In this section:
Gene Function
Molecular genetics and genomics tools are used to understand key traits in species of importance to South Australian agriculture and horticulture. In cereals, our main focus is on the identification of genes and linked molecular markers for quality, disease resistance and abiotic stress traits. The information on genes and molecular markers are used in cereal breeding programs to accelerate the development of varieties with improved quality characteristics, disease resistance and stress tolerance. We conduct similar genetic and genomic research on pasture legume species such as Medicago littoralis. Our genomics activities include gene expression and gene function studies in host-pathogen interactions and the analysis of gene regulation upon heat and drought stress in Canola.
Establishing a link between molecular markers and a trait requires a close collaboration with research partners interested in specific traits. On a first level we identify trait-linked molecular markers that can be used as breeding tools. On a second and third level, we aim at isolating the actual genes responsible for traits and characterise their function.
Gene Function Lab
The aim of the research in our lab is to use molecular genetic and genomics tools to further our understanding of key traits in species of importance to South Australian agriculture and horticulture.
In cereals (wheat, barley, oats), our main focus is on the identification of genes and linked molecular markers for quality, disease resistance and abiotic stress traits. The information on genes and molecular markers are used in cereal breeding programs to accelerate the development of varieties with improved quality characteristics, disease resistance and stress tolerance.
In pasture legumes (Medicago sp.), similar genetic and genomic approaches are being used for traits such as herbicide tolerance, Boron tolerance and resistance or tolerance to pathogens. The sequenced genome sequence of M. truncatula is used to derive gene-based markers and to develop molecular breeding tools for related species via comparative mapping, e.g. in the autotetraploid lucerne Medicago sativa.
Our research is facilitated by an extensive network of collaborations with breeders or other trait specialists. We are employed by SARDI, which is a core partner of the Molecular Plant Breeding Cooperative Research Centre (MPBCRC).
If you require more detail about our research, please refer to our list of publications, or contact us for an update on our latest results. We welcome inquiries about collaborative opportunities or training.
Contact: Dr Klaus Oldach
