Mechanisms and manipulation of resistance to powdery scab in potato roots

Root infection with powdery scab disrupts root function – meaning more irrigation, fertiliser and fungicides are needed to compensate for poor root development – and leads to diminishing yields. In this project, researchers are investigating root resistance to powdery scab infection. This involves looking at how the pathogen infects roots and causes disease, what allows for resistance in some potato varieties, and whether resistance mechanisms may be boosted or transferred.