Accelerate discovery of root rot solutions for pea and lentil in Saskatchewan

To identify new resistance breeding, and potentially gene-editing targets, by exploring the regulation of secondary metabolites in partially resistant and susceptible pea and lentil lines, and by pyramiding all known and emerging resistance sources in both crops using tools including molecular markers and genomic selection.

To evaluate the role of toxins produced by root rot organisms on host susceptibility and interaction of pathogens.

To investigate interfering RNA molecules as new control methods.

To collect data on current pea and lentil varieties on tolerance to root rot in field evaluations.

To better understand the population and subpopulation dynamics of root rot pathogens, improve accurate identification and quantification methods, inform breeding and disease management initiatives, and identify targets for interference in pathogen biology.

To evaluate biocontrol bacteria, metabolites, and endophytes on controlling root rot pathogens in lentil.

Proof of concept on gene editing in lentil to knock out genes.

To evaluate the evolution of root rot populations in longer term crop rotations and monitor changes in soil pathogen populations over time.

To assess the efficacy of several integrated approaches combining biocontrol and genetic resistance to reduce root rot severity.