Cuba

Defending soybeans against white mould

White mould (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) can be detrimental to crops grown under cool, moist environments. Many plants, such as soybean, lack complete genetic resistance. With support from LACREG, researchers sought to identify possible genes involved in defending plants against this pathogen. “One of the main problems is that the disease is so unpredictable,” said Dr. Rajcan. “It’s widespread and it occurs sporadically.”

In a scientific first, researchers tested the molecular biology of Cuban soybean varieties against white mould. Their findings were promising and led Evelyn Valera Rojas to pursue a PhD at the University of Guelph. Not only did she receive a scholarship from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs to continue her research, she gained the endorsement of Grain Farmers of Ontario for a successful application to the Canadian Agricultural Adaptation Program. Individual farmers from Manitoba to Quebec also supported her project.

Her research focused on specific genes in the soybean plant that are also expressed in the pathogen. Understanding these genes can lead to more resistant plant varieties. Ultimately, since the pathogen seriously affects many types of crops, the results of her research could also benefit other plants such as canola, dry beans and sunflowers.