Predicting associational resistance by genome-wide association study of plant neighborhood effects

Summary :

Genotype mixtures are thought to enhance plant resistance to natural enemies; however, the mixed occurrence of negative or positive interactions, known as associational resistance or susceptibility, makes it difficult to identify beneficial genotype pairs. Here, we show the way to predict key genotype pairs from a randomized genotype mixture of Arabidopsis thaliana grown in the field. First, we incorporated neighboring genotype-genotype interactions into genome-wide association studies (GWAS). We applied this method named ‘Neighbor GWAS’ for herbivore damage and abundance, and found that flea beetle attacks are the most influenced by neighboring genotypes. Using Neighbor GWAS as a genomic prediction model, we then predicted genotype pairs responsible for associational resistance to flea beetles and validated three pairs based on actual mixed planting experiments. Our work showcases a framework to design genotype mixtures that can enhance pest resistance and other traits of agricultural interest, leading us to discuss its applicability to other plant species.

Video link:

https://inrae-fr.zoom.us/j/95880182765?pwd=3hCNeacNrRSZRkROfXG5hgE3hhR3Cs.1

ID de réunion : 958 8018 2765
Code secret : 9=M*?w.vGQ