Transcriptome analysis of Phytophthora blight (Phytophthora capsici) interaction and identifying genes involved in the infection process for early detection of infected plants

Principal Investigator: Efren Delgado, Family and Consumer Sciences
Co-PI: Patricia Cabrales-Arellano, Family and Consumer Sciences

Project Summary:
The project is focused on identifying genes in chili (Capsicum spp.) that respond to infection by the fungus Phytophthora capsici with next-generation sequencing. This methodology will open a window to explore and identify different gene isoforms which are currently unknown. Furthermore, up-regulated genes will be validated by real-time PCR. This information will help us understand the mechanisms and pathways involved in the pathogenic process in the plant response under this biotic interaction. Furthermore, the active genes as a response to this process will be evaluated and considered molecular markers to be proposed for use in an early detection biotechnological kit.