Spinach Downy Mildew Resistance Genes Locus 1

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current spinach varieties lack a single resistance gene that provides full spectrum resistance to all races of Peronospora farinosa, leading to rapid evolution of new virulent races, necessitating the development of more diverse and durable resistance mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

Introduction of novel resistance genes, such as T10, T70, T71, T72, T75, T76, T83, T89, T96, T253, T18, T133, T139, T170, and T175, which encode proteins with conserved amino acid sequences like KDHKIEKE and LSNNRNLKIL, providing broad-spectrum resistance to multiple races of Peronospora farinosa by being mapped on locus 1 of the spinach genome.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a single resistance gene is used in spinach varieties, then disease resistance is provided, but the pathogen rapidly evolves new virulent races breaking down the resistance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisease resistanceVSAvoiddurability of resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the resistance function into multiple independent resistance genes (R1, R2, R3, etc.) that recognize different pathogen effectors. Instead of relying on a single resistance gene, the plant genome is segmented to contain multiple resistance genes, each providing protection against specific pathogen races. This segmentation prevents the pathogen from evolving a single mutation that breaks all resistance simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a composite resistance system by combining multiple resistance genes with different specificities into a single plant variety. This composite approach integrates multiple genetic elements (R genes) that collectively provide broad-spectrum resistance, analogous to composite materials combining different substances to achieve superior properties. The combined effect of multiple R genes creates durable resistance that the pathogen cannot easily overcome.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Object-affected harmful factors

If fungicides are used to control Peronospora farinosa, then disease control is achieved, but the pathogen develops immunity to the chemicals over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedowny mildew controlVSAvoidefficacy of fungicide
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the chemical control mechanism (fungicides) with a biological control mechanism (genetic resistance). Instead of using external chemical agents that the pathogen can develop immunity against, the solution is to endow the plant itself with inherent resistance through R genes. This substitution of control mechanism eliminates the arms race between fungicide efficacy and pathogen resistance development.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If spinach breeding focuses on local market adaptation, then variety success in specific regions is achieved, but broad spectrum resistance to all Pfs races is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocal market adaptationVSAvoidbroad spectrum resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates spinach varieties with universal resistance by incorporating multiple R genes that provide broad-spectrum protection against all Peronospora farinosa races. This multi-functional resistance system allows a single variety to be effective across different regions and market segments, eliminating the need for region-specific breeding programs. The R gene combination acts as a universal solution that maintains both local adaptability and broad disease resistance.

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

Data Source

PatentUS20220248620A1Downy mildew resistant spinach and genes conferring resistance to downy mildew
Publication Date: 2022.08.11 ENZA ZADEN BEHEER BV
  • US20220248620A1 patent drawing
  • US20220248620A1 patent drawing
  • US20220248620A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to spinach plants that are resistant to downy mildew caused by Peronospora farinosa (Pfs). The present disclosure further relates to a resistance gene that confers resistance to multiple races of Pfs in spinach plants. In addition, the 5 present disclosure relates to methods for obtaining a spinach plant that is resistant to downy mildew.