Search the EPA Research Database

Project title

A new avenue for crop protection: generating Brassica cultivars with supernumerary trichomes

Primary Funding Agency

Science Foundation Ireland

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

Environmental Protection Agency

Lead Organisation

University of Dublin, Trinity College (TCD)

Lead Applicant

Frank Wellmer

Project Abstract

Crop plants are affected by a wide range of pests, which can dramatically reduce yield and hence, the income of farmers. To protect crops from pests, large quantities of pesticides are being used globally each year. However, their application is limited by both environmental concerns and an increase in the occurrence of pesticide resistance. Thus, new strategies for crop protection must be urgently devised. Trichomes, or hairs, which are typically found on leaves and stems of flowering plants, provide a natural protection against insect pests and herbivores. However, some plants, including members of the genus Brassica, which comprises important crops such as oilseed rape and cauliflower, are largely devoid of trichomes. It has been shown that an increase in trichome density in these plants through genetic manipulation leads to higher resistance to certain insect pests. In this project, we will make use of this knowledge and generate, using genome editing and non-transgenic approaches, new Brassica cultivars with supernumerary trichomes on leaves and stems. Furthermore, we will explore the potential of trichomes on seed pods for crop protection. The new cultivars will be tested in the field for their performance traits and in particular, for their resistance to relevant insect pests. Refer to proposal document

Grant Approved

�450,910.50

Research Hub

Natural Environment

Research Theme

Natural capital and ecosystem services including soils and biodiversity

Start Date

01/12/2017

Initial Projected Completion Date

01/12/2022