Maize plants with a new resistant allele

Abstract

The present invention relates to maize plants with improved disease resistance. Specifically, the invention concerns methods for identifying or generating maize plants and parts or cells thereof, with disease resistance. Further encompassed by the present invention are maize plants with improved disease resistance, produced by methods of the invention.

Description

[0001] MAIZE PLANTS WITH A NEW RESISTANT ALLELE

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to maize plants with improved disease resistance. Specifically, the invention concerns methods for identifying or generating plants and parts or cells thereof, with disease resistance. Further encompassed by the present invention are plants with improved disease resistance produced by methods of the invention.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Disease resistance is an important agronomic trait, particularly for the production of food crops. Although some disease resistance alleles have been identified, efforts to combine several disease resistance traits in a single plant line have been hindered by tightly linked or even allelic loci conferring resistance to different pathogens or pathogen isolates. This is further complicated by high densities of repeated sequences in regions of plant genomes controlling disease resistance, which can greatly reduce the possibility of developing useful genetic markers.

[0006] In maize (Zea mays / _.), many fungal pathogens have been identified that cause leaf diseases. A fungus which causes by far the most damage to com plants is known as Exserohilum turcicum, or synonymously as Helminthosporium turcicum (teleomorph: Setosphaeria turcica). Under tropical and temperate climatic conditions, such as those found in large parts of Europe and North America, as well as in South America, Africa and India, Exserohilum turcicum causes the leaf disease known as “northern com leaf blight” (NCLB), which can occur in epidemic proportions during wet years. NCLB affects vulnerable maize varieties and causes a great deal of damage, including considerable yield losses of at least 30%.

[0007] Since the 1970s, NCLB has been fought by natural resistance in genetic material. Currently, some quantitative and qualitative resistances, even if incomplete, are known. While the oligo- or polygenically inherited quantitative resistance appears incomplete and non-specific as regards race in the phenotype and is influenced by additional and partially dominant genes, qualitative resistance seems to be typically race-specific and can be inherited through individual, mostly dominant genes at loci like HT1 , HT2, HT3, Htm1 or HTN1 (Lipps et al., 1997, “Interaction of Ht and partial resistance to Exserohilum turcicum in maize." Plant Disease 81 : 277-282; Welz & Geiger, 2000, "Genes for resistance to northern corn leaf blight in diverse maize populations." Plant Breeding 119: 1 -14).

[0008] Table 1 : Overview of resistance (R) and susceptibility (S) of known resistance loci against different Exserohilum turcicum races:

[0009] One source of monogenic HTN1 resistance is the Mexican landrace “Pepitilla” (Gevers, 1975, "A new major gene for resistance to Exserohilum turcicum leaf blight of maize." Plant Dis Rep 59: 296-300). HTN1 introgression lines exhibit a gene mapping on the long arm of chromosome 8. In contrast to the usual HT resistance genes, HTN1 confers resistance by delaying the onset of sporulation, and thus combats the development of lesions. As a result, fewer, smaller lesions as well as reduced sporulation zones are formed (Simcox & Bennetzen, 1993, "The use of molecular markers to study Setospaeria turcica resistance in maize." Phytopathology 83: 1326-1330). Chlorotic-necrotic lesions such as those which occur with HT1 , HT2 or HT3-conferred resistance, are not formed (Gevers, 1975). WO201 5 / 032494 discloses the identification of the causative gene, WAK RLK1 , which confers the “Pepitilla” resistance phenotype on bin 8.06 in corn and describes molecular markers which are suitable to benefit from this resistance locus without close-linked, undesired linkage drag leading to a negative impact on the yield potential. WO201 1 / 163590 discloses the genotypes PH99N and PH26N as alternative sources for NCLB resistance on chromosome 8 bin 5.

[0010] WO201 9 / 038326 discloses the HT2 / HT3 allele of wall associated receptor-like kinases 1 (WAK RLK1 ) gene as alternative sources for NCLB resistance originating from the A619HT2 or A619HT3 lines.

[0011] However, many studies have reported an increasing dissemination of the less common races (Jordan et al., 1983, "Occurrence of race 2 of Exserohilum turcicum on com in the central and eastern United States." Plant Disease 67: 1 163-1165; Welz, 1998). The reasons for this are linked to the population dynamic of a pathogen which allows changes in pathogen virulence by new mutations in avirulence genes and new combinations of available virulence genes. This can lead to the occurrence of new, sometimes more aggressive pathogenic races. In Brazil, for example, the Exserohilum turcicum population already appears to be substantially more diverse with regard to the race composition than, for example, in North America. Already in the 1990s it has been reported that Exserohilum turcicum races had broken the resistance conferred by the HT1 gene. In addition, there is the instability of the resistance genes to certain environmental factors such as temperature and light intensity in some climate zones (Thakur et al., 1989, "Effects of temperature and light on virulence of Exserohilum turcicum on com." Phytopathology 1989, 79: 631 -635).

[0012] As a consequence, the use of novel HT resistance genes for the production of commercial maize plants in order to target a broader and more long-lasting resistance to Exserohilum turcicum in maize is growing in importance; the present invention addresses this need.

[0013] It is thus an objective of the present invention to identify and / or further characterize plant resistance genes encoding polypeptides conferring or increasing resistance against a fungal pathogen, such as Exserohilum turcicum.

[0014] It is a further objective of the present invention to provide such genes and markers allowing introgression of such genes into susceptible com lines and com lines comprising such genes and markers. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The present invention relates to nucleic acid molecules encoding polypeptides conferring or increasing resistance to a plant disease caused by a fungal pathogen, preferably said pathogen is Exserohilum turcicum. Specifically, the invention concerns maize plants with improved disease resistance and methods for identifying / selecting or producing maize plants, parts thereof, or cells, with disease resistance.

[0016] In one aspect, the present invention provides a nucleic acid molecule, preferably an isolated nucleic acid molecule, comprising a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of: i) a nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1 or SEQ ID NO: 2; ii) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 3; iii) a nucleotide sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1 or SEQ ID NO: 2 over the full length; and iv) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 3 over the full length, wherein the nucleotide sequence as defined in iii) and iv) is encoding an amino acid sequence comprising at position 453 not proline (P).

[0017] Also provided is the nucleic acid molecule as defined above wherein the nucleotide sequence as defined in iii) and iv) is encoding an amino acid sequence comprising at position 370 not alanine (A), and / or wherein the nucleotide sequence as defined in iii) and iv) is encoding an amino acid sequence comprising at position 538 not alanine (A).

[0018] Also provided is the nucleic acid molecule as defined above, wherein the nucleic acid molecule is encoding a polypeptide conferring or increasing resistance to a plant disease, preferably NCLB, caused by a fungal pathogen in a plant, preferably in a plant of the species Zea mays, in which the polypeptide is expressed, wherein said fungal pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum. In another aspect, provided is a plant or plant part, preferably a plant of the species Zea mays, comprising the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention, wherein the nucleic acid has been introduced by means of introgression, random mutagenesis, genome editing or transgenesis.

[0019] In another aspect, provided is a method for producing a plant, preferably a plant of the species Zea mays, having resistance to a fungal pathogen, wherein said fungal pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae- maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum, comprising the step of: i) introducing into said plant or plant part the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention, or ii) introgressing into said plant the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention or a QTL associated with improved resistance to said fungal pathogen, and comprising the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention, iii) converting in said plant an endogenous nucleic acid molecule encoding a polypeptide which is or belongs functionally to the family of WAK RLK1 , into the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention, preferably by means of random mutagenesis or genome editing, wherein the polypeptide which is or belongs functionally to the family of WAK RLK1 is encoded by a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of: i) a nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 30 or SEQ ID NO: 31 ; ii) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 32; iii) a nucleotide sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 30 or SEQ ID NO: 31 over the full length; and iv) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 32 over the full length. The method for producing the plant as defined above may further comprise the step of: i) introducing into said plant or plant part one or more QTL alleles located on chromosome 8 and / or chromosome 4, wherein said QTL alleles comprise WAK RLK1 and / or HTM4 gene(s) encoding one or more polypeptides conferring or increasing resistance to a plant disease caused by said fungal pathogen, preferably wherein the WAK RLK1 gene or allele is selected from WAK RLK1 genes or alleles comprised in HT2, HT3, HTN (HTN1 ), H102 or HT88, as disclosed in WO2015 / 032494, WQ2019 / 038326A1 , preferably wherein HTM4 gene is as disclosed in WO2022 / 268862, ii) converting in said plant an endogenous nucleic acid molecule encoding a polypeptide selected from the group consisting of a polypeptide which is or belongs functionally to the family of a WAK RLK1 and / or a polypeptide which is HTM4 into the WAK RLK1 and / or HTM4 encoding a polypeptide conferring or increasing resistance to a plant disease caused by said fungal pathogen, preferably wherein the WAK RLK1 gene or allele is selected from WAK RLK1 genes or alleles comprised in HT2, HT3, HTN (HTN1 ), H102 or HT88, preferably by means of random mutagenesis or genome editing, wherein the WAK RLK1 or HTM4 polypeptide, is encoded by a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of: i) a nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 12 or SEQ ID NO: 13, SEQ ID NO: 15, SEQ ID NO: 16, SEQ ID NO: 18, SEQ ID NO: 19, SEQ ID NO: 21 , SEQ ID NO: 22, SEQ ID NO: 24, SEQ ID NO: 25, SEQ ID NO: 27 or SEQ ID NO: 28; ii) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 14, SEQ ID NO: 17, SEQ ID NO: 20, SEQ ID NO: 23, SEQ ID NO: 26 or SEQ ID NO: 29; iii) a nucleotide sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 12 or SEQ ID NO: 13, SEQ ID NO: 15, SEQ ID NO: 16, SEQ ID NO: 18, SEQ ID NO: 19, SEQ ID NO: 21 , SEQ ID NO: 22, SEQ ID NO: 24, SEQ ID NO: 25, SEQ ID NO: 27 or SEQ ID NO: 28 over the full length; and iv) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 14, SEQ ID NO: 17, SEQ ID NO: 20, SEQ ID NO: 23, SEQ ID NO: 26 or SEQ ID NO: 29 over the full length.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plant having fungal resistance, said fungal pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum.

[0021] In another aspect, provided is a plant or plant part, preferably a plant or plant part of the species Zea mays, obtained by the methods for producing a plant according to the present invention.

[0022] In another aspect, provided is a plant or plant part of the species Zea mays comprising the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention, preferably endogenously and, preferably as a result of using a method of random mutagenesis or genome editing, wherein the flanking regions in the genome does not contain a donor derived interval, preferably Ki11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker SYN14136 and marker MA0021 and / or a donor derived interval, preferably Ki11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker MA0021 and marker SYN4196.

[0023] A further embodiment of the invention is a method for identifying or selecting a plant or a plant part, preferably a plant or plant part of the species Zea mays, having increased resistance to a plant disease, preferably NCLB, caused by a fungal pathogen, wherein said fungal pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum, comprising the following steps: i) detecting in said plant, or plant part the presence of the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention or detecting in said plant, or plant part the presence of a polypeptide encoded by the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention or one or more marker loci linked to said resistance, ii) identifying or selecting said plant or plant part in which the nucleic acid molecule or the marker loci of the present invention are present, as having a resistance to said plant disease.

[0024] A further embodiment of the invention is the method for identifying or selecting said plant or a plant part as defined above, wherein one or more of said marker loci linked to said resistance, are linked to at least one marker locus selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NO: 4 comprising an A, at position 156764180 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 5 comprising a G, at position 156772004 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 6 comprising a G, at position 156789536 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 7 comprising a G, at position 156789885 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, or SEQ ID NO: 8 comprising a T, at position 156800788 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4.

[0025] A further embodiment of the invention is the method for identifying or selecting said plant or plant part, wherein one or more marker loci that are linked to, and within 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5 or 10 centimorgans (cM) of, at least one marker locus selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NO: 4 comprising a A, at position 156764180 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 5 comprising a G, at position 156772004 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 6 comprising a G, at position 156789536 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 7 comprising a G, at position 156789885 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, or SEQ ID NO: 8 comprising a T, at position 156800788 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4.

[0026] In another embodiment of the method for identifying or selecting said plant or plant part, the one or more marker loci linked to said resistance are selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NO: 4 comprising a A, at position 156764180 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 5 comprising a G, at position 156772004 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 6 comprising a G, at position 156789536 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 7 comprising a G, at position 156789885 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, or SEQ ID NO: 8 comprising a T, at position 156800788 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4.

[0027] Preferably said fungal pathogen in the method for identifying or selecting said plant or plant part is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae- maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum.

[0028] In another aspect, provided is a plant or plant part, preferably a plant of the species Zea mays, identified or selected by the methods for identifying or selecting a plant or a plant part according to the present invention. In another aspect, provided is an isolated polynucleic acid comprising a coding sequence selected from the group consisting of: i) a fragment of at least about 15, about 20, about 50, about 75, about 100, or about 150 nucleotides, of the nucleic acid molecule as defined in the present invention; ii) one or more marker loci as defined in the present invention, iii) one or more sequences selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 and / or iv) one or more sequences with an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8; preferably over the entire length of the sequence, for use as molecular marker or primer for identifying and / or selecting a plant having resistance to a plant disease caused by a fungal pathogen, preferably selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum.

[0029] In another aspect, provided is the use of the isolated polynucleic acid of the above and / or one, two or more markers capable of detecting the presence or absence of at least one, preferably at least two, three or more of the marker loci as defined in present invention and / or a nucleic acid of the present invention for identifying and / or selecting a plant preferably a plant of the species Zea mays having resistance to a plant disease, preferably NCLB, caused by a fungal pathogen, preferably selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum.

[0030] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0031] Figure 1 - Sequence alignments for diagnostic marker development

[0032] Genomic DNA Sequences alignment of the WAK RLK1 resistant SEQ ID NO: 1 (donor parent Ki11 ) and susceptible SEQ ID NO: 9 (recurrent parent RP619) alleles of HTK. SNPs or InDeis identified by the sequence alignments of the gDNA can be used for the development of molecular markers for the detection of the individual genes and thus for detecting NCLB resistant com plant. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] Unless defined otherwise, technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.

[0034] The term “about” means + / - 10% of the recited value, preferably + / - 5% of the recited value.

[0035] As used herein, "plant" refers to a whole plant and / or progeny of the same. A progeny plant can be from any filial generation, e.g., F1 , F2, F3, F4, F5, F6, F7, etc.

[0036] A "plant part" refers to any part of a plant, comprising a cell or tissue culture derived from a plant, plant components or organs (e.g., leaves, stems, roots, etc.), plant tissues, seeds, and plant cells. A plant cell is a biological cell of a plant, taken from a plant or derived through culture from a cell taken from a plant.

[0037] As used herein, a "com plant" or "maize plant" refers to a plant of species Zea mays L and includes all plant varieties that can be bred with corn, including wild maize species.

[0038] The term “cell(s)” or "plant cell(s)" include protoplasts, gametes, suspension cultures, microspores, pollen grains, etc., either in isolation or within a tissue, organ or organism. The plant cell can e.g. be part of a multicellular structure, such as a callus, meristem, plant organ or an explant.

[0039] As used herein, a “field” or a “com field” refers to an outdoor location that is suitable for growing com.

[0040] A “nucleic acid” or “polynucleotide” according to the present invention may include any polymer or oligomer of pyrimidine and purine bases, preferably cytosine, thymine, and uracil, and adenine and guanine, respectively. It may be referred to other common names in the art, such as nucleic acid molecule, polynucleic acid molecule. The present invention contemplates any deoxyribonucleotide, ribonucleotide or nucleic acid component, and any chemical variants thereof, such as methylated, hydroxy methylated or glycosylated forms of these bases, and the like. The polymers or oligomers may be heterogeneous or homogenous in composition and may be isolated from naturally occurring sources or may be artificially or synthetically produced. In addition, the nucleic acids may be DNA (optionally cDNA) or RNA, or a mixture thereof, and may exist permanently or transitionally in single-stranded or double-stranded form, including homoduplex, heteroduplex, and hybrid states. An “isolated nucleic acid” is used to refer to a nucleic acid which is no longer in its natural environment, for example in vitro or in a recombinant bacterial or plant cell. The nucleic acid of the invention may be at least one of a recombinant, synthetic or artificial nucleic acid.

[0041] The detection of a nucleic acid or nucleotide sequence may be carried out by a hybridization method, using an oligonucleotide probe. The conditions of hybridization can appropriately be selected depending on factors such as the Tm value of the probe used and the CG content of the target DNA. Known hybridization methods are described, for example, in Sambrook et al., 2001 .

[0042] Alternatively, the detection of a gene may be carried out by means of a DNA amplification method, such as PCR, using respective primers. When the detection is carried out by PCR method, PCR conditions can appropriately be selected depending on the factors such as the Tm value of the primer used and the length of the amplified region to be detected. The detection can be carried out by amplifying the target by PCR and confirming the presence or absence of a PCR-amplified product. The detection can be carried out also by qRT-PCR or may also include sequencing.

[0043] The method for confirming the presence or absence of an amplification product is not particularly limited.

[0044] The term "hybridization" or "hybridize" should be understood to mean a procedure in which a single stranded nucleic acid molecule agglomerates with a nucleic acid strand which is as complementary as possible, i.e. base-pairs with it. Examples of standard methods for hybridization have been described in 2001 by Sambrook et al. Preferably, this should be understood to mean that at least 60%, more preferably at least 65%, 70%, 75%, 80% or 85%, particularly preferably 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98% or 99% of the bases of the nucleic acid molecule undergo base pairing with the nucleic acid strand which is as complementary as possible. The possibility of such agglomeration depends on the stringency of the hybridization conditions. The term "stringency" refers to the hybridization conditions. High stringency is when base pairing is more difficult, low stringency is when base pairing is easier. The stringency of the hybridization conditions depends, for example, on the salt concentration or ionic strength and the temperature. In general, the stringency can be increased by raising the temperature and / or by reducing the salt content. The term "stringent hybridization conditions" should be understood to mean those conditions under which a hybridization takes place primarily only between homologous nucleic acid molecules. The term "hybridization conditions" in this respect refers not only to the actual conditions prevailing during actual agglomeration of the nucleic acids, but also to the conditions prevailing during the subsequent washing steps. Examples of high stringent hybridization conditions are conditions under which primarily only those nucleic acid molecules that have at least 90% or at least 95% sequence identity undergo hybridization. Such high stringent hybridization conditions are, for example: 4 x SSC at 65°C and subsequent multiple washes in 0.1 x SSC at 65°C for approximately 1 hour. The term "high stringent hybridization conditions" as used herein may also mean: hybridization at 68°C in 0.25 M sodium phosphate, pH 7.2, 7 % SDS, 1 mM EDTA and 1 % BSA for 16 hours and subsequently washing twice with 2 x SSC and 0.1 % SDS at 68°C. Preferably, hybridization takes place under stringent conditions. Less stringent hybridization conditions are, for example: hybridizing in 4 x SSC at 37 °C and subsequent multiple washing in 1 x SSC at room temperature.

[0045] The term “sequence identity” as used herein refers to a comparison over the entire length of the respective nucleic acid or amino acid sequence to be compared to another, the sequence of interest or subject representing the reference sequence (e.g., in the form of a SEQ ID NO as disclosed herein) wherein these identity or homology values define those as obtained by using the EMBOSS Water Pairwise Sequence Alignments (nucleotide) software (http: / / www.ebi.ac.uk / Tools / psa / emboss_water / ) nucleic acids or the EMBOSS Water Pairwise Sequence Alignments (protein) software (http: / / www.ebi.ac.uk / Tools / psa / emboss_water / ) for amino acid sequences. Those tools provided by the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) European Bioinformatics Institute (EBI) for local sequence alignments use a modified Smith-Waterman algorithm (see http: / / www.ebi.ac.uk / Tools / psa / and Smith, T.F. & Waterman, M.S. “Identification of common molecular subsequences” Journal of Molecular Biology, 1981 147 (1 ): 195-197). When conducting an alignment, the default parameters defined by the EMBL-EBI are used. Those parameters are i) for amino acid sequences: Matrix = BLOSUM62, gap open penalty = 10 and gap extend penalty = 0.5 or (ii) for nucleic acid sequences: Matrix = DNA full, gap open penalty = 10 and gap extend penalty = 0.5.

[0046] As used herein, the terms “encoding” or “encoded” when used in the context of a specified nucleic acid mean that the nucleic acid comprises the requisite information to direct translation of the nucleotide sequence into a specified protein. The information by which a protein is encoded is specified by the use of codons. A nucleic acid encoding a protein may comprise non-translated sequences (e.g., introns) within translated regions of the nucleic acid or may lack such intervening non-translated sequences (e.g., as in cDNA).

[0047] “Fragment” is intended to mean a portion of a nucleotide sequence. Fragments can be used as molecular markers, hybridization probes or PCR primers using methods disclosed herein. Fragments of a nucleotide sequence that are useful as hybridization probes do not necessarily encode fragment proteins retaining biological activity. Thus, fragments of a nucleotide sequence may range from at least about 15, about 20, about 50, about 75, about 100, or about 150 nucleotides.

[0048] The term “AGPvO4 reference annotation” refers to the physical map from maize as described in Yang et al. 2021 ). Unless specifically stated otherwise, numbers specifying one or more positions on a chromosome are always given in base pairs (bp) and always refer the chromosome 8 of the AGPvO4 reference annotation / genome. “Northern corn leaf blight” (NCLB), sometimes referred to as northern leaf blight (NLB), is the disease caused by the pathogen Exserohilum turcicum. The disease, characterized by cigar-shaped lesions on leaf tissue, can have severe effects on yield, particularly in tropical climates or during wet seasons in temperate climates.

[0049] The term "resistance" as regards a pathogen should be understood to mean the ability of a plant, plant tissue or plant cell to resist the damaging effects of the pathogen and extends from a delay in the development of disease to complete suppression of the development of the disease. The resistance may be complete or partial and may be specific or non-specific to the pathogen race. Disease resistance may manifest in fewer and / or smaller lesions, increased plant health, increased yield, increased root mass, increased plant vigor, less or no discoloration, increased growth, reduced necrotic area, or reduced wilting.

[0050] Preferably, a maize plant in accordance with the invention exhibits resistance to at least one race of Exserohilum turcicum which does not correspond to the known race specificity known in the prior art. In a particularly preferred embodiment, a maize plant in accordance with the invention is resistant to all known races of Exserohilum turcicum, i.e. the conferred resistance is not race-specific and may be particularly advantageous in the formation of a broad resistance to Exserohilum.

[0051] In the event of a pathogen race-specific resistance for HTK allele, the virulent currently known races of Exserohilum turcicum may, for example, include 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N; the avirulent races may, for example, include K. A conferred resistance may be a newly inherited resistance or an increase in a partial resistance which is already extant.

[0052] As used herein the terms "increased resistance" or “increasing resistance” or “conferring resistance” relate herein to plants of the disclosure are described as being resistant to infection by Exserohilum turcicum or having 'increased resistance' to infection by Exserohilum turcicum as a result of a resistance gene (allele), polypeptide or QTL (allele), as described herein elsewhere. Accordingly, they typically exhibit increased resistance to the disease (northern com leaf blight) when compared to equivalent plants that are susceptible to infection by Exserohilum turcicum because they lack the resistance gene (allele), polypeptide or QTL (allele), as described herein elsewhere.

[0053] For example, a Exserohilum furc / cum-resistant maize plant in the meaning of the invention exhibits an "increased resistance" to E. turcicum by at least 1 classification score, preferably by at least 2 classification scores or at least 3 classification scores, and most preferably by at least 4 classification scores when compared to equivalent plants that are susceptible to infection by Exserohilum turcicum.

[0054] For example, equivalent plants that are susceptible to infection by E. turcicum can be a plant, plant cell or plant part, not comprising the QTL allele, preferably a WAK RLK1 allele or HTM4, more preferably HTK allele, or one or more of the molecular marker (allele) or nucleic acid molecule or polypeptide according to the invention as described herein. Resistance may be quantified by methods known in the art. For example, resistance to Exserohilum turcicum may be quantified by determining classification scores using phenotyping experiments in accordance with the scheme shown in the Table 2 below.

[0055] Table 2: Classification score scheme for phenotyping experiments in field trials at various locations with natural and artificial Exserohilum turcicum inoculation (from the Deutsche Maiskomitee (DMK, German maize committee); AG variety 27.02.02; (DMK J. Rath; RP Freiburg H.J. Imgraben)

[0056] The term "allele" refers to one or two or more nucleotide sequences at a specific locus in the genome. A first allele is on a chromosome, a second on a second chromosome at the same position. If the two alleles are different, they are heterozygous, and if they are the same, they are homozygous. Various alleles of a gene (gene alleles) differ in at least one SNP. Depending on the context of the description, an allele also means a single SNP which, for example, allows for a distinction between the resistance donor and recurrent parent.

[0057] As used herein, a "resistant allele" or "resistance allele" is the allele at a particular locus that confers, or contributes to, an agronomically desirable phenotype, e.g., enhanced resistance to northern corn leaf blight, and that allows the identification of plants that have increased resistance to NCLB. A “resistant” allele of a marker is a marker allele that segregates with the disease resistant phenotype (e.g. NCLB resistance) or alternatively, segregates with NCLB susceptibility, therefore providing the benefit of identifying plants having NCLB susceptibility. Preferably, the resistance allele is a donor allele.

[0058] "Introducing" in the meaning of the present invention includes stable integration by means of transformation including Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, transfection, microinjection, biolistic bombardment, insertion using genome editing technology such as CRISPR systems, TALENs, zinc finger nucleases or meganucleases, homologous recombination optionally by means of one of the above mentioned genome editing technology including preferably a repair template. The term "introducing" may or may not encompass the introgression using conventional breeding.

[0059] The term "transgenesis" in the meaning of the present invention is understood as a method of introducing an exogenous or modified gene (transgene) into a recipient organism of the same or different species from which the gene is derived.

[0060] The term “transgenic” or “transgenically” in the meaning of the present invention is understood to mean that the respective gene is an exogenous gene or modified gene (transgene) which is stably integrated into the genome of a plant by transformation, such as for example Agrobacterium mediated transformation.

[0061] A “genome editing” refers to genetic engineering in which DNA or RNA is inserted, deleted, modified or replaced in the genome of a plant. For example, according to the invention, the endogenous gene of a plant may be modified to confer resistance (or increased resistance) to a plant disease caused by a fungal pathogen. Genetic modification may, for example, be achieved by gene editing, such as CRISPR systems, TALENs, zinc finger nucleases or meganucleases or homologous recombination (optionally, supported by gene editing tools) or combinations thereof. Introduction through gene editing technology may be performed by any site-specific genome modification technique known in the art using an SDN-1 , SDN-2 or SDN-3 approach, wherein the introduced sequence may be inserted by replacing at least on endogenous copy of a gene of interest or may be introduced elsewhere in the genome. The terms "SDN-1", "SDN-2", and "SDN-3" as used herein are abbreviations for the platform technique "site-directed nuclease" 1 , 2, or 3, respectively, as caused by any site-directed nuclease of interest, including, for example, Meganucleases, Zine-Finger Nucleases (ZFNs), Transcription Activator Like Effector Nucleases (TALENs), and CRISPR nucleases. SDN-1 produces a double-stranded or single-stranded break in the genome of a plant without the addition of foreign DNA. A "site-directed nuclease" is thus able to recognize and cut, optionally assisted by further molecules, a specific sequence in a genome or an isolated genomic sequence of interest. For SDN-2 and SDN-3, an exogenous nucleotide template is provided to the cell during the gene editing. For SDN-2, however, no recombinant foreign DNA is inserted into the genome of a target cell, but the endogenous repair process copies, for example, a mutation as present in the template to induce a (point) mutation. In contrast, SDN-3 mechanism uses the introduced template during repair of the DNA break so that genetic material is introduced into the genomic material.

[0062] “Converting” in the meaning of the present invention includes modification of endogenous nucleic acid molecule (gene) using random mutagenesis like TILLING or above-mentioned genome editing, or mutagenesis mediated by transposon or transposable element.

[0063] The term “endogenous” or “endogenously” refers to a nucleic acid molecule or a genetic locus that naturally occurs in the genome of a plant. The methods that can be practiced endogenously on the endogenous nucleic acid molecule include modification of endogenous nucleic acid molecule (gene) using random mutagenesis like TILLING or above-mentioned genome editing, or mutagenesis mediated by transposon or transposable element.

[0064] A “random mutagenesis” refers to a method of a technical intervention resulting in an altered or mutated nucleic acid. Random mutagenesis may be, but is not limited to, chemical mutagenesis and gamma radiation. Non-limiting examples of chemical mutagenesis include, but are not limited to, EMS (ethyl methanesulfonate), MMS (methyl methanesulfonate), NaN3 (sodium azide) D), ENU (N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea), AzaC (azacytidine) and NQO (4-nitroquinoline 1 -oxide). Optionally, mutagenesis systems such as TILLING (Targeting Induced Local Lesions IN Genomics; McCallum et al., 2000, Nat Biotech 18:455, and McCallum et al. 2000, Plant Physiol. 123, 439- 442) may be used to generate plant lines with a modified gene as defined herein.

[0065] A "molecular marker" or "marker" or “marker loci” is a term used to denote a nucleic acid or amino acid sequence that is sufficiently unique to characterize a specific locus on the genome. Any detectable polymorphic trait can be used as a marker so long as it is inherited differentially and exhibits linkage disequilibrium with a phenotypic trait of interest. For markers, these differences are on a DNA level and, for example, are polynucleotide sequence differences such as, for example, SSRs (simple sequence repeats), RFLPs (restriction fragment length polymorphisms), FLPs (fragment length polymorphisms) or SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms). The markers may be derived from genomic or expressed nucleic acids such as spliced RNA, cDNA or ESTs and may be based on nucleic acids which are used as probes or primer pairs and as such are suitable for amplifying a sequence fragment using PCR-based methods. Markers which concern genetic polymorphisms between parts of a population can be detected using established methods from the prior art (An Introduction to Genetic Analysis. 7th Edition, Griffiths, Miller, Suzuki et al., 2000). These include, for example: DNA sequencing, PCR-based, sequence-specific amplification, assaying of RFLPs, assaying of KASP, assaying of polynucleotide polymorphisms using allele-specific hybridization (ASH), detection of SSRs, SNPs or AFLPs. Methods for detecting ESTs (expressed sequence tags) and RAPD (randomly amplified polymorphic DNA) are also known. Depending on the context, the term "marker" in the description may also mean a specific chromosome position in the genome of a species where a specific marker (for example SNP) can be found.

[0066] As used herein, "linkage disequilibrium" (LD) refers to a non-random segregation of genetic loci or traits (or both), in either case, linkage disequilibrium implies that the relevant loci are within sufficient physical proximity along a length of a chromosome so that they segregate together with greater than random (i.e. , non-random) frequency (in the case of co- segregating traits, the loci that underlie the traits are in sufficient proximity to each other). Linked loci co-segregate more than 50% of the time, e.g. , from about 51 % to about 100% of the time. Linkage disequilibrium can be measured using any one of the methods provided in Hedrick, Gametic disequilibrium measures: proceed with caution. Genetics, 117:331 - 41 (1987).

[0067] A "locus" is a position on a chromosome where one or more genes are found which cause an agronomic feature or influence one. In particular, "locus" as used here means the HTK- resistance locus which confers resistance against the pathogen Exserohilum turcicum and NCLB.

[0068] As used herein, the phrase "linked to" refers to a recognizable and / or assayable relationship between two entities. For example, the phrase "linked to NCLB resistance" refers to a trait, locus, gene, allele, marker, phenotype, etc., or the expression thereof, the presence or absence of which can influence an extent, degree, and / or rate at which a plant or plant part of interest thereof that has an NCLB resistance trait. As such, a marker or marker loci is "linked to" a trait when it is linked to it and when the presence of the marker or marker loci is an indicator of whether and / or to what extent the desired trait or trait form will occur in a plant / germplasm comprising the marker.

[0069] Closely linked markers flanking the locus of interest that have alleles in linkage disequilibrium (LD) with an NCLB resistance allele at that locus can be effectively used to select for progeny plants with NCLB resistance. Thus, the markers described herein, such as those listed in Table 4, as well as other markers genetically linked to or associated with the same chromosome interval, can be used to select for a com plant, seed, or cell with NCLB resistance. Often, a set of these markers will be used, (e.g. , 2 or more, 3 or more, 4 or more, 5 or more) in the flanking regions of the locus. Optionally, as described above, a marker flanking or within the actual locus can also be used. The parents and their progeny can be screened for these sets of markers, and the markers that are polymorphic between the two parents used for selection. Examples include, but are not limited to, any marker selected from SEQ ID NOs: 4-8. In an aspect, a marker locus selected from SEQ ID NOs:4-8 can be amplified using an appropriate pair of primers. Furthermore, since there are many different types of marker detection assays known in the art, it is not intended that the type of marker detection assay used to practice this disclosure be limited in any way.

[0070] As used herein, a "centimorgan" (cM) is a unit of measure of recombination frequency and genetic distance between two loci. One cM is equal to a 1 % chance that a marker at one genetic locus will be separated from a marker at a second locus due to crossing over in a single generation.

[0071] As used herein, "closely linked" means two loci, two intervals, two genetic segments (e.g. resistance gene and flanking regions) or two markers (marker loci) which are less than 15 cM, less than 12 cM, less than 10 cM, less than 8 cM, less than 7 cM, less than 6 cM, less than 5 cM, less than 4 cM, less than 3 cM, less than 2 cM, less than 1 cM, less than 0.5 cM, less than 0.2 cM, less than 0.1 cM distant from each other, established using the IBM2 neighbors 4 genetic map which is publicly available on the Maize GDB website, or which are less than 50 Mbp (mega base pairs), less than 40 Mbp, less than 30 Mbp, less than 25 Mbp, less than 20 Mbp, less than 15 Mbp, or less than 10 Mbp distant from each other. The term "interval" or "chromosomal interval" means a continuous linear segment on a genomic DNA which is present in an individual chromosome in a plant or on a chromosome fragment and which is usually defined through two markers which represent the end points of the interval on the distal and proximal side. In this regard, the markers which define the ends of the interval may themselves also be a part of the interval.

[0072] As used herein, the "donor" refers to the parental plant having desired gene or locus conferring or increasing resistance to NCLB to be introduced into a plant not having a desired gene or locus. As used herein, a “donor derived interval” means a continuous linear segment on a genomic DNA which is present in an individual chromosome in a plant or on a chromosome fragment and which is usually defined through two markers which represent the end points of the interval on the distal and proximal side, and which is originating from a donor plant. Two markers which represent the end points of the interval of the current invention are selected from the group consisting of: i) marker SYN14136 and marker PZE108077560; ii) marker PZE108093423; and marker MA0021 ; or iii) marker MA0021 and marker SYN4196.

[0073] The present invention is based on the identification of the HTK allele of the WAK RLK1 gene which encodes a polypeptide conferring (or increasing) resistance to a plant against a fungal pathogen, such as Exserohilum turcicum.

[0074] In one aspect, the present invention provides a nucleic acid molecule, preferably an isolated nucleic acid molecule, comprising a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of: i) a nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1 (genomic DNA of HTK) or SEQ ID NO: 2 (cDNA of HTK); ii) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 3 (HTK protein).; iii) a nucleotide sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1 or SEQ ID NO: 2 over the full length; and iv) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 3 over the full length, wherein the nucleotide sequence as defined in iii) and iv) is encoding an amino acid sequence comprising at position 453 not proline (P), preferably not a hydrophobic amino acid. Preferably, the nucleotide sequence as defined in iii) and iv) is encoding an amino acid sequence comprising at position 453 a hydrophilic amino acid, preferably serine (S). Examples of amino acid properties are: hydrophobic amino acids (A, I, L, M, F, P, W, Y, and V), hydrophilic amino acids (R, D, N, C, E, Q, G, H, K, S, and T).

[0075] Also provided is the nucleic acid molecule as defined above wherein the nucleotide sequence as defined in iii) and iv) is encoding an amino acid sequence comprising at position 370 not alanine (A), preferably not a hydrophobic amino acid, and / or wherein the nucleotide sequence as defined in iii) and iv) is encoding an amino acid sequence comprising at position 538 not alanine (A) preferably not a hydrophobic amino acid. Preferably the nucleotide sequence as defined in iii) and iv) is encoding an amino acid sequence comprising at position 370 a hydrophilic amino acid, preferably threonine (T). Examples of amino acid properties are: hydrophobic amino acids (A, I, L, M, F, P, W, Y, and V), hydrophilic amino acids (R, D, N, C, E, Q, G, H, K, S, and T).

[0076] Preferably the nucleotide sequence as defined in iii) and iv) is encoding an amino acid sequence comprising at position 538 valine (V).

[0077] Also provided is the nucleic acid molecule as defined above, wherein the nucleic acid molecule is encoding a polypeptide conferring or increasing resistance to a plant disease, preferably NCLB, caused by a fungal pathogen in a plant, preferably in a plant of the species Zea mays, in which the polypeptide is expressed, wherein said fungal pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum.

[0078] Additionally, the nucleic acid molecule of the invention is encoding a polypeptide which may not be capable of conferring resistance to a plant disease caused by Exserohilum turcicum race K in a plant, preferably a plant of the species Zea mays, in which the polypeptide is expressed. The plant may show a susceptible response to infection with Exserohilum turcicum race K.

[0079] In one embodiment, the fungal pathogen belongs to the division of Ascomycota or Basidiomycota. The fungal pathogen may belong to family Pleosporaceae, Pucciniaceae or Botryosphaeriaceae. Preferably, the fungal pathogen belongs to the genus of Setosphaeria, Bipolaris, Puccinia or Diplodia, more preferably is the species of Exserohilum turcicum, Setosphaeria rostrata, Setosphaeria glycinea, Setosphaeria holmii, Setosphaeria khartoumensis, Setosphaeria minor, Setosphaeria monoceras, Setosphaeria pedicellata, Setosphaeria prolata, Bipolaris australis, Bipolaris brizae, Bipolaris buchloes, Bipolaris cactivora, Bipolaris clavata, Bipolaris coicis, Bipolaris colocasiae, Bipolaris crotonis, Bipolaris crustacean, Bipolaris cylindrical, Bipolaris euchlaenae, Bipolaris halepensis, Bipolaris heveae, Bipolaris incurvata, Bipolaris indica, Bipolaris iridis, Bipolaris leersiae, Bipolaris micropus, Bipolaris miyakei, Bipolaris multiformis, Bipolaris nicotiae, Bipolaris novae-zelandiae, Bipolaris ovariicola, Bipolaris panici-miliacei, Bipolaris papendorfii, Bipolaris sacchari, Bipolaris salkadehensis, Bipolaris sorghicola, Bipolaris subpapendorfii, Bipolaris tropicalis, Bipolaris urochloae, Bipolaris zeae, Puccinia asparagi, Puccinia graminis, Puccinia horiana, Puccinia mariae-wilsoniae, Puccinia poarum, Puccinia psidii, Puccinia recondite, Puccinia sessilis, Puccinia sorghi, Puccinia striiformis, Puccinia triticina, Diplodia maydis, Diplodia seriata or Stenocarpella (Diplodia) macrospora, most preferably is Exserohilum turcicum, Puccinia sorghi, Diplodia macrospora, Cercospora zeae-maydis, Puccinia polysora, or Bipolaris maydis.

[0080] In one embodiment, the plant disease is a fungal disease. In a preferred embodiment, the plant disease is selected from the group consisting of NCLB (caused by Exserohilum turcicum), Southern Corn Leaf Blight (caused by Bipolaris maydis), Common Rust (caused by Puccinia sorghi), and Diplodia Leaf Streak (caused by Diplodia macrospora, also called Stenocarpella macrospora). Most preferably, the plant disease is NCLB.

[0081] In another aspect, provided is a plant or plant part, preferably a plant of the species Zea mays, comprising the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention, wherein the nucleic acid has been introduced by means of introgression, random mutagenesis, genome editing or transgenesis.

[0082] From WO2015 / 032494 and WO2019038326A1 which investigated and used introgression lines with Htn1 from Pepitilla, and Ht2 / HT3 from A619HT2 or A619HT3 it is known that this resistance locus is closely linked to genomic regions carrying linkage drag resulting in negative effects on one or more agronomic features. First investigation of the flanking region of HTK indicated that this or similar linkage drag is not only present in Pepitilla donor for HtN1 introgression, but also in other donors for this E. turcicum resistance locus like A619HT2, A619HT3and Ki11. Inter alia the linkage drag as part of the HTK introgression can affect a difference in the flowering time, which is an important agronomic characteristic. It can directly and substantially influence the yield potential of a Zea mays plant. A delayed flowering time usually results in a reduced yield. Further linkage drag affecting the yield potential, in particular the silage yield potential, may be found distal and / or proximal of the E. turcicum resistance locus on bin 8.06 in Zea mays. Flanking regions, closely linked to this resistance locus, might be carrier of the known linkage drag, however, these regions can be limited to an interval located between alleles of marker SYN14136 (SEQ ID NO: 33) and marker MA0021 (SEQ ID NO: 34) and / or an interval located between alleles of marker MA0021 (SEQ ID NO: 34) and marker SYN4196 (SEQ ID NO: 36). Thus, the plant of the invention may be a plant of the species Zea mays comprising the nucleic acid molecule of the invention, preferably endogenously, wherein the flanking regions in the genome does not contain a donor derived interval, preferably Ki11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker SYN14136 and marker MA0021 and / or a donor derived interval, preferably Ki11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker MA0021 and marker SYN4196.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment, the plant is a plant of the species Zea mays comprising the nucleic acid molecule of the invention, preferably endogenously, wherein the flanking regions in the genome do not contain a donor plant derived interval, preferably Ki11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker SYN14136 (SEQ ID NO: 33) and marker PZE108077560 (SEQ ID NO: 37), a donor derived interval, preferably Ki 11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker PZE108093423 (SEQ ID NO: 38) and marker MA0021 (SEQ ID NO: 34), and / or a donor plant derived interval located between alleles of marker MA0021 (SEQ ID NO: 34) and marker SYN4196 (SEQ ID NO: 36).

[0084] The marker SYN14136 is at position 135643256 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 39 to 41 , the marker MA0021 is at position 156535845 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 42 to 44, the marker MA0022 is at position 156694186 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 44 to 47, the marker SYN4196 is at position 166768255 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 48 to 50, the marker PZE108077560 is at position 137171538 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 51 to 53, the marker PZE108093423 is at position 154851553 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 54 to 56.

[0085] In a more preferred embodiment the plant as defined above, is comprising the nucleic acid molecule as defined above, preferably endogenously, and, preferably as a result of using a method of random mutagenesis or genome editing, wherein the genomic flanking regions closely linked to the nucleic acid molecule of the current invention do not contain a donor plant derived interval, preferably Ki11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker SYN14136 and marker MA0021 and / or donor derived interval located between alleles of marker MA0021 and marker SYN4196. Preferably, in the plant of the invention the genomic flanking regions closely linked to the nucleic acid molecule of the current invention containing a donor plant derived interval were removed using genome editing.

[0086] Table 3: KASP marker primer sequences and assignment to donor alleles (allele X and allele Y: describe the biallelic values of the SNPs).

[0087] As an example, removal of linkage drag may be carried out by genetic recombination during a crossing process between two maize plants, wherein one parent maize plant carries the HTK-resistance locus. In addition to the use of conventional breeding techniques to produce a genetic recombination which has the result of replacing at least one of the donor intervals with linkage drag identified above with genomic sequences of the recurrent parent which are preferably free from unwanted genes, modem biotechnology offers the person skilled in the art many tools which can enable precise genetic engineering to be carried out. Examples of known tools include genome editing tools such as meganucleases, homing, zinc finger nucleases, TALE nucleases or CRISPR systems. These are artificial nuclease fusion proteins which are capable of cleaving double stranded nucleic acid molecules such as plant DNA and thus of producing double strand breaks at desired positions in the genome. By exploiting the cells own mechanisms for repairing induced double strand breaks, a homologous recombination or a "non-homologous end joining" can be carried out, which could lead to the removal of the intervals of the donor carrying linkage drag. Suitable target sequences in the genome for the recognition domain nucleases may be taken, for example, from the sequence information of the SNP markers (Table 3). However, a person skilled in the art is also able to identify other sequences, preferably within the defined flanking regions described above, which are suitable as target sequences for the recognition domains of the nucleases.

[0088] In another aspect, provided is a genetically edited or transgenic plant comprising the nucleic acid molecule of the invention, the vector of the invention or the expression cassette of the invention. The nucleic acid molecule may be a transgene or a modified / edited endogenous gene. A promoter may be operably linked to the nucleic acid molecule or nucleotide sequence for expression.

[0089] In one embodiment the plant is resistant to a plant disease, preferably NCLB, caused by a fungal pathogen wherein said fungal pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum.

[0090] In a preferred embodiment, provided is the plant or plant part as defined above, wherein the nucleic acid has been introduced by means that not encompass the introgression using conventional breeding.

[0091] In a preferred embodiment, the plant according to the invention is Zea mays.

[0092] In another embodiment, the plant according to the invention is Sorghum bicolor.

[0093] The plant may be a transgenic plant or a genetically edited plant or mutagenized plant. A part of the plant of the invention, plant cell of the plant of the invention and seed of the plant of the invention is also provided, wherein the seed comprising the nucleic acid molecule of the invention transgenically or endogenously.

[0094] In another aspect, provided is a method for producing the plant as defined above, preferably a plant of the species Zea mays, having resistance to a fungal pathogen, wherein said fungal pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum, comprising the step of: i) introducing into said plant or plant part the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention, ii) introgressing into said plant the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention or a QTL associated with improved resistance to said fungal pathogen, and comprising the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention, or iii) converting in said plant an endogenous nucleic acid molecule encoding a polypeptide which is or belongs functionally to the family of WAK RLK1 , into the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention, preferably by means of random mutagenesis or genome editing, wherein the polypeptide which is or belongs functionally to the family of WAK RLK1 is encoded by a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of: i) a nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 30 or SEQ ID NO: 31 ; ii) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 32; iii) a nucleotide sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 30 or SEQ ID NO: 31 over the full length; and iv) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 32 over the full length.

[0095] In one embodiment the method for producing a plant comprising introducing or converting may include stable or transient integration by means of transformation including Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, transfection, microinjection, biolistic bombardment, insertion using gene editing technology like CRISPR systems, TALENs, zinc finger nucleases or meganucleases, homologous recombination optionally by means of one of the gene editing technology including preferably a repair template, modification of endogenous gene using random mutagenesis like TILLING or above mentioned gene editing technology or mutagenesis mediated by transposon or transposable element.

[0096] In certain embodiments, the methods for obtaining plants or plant parts as described above, such as the methods for obtaining plants or plant parts having increased resistance to NCLB, consist of introgression, transgenesis, gene editing, and / or mutagenesis.

[0097] In certain embodiments, the methods for obtaining plants or plant parts as described above, such as the methods for obtaining plants or plant parts having increased resistance to NCLB, do not involve, comprise or consist of breeding and / or selection. Preferably, in one embodiment, a method as described herein comprises that said at least one plant cell, tissue, organ, plant, or seed is not obtained by an essentially biological process. Instead, said at least one plant cell, tissue, organ, plant, or seed is obtained by at least one step of artificial human intervention as such not occurring in nature and influencing the plant cell by modifying and / or introducing a step of technical nature influencing sexually crossing and selecting. Such a step may include a step of genome editing, e.g., to exchange a base or nucleotide of interest, a chemical treatment, e.g. for chromosome doubling an agent or gene or gene product including chromosome elimination, the introduction of an exogenous gene or genetic material into a plant genome (nuclear, mitochondrial or plastid genome) and the like, or any combination thereof.

[0098] The method for producing the plant as defined above may further comprise the step of: i) introducing into said plant or plant part one or more QTL alleles located on chromosome 8 and / or chromosome 4, wherein said QTL alleles comprise WAK RLK1 and / or HTM4 gene(s) encoding one or more polypeptides conferring or increasing resistance to a plant disease caused by said fungal pathogen, preferably wherein the WAK RLK1 gene or allele is selected from WAK RLK1 genes or alleles comprised in HT2, HT3, HTN (HTN1 ), H102 or HT88, or ii) converting in said plant an endogenous nucleic acid molecule encoding a polypeptide is selected from the group consisting of a polypeptide which is or belongs functionally to the family of a WAK RLK1 as defined above and / or a polypeptide which is HTM4 into the WAK RLK1 and / or HTM4 encoding a polypeptide conferring or increasing resistance to a plant disease caused by said fungal pathogen, preferably wherein the WAK RLK1 gene or allele is selected from WAK RLK1 genes or alleles comprised in HT2, HT3, HTN (HTN1 ), H102 or HT88, preferably by means of random mutagenesis or genome editing, wherein the WAK RLK1 or HTM4 polypeptide, is encoded by a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of: i) a nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 12 or SEQ ID NO: 13, SEQ ID NO: 15, SEQ ID NO: 16, SEQ ID NO: 18, SEQ ID NO: 19, SEQ ID NO: 21 , SEQ ID NO: 22, SEQ ID NO: 24, SEQ ID NO: 25, SEQ ID NO: 27 or SEQ ID NO: 28; ii) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 14, SEQ ID NO: 17, SEQ ID NO: 20, SEQ ID NO: 23, SEQ ID NO: 26 or SEQ ID NO: 29; iii) a nucleotide sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 12 or SEQ ID NO: 13, SEQ ID NO: 15, SEQ ID NO: 16, SEQ ID NO: 18, SEQ ID NO: 19, SEQ ID NO: 21 , SEQ ID NO: 22, SEQ ID NO: 24, SEQ ID NO: 25, SEQ ID NO: 27 or SEQ ID NO: 28 over the full length; and iv) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 14, SEQ ID NO: 17, SEQ ID NO: 20, SEQ ID NO: 23, SEQ ID NO: 26 or SEQ ID NO: 29 over the full length.

[0099] In one embodiment HTM4 gene is having a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of: i) a nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 12 or SEQ ID NO: 13; ii) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 14; iii) a nucleotide sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 12 or SEQ ID NO: 13 over the full length; and iv) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 14 over the full length.

[0100] In one embodiment the WAK RLK1 gene or allele is selected from WAK RLK1 genes or alleles comprised in HT2, HT3, HTN (HTN1 ), H102 or HT88 having a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of: i) a nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:12 or SEQ ID NO: 13, SEQ ID NO:15, SEQ ID NO:16, SEQ ID NO:18, SEQ ID NO:19, SEQ ID NO:21 , SEQ ID NO:22, SEQ ID NO:24, SEQ ID NO:25, SEQ ID NO: 27 or SEQ ID NO: 28; ii) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:14, SEQ ID NO:17, SEQ ID NO: 20, SEQ ID NO: 23, SEQ ID NO: 26, or SEQ ID NO: 29; iii) a nucleotide sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95% 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 12 or SEQ ID NO: 13, SEQ ID NO:15, SEQ ID NO: 16, SEQ ID NO:18, SEQ ID NO:19, SEQ ID NO:21 , SEQ ID NO:22, SEQ ID NO:24,SEQ ID NO:25, SEQ ID NO: 27 or SEQ ID NO: 28 over the full length; and iv) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95% 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 14, SEQ ID NO:17, SEQ ID NO: 20, SEQ ID NO: 23, SEQ ID NO: 26 or SEQ ID NO: 29 over the full length.

[0101] In one embodiment WAK RLK1 gene or allele is selected from WAK RLK1 genes or alleles comprised in HT2, HT3, HTN (HTN1 ), H102 or HT88 encoding a polypeptide which is not conferring or increasing resistance to a plant disease caused by said fungal pathogen is having a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of: i) a nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 30 or SEQ ID NO: 31 ; ii) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 32; iii) a nucleotide sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 30 or SEQ ID NO: 31 over the full length; and iv) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 32 over the full length.

[0102] As used herein HTM4 refers to a locus on Zea mays chromosome 4 responsible for Exserohilum turcicum resistance. The causative gene responsible for conferring Exserohilum turcicum resistance is ZmNLR24892.

[0103] The HTM4 Exserohilum turcicum resistance conferring gene may comprise a gene sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 12 or a sequence having an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% or 90%, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 12, preferably over the entire length of the sequence, or may comprise a coding sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 13 , or a sequence having an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% or 90%, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 13, preferably over the entire length of the sequence or may encode a protein comprising a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 14 or a sequence having an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% or 90%, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 14, preferably over the entire length of the sequence. The HTM4 gene can also be detected as is known in the art by appropriate markers which are comprised in the HTM4 gene, or which are closely linked to the HTM4 gene. In this context, for instance the markers listed in Table 1A, 1 B, 1 C and 1 D of WO 2022 / 268862 are particularly suitable for detecting the HTM4 gene. Table 1A, 1 B, 1 C and 1 D of 2022 / 268862 is in particular incorporated herein by reference. As used herein, "HT2" or "Ht2" refers to "Helminthosporium turcicum resistance 2", which is a locus on Zea mays chromosome 8 responsible for Exserohilum turcicum resistance. The causative gene responsible for conferring Exserohilum turcicum resistance, which is located within the HT2 locus is WAK RLK1 . As used herein, "HT3" or "Ht3" refers to "Helminthosporium turcicum resistance 3", which is a locus on Zea mays chromosome 8 responsible for Exserohilum turcicum resistance. The causative gene responsible for conferring Exserohilum turcicum, which is located within the HT3 locus is WAK RLK1 . HT2 and HT3 alleles of WAK RLK1 are identical.

[0104] The HT2 WAK RLK1 Exserohilum turcicum resistance conferring allele may comprise a gene sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 15 or a sequence having an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% or 90%, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 15, preferably over the entire length of the sequence, or may comprise a coding sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 16 or a sequence having an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% or 90%, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 16, preferably over the entire length of the sequence, or may encode a protein comprising a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 17 or a sequence having an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% or 90%,, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 17, preferably over the entire length of the sequence. The coding sequence of WAK RLK1 is identical in the HT2 and HT3 alleles. However, the HT2 and HT3 alleles derive from different genotypes / donor lines and differ at several locations outside the WAK RLK1 coding sequence. In certain embodiments, the WAK RLK1 gene, protein, or coding sequence has a sequence corresponding to the sequence of the WAK RLK1 gene, protein, or coding sequence of the HT2 or HT3 allele. The HT2 allele can also be detected as is known in the art by appropriate markers which are comprised in the HT2 allele or the WAK RLK1 gene, or which are closely linked to the HT2 allele or the WAK RLK1 gene. In this context, for instance the markers listed in Table 2 of WO 2019 / 038326 are particularly suitable for detecting the HT2 allele. Table 2 of WO 2019 / 038326 is in particular incorporated herein by reference. Further, for instance the markers listed in the tables on page 31 and page 60-61 of WO2022013268, in particular markers MA0045, MA0062, MA0063, and MA0064, are particularly suitable for detecting the HT2 allele. All the above tables of European patent application WO2022013268A1 are in particular incorporated herein by reference.

[0105] As used herein, "HTN", "HtN", "HTN1", or"HtN1" refers to "Helminthosporium turcicum resistance N", which is a locus on Zea mays chromosome 8 responsible for Exserohilum turcicum resistance, and which originates from the Mexican maize variety 'Pepitilla'. The causative gene responsible for conferring Exserohilum turcicum resistance, which is located within the HTN locus is WAK RLK1 .

[0106] The HTN WAK RLK1 Exserohilum turcicum resistance conferring allele may comprise a gene sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 18 or a sequence having an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% or 90%, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 18, preferably over the entire length of the sequence, or may comprise a coding sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 19 or a sequence having an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% or 90%, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 19, preferably over the entire length of the sequence, or may encode a protein comprising a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 20 or a sequence having an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% or 90%, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 20, preferably over the entire length of the sequence. The HTN allele is for instance described in WO 2015 / 032494. The HTN allele can be detected by sequencing of (part of) the WAK RLK1 gene. The HTN allele can also be detected as is known in the art by appropriate markers which are comprised in the HTN allele or the WAK RLK1 gene, or which are closely linked to the HTN allele or the WAK RLK1 gene. In this context, for instance the markers listed in Tables 2 and 4 of WO2015 / 032494 are particularly suitable for detecting the HTN allele. Tables 2 and 4 of WO2015 / 032494 are in particular incorporated herein by reference.

[0107] As used herein, “H102” refers to a locus on Zea mays chromosome 8 responsible for Exserohilum turcicum resistance, and which originates from H102 line. The causative gene responsible for conferring Exserohilum turcicum resistance, is WAK RLK1 .

[0108] The H102 WAK RLK1 Exserohilum turcicum resistance conferring allele may comprise a gene sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 21 or a sequence having an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% or 90%, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 21 , preferably over the entire length of the sequence, or may comprise a coding sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 22, or a sequence having an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% or 90%, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 22, preferably over the entire length of the sequence or may encode a protein comprising a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 23 or a sequence having an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% or 90%, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 23, preferably over the entire length of the sequence. The H102 allele can also be detected as is known in the art by appropriate markers which are comprised in the H102 allele or the WAK RLK1 gene, or which are closely linked to the H102 allele or the WAK RLK1 gene.

[0109] As used herein, “HT88” refers to a locus on Zea mays chromosome 8 responsible for Exserohilum turcicum resistance. The causative gene responsible for conferring Exserohilum turcicum resistance, is WAK RLK1 .

[0110] The HT88 WAK RLK1 Exserohilum turcicum resistance conferring allele may comprise a gene sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 24 or SEQ ID NO: 27, or a sequence having an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% or 90%, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 24 SEQ ID NO: 27, or, preferably over the entire length of the sequence, or may comprise a coding sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 25 SEQ ID NO: 28, or, or a sequence having an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% or 90%, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 25 or SEQ ID NO: 28, preferably over the entire length of the sequence or may encode a protein comprising a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 26 or SEQ ID NO: 29 or a sequence having an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% or 90%, preferably at least 95%, more preferably at least 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 26 or SEQ ID NO: 29, preferably over the entire length of the sequence. The HT88 allele can also be detected as is known in the art by appropriate markers which are comprised in the HT88 allele or the WAK RLK1 gene, or which are closely linked to the HT88 allele or the WAK RLK1 gene.

[0111] HT2, HT3, HTN (HTN1 ), H102 and HT88 represent different alleles of WAK RLK1 gene.

[0112] In a preferred embodiment of the method for producing the plant as defined above, said fungal pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum.

[0113] In another aspect, provided is a plant or plant part, preferably a plant of the species Zea mays, obtained by the methods for producing a plant according to the present invention.

[0114] In one embodiment, the plant obtained by the methods of the invention includes progeny, fruit, or seed thereof. Preferably, the plant or progeny, fruit, or seed thereof comprises the nucleic acid molecule of the invention, or the polypeptide of the invention, and / or the cell of the invention.

[0115] In another aspect, provided is a method for identifying or selecting a plant or a plant part, preferably a plant of the species Zea mays, having increased resistance to a plant disease, preferably NCLB, caused by a fungal pathogen, wherein said fungal pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae- maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum, comprising the following steps: i) detecting in said plant, or plant part the presence of the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention or detecting in said plant, or plant part the presence of a polypeptide encoded by the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention or one or more marker loci linked to said resistance; ii) identifying or selecting said plant or plant part in which the nucleic acid molecule or the marker loci of the present invention are present, as having a resistance to said plant disease.

[0116] A further embodiment of the invention is the method for identifying or selecting said plant or a plant part as defined above, wherein one or more of said marker loci linked to said resistance, are linked to at least one marker locus selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NO: 4 comprising a A, at position 156764180 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 5 comprising a G, at position 156772004 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 6 comprising a G, at position 156789536 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 7 comprising a G, at position 156789885 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, or SEQ ID NO: 8 comprising a T, at position 156800788 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4.

[0117] A further embodiment of the invention is the method for identifying or selecting said plant or a plant part as defined above, wherein one or more marker loci that are linked to, and within 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5 or 10 centimorgans (cM) of, at least one marker locus selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NO: 4 comprising a A, at position 156764180 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 5 comprising a G, at position 156772004 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 6 comprising a G, at position 156789536 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 7 comprising a G, at position 156789885 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, or SEQ ID NO: 8 comprising a T, at position 156800788 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4.

[0118] A further embodiment of the invention is the method for identifying or selecting said plant or a plant part as defined above, wherein one or more of the marker loci linked to said resistance are selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NO: 4 comprising a A, at position 156764180 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 5 comprising a G, at position 156772004 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 6 comprising a G, at position 156789536 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, SEQ ID NO: 7 comprising a G, at position 156789885 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, or SEQ ID NO: 8 comprising a T, at position 156800788 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4.

[0119] A further embodiment of the invention is the method for identifying or selecting the plant or a plant part as defined above may further comprise identifying or selecting a plant or a plant part, having increased resistance to a plant disease, caused by said fungal pathogen, comprising screening for the presence of one or more QTL alleles located on chromosome 8 and / or chromosome 4, wherein said QTL alleles comprise WAK RLK1 and / or HTM4 gene(s) encoding one or more polypeptides conferring or increasing resistance to a plant disease caused by said fungal pathogen, preferably wherein the WAK RLK1 gene or allele is selected from WAK RLK1 genes or alleles comprised in HT2, HT3, HTN (HTN1 ), H102 or HT88, wherein the WAK RLK1 or HTM4 polypeptide, is encoded by a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of i) a nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 12 or SEQ ID NO: 13, SEQ ID NO: 15, SEQ ID NO: 16, SEQ ID NO: 18, SEQ ID NO: 19, SEQ ID NO: 21 , SEQ ID NO: 22, SEQ ID NO: 24, SEQ ID NO: 25, SEQ ID NO: 27 or SEQ ID NO: 28; ii) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 14, SEQ ID NO: 17, SEQ ID NO: 20, SEQ ID NO: 23, SEQ ID NO: 26 or SEQ ID NO: 29; iii) a nucleotide sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 12 or SEQ ID NO: 13, SEQ ID NO: 15, SEQ ID NO: 16, SEQ ID NO: 18, SEQ ID NO: 19, SEQ ID NO: 21 , SEQ ID NO: 22, SEQ ID NO: 24, SEQ ID NO: 25 SEQ ID NO: 27 or SEQ ID NO: 28 over the full length; and iv) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 14, SEQ ID NO: 17, SEQ ID NO: 20, SEQ ID NO: 23, SEQ ID NO: 26 or SEQ ID NO: 29 over the full length.

[0120] Preferably said fungal pathogen in the method for identifying or selecting said plant or a plant part as defined above, is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum. In another aspect, provided is a plant or plant part, preferably a plant of the species Zea mays, identified or selected by the methods for identifying or selecting a plant or a plant part according to the present invention.

[0121] In a preferred embodiment, is the plant identified or selected by the methods for identifying or selecting a plant or a plant part according to the present invention, comprising the nucleic acid molecule as defined above, preferably endogenously, and, preferably as a result of using a method of random mutagenesis or genome editing, wherein the genomic flanking regions closely linked to the nucleic acid molecule of the current invention do not contain a donor derived interval, preferably Ki11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker SYN14136 and marker MA0021 and / or donor derived interval, preferably Ki11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker MA0021 and marker SYN4196, wherein the marker SYN14136 is at position 135643256 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 39 to 41 , the marker MA0021 is at position 156535845 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 42 to 44, the marker MA0022 is at position 156694186 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 44 to 47, the marker SYN4196 is at position 166768255 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 48 to 50, the marker PZE108077560 is at position 137171538 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 51 to 53, the marker PZE108093423 is at position 154851553 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 54 to 56.

[0122] In another aspect, provided is an isolated polynucleic acid comprising a coding sequence selected from the group consisting of: i) a fragment of at least about 15, about 20, about 50, about 75, about 100, or about 150 nucleotides of the nucleic acid molecule as defined in the present invention; ii) one or more marker loci as defined in the present invention, iii) one or more sequences selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 and / or iv) one or more sequences with an identity of at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% to a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8; preferably over the entire length of the sequence, for use as molecular marker or primer for identifying and / or selecting a plant having resistance to a plant disease caused by fungal pathogen. A further embodiment of the invention is the use of the fragment of at least about 15, about 20, about 50, about 75, about 100, or about 150 nucleotides of the isolated polynucleic acid of the current invention as molecular marker or primer in the method for identifying or selecting a plant as defined above, having resistance to said plant disease, caused by said fungal pathogen, wherein the molecular marker or primer is able to detect at least one single nucleotide polymorphism, deletion or insertion diagnostic for the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention.

[0123] Such fragments of a nucleotide sequence may range from at least about 15, about 20, about 50, about 75, about 100, or about 150 nucleotides.

[0124] Such single nucleotide polymorphism, deletion or insertion can be directly derived from the sequence alignment shown in FIG 1 . Preferably, the at least one single nucleotide polymorphism, deletion or insertion results in the exchange, deletion or insertion of at least one amino acid.

[0125] In another aspect, provided is the use of the isolated polynucleic acid of the above and / or one, two or more markers capable of detecting the presence or absence of at least one, preferably at least two, three or more of the marker loci as defined in present invention and / or a nucleic acid of the present invention for identifying and / or selecting a plant preferably a plant of the species Zea mays having resistance to a plant disease, preferably NCLB, caused by fungal pathogen, preferably selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum.

[0126] Further provided is the use of the isolated polynucleic acid as defined above, wherein the use comprises the use of one, two or three or more marker loci selected from SEQ ID NOs: 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8, or a sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% sequence identity thereto, preferably using at least one marker selected from SEQ ID NOs: 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 or a sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90% or 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% sequence identity thereto.

[0127] The use according to another aspect may comprise marker-assisted selection (MAS) strategies, including genomic selection (GS) also referred to as genome wide selection (GWS).

[0128] Genomic selection (GS), also known as genome wide selection (GWS), is a form of MAS that estimates all locus, haplotype, and / or marker effects across the entire genome to calculate genomic estimated breeding values (GEBVs). See Nakaya and Isobe, Will genomic selection be a practical method for plant breeding? Annals of Botany 110: 1303-1316 (2012); Van Vleck et al, Estimated breeding values for meat characteristics of cross-bred cattle with an animal model. Journal of Animal Science 70: 363-371 (1992); and Heffher et al, Genomic selection for crop improvement. Crop Science 49: 1 -12 (2009). GS utilizes a training phase and a breeding phase. In the training phase, genotypes and phenotypes are analyzed in a subset of a population to generate a GS prediction model that incorporates significant relationships between phenotypes and genotypes. A GS training population must be representative of selection candidates in the breeding program to which GS will be applied, in the breeding phase, genotype data are obtained in a breeding population, then favorable individuals are selected based on GEBVs obtained using the GS prediction model generated during the training phase without the need for phenotypic data.

[0129] The compositions and methods of the present disclosure can be utilized for GS or breeding corn varieties with a desired complement (set) of allelic forms of chromosome intervals associated with superior agronomic performance (e.g., NCLB resistance).

[0130] In particular the markers of the present disclosure can be utilized for genomic selection with fixed effect. For example, SEQ ID NOs: 4-8 can be used in a method comprising genomic selection. In another aspect, is provided the use of at least one of marker loci SEQ ID NOs: 4-8 in genomic selection as fixed effect. In another aspect, a genomic selection method provided herein comprises phenotyping a population of com plants for NCLB resistance using the NCLB rating scale provided in Table 2.

[0131] In another aspect provided, is a method of reducing fungicide application in a field against a plant disease, preferably NCLB, caused by a fungal pathogen by growing one or more plants of the invention in the field.

[0132] Preferably, the field is a corn field. In one embodiment, a (corn) field comprises at least two com plants. In another aspect, a com field comprises at least 10, at least 100, at least 200, at least 500, at least 1 ,000, at least 2,000, at least 5,000, at least 10,000, at least 20,000, at least 50,000, at least 100,000, at least 200,000, at least 500,000, at least 1 ,000,000, at least 2,000,000, at least 5,000,000 or at least 10,000,000 com plants.

[0133] In another embodiment, at least 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 99% of the com plants in a field comprise a nucleic acid of the invention. The fungal pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum.

[0134] In one embodiment the plant is a plant of the species Zea mays comprising the nucleic acid molecule of the invention, preferably endogenously, or a plant of the species Zea mays comprising the nucleic acid molecule of the invention, preferably endogenously, wherein the flanking regions in the genome does not contain a donor plant derived interval located between alleles of marker SYN14136 and marker PZE108077560, a donor plant derived interval, preferably Ki11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker PZE108093423 and marker MA0021 , and / or a donor derived interval, preferably Ki11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker MA0021 and marker SYN4196.

[0135] Another aspect provided, is the use of the plant of the invention for reduction of the fungicide application in a field. Preferably, the field is a com field.

[0136] The fungal pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum.

[0137] In one embodiment, the plant is a plant of the species Zea mays comprising the nucleic acid molecule of the invention, preferably endogenously, or a plant of the species Zea mays comprising the nucleic acid molecule of the invention, preferably endogenously, wherein the flanking regions in the genome does not contain a donor derived interval, preferably Ki11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker SYN14136 and marker PZE108077560, a donor derived interval, preferably Ki11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker PZE108093423 and marker MA0021 , and / or a donor derived interval located between alleles of marker MA0021 and marker SYN4196.

[0138] Further provided is a method for increasing resistance to a plant disease, preferably NCLB, caused by a fungal pathogen, preferably by Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably by Exserohilum turcicum races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N, in a plant of the invention, comprising the step of: i) introducing into said plant or plant part the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention; ii) introgressing into said plant the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention or a QTL associated with improved resistance to said fungal pathogen, and comprising the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention; or iii) converting in said plant an endogenous nucleic acid molecule encoding a polypeptide which is or belongs functionally to the family of WAK RLK1 , into the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention, preferably by means of random mutagenesis or genome editing, wherein the polypeptide which is or belongs functionally to the family of WAK RLK1 is encoded by a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of: i) a nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 30 or SEQ ID NO: 31 ; ii) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 32; iii) a nucleotide sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 30 or SEQ ID NO: 31 over the full length; and iv) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence having at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91 %, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97, 98, 98.5%, 98.6%, 98.7%, 98.8%, 98.9%, 99%, 99.1 %, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9% identity to the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 32 over the full length.

[0139] In a preferred embodiment, the plant as defined above comprising the nucleic acid molecule as defined above, and, preferably as a result of using a method of random mutagenesis or genome editing, wherein the genomic flanking regions closely linked to the nucleic acid molecule of the current invention do not contain a donor derived interval, preferably Ki11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker SYN14136 and marker MA0021 and / or donor derived interval, preferably Ki11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker MA0021 and marker SYN4196, wherein the marker SYN14136 is at position 135643256 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 39 to 41 , the marker MA0021 is at position 156535845 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 42 to 44, the marker MA0022 is at position 156694186 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 44 to 47, the marker SYN4196 is at position 166768255 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 48 to 50, the marker PZE108077560 is at position 137171538 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 51 to 53, the marker PZE108093423 is at position 154851553 in reference genome AGPvO4 and detectable by means of primers of SEQ ID NOs: 54 to 56. EXAMPLES

[0140] The following examples, including the experiments conducted and the results achieved, are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not construed as limiting the present invention.

[0141] Identification of a resistant WAK RLK1 allele in the donor Ki11

[0142] 1. QTL mapping and development of recombinants

[0143] The donor line Ki11 was crossed and backcrossed with the susceptible KWS line RP619 to create an introgression line population. Individual lines of the introgression line population contain different segments of the donor line in the background of the recurrent parent, so that the whole donor genome is covered.

[0144] In 2015 95 DH introgression lines were planted in the field. These included four lines with different donor fragments of chromosome 8 (DH104, DH114, DH021 , and DH028), which were 1 - 5 scores more resistant than the recurrent parent across the locations (refer to Table 2 for the score comparison). The donor fragments overlapped in the range of 130.9 - 133.8 cM, while a susceptible line (DH305) contained a donor fragment ranging from 132.0 - 149.7 cM. This delineates the resistance locus to 130.9 - 132.0 cM, a region overlapping with the previously identified WAK RLK1 resistance gene.

[0145] Recombinant line DH114 was retested in 2016 and was 1 - 5 scores more resistant than the recurrent parent across the tested locations (refer to Table 2 for the score comparison).

[0146] A second QTL mapping with 94 DH lines was performed at the locations SBR and HOM in 2017. DH104 was not included in this experiment, but the remaining three previously identified DH lines (DH114, DH021 , and DH028) displayed reduced NCLB scores of 2 to 8 compared to the recurrent parent line not carrying the donor fragments (refer to Table 2 for the score comparison).

[0147] DH028 and DH114 were chosen as a donors for conversions with the aim of introducing the identified HTK resistance locus into KWS breeding material. 2. Molecular analysis of target region and validation of the candidate gene

[0148] A public high quality genome assembly is available for the donor line Ki 11 . Sequence alignments of the HTK with the recurrent parent RP619 have been and are being used for diagnostic marker development Figure 1 . Additional specific markers have been developed for the target region and were used for detecting NCLB resistant corn plant, as set out in Table 4.

[0149] Table 4. Markers used for identification / detection of the NCLB resistant corn plant. Donor allele SNPs represent SNPs for the detection of the NCLB resistant corn plants. Alt allele SNPs represent alternative SNPs detected in the com plants susceptible to NCLB.

[0150] The target region at 130.9 -132.0 cM on chromosome 8 corresponds to the previously identified WAK RLK1 NCLB resistance locus and we have therefore identified the Ki 11 WAK RLK1 allele (HTK) as conferring NCLB resistance. Different alleles of the WAK RLK1 resistance gene have been shown to confer resistance to different NCLB pathogen races. We proceeded with incorporating the Ki11 WAK RLK1 allele (HTK) into our conversions. The converted HTK carrying lines (RP619nHTKb) were evaluated in further resistance tests, where they were found to be resistant in a racespecific manner.

[0151] In particular, our internal race monitoring has shown that the plant material having HTK locus has a distinct resistant / susceptibility response compared to HTN1 and HT2 / HT3 alleles across different races. This shows also an advantageous effect of the HTK locus in the race monitoring in 2022-2023 across these locations (Table 5). Table 5. Race monitoring results in 2022-2023

[0152] Here is provided a race monitoring data from 2022-2023 for the plant material containing HT2 / HT3, HTN, and HTK allele. The plant material containing different alleles was grown in a field in Germany and was inoculated with different NCLB isolates collected from Brazil, Argentina, Italy and France. Yes - indicates that the plant material is resistant to the NCLB isolate tested. No - indicates that the plant material is susceptible to the NCLB isolate tested. In cases where material with several different loci observes resistance, it can be explained by the combination of several different races present in the sample or the races that are not causing a susceptible reaction for this material (race 1 for example). However, we see a clear discriminative difference between the material when it comes to susceptible reaction.

[0153] To provide disease resistance to NCLB when multiple races might be present, material having different race specificity is beneficial.

[0154] HTK has a distinct resistant / susceptibility response showing the difference to race specificity compared to other already described alleles. The new HTK allele can be used as a new resistant source alone or in combination with the known loci to confirm or increase resistance to NCLB. Based on the nomenclature used in literature any isolate overcoming the HTK resistance gene would be designated race K.

[0155] This has confirmed that the recombinant donor fragment within RP619nHTKb confers resistance towards NCLB races, suggesting that the Ki11 WAK RLK1 allele (HTK) encodes a functional NCLB resistance gene.

[0156] 3. Synergistic effect of different loci combination and yield performance

[0157] To evaluate the effect of different NCLB resistance loci and their combinations, phenotyping of hybrids with different loci combinations was conducted across four distinct locations. Disease severity was scored according to the scale described in Table 2. The susceptible material averaged 8 scores, while individual loci showed the following resistance levels: HT2 / HT3 had 6 scores, HTN had 6 scores, HTM4 had 7 scores, and HTK had 6 scores. Combinatorial analysis revealed that the presence of HTK in combination with other alleles significantly improved resistance, with HT2 / HT3 x HTK scoring 3, HTN x HTK scoring 3, and HTM4 x HTK scoring 4. The HTK homozygous combination exhibited the strongest resistance with an average score of 2. Importantly, phenotyping of the inbred lines carrying single genes and the stack of HTK with HTM4 showed a surprisingly improved effect compared to single loci. The average score of HTM4 alone was 8, HTK alone was 4, and the combination of HTK with HTM4 was 2, while the susceptible control averaged 9 scores.

[0158] This demonstrates a clear synergistic effect when HTK is combined with other NCLB loci. In addition to disease resistance, the yield performance of material carrying the HTK locus was evaluated. It is known that the flanking region of the WAK RLK1 donor fragment has a negative effect on agronomic traits. This linkage drag is present in the Pepitilla donor used for HtN1 introgression but also could be a problem in other donors for the Exserohilum turcicum resistance locus, such as A619 (HT2) and Ki11 . Among other traits, linkage drag can influence flowering time - an important agronomic characteristic that directly and substantially impacts yield potential in Zea mays. A delayed flowering time typically results in reduced yield. To assess whether linkage drag was eliminated, elite material with and without HTK introgression was compared for Grain Dry Matter Yield (GDY) and Grain Dry Matter Content (GDC). No significant effect on yield was observed in the elite material carrying the HTK locus. Across all tested hybrids, GDY values ranged between 98-106, and GDC values ranged between 72-76, regardless of the presence or absence of the HTK fragment. This demonstrates that the negative impact on yield associated with donor fragments has been successfully removed. Furthermore, the absence of linkage drag was verified using the diagnostic markers listed in Table 3. These markers confirmed that HTK- converted lines do not contain donor fragments at the linkage drag region.

[0159] Consequently, the minimal HTK fragment not only confers resistance to NCLB but also avoids the detrimental effects of linkage drag, resulting in improved yield compared to the full donor fragment. This makes the HTK locus highly advantageous for incorporation into breeding programs.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A nucleic acid molecule comprising a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of: i. a nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1 or SEQ ID NO: 2; ii. a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 3; iii. a nucleotide sequence having at least 70% identity to the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1 or SEQ ID NO: 2 over the full length; and iv. a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence having at least 70% identity to the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 3 over the full length, wherein the nucleotide sequence as defined in iii) and iv) is encoding an amino acid sequence comprising at position 453 not proline.

2. The nucleic acid molecule of claim 1 , wherein the nucleotide sequence as defined in iii) and iv) is encoding an amino acid sequence comprising at position 370 not alanine; and / or wherein the nucleotide sequence as defined in iii) and iv) is encoding an amino acid sequence comprising at position 538 not alanine.

3. The nucleic acid molecule of claim 1 to 2, wherein the nucleic acid molecule is encoding a polypeptide conferring or increasing resistance to a plant disease caused by a fungal pathogen, wherein said fungal pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum.

4. A plant or plant part comprising the nucleic acid of claim 1 to 3, wherein the nucleic acid has been introduced by means of random mutagenesis, genome editing or transgenesis.

5. A method for producing the plant of claim 4, having resistance to said fungal pathogen comprising the step of: i. introducing into the plant or plant part the nucleic acid molecule as defined in claim 1 , or46ii. converting in the plant an endogenous nucleic acid molecule encoding a polypeptide which is a wall associated receptor-like kinases 1 (WAK RLK1 ) into the nucleic acid molecule as defined in claim 1 or 2, preferably by means of random mutagenesis or genome editing. wherein the polypeptide which is a WAK RLK1 , is encoded by a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of: i) a nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 30 or SEQ ID NO: 31 ; ii) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 32; iii) a nucleotide sequence having at least 70% identity to the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 30 or SEQ ID NO: 31 over the full length; and iv) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence having at least 70% identity to the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 32 over the full length.

6. The method of claim 5, further comprising the step of: i. introducing into the plant or plant part one or more QTL alleles located on chromosome 8 and / or chromosome 4, wherein said QTL alleles comprise WAK RLK1 and / or HTM4 gene(s) encoding one or more polypeptides conferring or increasing resistance to a plant disease caused by said fungal pathogen, preferably wherein the WAK RLK1 gene or allele is selected from WAK RLK1 genes or alleles comprised in HT2, HT3, HTN (HTN1 ), H102 or HT88, or ii. converting in the plant an endogenous nucleic acid molecule encoding a polypeptide selected from the group consisting of a polypeptide which is a WAK RLK1 and / or a polypeptide which is HTM4, into the WAK RLK1 and / or HTM4 encoding a polypeptide conferring or increasing resistance to a plant disease caused by said fungal pathogen, preferably wherein the WAK RLK1 gene or allele is selected from WAK RLK1 genes or alleles comprised in HT2, HT3, HTN (HTN1 ), H102 or HT88, preferably by means of random mutagenesis or genome editing; wherein the WAK RLK1 or HTM4 polypeptide, is encoded by a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of: i) a nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 12 or SEQ ID NO: 13, SEQ ID NO: 15, SEQ ID NO: 16, SEQ ID NO: 18, SEQ ID NO: 19, SEQ ID NO: 21 , SEQ ID NO: 22, SEQ ID NO: 24, SEQ ID NO: 25, SEQ ID NO: 27 or SEQ ID NO: 28;ii) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 14, SEQ ID NO: 17, SEQ ID NO: 20, SEQ ID NO: 23, SEQ ID NO: 26 or SEQ ID NO: 29; iii) a nucleotide sequence having at least 70% identity to the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 12 or SEQ ID NO: 13, SEQ ID NO: 15, SEQ ID NO: 16, SEQ ID NO: 18, SEQ ID NO: 19, SEQ ID NO: 21 , SEQ ID NO: 22, SEQ ID NO: 24, SEQ ID NO: 25, SEQ ID NO: 27 or SEQ ID NO: 28 over the full length; and iv) a nucleotide sequence encoding an amino acid sequence having at least 70% identity to the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 14, SEQ ID NO: 17, SEQ ID NO: 20, SEQ ID NO: 23, SEQ ID NO: 26 or SEQ ID NO: 29 over the full length.

7. The method of claim 5 or 6, wherein said fungal pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum.

8. A plant or plant part obtained by the method according to any of claims 5 to 7.

9. A plant or plant part of the species Zea mays comprising the nucleic acid molecule of claim 1 to 3, preferably endogenously, wherein the flanking regions in the genome does not contain a donor derived interval, preferably Ki 11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker SYN14136 and marker MA0021 and / or a donor derived interval, preferably Ki 11 derived interval, located between alleles of marker MA0021 and marker SYN4196.

10. A method for identifying or selecting a plant or a plant part, having resistance to a plant disease caused by said fungal pathogen, comprising the following steps: i. detecting in the plant, or plant part the presence of the nucleic acid molecule of claim 1 or detecting in the plant, or plant part the presence of polypeptide encoded by the nucleic acid molecule of claim 1 to 3 or one or more marker loci linked to said resistance; ii. identifying or selecting the plant in which or in which part the nucleic acid molecule or the marker loci as defined in (a) are present, as having a resistance to a plant disease caused by a fungal pathogen.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein one or more of said marker loci linked to said resistance are linked to at least one marker locus selected from the group consisting of:SEQ ID NO: 4 comprising a A, at position 156764180 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4,SEQ ID NO: 5 comprising a G, at position 156772004 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4,SEQ ID NO: 6 comprising a G, at position 156789536 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4,SEQ ID NO: 7 comprising a G, at position 156789885 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, orSEQ ID NO: 8 comprising a T, at position 156800788 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein said one or more marker loci are linked to, and within 10 centimorgans (cM) of, at least one marker locus selected from the group consisting of:SEQ ID NO: 4 comprising a A, at position 156764180 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4,SEQ ID NO: 5 comprising a G, at position 156772004 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4,SEQ ID NO: 6 comprising a G, at position 156789536 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4,SEQ ID NO: 7 comprising a G, at position 156789885 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, orSEQ ID NO: 8 comprising a T, at position 156800788 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4.

13. The method of claim 10, wherein one or more of the marker loci linked to said resistance are selected from the group consisting of:SEQ ID NO: 4 comprising a A, at position 156764180 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4,SEQ ID NO: 5 comprising a G, at position 156772004 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4,SEQ ID NO: 6 comprising a G, at position 156789536 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4,SEQ ID NO: 7 comprising a G, at position 156789885 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4, orSEQ ID NO: 8 comprising a T, at position 156800788 relative to the B73 reference genome AGPvO4.

14. The method of claim 10 to 13, wherein said fungal pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum .

15. A plant identified or selected by the method of claim 10 to 13.

16. An isolated polynucleic acid comprising a coding sequence selected from the group consisting of: i. a fragment of at least about 50 nucleotides of a nucleic acid molecule as defined in claim 1 to 3; ii. one or more marker loci as defined in claim 10 to 13, iii. one or more sequences selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 and / or iv. one or more sequences with an identity of at least 90% to a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8; preferably over the entire length of the sequence; for use as molecular marker or primer for identifying and / or selecting a plant having resistance to a plant disease caused by said fungal pathogen.

17. Use of the isolated polynucleic acid of claim 16 and / or one, two or more markers capable of detecting the presence or absence of at least one, preferably at least two, three or more of the marker loci as defined in claim 11 to 13 and / or a nucleic acid of claim 1 to 3 for identifying and / or selecting a plant having resistance to a plant disease caused by said fungal pathogen.

18. The use of claim 17, wherein said fungal pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Exserohilum sp, Cercospora zeae-maydis or Puccinia polysora, preferably Exserohilum turcicum, more preferably at least one of the races 0, 1 , 2, 3, N, 12, 23, 2N, 12N, 23N and / or 123N of Exserohilum turcicum.

Images