Progress and challenges in identifying resistance to soybean charcoal rot

Authors: Mengistu, Alemu; LITTLE, CHRIS - Kansas State University; Henry, Peter; Pennerman, Kayla; Bellaloui, Nacer

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 5/8/2023
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Charcoal rot, caused by the fungus Macrophomina phaseolina, is a significant disease that causes substantial soybean yield loss worldwide under hot, dry conditions. Yield losses are underestimated due to this disease’s hidden damage under both biotic and abiotic factors. While field trials and germplasm screening have led to progress in identifying resistance, these efforts have been time-consuming and expensive. Thus, developing reliable, fast, and repeatable high throughput greenhouse screening methods that correlates with field screening results is needed. Even though such techniques have been reported, utilization of greenhouse screening is further complicated with significant challenges because of pathogen variability, which controls multiple genetic factors that influence resistance. The challenge has not only delayed the identification of resistant genotypes, but also impeded the development and use of molecular markers. Identification of molecular markers could have ensured selection of resistance genes that carry agronomically viable and good yield potentials, in addition to conferring resistance to charcoal rot. Screening techniques that have been proposed, variability of the pathogen, and disease management alternatives will be explored. In addition, some promising advances in resistance and QTLs (quantitative trait loci) associated with resistance will be presented. Nevertheless, significant challenges remain in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying pathogen variability and the development of durable resistance.