Scientists Close the Gap on Yellow Rust

Scientists from the John Innes Centre (JIC), The Genome Analysis Centre (TGAC), and the National Institute of Agricultural Botany (NIAB) who created a global surveillance method for tracking the spread of Yellow Rust are developing a new, quicker, cheaper version of their field–based diagnostic tool. The team believes that larger data sample resulting from this exponential increase in the accuracy and frequency of tests will mean a much clearer, more detailed picture of the different strains of yellow rust in the United Kingdom, and eventually, across the world.

Dr. Diane Saunders from TGAC, one of the collaborating scientists, said: "We are hot on the heels of the yellow rust pathogen. We will work with scientists across the world to track it down and monitor its movement. By developing a new cheaper and rapid diagnostic test, we will give UK breeders and farmers regular and reliable data on the strains which are present in the UK wheat population, and empower them to take early action to choose resistant varieties or protect their crops."

For more information, read the news release at the JIC website.