Key Takeaways
- NRGene Canada has developed a clubroot-resistant trait for canola, offering durable protection against evolving pathotypes.
- The breakthrough introduces two new donor lines that demonstrate complete resistance to multiple Canadian clubroot strains, including the aggressive 5X pathotype.
- Five resistance QTLs were identified and integrated into elite spring and winter canola backgrounds through AI-driven molecular breeding.
- NRGene Green, a new sister company, has been established to spearhead commercialization efforts and drive market adoption of clubroot-resistant hybrids.
- This innovation supports Canada’s $43.7 billion canola industry, ensuring long-term yield security and sustainability.
NRGene Canada: Advancing Clubroot Resistance in Canola
Addressing a Growing Threat to Canola Yields
NRGene Canada, a global leader in AI-driven genomics for crop improvement, has developed a new clubroot-resistant trait that offers durable protection for canola growers in Canada and beyond.
Clubroot, caused by Plasmodiophora brassicae, is a devastating soilborne disease that has significantly impacted canola production. While first-generation resistance from the Mendel donor provided initial protection, emerging virulent pathotypes (3A, 2B, and 5X) have outcompeted existing resistance sources, putting crop yields at risk.
Breakthrough in Disease Resistance Breeding
NRGene Canada’s latest innovation introduces two new donor lines that provide complete resistance to multiple clubroot pathotypes. The resistance genes were identified, mapped, and stabilized using molecular genomics-assisted backcrossing, making them ready for integration into commercial hybrids.
Key Innovations in Clubroot Resistance
Genomic Advances Driving Durable Resistance
NRGene Canada’s breakthrough is based on comprehensive genomic trait mapping and marker-assisted breeding, enabling faster and more precise disease resistance development.
Key Findings from the Research
- Five Resistance QTLs Identified – The team mapped five key genetic regions associated with clubroot resistance.
- Complete Resistance in Advanced Breeding Lines – New BC2F2 backcrossed lines and hybrids showed no disease symptoms under severe infection conditions.
- Marker-Assisted Breeding for Commercialization – Resistance loci have been successfully integrated into elite spring and winter canola backgrounds, making them ready for use in commercial breeding programs.
“We are thrilled to introduce a game-changing approach to clubroot resistance breeding,” said Masood Rizvi, General Manager of NRGene Canada. “By delivering a durable and stable resistance solution, we empower seed companies and farmers with stronger, more resilient canola varieties—ensuring consistent yields and sustainability in the face of evolving disease pressures.”
Commercialization and Market Adoption
NRGene Green to Lead Canola R&D and Commercialization
To accelerate the adoption of clubroot-resistant canola, NRGene Green has been established as a sister company to NRGene Canada. This new entity will oversee:
- All Canola R&D and commercialization efforts.
- Intellectual property management for clubroot-resistant canola.
- Partnerships with seed companies, growers, and research institutions to drive market adoption.
“This achievement demonstrates how AI-driven genomics accelerates disease resistance breeding, helping us develop stronger, more resilient crops faster,” said Gil Ronen, CEO of NRGene. “Our latest advancement in clubroot resistance is a clear example of how technology can provide real, lasting solutions for farmers.”
Availability for Commercial Breeding Programs From NRGene Canada
NRGene Green is actively partnering with seed companies and agricultural organizations to integrate these resistant lines and DNA markers into commercial breeding programs. The goal is to develop high-yielding, clubroot-resistant hybrids for both Canadian and global markets.
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