RPF11 Gene Broadens Spinach Downy Mildew Resistance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current spinach varieties lack a single dominant resistance gene that confers resistance against all known Peronospora farinosa f.sp. spinaciae (Pfs) races, particularly races 7-14, necessitating the combination of multiple resistance genes for comprehensive protection.

Innovation Solution

Introduction of the RPF11 gene, which is a single dominant resistance gene located between DNA markers SNP_01 and SNP_02, providing resistance against Pfs races 7-14 and optionally additional races, including UA4712, and allowing for easy identification and transfer into various spinach plant lines.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple resistance genes are combined to achieve comprehensive protection against all Pfs races, then resistance coverage is improved, but breeding complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance coverageVSAvoidbreeding complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The RPF11 resistance gene serves multiple functions by providing broad-spectrum resistance against Pfs races 7-14 simultaneously. This single gene acts as a universal solution that replaces the need for multiple separate resistance genes, thereby maintaining comprehensive protection while simplifying the breeding process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges multiple resistance functions into a single RPF11 gene. Instead of combining multiple separate resistance genes in a stack, the RPF11 gene consolidates the resistance capability against races 7-14 into one genetic element, reducing breeding complexity while maintaining reliable resistance coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of manufacture

If a single dominant resistance gene is used, then breeding simplicity is improved, but resistance spectrum may be limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebreeding simplicityVSAvoidresistance spectrum
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The RPF11 gene achieves multi-functionality by providing resistance against a broad spectrum of Pfs races (races 7-14) through a single genetic element. This allows breeders to use simple single-gene breeding approaches while still achieving wide-spectrum resistance protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The RPF11 gene represents a parameter change in the resistance spectrum compared to previous genes. It provides resistance against races 7-14, which complements and extends the protection offered by other resistance genes like R6, allowing for expanded coverage while maintaining breeding simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If new resistance genes are continuously identified to keep up with emerging Pfs races, then resistance effectiveness is improved, but time and resources are consumed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance effectivenessVSAvoidtime for gene identification
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The RPF11 gene provides preliminary action by offering pre-established resistance against Pfs races 7-14 before these races become widespread problems. By having this resistance gene available in advance, breeders can proactively incorporate it into varieties, reducing the need for continuous reactive gene identification and variety development.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The RPF11 gene serves as a copyable genetic solution that can be efficiently transferred and deployed across multiple spinach breeding programs. Once identified, the gene can be replicated and distributed to various breeders, saving significant time and resources compared to each breeder independently identifying and developing resistance against emerging races.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS10258001B2Spinach plants that are resistant to downy mildew
Publication Date: 2019.04.16 NUNHEMS BV

AI summary

The present invention relates to the field of spinach breeding, in particular to a new dominant resistance gene, designated RPF11, which confers resistance against races 7 to 14 of Peronospora farinosa and to spinach plants comprising said gene.