Gb3 encodes a unique kinase fusion protein conferring greenbug resistance in wheat.
- Open access
Gb3 encodes a unique kinase-pseudokinase fusion protein that confers greenbug resistance in wheat, with transgenic expression enhancing defense against multiple biotypes.
- Why it matters: Understanding genetic resistance to insect pests is limited, hindering development of durable, sustainable crop protection strategies against greenbugs in wheat.
- What they did: Cloning of Gb3 involved genetic analysis and transgenic experiments in wheat, demonstrating that Gb3 expression increases resistance, while its knockout causes susceptibility.
- The result: The discovery of Gb3 provides a valuable genetic resource for breeding insect-resistant wheat and advances knowledge of plant-insect interactions, supporting sustainable pest management.