Spinach RPF11 Gene Resolves Breeding Complexity for Downy Mildew

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Solution Overview

Problem

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

Innovation Solution

The introduction of a single dominant resistance gene, RPF11, which provides resistance against Pfs races 7-14 and optionally against races 1-6 and isolate UA4712, allowing for the development of spinach plants with enhanced resistance through traditional breeding techniques.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple resistance genes are combined to achieve comprehensive resistance against all Pfs races, then the resistance coverage is improved, but the breeding complexity and time required are increased

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 and optionally races 1-6 and isolate UA4712. This single gene replaces the need for multiple different resistance genes, achieving comprehensive protection while simplifying the breeding process. The gene's ability to confer resistance across multiple race groups demonstrates its universal protective function.

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

2Reliability

If multiple resistance genes are combined to achieve comprehensive resistance against all Pfs races, then the resistance coverage is improved, but the time required for breeding is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance coverageVSAvoidbreeding time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The resistance spectrum against multiple Pfs races is segmented and consolidated into a single RPF11 gene. Instead of progressively combining multiple resistance genes over several breeding cycles, the RPF11 gene provides all necessary resistance coverage in one genetic element, dramatically reducing the time required to develop resistant spinach varieties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of manufacture

If a single resistance gene is used to simplify breeding, then the breeding process is simplified, but the resistance coverage against all Pfs races is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebreeding easeVSAvoidresistance coverage
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The RPF11 gene exhibits variable resistance coverage parameters depending on the specific Pfs race encountered. It provides consistent resistance against races 7-14 and optionally against races 1-6 and isolate UA4712. This parameter variability allows the single gene to maintain broad protective coverage while simplifying breeding operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS9624507B2Spinach plants that are resistant to downy mildew
Publication Date: 2017.04.18 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.