A fungal disease known as Fusarium head blight (FHB) is becoming more prevalent in wheat crops due to the humid conditions induced by climate change. University of Adelaide researchers have made a significant discovery that could help reduce the economic impact of this disease. They have identified the TaHRC gene at the Fhb1 locus, which plays a crucial role in determining wheat’s susceptibility to FHB. This gene functions in the nucleus of wheat cells and can either increase or decrease a plant’s vulnerability to the disease. The researchers found that there are two variants of TaHRC that have opposing effects on the condensation of a specific protein complex within the nucleus. When this complex is condensed, it leads to susceptibility to FHB, whereas when it is diffused, it provides resistance against the disease.
FHB has caused significant damage to Australia’s wheat industry in recent years, with some crops suffering up to 100% yield losses. The disease has been on the rise globally since the 1970s, but climate change has further exacerbated its prevalence. Climate conditions in Australia have traditionally been favorable for wheat production, as they typically coincide with the dry season, which helps avoid many fungal diseases that thrive in humid weather. However, the wet spring in 2022 led to a widespread outbreak of Fusarium head blight across eastern Australia. Australian durum wheat varieties are highly susceptible to FHB, but the level of resistance in bread-wheat varieties is still unclear. The researchers hope that their discovery will help combat the increasing prevalence of FHB and provide assurance to Australian growers.
The findings of this research have been published in Cell Host & Microbe. The researchers believe that this discovery offers exciting possibilities for developing new and enhanced forms of resistance to Fusarium head blight. By understanding the underlying mechanisms of Fhb1, breeding strategies can be innovated to diversify resistance sources. This could lead to the development of more resilient and sustainable wheat varieties for future agriculture. Additionally, the insights gained from this research may also be applicable to other Fusarium-caused diseases, such as crown rot. The discovery of the function of protein complex condensation in response to FHB provides valuable insight into the mode of action of protein complexes in cereal defense responses.
Overall, the research conducted by the University of Adelaide team sheds light on the mechanisms that determine wheat’s susceptibility to Fusarium head blight. The discovery of the TaHRC gene and its role in the condensation of a protein complex within wheat cells provides valuable information for developing new strategies to combat this destructive fungal disease. With the increasing prevalence of FHB due to climate change, this research is particularly timely and offers hope for more resilient and sustainable wheat varieties in the future. By understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms involved in disease resistance, growers can better protect their crops and ensure the future health of the wheat industry.
