KAUST researchers have identified a gene, CLAMT1b, in pearl millet that affects its vulnerability to the parasitic weed Striga hermonthica. Pearl millet strains lacking CLAMT1b were found to be resistant to the weed, while those expressing the gene were susceptible. The gene's presence leads to the secretion of strigolactones, promoting interaction with Striga, but its absence does not harm symbiotic relationships with beneficial fungi. Why it matters: This discovery offers new breeding strategies to enhance pearl millet's resistance to parasitic weeds, bolstering food security in arid regions like Saudi Arabia and Africa where the crop is vital.
KAUST researchers have developed a genomic resource for Tausch’s goatgrass (Aegilops tauschii), a wild relative of wheat, by creating 46 high-quality genome assemblies. They compiled 493 genetically distinct accessions from an initial 900, collaborating with the Open Wild Wheat Consortium to select accessions with traits of interest, such as disease resistance and stress tolerance. Screening these assemblies helped identify rust resistance genes, including mapping a stem rust resistance gene to the Sr33 locus. Why it matters: This genomic resource will accelerate gene discovery in wheat, potentially improving modern wheat varieties and enhancing global food security.
KAUST has received a $1.5 million grant from the Gates Foundation to research methods for eradicating the Striga hermonthica weed, also known as "witchweed". This parasitic plant devastates crops in sub-Saharan Africa by depleting water and nutrients, with the project led by Dr. Salim Al-Babili focusing on pearl millet. The research will involve collaboration with universities in Burkina Faso, Japan, and the Netherlands to identify biological compounds and low-cost methods for Striga control. Why it matters: Addressing Striga infestations is crucial for enhancing food security and supporting the livelihoods of millions of farmers in Africa and the Middle East who rely on crops like pearl millet.
KAUST researchers have published a study in Nature Genetics detailing genomic analysis of wild rice relatives. The study examined nine tetraploid and two diploid wild relatives of rice, finding significant genetic diversity due to transposable elements. This diversity includes genes that confer resilience to heat, drought, and salinity. Why it matters: These findings can help improve rice yields, introduce rice cultivation to currently untenable regions, and protect rice crops against climate change, especially in the Middle East.
NYU Professor Michael Purugganan presented at KAUST's 2014 Winter Enrichment Program (WEP 2014) on the origins of crop species. He discussed how genome sequencing is improving our understanding of crop evolution, using date fruits collected in Jeddah as an example. His research on rice showed that two varieties, japonica and indica, share a single common ancestor, contrary to previous assumptions. Why it matters: Understanding crop evolution can help adapt crops to changing environments, which is crucial for food security in regions like the Middle East.