EMERGING STRESS CHALLENGES AND FUNCTIONAL GENOMICS OF STRESS RESPONSES IN ALFALFA

1. Identify and develop molecular characterizations of new and emerging disease-causing pathogens in alfalfa to prevent potential threats to alfalfa production. Many known bacterial, fungal, oomycete, nematode, mollicute or viral diseases represent causes of concern for alfalfa industry. In addition, new, emerging and invasive pathogens of uncertain impact pose a serious challenge to the alfalfa improvement. Rapid identification of the causal agents, their characterization at the molecular level and development of sensitive diagnostic assays will reduce yield losses and prompt new insights into practices of alfalfa disease management. 2. Identify genes involved in stress responses in alfalfa to define the genetic basis of resistance and accelerate breeding programs. Emerging disease challenges demand novel approaches to maintain and improve alfalfa production. Understanding molecular mechanisms of stress tolerance is an essential requirement for improvement of alfalfa adaptability and acceleration of breeding programs in increasingly less favorable environmental conditions.