Natural biocontrol agents from coffee plant defense pathways against coffee rust
Research program identifying antifungal metabolites and gene expression pathways in native Chiapas coffee plants infected with coffee rust (Hemileia vastatrix). Aims to discover new biocontrol agents for organic coffee cultivation by characterizing transcriptomic and metabolomic responses in susceptible and tolerant varieties.
Overview
This research program investigates how native coffee plant varieties from Chiapas, México activate natural defense pathways when infected by coffee rust (Hemileia vastatrix). By comparing transcriptomic and metabolomic responses between a highly susceptible variety and one with partial tolerance, the project aims to identify novel antifungal compounds produced by the plants themselves. These metabolites represent potential biocontrol agents that could be deployed in organic coffee farming as sustainable alternatives to conventional fungicides, supporting environmentally responsible cultivation of a crop of significant regional importance.
Technical specifications
Research approach:
- Controlled infection of native Chiapas coffee varieties with uredospores of Hemileia vastatrix under greenhouse conditions
- Experimental design with control and infected groups (n=4 per group), each containing two individuals of both susceptible and tolerant varieties
- Sample collection at three time points post-infection to capture dynamic defense responses
- RNA extraction and storage at -80°C for transcriptomic analysis
- Parallel HPLC analysis of leaf extracts to characterize metabolite profiles
- Bioinformatic pipeline for gene expression analysis and metabolic pathway screening
- Identification of overexpressed biosynthetic pathways producing antifungal compounds
Partnership needs identified:
- Transcriptomic analysis support
- Bioinformatic processing expertise
- Analytical chemistry with high resolution
- Access to specialized software (Blast2Go, Bowtie, and related tools)
- Funding for minor equipment, reagents, software, and key personnel
Technology readiness level
The project is at an early research stage with greenhouse cultivation and infection protocols already established. RNA samples have been collected and stored, and HPLC analysis is underway. The one-year study timeline focuses on completing transcriptomic profiling, metabolic pathway screening, and compound characterization. Outputs will include identified defense pathways in tolerant varieties and candidate biocontrol compounds suitable for further validation and potential development as antifungal treatments for organic coffee production.
About Tecnológico de Monterrey
Tecnológico de Monterrey is a leading private, multi-campus research university in Mexico, recognized for entrepreneurship and industry collaboration. Its Monterrey headquarters anchors an urban innovation district with open lab space, prototyping, and shared testing facilities that welcome corporate collaborators. An integrated health system supports clinical research and translation, while structured internships and challenge-driven partnerships connect companies with faculty and student talent year-round. Research is supported by competitive federal funding through Mexico’s national science and technology council, along with industry contracts and international sponsors. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup formation.
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