Chinese scientists discover key gene for blast resistance in rice

(ECNS) -- A key rice blast disease resistant gene called OsBDR1 has been identified by a team at the Virusology and Biotechnology Research Institute of the Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences.

Analysis shows that the gene can form a molecular module with mitogen-activated protein kinase MPK3 to regulate the biosynthesis of jasmonic acid, a disease-resistant hormone, and terpenoid-based plant protection agents.

The team, led by Professor Qu Shaohong, began their research in 2012 and successfully identified the key gene from 180 candidates.

This research will provide a molecular theoretical basis for the breeding of rice varieties with durable resistance to blast disease, Qu said.

As one of the three major diseases, rice blast affects the quality, yield of crops, and food security.