Development of novel crop protection technologies using Canadian microbes

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Sclerotinia stem rot caused by the fungal pathogen, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, is the leading cause of crop loss**for Canadian canola growers. Growers are having increasing difficulties controlling Sclerotinia using**conventional broad spectrum fungicides. Thus, growers are looking for alternative methods of crop protection**using bacterial biocontrol systems. Improved seedling establishment and protection against fungal disease over**the growing season is a major driver for improved crop performance in crops like canola. Thus, finding new**and innovative ways to protect this valuable Canadian crop is an immediate priority for canola growers. The**proposed CRD project will support collaborative research and develop synergies between industry and**scientists at the University of Manitoba to investigate the effect of an established bacterial biocontrol system in**the protection of canola against fungal pathogens. Together, the Belmonte, de Kievit and Fernando laboratories**and Stoller Enterprises Canada will work towards the commercial development of PA23, a biocontrol**bacterial-based system. Through a combination of formulation enhancement, next generation sequencing and**comprehensive bioinformatics approaches we will uncover the genes and gene regulatory networks responsible**for crop protection and bacterial colonization of agricultural land, and reveal synergies between PA23 and**Stoller products. Our work is driven by innovation and will train at least one highly qualified doctoral, one**Masters, and three undergraduate research students, in addition to a full time technician with expertise in the**application of biocontrol technologies. The impact of this work will be realized by broad agricultural**application to crops grown in Canada and around the globe and will drive innovation through discovery based**science. Optimization of PA23 formulations and understanding its genetic and molecular mode of action will**add value to this product and improve Canada's agricultural economy. We will develop a new generation of**biological fungicides that are safe, environmentally friendly, with potential for broad application to improve**yield and the bottom line.