Biotech Updates

EMR Scientists Find Genetic Markers of Wilt Resistance Genes in Strawberry

July 22, 2015

Research at East Malling Research (EMR) in the United Kingdom reveals that the cultivated strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) has plentiful genetic markers which can help track genes that can be used to develop varieties with higher resistance to wilt (Verticillium dahliae).

Verticillium wilt is a fungal pathogen that kills crops' cells and has only one chemical treatment available. The relationship between resistance-associated markers and wilt resistance genes will allow scientists to "pyramid" genes in the cultivated varieties to combat wilt. If the research turns successful, it is expected that there will be a potential increase in strawberry production, especially in the UK. 

For more details about the study, read the news article from EMR.