IDENTIFICATION AND ENHANCEMENT OF SEED-BASED BIOCHEMICAL RESISTANCE IN CROPS TO AFLATOXIN PRODUCING PATHOGENS

(1) Identify new sources of corn germplasm resistant to fungal infection, growth, and aflatoxin contamination using laboratory and field inoculations of corn kernels with tester fungi designed for rapid resistance screening. (2) Facilitate marker assisted corn breeding efforts. Identify resistance associated proteins (RAPs), e.g., antifungal, stress responsive, or interfering with toxin signaling pathways, in developing and mature corn kernels through proteomic comparisons of resistant and susceptible corn inbreds, some with very similar genetic backgrounds. (3) Genetically engineer cotton with the resistant alleles of RAP genes from corn and also genes from non native sources to enhance resistance to aflatoxin contamination. Test genetically engineered crops in the greenhouse for resistance to aflatoxin contamination, and transfer selected resistant lines to cooperating plant breeders and plant pathologists for development of commercial or public varieties. (4) Develop rapid, non destructive hyperspectral imaging methodology to measure fungal growth and aflatoxin in corn kernels and for assessing spectral signatures associated with traits for resistance to aflatoxin contamination. Objectives 1-3 address utilization of resistance genes that could have generic value in enhancement of resistance in all crops vulnerable to aflatoxin contamination.