Papers by Dr. A M I R A F Z A L
Breeding wheat for leaf rust resistance: past, present and future, 2023
Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weather conditi... more Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weather conditions and causes severe damage. Diseases appeared in form of epidemics pose a real threat to food security rising the cost of food production. Breeding for development of resistant varieties against disease has advantages for ecological and monetary reasons, predominantly for peasants in the developing world. Sufficient research work has been conducted regarding pathogen host interaction mechanism. Two mechanisms of resistance are acquainted very well. Complete resistance function from seedling to adult growth stages whereas partial resistance becomes effective at the prebooting stage and is more durable. Eighty leaf rust-resistant genes have been documented. Among these leaf rust-resistant genes Lr12,
International Journal of Phytopathology, 2022
Yellow (stripe) rust of wheat is responsible for a severe decrease in crop yield worldwide. Deplo... more Yellow (stripe) rust of wheat is responsible for a severe decrease in crop yield worldwide. Deployment of durable disease resistant cultivars is the best strategy being cost effective and safe. A comprehensive study was conducted to identify sources of durable resistance against stripe rust of wheat. Initially, surveillance of the crop was conducted to expose the status of the dilemma. The study discovered that disease is more prevalent in the region existing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) and the Northern Region of Punjab. Race identification of the pathogen under glasshouse conditions revealed high diversity and at least eleven races were designated. Prevalence of the race 70E0 was most dominating (39 %). Cultivation of multi-location trap nurseries yielded valuable information demonstrating disease-fighting genes where, at all locations, Yr5, Yr10, Yr15, and YrSp were effective. Seventy-two advanced lines collected from research institutions were screened in a glasshouse to categorize the test material based on their response to disease at the seedling stage. Test material comprising seventy-two advanced lines collected from different research institutions was screened in a glasshouse to categorize the test material on the ground of their response against disease at the seedling stage. Slow and fast rusters were categorized by studying susceptible and moderately susceptible seedlings in the field for two years. Genetic diversity in the host allows changes in the genetic organization to adapt to environmental changes. Coefficient parentage revealed the test material's restricted genetic base. In the pedigree of wheat advanced lines, Pastor, Kauz, Inqilab-91, Sokoll, Ae. Aquarosa (211), WBLL-1, Kukuna, and Millan were 60% out of a total of 72 parents. Findings of the present studies revealed persistent resistant genotypes with a broad genetic background are needed to feed a growing population
Pak. J. Phytopathology, 2016
Stem rust in wheat remained under control for several decades all over the earth by the mid-1990'... more Stem rust in wheat remained under control for several decades all over the earth by the mid-1990's resulting in less emphasis on breeding for resistance to this disease and had not been priority in research for considerable era. The manifestation and expansion of races of Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici commonly known as Ug99 with virulence for the Sr31 resistance gene in 1998 in Uganda renewed interest in breeding for resistance to stem rust of wheat. Wheat community responded instantaneously. Global Ug99 stem rust screening services were launched in 2005 under the shade of Borlaug Global Rust Initiative (BGRI) in Kenya and Ethiopia with purpose to recognize auxiliary sources of resistance. Screening in Kenya and Ethiopia of wheat materials from Asian countries carried out in 2005-06 disclosed a very low frequency of lines resistant to Ug99 and its variants. Considerable achievements have been attained identifying diverse race-specific resistance and adult plant resistance (APR) genes that can be exploited to improve wheat germplasm to contest the hazard. Four more genes namely Sr55, Sr56, Sr57 and Sr58 along with the Sr2 gene, now have been characterized to confer slow rusting. New perspectives on rust control in the future through the development of multiple resistance gene cassettes through cloning of some rust resistance genes opens. The strain spread to eastern and southern Africa and in Iran. Meanwhile evolution has also been observed in the strain generating new variants. Currently, 10 variants in the Ug99 race group have been perceived in twelve countries. SAARC wheat disease trap nursery has been developed in the vicinity of Iran where Ug99 was perceived in 2007. Data designates that Pgt-Ug99 (TTKSK) reported from Iran in 2007 has not evolved further, nor has it extended to adjacent Pakistan or India to impose any crop failure.
REVIEW ARTICLE, 2024
Nematodes are soil-dwelling organisms that inflict substantial damage to crops, resulting in sign... more Nematodes are soil-dwelling organisms that inflict substantial damage to crops, resulting in significant declines in agricultural productivity. Consequently, they are recognized as one of the primary contributors to global crop damage, with profound implications for food security. Nematology research assumes a pivotal role in tackling this issue and safeguarding food security. The pursuit of nematology research focused on mitigating nematode-induced crop damage and promoting sustainable agriculture represents a fundamental strategy for enhancing food security. Investment in nematology research is crucial to advance food security objectives by identifying and managing nematode species, developing novel technologies, comprehending nematode ecology, and strengthening the capabilities of researchers and farmers. This endeavor constitutes an indispensable step toward addressing one of the most pressing challenges in achieving global food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Primarily, research endeavors facilitate the identification of nematode species responsible for crop damage, leading to the development of effective management strategies. These strategies encompass the utilization of resistant crop varieties, implementation of cultural practices, biological control, and chemical interventions. Secondly, research efforts contribute to the development of innovative technologies aimed at managing nematode populations, such as gene editing techniques that confer resistance to nematode infestations in crops. Additionally, the exploration of beneficial microbes, such as certain fungi and bacteria, as potential biocontrol agents against nematodes, holds promise. The study of nematode ecology represents a foundational research domain that fosters a deeper comprehension of nematode biology and ecological interactions. This knowledge is instrumental in devising precise and efficacious management strategies.
Stem rust in wheat remained under control for several decades all over the earth by the mid-1990'... more Stem rust in wheat remained under control for several decades all over the earth by the mid-1990's resulting in less emphasis on breeding for resistance to this disease and had not been priority in research for considerable era. The manifestation and expansion of races of Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici commonly known as Ug99 with virulence for the Sr31 resistance gene in 1998 in Uganda renewed interest in breeding for resistance to stem rust of wheat. Wheat community responded instantaneously. Global Ug99 stem rust screening services were launched in 2005 under the shade of Borlaug Global Rust Initiative (BGRI) in Kenya and Ethiopia with purpose to recognize auxiliary sources of resistance. Screening in Kenya and Ethiopia of wheat materials from Asian countries carried out in 2005-06 disclosed a very low frequency of lines resistant to Ug99 and its variants. Considerable achievements have been attained identifying diverse race-specific resistance and adult plant resistance (APR) genes that can be exploited to improve wheat germplasm to contest the hazard. Four more genes namely Sr55, Sr56, Sr57 and Sr58 along with the Sr2 gene, now have been characterized to confer slow rusting. New perspectives on rust control in the future through the development of multiple resistance gene cassettes through cloning of some rust resistance genes opens. The strain spread to eastern and southern Africa and in Iran. Meanwhile evolution has also been observed in the strain generating new variants. Currently, 10 variants in the Ug99 race group have been perceived in twelve countries. SAARC wheat disease trap nursery has been developed in the vicinity of Iran where Ug99 was perceived in 2007. Data designates that Pgt-Ug99 (TTKSK) reported from Iran in 2007 has not evolved further, nor has it extended to adjacent Pakistan or India to impose any crop failure.
Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weather conditi... more Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weather conditions and causes severe damage. Diseases appeared in form of epidemics pose a real threat to food security rising the cost of food production. Breeding for development of resistant varieties against disease has advantages for ecological and monetary reasons, predominantly for peasants in the developing world. Sufficient research work has been conducted regarding pathogen host interaction mechanism. Two mechanisms of resistance are acquainted very well. Complete resistance function from seedling to adult growth stages whereas partial resistance becomes effective at the prebooting stage and is more durable. Eighty leaf rust-resistant genes have been documented. Among these leaf rust-resistant genes Lr12,
Int. J. Phytopathol. 10 (01) 2021. 57-70, 1921
Global collaboration and research identified new wheat resistances against the devastating Ug-99 ... more Global collaboration and research identified new wheat resistances against the devastating Ug-99 stem rust, highlighting the need for continuous vigilance.
Asian Journal Of Ariculture $ Bioloy, 1923
Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weather conditi... more Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weather conditions and causes severe damage. Diseases appeared in form of epidemics pose a real threat to food security rising the cost of food production. Breeding for development of resistant varieties against disease has advantages for ecological and monetary reasons, predominantly for peasants in the developing world. Sufficient research work has been conducted regarding pathogen host interaction mechanism. Two mechanisms of resistance are acquainted very well. Complete resistance function from seedling to adult growth stages whereas partial resistance becomes effective at the prebooting stage and is more durable. Eighty leaf rust-resistant genes have been documented. Among these leaf rust-resistant genes Lr12,
Asian Journal of Agriculture & Biology, 1921
Abstract
Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weathe... more Abstract
Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weather conditions and causes severe damage. Diseases appeared in form of epidemics pose a real threat to food security rising the cost of food production. Breeding for development of resistant varieties against disease has advantages for ecological and monetary reasons, predominantly for peasants in the developing world. Sufficient research work has been conducted regarding pathogen host interaction mechanism. Two mechanisms of resistance are acquainted very well. Complete resistance function from seedling to adult growth stages whereas partial resistance becomes effective at the prebooting stage and is more durable. Eighty leaf rust-resistant genes have been
documented. Among these leaf rust-resistant genes Lr12, Lr13, Lr22a, Lr34, Lr35,
Lr37, Lr46, Lr48, Lr49, Lr67, Lr68, Lr74, Lr75, Lr77, and Lr78 are adult plant resistant
(APR) genes. Fear of genetic erosion is also well known. It means cultivars grown on a
wide range with narrow genetic backgrounds and this situation is undesired as it may
invite an epidemic. It has been experienced repeatedly in past decades. Wide genetic
diversity in parents can promise to achieve maximum output from the breeding
programmes. Sources of resistance other than Triticum aestivum are rich in diversity
and consequently have been addressed adequately. Usage of relatives of wheat plant as
a source of novel genes belonging to genera Triticum, Aegilops, Thinopyrum and Secale
has generated more desired output. Molecular markers are being applied to explore
diversity in pathogen as well as in host effectively although conventional approaches are being used as well. Status of research work carried in Pakistan has also been discussed in abridged form. This review has been conducted with an objective to summarize research work academic as well as applied, carried to develop strategies to incorporate genetic resistance in wheat against leaf rust.
Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weather conditi... more Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weather conditions and causes severe damage. Diseases appeared in form of epidemics pose a real threat to food security rising the cost of food production. Breeding for development of resistant varieties against disease has advantages for ecological and monetary reasons, predominantly for peasants in the developing world. Sufficient research work has been conducted regarding pathogen host interaction mechanism. Two mechanisms of resistance are acquainted very well. Complete resistance function from seedling to adult growth stages whereas partial resistance becomes effective at the prebooting stage and is more durable. Eighty leaf rust-resistant genes have been documented. Among these leaf rust-resistant genes Lr12,
Heliyon , 2024
Nematodes are soil-dwelling organisms that inflict substantial damage to crops, resulting in sign... more Nematodes are soil-dwelling organisms that inflict substantial damage to crops, resulting in significant declines in agricultural productivity. Consequently, they are recognized as one of the primary contributors to global crop damage, with profound implications for food security. Nematology research assumes a pivotal role in tackling this issue and safeguarding food security. The pursuit of nematology research focused on mitigating nematode-induced crop damage and promoting sustainable agriculture represents a fundamental strategy for enhancing food security. Investment in nematology research is crucial to advance food security objectives by identifying and managing nematode species, developing novel technologies, comprehending nematode ecology, and strengthening the capabilities of researchers and farmers. This endeavor constitutes an indispensable step toward addressing one of the most pressing challenges in achieving global food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Primarily, research endeavors facilitate the identification of nematode species responsible for crop damage, leading to the development of effective management strategies. These strategies encompass the utilization of resistant crop varieties, implementation of cultural practices, biological control, and chemical interventions. Secondly, research efforts contribute to the development of innovative technologies aimed at managing nematode populations, such as gene editing techniques that confer resistance to nematode infestations in crops. Additionally, the exploration of beneficial microbes, such as certain fungi and bacteria, as potential biocontrol agents against nematodes, holds promise. The study of nematode ecology represents a foundational research domain that fosters a deeper comprehension of nematode biology and ecological interactions. This knowledge is instrumental in devising precise and efficacious management strategies.
Pak. J. Phytopathology, 2016
Stem rust in wheat remained under control for several decades all over the earth by the mid-1990'... more Stem rust in wheat remained under control for several decades all over the earth by the mid-1990's resulting in less emphasis on breeding for resistance to this disease and had not been priority in research for considerable era. The manifestation and expansion of races of Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici commonly known as Ug99 with virulence for the Sr31 resistance gene in 1998 in Uganda renewed interest in breeding for resistance to stem rust of wheat. Wheat community responded instantaneously. Global Ug99 stem rust screening services were launched in 2005 under the shade of Borlaug Global Rust Initiative (BGRI) in Kenya and Ethiopia with purpose to recognize auxiliary sources of resistance. Screening in Kenya and Ethiopia of wheat materials from Asian countries carried out in 2005-06 disclosed a very low frequency of lines resistant to Ug99 and its variants. Considerable achievements have been attained identifying diverse race-specific resistance and adult plant resistance (APR) genes that can be exploited to improve wheat germplasm to contest the hazard. Four more genes namely Sr55, Sr56, Sr57 and Sr58 along with the Sr2 gene, now have been characterized to confer slow rusting. New perspectives on rust control in the future through the development of multiple resistance gene cassettes through cloning of some rust resistance genes opens. The strain spread to eastern and southern Africa and in Iran. Meanwhile evolution has also been observed in the strain generating new variants. Currently, 10 variants in the Ug99 race group have been perceived in twelve countries. SAARC wheat disease trap nursery has been developed in the vicinity of Iran where Ug99 was perceived in 2007. Data designates that Pgt-Ug99 (TTKSK) reported from Iran in 2007 has not evolved further, nor has it extended to adjacent Pakistan or India to impose any crop failure.
Pak. J. Phytopathology, 2015
Stem rust in wheat remained under control for several decades all over the earth by the mid-1990'... more Stem rust in wheat remained under control for several decades all over the earth by the mid-1990's resulting in less emphasis on breeding for resistance to this disease and had not been priority in research for considerable era. The manifestation and expansion of races of Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici commonly known as Ug99 with virulence for the Sr31 resistance gene in 1998 in Uganda renewed interest in breeding for resistance to stem rust of wheat. Wheat community responded instantaneously. Global Ug99 stem rust screening services were launched in 2005 under the shade of Borlaug Global Rust Initiative (BGRI) in Kenya and Ethiopia with purpose to recognize auxiliary sources of resistance. Screening in Kenya and Ethiopia of wheat materials from Asian countries carried out in 2005-06 disclosed a very low frequency of lines resistant to Ug99 and its variants. Considerable achievements have been attained identifying diverse race-specific resistance and adult plant resistance (APR) genes that can be exploited to improve wheat germplasm to contest the hazard. Four more genes namely Sr55, Sr56, Sr57 and Sr58 along with the Sr2 gene, now have been characterized to confer slow rusting. New perspectives on rust control in the future through the development of multiple resistance gene cassettes through cloning of some rust resistance genes opens. The strain spread to eastern and southern Africa and in Iran. Meanwhile evolution has also been observed in the strain generating new variants. Currently, 10 variants in the Ug99 race group have been perceived in twelve countries. SAARC wheat disease trap nursery has been developed in the vicinity of Iran where Ug99 was perceived in 2007. Data designates that Pgt-Ug99 (TTKSK) reported from Iran in 2007 has not evolved further, nor has it extended to adjacent Pakistan or India to impose any crop failure.
AJAB, 2023
Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weather conditi... more Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weather conditions and causes severe damage. Diseases appeared in form of epidemics pose a real threat to food security rising the cost of food production. Breeding for development of resistant varieties against disease has advantages for ecological and monetary reasons, predominantly for peasants in the developing world. Sufficient research work has been conducted regarding pathogen host interaction mechanism. Two mechanisms of resistance are acquainted very well. Complete resistance function from seedling to adult growth stages whereas partial resistance becomes effective at the prebooting stage and is more durable. Eighty leaf rust-resistant genes have been documented. Among these leaf rust-resistant genes Lr12,
Aflatoxins impact the entire food supply chain, from agricultural fields to processing facilities... more Aflatoxins impact the entire food supply chain, from agricultural fields to processing facilities, markets, and consumer tables. In peanut cultivation, this threat poses a constant challenge throughout the cultivation, processing, and consumption stages. To confront this challenge, an exhaustive study was undertaken with the aim of investigating the effects of targeted soil amendments; namely, Vermicompost, Lentil crop residue, and Sulphate of Potash applied during the pivotal sowing phase at two distinct locations, Chakwal and Attock. The research includes meticulous groundnut sample analysis to quantify aflatoxin levels, revealing a significant reduction across all soil amendments compared to the control group. Vermicompost stands out as the most effective, achieving a remarkable 64.8% reduction, followed closely by Sulphate of Potash at 62.4%. Statistical analysis highlights non-significant differences among amendments. Beyond aflatoxin mitigation, the study underscores the dual benefit of these soil amendments, contributing not only to mycotoxin control but also enhancing overall crop productivity. Percent increase in number of grains per plant ranged between 58.82% to 43.53% whereas in hundred grain weight it ranged between 17.10% and 10.55%. In summary, the study emphasizes the importance of strategic soil amendments, particularly Vermicompost and Sulphate of Potash, in mitigating aflatoxin contamination in peanuts. The dual benefit of improved crop productivity adds significance to the findings, offering a holistic approach to address the multifaceted dimensions of aflatoxin challenges in peanut cultivation.
Nematodes are soil-dwelling organisms that inflict substantial damage to crops, resulting in sign... more Nematodes are soil-dwelling organisms that inflict substantial damage to crops, resulting in significant declines in agricultural productivity. Consequently, they are recognized as one of the primary contributors to global crop damage, with profound implications for food security. Nematology research assumes a pivotal role in tackling this issue and safeguarding food security. The pursuit of nematology research focused on mitigating nematode-induced crop damage and promoting sustainable agriculture represents a fundamental strategy for enhancing food security. Investment in nematology research is crucial to advance food security objectives by identifying and managing nematode species, developing novel technologies, comprehending nematode ecology, and strengthening the capabilities of researchers and farmers. This endeavor constitutes an indispensable step toward addressing one of the most pressing challenges in achieving global food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Primarily, research endeavors facilitate the identification of nematode species responsible for crop damage, leading to the development of effective management strategies. These strategies encompass the utilization of resistant crop varieties, implementation of cultural practices, biological control, and chemical interventions. Secondly, research efforts contribute to the development of innovative technologies aimed at managing nematode populations, such as gene editing techniques that confer resistance to nematode infestations in crops. Additionally, the exploration of beneficial microbes, such as certain fungi and bacteria, as potential biocontrol agents against nematodes, holds promise. The study of nematode ecology represents a foundational research domain that fosters a deeper comprehension of nematode biology and ecological interactions. This knowledge is instrumental in devising precise and efficacious management strategies.
The yield potential of wheat crop is not achieved abundantly because of disease pressure. One of ... more The yield potential of wheat crop is not achieved abundantly because of disease pressure. One of the most destructive of such diseases is stem rust (SR). SR caused by Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt), had been controlled successfully during three decades throughout the world with deployment of semi-dwarf resistant cultivars in the last half of previous century. During 1999 appearance and dispersion of stem rust race Ug-99 in Uganda (a virulent race against Sr31) created an alarming situation worldwide. Widespread germplasm was protected by gene Sr31 found susceptible to this terrible strain as the gene was protecting 80% wheat lines cultivated throughout planet. The emergence of the Ug99 race of stem rust in Africa and the Middle East together with the appearance of new strains in Europe catalyzed a main effort to recognize sources of stem rust resistance genes against new virulent strains and incorporate these genes into wheat lines. Scientific community addressed the dilemma in time and efforts did not go waste. Worldwide concern regarding the danger to global wheat production caused by Ug99 led to breeding wheat for durable resistance against disease and achieved considerably. This success is attributed to team work of experts and serves as an example for research workers in future. However, the continued emergence of stem rust variants that overcome new resistance genes, demands an amplified emphasis on pathogen evolution and virulence mechanisms. A major role for BGRI is to keep ‘the eye on the ball’ with regard to all these aspects. This article enables us to design strategy to tackle a situation which appears without alarm but in this case intellectuals coordinated each other and solution became possible. The same principle does not apply in plant pathology but in Human pathology and Veterinary pathology.
Yellow (stripe) rust of wheat is responsible for a severe decrease in crop yield worldwide. Deplo... more Yellow (stripe) rust of wheat is responsible for a severe decrease in crop yield worldwide. Deployment of durable disease resistant cultivars is the best strategy being cost effective and safe. A comprehensive study was conducted to identify sources of durable resistance against stripe rust of wheat. Initially, surveillance of the crop was conducted to expose the status of the dilemma. The study discovered that disease is more prevalent in the region existing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) and the Northern Region of Punjab. Race identification of the pathogen under glasshouse conditions revealed high diversity and at least eleven races were designated. Prevalence of the race 70E0 was most dominating (39 %). Cultivation of multi-location trap nurseries yielded valuable information demonstrating diseasefighting genes where, at all locations, Yr5, Yr10, Yr15, and YrSp were effective. Seventy-two advanced lines collected from research institutions were screened in a glasshouse to categorize the test material based on their response to disease at the seedling stage. Test material comprising seventy-two advanced lines collected from different research institutions was screened in a glasshouse to categorize the test material on the ground of their response against disease at the seedling stage. Slow and fast rusters were categorized by studying susceptible and moderately susceptible seedlings in the field for two years. Genetic diversity in the host allows changes in the genetic organization to adapt to environmental changes. Coefficient parentage revealed the test material's restricted genetic base. In the pedigree of wheat advanced lines, Pastor, Kauz, Inqilab-91, Sokoll, Ae. Aquarosa (211), WBLL-1, Kukuna, and Millan were 60% out of a total of 72 parents. Findings of the present studies revealed persistent resistant genotypes with a broad genetic background are needed to feed a growing population.
established in 1975, provides research-based policy solutions to sustainably reduce poverty and e... more established in 1975, provides research-based policy solutions to sustainably reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition. IFPRI's strategic research aims to foster a climate-resilient and sustainable food supply; promote healthy diets and nutrition for all; build inclusive and efficient markets, trade systems, and food industries; transform agricultural and rural economies; and strengthen institutions and governance. Gender is integrated in all the Institute's work. Partnerships, communications, capacity strengthening, and data and knowledge management are essential components to translate IFPRI's research from action to impact. The Institute's regional and country programs play a critical role in responding to demand for food policy research and in delivering holistic support for country-led development. IFPRI collaborates with partners around the world.
review article, 2023
Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weather conditi... more Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weather conditions and causes severe damage. Diseases appeared in form of epidemics pose a real threat to food security rising the cost of food production. Breeding for development of resistant varieties against disease has advantages for ecological and monetary reasons, predominantly for peasants in the developing world. Sufficient research work has been conducted regarding pathogen host interaction mechanism. Two mechanisms of resistance are acquainted very well. Complete resistance function from seedling to adult growth stages whereas partial resistance becomes effective at the prebooting stage and is more durable. Eighty leaf rust-resistant genes have been documented. Among these leaf rust-resistant genes Lr12,
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Papers by Dr. A M I R A F Z A L
Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weather conditions and causes severe damage. Diseases appeared in form of epidemics pose a real threat to food security rising the cost of food production. Breeding for development of resistant varieties against disease has advantages for ecological and monetary reasons, predominantly for peasants in the developing world. Sufficient research work has been conducted regarding pathogen host interaction mechanism. Two mechanisms of resistance are acquainted very well. Complete resistance function from seedling to adult growth stages whereas partial resistance becomes effective at the prebooting stage and is more durable. Eighty leaf rust-resistant genes have been
documented. Among these leaf rust-resistant genes Lr12, Lr13, Lr22a, Lr34, Lr35,
Lr37, Lr46, Lr48, Lr49, Lr67, Lr68, Lr74, Lr75, Lr77, and Lr78 are adult plant resistant
(APR) genes. Fear of genetic erosion is also well known. It means cultivars grown on a
wide range with narrow genetic backgrounds and this situation is undesired as it may
invite an epidemic. It has been experienced repeatedly in past decades. Wide genetic
diversity in parents can promise to achieve maximum output from the breeding
programmes. Sources of resistance other than Triticum aestivum are rich in diversity
and consequently have been addressed adequately. Usage of relatives of wheat plant as
a source of novel genes belonging to genera Triticum, Aegilops, Thinopyrum and Secale
has generated more desired output. Molecular markers are being applied to explore
diversity in pathogen as well as in host effectively although conventional approaches are being used as well. Status of research work carried in Pakistan has also been discussed in abridged form. This review has been conducted with an objective to summarize research work academic as well as applied, carried to develop strategies to incorporate genetic resistance in wheat against leaf rust.
Leaf rust of wheat caused by (Puccinia triticina Eriks) proliferate under optimum weather conditions and causes severe damage. Diseases appeared in form of epidemics pose a real threat to food security rising the cost of food production. Breeding for development of resistant varieties against disease has advantages for ecological and monetary reasons, predominantly for peasants in the developing world. Sufficient research work has been conducted regarding pathogen host interaction mechanism. Two mechanisms of resistance are acquainted very well. Complete resistance function from seedling to adult growth stages whereas partial resistance becomes effective at the prebooting stage and is more durable. Eighty leaf rust-resistant genes have been
documented. Among these leaf rust-resistant genes Lr12, Lr13, Lr22a, Lr34, Lr35,
Lr37, Lr46, Lr48, Lr49, Lr67, Lr68, Lr74, Lr75, Lr77, and Lr78 are adult plant resistant
(APR) genes. Fear of genetic erosion is also well known. It means cultivars grown on a
wide range with narrow genetic backgrounds and this situation is undesired as it may
invite an epidemic. It has been experienced repeatedly in past decades. Wide genetic
diversity in parents can promise to achieve maximum output from the breeding
programmes. Sources of resistance other than Triticum aestivum are rich in diversity
and consequently have been addressed adequately. Usage of relatives of wheat plant as
a source of novel genes belonging to genera Triticum, Aegilops, Thinopyrum and Secale
has generated more desired output. Molecular markers are being applied to explore
diversity in pathogen as well as in host effectively although conventional approaches are being used as well. Status of research work carried in Pakistan has also been discussed in abridged form. This review has been conducted with an objective to summarize research work academic as well as applied, carried to develop strategies to incorporate genetic resistance in wheat against leaf rust.