Characterisation of Pyrus communis - Gymnosporangium sabinae interaction aspects for resistance breeding (PyGyResist)

The general project aim was defined as to create new knowledge on the Pyrus and Gymnosporangium sabinae interaction, including morphological, anatomical, physiological, and genetic mechanisms, to create a scientific basis for breeding pear cultivars resistant to European pear rust.

The aim will be achieved by implementing the following specific objectives:

1. Identification and confirmation of Pyrus communis genotypes resistant to European pear rust based on long-term systematic field observations and bioassays,
2. Analysis of pear leaf histology via the use of light and electron-microscopy to identify anatomical characteristics that contribute to pear resistance against European pear rust,
3. Comparative transcriptome sequencing of infected and healthy leaves of pear genotypes to identify resistance mechanisms and variation in gene expression that contributes to pear resistance to European pear rust.