Researchers from Kansas State University have identified a
[www.isaaa.org] gene
that can resist
[www.isaaa.org] wheat
streak mosaic virus. The team identified Wsm3 gene, the third gene known to
resist the virus, and the first that can do so at outdoor temperatures of 75
degrees Fahrenheit and higher.

The first two genes known to provide resistance to the virus were Wsm1
(identified by Kansas State University about 25 years ago) and Wsm2
(discovered by researchers at Colorado State University), but these two
provide protection in lower temperatures only. The researchers hope that the
warm-weather friendly Wsm3, used in combination with Wsm1 or Wsm2, could
become part of a breeding mix that can give
[www.isaaa.org] farmers
much-needed relief.

Wheat streak mosaic virus causes severe yield losses, and in extreme cases,
the crop cannot be harvested.

[www.ksre.k-state.edu]