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 lossfor Canadian canola growers. Growers are having increasing difficulties controlling Sclerotinia usingconventional broad spectrum fungicides. Thus, growers are looking for alternative methods of crop protectionusing bacterial biocontrol systems. Improved seedling establishment and protection against fungal disease overthe growing season is a major driver for improved crop performance in crops like canola. Thus, finding newand innovative ways to protect this valuable Canadian crop is an immediate priority for canola growers. Theproposed CRD project will support collaborative research and develop synergies between industry andscientists at the University of Manitoba to investigate the effect of an established bacterial biocontrol system inthe protection of canola against fungal pathogens. Together, the Belmonte, de Kievit and Fernando laboratoriesand Stoller Enterprises Canada will work towards the commercial development of PA23, a biocontrolbacterial-based system. Through a combination of formulation enhancement, next generation sequencing andcomprehensive bioinformatics approaches we will uncover the genes and gene regulatory networks responsiblefor crop protection and bacterial colonization of agricultural land, and reveal synergies between PA23 andStoller products. Our work is driven by innovation and will train at least one highly qualified doctoral, oneMasters, and three undergraduate research students, in addition to a full time technician with expertise in theapplication of biocontrol technologies. The impact of this work will be realized by broad agriculturalapplication to crops grown in Canada and around the globe and will drive innovation through discovery basedscience. Optimization of PA23 formulations and understanding its genetic and molecular mode of action willadd value to this product and improve Canada's agricultural economy. We will develop a new generation ofbiological fungicides that are safe, environmentally friendly, with potential for broad application to improveyield and the bottom line.