Tomato resistance gene discovery for Verticillium dahliae race 3 using genotyping-by-sequencing
A research collaboration opportunity to identify SNP markers linked to Verticillium wilt resistance in tomato germplasm. Using genotyping-by-sequencing and genome-wide association studies, this project aims to uncover genetic markers associated with resistance to the aggressive Verticillium dahliae race 3 isolate KJ14A, enabling breeding of resistant tomato varieties.
Overview
This research seeks to identify single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers associated with candidate genes conferring resistance to Verticillium dahliae "race 3" in a diverse tomato germplasm collection. Verticillium wilt, caused by this soilborne fungal pathogen, poses a major threat to tomato production worldwide, and race 3 isolates are among the most aggressive. By leveraging next-generation genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) technology and genome-wide association studies (GWAS), this project aims to accelerate the development of tomato varieties with durable genetic resistance, reducing reliance on chemical controls and supporting more sustainable crop production.
Technical specifications
Research approach and key features:
- A worldwide collection of 282 tomato germplasm accessions has been screened in a randomized complete block design with three replications under greenhouse conditions
- Plants were inoculated with the aggressive race 3 isolate KJ14A at a concentration of 5 x 10^6 spores/ml, three weeks post-planting
- Disease severity was rated on a 1–5 scale, with ANOVA confirming statistically significant variation in resistance levels across the germplasm (P<0.001)
- Leaf samples have been collected for DNA extraction and genotyping
- GBS will be used to generate genome-wide SNP data across the collection
- GWAS will be performed using the GAPIT function in R-software to identify SNPs significantly associated with resistance to Verticillium dahliae race 3
- Identified SNP markers can be applied in marker-assisted selection for breeding resistant cultivars
Technology readiness level
This research is currently at an advanced preliminary stage. The greenhouse phenotyping phase has been completed and has confirmed significant variation in disease response across the tomato germplasm collection. DNA samples are ready for genotyping. The project is now seeking partnership support to conduct the GBS work and subsequent GWAS analysis. Upon completion, the identified SNP markers will be validated for their utility in marker-assisted breeding programs aimed at developing Verticillium wilt-resistant tomato varieties.
About North Carolina State University
North Carolina State University is a large, comprehensive public land‑grant research university in Raleigh. Its on‑campus research and technology park co‑locates corporate R&D groups, government partners, and faculty labs, enabling shared facilities, prototyping, and agile contracting. Located in North Carolina’s Research Triangle, partners tap a dense regional ecosystem while engaging through a statewide extension network and a mature co‑op program that deliver field deployment and workforce pipelines. Multiple pilot and demonstration facilities support scale‑up and validation toward pre‑commercial readiness. Research is supported by competitive funding from major federal agencies, including NSF, USDA, DOE, and DOD, and a dedicated technology transfer office with clear IP pathways helps accelerate commercialization.
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