Researchers at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) have discovered a new gene that controls plants’ sensitivity to threats like fungi and drought. By removing this gene, known as Parakletos (meaning “helper”), plants become more resilient, potentially reducing the need for chemical treatments.
This breakthrough could enhance food security in drier, more variable climates. The gene, linked to the plant’s immune and stress response systems, interacts with other proteins but does not perform additional functions. The discovery was recently published in Nature Communications.
Paving the Way for Resilient Potatoes
For several years, SLU researchers have been focusing on making potato plants more resistant to diseases like late blight. Using advanced gene-editing tools like CRISPR, the team has been removing susceptibility genes (s-genes) that make plants vulnerable to diseases and environmental stressors. In their latest breakthrough, they identified a new s-gene governing the plant’s sensitivity to threats such as fungi, bacteria, salt, and drought.
By eliminating this gene, the researchers have found that the plant’s natural defenses are significantly strengthened, leading to a reduction in the need for chemical treatments. This method could help prepare potato crops for a future with more extreme climate conditions, making them more resistant to diseases and droughts alike.
Potential for Broader Crop Applications
“We know this works in potatoes and tobacco, but we’re hopeful it could be applied to other crops as well,” says Erik Andreasson, professor and head of SLU’s resistance biology unit and the lead author of the research published in Nature Communications. He also highlights Sweden’s leading role in the European Union when it comes to research on new genomic techniques, such as gene editing, for plant protection.
Field trials with potatoes have shown no negative consequences from removing the gene, according to Andreasson, and it is unlikely that long-term issues will emerge. However, since the trials were conducted with only one potato variety and in a single location, more research is needed to confirm the findings’ broader applicability.
The Future of Potato Research: Project ‘Resilient Potato’
The next step is expanding the research project, named “Resilient Potato.” This initiative, which involves several agricultural organizations, aims to explore the broader application of this discovery. Desirée Börjesdotter, head of plant breeding at Lantmännen, a key partner in the project, expresses her enthusiasm: “It’s exciting to be part of this research with great potential to improve crops.”
Background: Potato Susceptibility and Gene Editing
Potatoes are one of the world’s top three staple crops but are prone to diseases, often requiring chemical treatments to maintain yields. By removing susceptibility genes (s-genes) using gene-editing tools like CRISPR, researchers can reduce the plant’s vulnerability to diseases such as late blight, a devastating fungal disease.
Another approach to enhance plant resilience is introducing resistance genes (R-genes) that help the plant fight off pathogens. By using both methods—removing s-genes and introducing R-genes—crop resistance can be significantly improved.
Advancing Gene-Editing Technologies
Gene-editing technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9, enable scientists to make targeted changes in a plant’s DNA. These edits can involve altering base pairs within a gene or creating mutations to change the way proteins are produced, which can give the plant new traits. In this case, SLU researchers have used CRISPR technology to remove the Parakletos gene, which helps boost the plant’s defenses.
Cisgenic vs. GMO: What’s the Difference?
It is important to distinguish between a cisgenic organism and a genetically modified organism (GMO). A cisgenic organism is one where the modified DNA comes from the same or a closely related species. For example, a potato modified with a gene from another potato is considered cisgenic. On the other hand, GMO refers to organisms whose genetic material has been altered in ways that do not occur naturally, such as through the introduction of DNA from different species.
This discovery holds great promise for improving potato resilience, reducing the need for chemical interventions, and preparing crops for the challenges posed by climate change. SLU’s groundbreaking work in gene editing could lead to more sustainable agriculture, benefiting both farmers and consumers worldwide.
Source: Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU)
Contact:
Karin Montgomery, Communications officer
karin.montgomery@slu.se
Image: Credit Leopictures from Pixabay
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