Fluoxapiprolin resistance mechanism research in Phytophthora capsici
Research collaboration to elucidate the resistance mechanisms of the novel OSBPI fungicide fluoxapiprolin in Phytophthora capsici. The project investigates point mutations in PcORP1 and their role in conferring fungicide resistance, supporting resistance management strategies for oomycete crop pathogens.
Overview
This research collaboration investigates the resistance mechanisms of fluoxapiprolin, a novel OSBPI (oxysterol binding protein inhibitor) fungicide, in Phytophthora capsici, a destructive oomycete pathogen affecting cucurbit and pepper crops. The project builds on prior findings that OSBPI fungicides share similar resistance risks and mechanisms, and aims to characterize specific point mutations in the PcORP1 protein that confer resistance. The outcomes will inform fungicide resistance management strategies and support sustainable crop protection in agricultural production.
Technical specifications
Key research activities:
- Confirmation of newly identified point mutations (ΔN835, N835S+I877F, N837T+S910C) in PcORP1 using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in P. capsici and P. sojae
- Identification of PcORP1-interacting proteins using the DUAL membrane yeast two-hybrid system
- Transcriptomic and lipidomic analysis of P. capsici under fluoxapiprolin treatment to elucidate downstream effects on signaling and lipid metabolism
- Characterization of resistant mutants with resistance factors ranging from 4 to 3467
Background findings supporting the project:
- Fluoxapiprolin mean EC50 value of 0.00043 μg/mL against 130 P. capsici isolates
- Nine stable fluoxapiprolin-resistant mutants obtained through fungicide adaptation
- Seven heterozygous point mutations identified in PcORP1, three of which are novel in OSBPI-resistant mutants
- Moderate resistance risk assessment similar to oxathiapiprolin
Technology readiness level
The project is at an active research stage with validated preliminary results. The team has already established resistant mutant strains, identified candidate resistance-conferring mutations, and developed the CRISPR/Cas9 protocols needed for functional confirmation. The proposed two-year project will move from mutant characterization to mechanistic understanding through protein interaction studies and multi-omics analyses. The collaboration seeks partners who can provide bioinformatics analysis support and funding for key personnel to complete this work.
About Northwest A&F University
Northwest A&F University is a key national comprehensive university under China’s Ministry of Education, based in Yangling, Shaanxi. Co-located with the national Yangling Agricultural Hi‑Tech Demonstration Zone, it connects corporate partners to experimental farms, field stations, and demonstration bases across the region. The university’s Science and Technology Development Institute and Division of Science and Technology Extension streamline collaboration with local governments and leading enterprises, from contract research to field deployment and workforce training. Research is supported by competitive national funding, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China and programs of the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Education. Technology transfer and extension services connect research outcomes with enterprises across the Yangling ecosystem.
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