3: Banana molecular toolbox for functional genomics and improved plant production. The aim of this WP is to develop/adapt methods and assays that accelerate the identification of novel candidate genes in banana and to make the generation of banana plants more efficient. Many varieties will be screened for specific genes, and overexpression or downregulation of foreign gene expression will be optimised.

Keywords:Promoters, Trehalose, Banana, Drought, Fungus, Resistance, Genomics, Gene expression

Disciplines:Plant biology, Agricultural plant production, Horticultural production, Agricultural animal production, Agriculture, land and farm management, Other agriculture, forestry, fisheries and allied sciences