Source: PIB
Context: Indian researchers at Bose Institute have developed a fungus-resistant pineapple by overexpressing the AcSERK3 gene, offering a sustainable solution against Fusariosis, a devastating fungal disease.
About A Fungus Fighting Pineapple:
- What is it?
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- A genetically modified pineapple variety engineered to resist Fusarium moniliforme, a fungus causing Fusariosis, which destroys stems, leaves, and fruits.
- Developed by Bose Institute (DST) scientists Prof. Gaurab Gangopadhyay and Dr. Soumili Pal.
- Threat of Fungal Disease to Pineapple:
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- Fusariosis leads to stem warping, blackened leaves, and internal fruit rot, causing heavy crop losses.
- Traditional breeding methods struggle to counter fast-evolving fungal strains.
- How the Antifungal Pineapple Was Developed?
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- Scientists overexpressed the AcSERK3 gene, enhancing the plant’s natural defence mechanisms.
- Agrobacterium-mediated transformation was used to insert the gene into pineapple explants.
- Transgenic plants showed higher stress tolerance and enzyme activity, resisting fungal attacks.
- Key Features:
- Enhanced disease resistance: Stronger defence against Fusarium.
- Stable genetic trait: Low risk of gene deletion over generations.
- Sustainable farming: Reduces reliance on chemical fungicides.
- Significance:
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- First documented case of overexpressing an inherent gene for fungal resistance in pineapples.
- Potential for multi-fungal resistant varieties through long-term field trials.
