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LATVIAN

BIOMEDICAL

RESEARCH AND STUDY CENTRE


RESEARCH AND EDUCATION IN BIOMEDICINE FROM GENES TO HUMAN

Project Title: „Studies on Ribes plants, Cecidophyopsis mites and Blackcurrant Reversion virus for sustainable resistance breeding and cultivation of Ribes

Funding: European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Measure 1.1.1.1 “Industry-Driven Research”

Project No.: 1.1.1.1/18/A/026

Period: 1 March 2019 – 28 February 2022

Project costs: 522 994,99 EUR

Principle Investigator: Ph.D. Inga Moročko-Bičevska (Institute of Horticulture)

Project partner: Dr. biol. Ina Baļķe (Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre)

Project summary:

The cultivation of plants of the genus Ribes is significantly affected by Cecidophyopsis ticks and Blackcurrant reversion virus (BRV). The breeding programs focus only on C. ribis and two resistance genes. Research shows that other species of Cecidophyopsis are also widespread, thus explaining the detected contradictions of host resistance.

The aim of the project is to explain the interaction of the Cecidophyopsis-BRV complex on Ribes plants: 1) by studying the concept and genetic diversity of the Cecidophyopsis species; 2) identifying the role of the Cecidophyopsis species in BRV transmission; 3) characterization of host defence to Cecidophyopsis and BRV using gene expression and transcriptome analyses by NGS; 4) by inventory and evaluation of local Ribes germplasm. The gained knowledge, evaluated local germplasm and virus-free in-vitro collection of local genotypes will serve the basis for sustainable resistance breeding and cultivation of Ribes promoting development of knowledge-based bioeconomy.

The implementation of the project will provide new knowledge for sustainable resistance breeding and growing of Ribes plants, at the same time increasing the number of scientific publications in internationally peer-reviewed journals and developing scientific capacity in agriculture and biotechnology. Performers are state research institutes that guarantee the public access of results (scientific publications, reports in scientific conferences) and the dissemination of knowledge to the industry (popular scientific publications, presentations in seminars, information in public databases). The project will support a continuation of started research on Cecidophyopsis mites and BRV, and initiated advanced studies in cooperation of both institutions in plant genetics, pathology, molecular biology and metagenomic analysis of environmental samples providing prerequisites for preparation of peer-reviewed publications.

Information published 01.03.2019.

Progress of the project:

1 March 2019 – 31 May 2019

Research

During the reporting period, five expeditions and samples for research in Latvia, Poland, Lithuania, and Finland were collected within Activity 1, in total collecting 134 samples of Ribes plants. Microscopy and testing of buds for the presence of mites were performed and samples were prepared for DNA isolation. The method for obtaining a DNA sample from a single mite individual was developed and 919 samples of DNA samples were prepared for the analysis. Work has been done to improve the specificity of amplification primers for the ITS region by developing and testing pairs of newly created primers. Practical testing of various types of microscopy for non-destructive analysis of mite specimens and species identification, and further isolation of DNA/RNA from one mite individual has been initiated. Investigation of information and available protocols for the selection of the most appropriate method for isolation of viral RNA from one mite individual has been started. Within Activity 2. the updating of published information on Ribes plant resistance to Cecidophyopsis species and analysis of scientific literature was done. Information on Ribes plant samples analyzed in previous studies, genotyping results of Ce gene was collected and analyzed. The DNA collection of the existing Ribes plants, the samples available, the degree of their characterization, the quantitative and qualitative assessment of the DNA of the samples were evaluated. The collection of the existing Ribes plant material for DNA extraction has been evaluated. An analysis of literature has been performed for the isolation of high quality total RNA from plant material with high polyphenol, polysaccharides and antioxidant content. Summarizations of used methods were performed. A protocol plan has been established for methods to be tested for total RNA isolation, for the suitable identification. Comparison of available NGS platforms available at BMC (Ion Torrent, Illumina and MGI) has been performed. Infestation trial for NGS research was established on potted plants in outdoor conditions for black currants, red currants and Ribes alpinum infested with three different mite species. Tests for infectious specimens for mite damage and samples for BRV diagnostics prior to infestation were performed to exclude possible contamination of plants before infestation. Experimental samples of Ribes plants from the infested plants for optimization of RNA extraction methodology, preparation for NGS analysis were collected and prepared. Initial evaluation of the local germplasm has been done, gathering data on past evaluation results of Ribes plant resistance to Cecidophyopsis mites in Institute of Horticulture collections and trials. Information on the phenotypic characterization of the existing Ribes genetic resources and statistical analysis of the data was performed. A manuscript of the publication “Phenotypical variability and diversity within the Ribes genetic resources collection of Latvia” was prepared and submitted for publication in Acta Horticulturae. Based on the current information on the phenotypic characterization of the Ribes genetic resources, an oral report was prepared on “XII International Rubus and Ribes Symposium: Innovative Rubus and Ribes Production for High Quality Berries in Changing Environments”, 25-28 June 2019, Zurich. Inventory of local-origin Ribes genetic resource collections at LatHort field collections in Dobele and Pūre, and the data collected so far, was done to assess what additional observations and data records would be needed to select genotypes for inclusion in the national genetic resource conservation database and international databases.

The evaluation of the local genotypes of the Ribes available in the germplasm collections and collected in the earlier expeditions has been started. The evaluation was based on RIBESCO descriptors. A total of 23 gooseberries, 23 blackcurrants and 12 currant genotypes have been evaluated. A list of genotypes needed for industrial research for in vitro propagation has been developed and the introduction of these plants in vitro has been started, as well as the introduction of the most valuable local genotypes in tissue culture for recovery and further preservation by creating a recovered, virus-free collection.

Information published 31.05.2019.

Progress of the project:

1 June 2019 – 31 August 2019

Within Activity 2., samples of three Ribes plants (blackcurrant, alpine currant, redcurrant) were collected and stored at various temperatures (+4°C, -20°C, -80°C) with and without RNAlater to determine the most effective sample storage conditions that allow the isolation of high quality total RNA for NGS analysis. Samples stored at + 4°C with and without RNAlater were used for RNA extraction with TRI Reagent, but after analysis of RNA samples, this method was found to be unsuitable for RNA extraction from blackcurrants, alpine currant, redcurrant. In parallel, three commercial RNA isolation kits were tested with introduced modifications according to available literature data by adding polyvinylpyrrolidone to the lysis buffer. A method of lysing matrix A, D, and E was tested for sample disintegration. It was concluded that lysis matrixes are suitable for disintegrating plant samples and two of the three kits used are compatible with this method. The introduced modification allows the isolation of RNA from blackcurrants, where the purity of RNA at 260/280 nm is 2.02 – 2.05. In addition, analysis of the quality and integrity of the isolated RNA samples on the Bioanalyzer has been started.

Within Activity No.1, Multiplex PCR amplification of mite DNA and PCR product preparation for fragment length analyses (FLA) with genetic analyser was continued. FLA was performed for 725 prepared mite DNA multiplex PCR samples on the ABI PRISM 3130xl genetic analyzer for species identification, and an automated analysis protocol for allele identification and selection was developed. Preliminary FLA data analyses and identification of mite species was performed in the collected plant material. Testing of non-destructive electron microscopy for the mite species identification and further isolation of nucleic acids from single mite individuals was continued and the optimal application protocols were elaborated and selected for further use. The testing of methods for viral nucleic acid isolation from mites and BRV PCR amplification was continued and the protocol for testing in the laboratory was established. Theoretical protocols for ITS/5.8S amplification and cloning was elaborated and their practical testing was started in the laboratory.

Information published 30.08.2019.

Progress of the project:

1 September 2019 – 30 November 2019

In Activity No.2, further development of methods for the Ce and P resistance gene identification in Ribes plants was performed on the Ribes plant material selected in earlier stages of the project, as well as involving additional Ribes samples. Modification of molecular marker reaction conditions was continued to ensure stable amplification of gene-specific fragments. In accordance with the project objectives, the collection of existing genetic information on the Ribes genetic resources was started, and the evaluation of existing genotyping data for preparation of paper manuscript has been undertaken. The obtained information will provide insight into the diversity and interrelation of genetic resources. To complement the existing genetic data, a review of the scientific literature and selection of molecular markers (cpSSR or chloroplast microsatellites) was done during the reporting period with aim to clarify the inter-specific structure of Ribes plant material, considering their complex origin, especially for blackcurrants, that can have the influence to resistance.

Total RNA isolation optimization experiments were continued from the previously harvested samples from genotypes of Ribes genus (black currant cultivar ‘Mara Eglite’, red currant cultivar ‘Kodu Suur Valge’ (‘Hele’) and genotype of Ribes alpinum, collected in the wild), as well as for the isolated RNA concentration, quality and integrity (RIN) analysis were performed. Comparing the concentration, quality and RIN of the isolated RNA in samples stored under different conditions, it was concluded that the RNA isolated from in RNAlater stored samples at +4°C and -20°C is higher in concentration and RIN, which is essential for the preparation of high quality NGS library. Conversely, samples stored at -80°C showed the opposite effect. Therefore, RNAlater can be used to store plant samples at higher temperatures. The optimal RNA isolation methods have been developed for Ribes plant samples by selecting the most appropriate lysis matrix, optimal PVP concentration and isolation kit for each species of the genus. Optimized RNA isolation methods will be used for RNA isolation from inoculation experiment samples for preparation of NGS libraries.

During current period the summarizing of knowledge and scientific information on Ribes/Cecidophyopsis/BRV complex interaction and previous observation results in Ribes collections of Institute of Horticulture was performed and the preparation of review article was started. Data collection and description using RIBESCO descriptors of Ribes genotypes and inventory of present genetic resources in field collections in Dobele and Pure was continued, to select more valuable genotypes for including in national and international genetic resource databases. Data analysis for the results obtained in season 2019 has begun. Work was continued on the development of evaluation methods. Selected Ribes genotypes for further industrial research and valuable local accessions for creating of virus and pest free core collection were propagated and maintained in vitro.

The project progress and goals were communicated to the society during the European Science Night, where at the Institute of Horticulture (LatHort), Plant Pathology and Entomology laboratories scientists in a popular science format presented poster and provided practical demonstrations about research on Cecidophyopsis bud mites, blackcurrant reversion virus and Ribes plants. Information about activities was posted on the LatHort Facebook site.

Information published 29.11.2019.

Progress of the project:

1 December 2019 – 29 February 2020

Within Activity No.1, application protocols for amplification and cloning of the ITS/5.8S region of mites were developed, the cloning and preparation of samples for sequencing has been done and first samples sent for sequencing to the project partner BMC. The studies on Cecidophyopsis morphology using non-destructive electron microscopy has been started and isolation of nucleic acids from single mites performed. The testing of BRV in single mites after electron microscopy was started.

In Activity No.2, further development of methods for the Ce and P resistance gene identification in Ribes plants was performed on the Ribes plant material selected in earlier stages of the project, as well as involving additional Ribes samples. The material for cloning and sequencing of the Ce gene specific amplification fragment was prepared, cloned and sent for sequencing to the project partner BMC. Work was continued on the analysis of existing Ribes genetic resources genotyping information for preparation of a publication manuscript. Adaptation of the methodology was started on the set of chloroplast molecular markers (cpSSR or chloroplast microsatellites) selected in the previous reporting period, to select the most suitable markers for explaining of the inter-specific structure of Ribes plant material. The isolation of total RNA from mite-infested and control samples of blackcurrant (cultivar ‘Mara Eglite’) sampled in May and August and stored at -80°C has been initiated by BMC following the previously optimized RNA isolation protocol. The work has been undertaken on the preparation of NGS libraries for sequencing on MGISeq2000.

The evaluation of genotypes according to RIBESCO descriptors in Ribes germplasm collections of LatHort in field collections was continued to select the most valuable genotypes for including in the National Genetic Resources Conservation Database and international databases. The evaluation data of the previous season were summarized. The assessment of damages by gall mites in the Ribes LatHort field collections in Dobele and Pūre was done and development of evaluation methods was continued. In vitro propagation and maintenance of the most valuable local Ribes genotypes and selected genotypes for industrial research was continued in Plant Tissue Laboratory.

The work was continued to collect information and writing an article on resistance of Ribes to Cecidophyopsis and BRV, and their interactions. Interested parties were informed about the progress of the project and the achieved results in the practical conference “Sustainable Agriculture”, where scientists from the Institute of Horticulture presented a poster and submitted a manuscript for publication in the conference proceedings.

Information published 28.02.2020.

Progress of the project:

1 March 2020 – 31 May 2020

Within Activity No.1, the amplification and cloning of the ITS/5.8S region of mites were continued, and the next samples sent for sequencing to the project partner BMC where sequencing was performed by the Sanger method. Additional blackcurrant samples were received from UK, mite DNA isolated and samples prepared for the species detection by FLA. FLA was performed by the project partner on the new mite multiplex PCR samples on the genetic analyzer ABI PRISM 3130xl for species determination using the previously developed automated analysis protocol. The testing of BRV in single mites after electron microscopy was continued.

Within Activity No.2 the collecting of information and writing an article on resistance of Ribes to Cecidophyopsis and BRV, and their interactions was continued. The analysis of existing Ribes genetic resources genotyping information for preparation of a publication manuscript was continued by performing additional literature and data analysis. Adaptation of the methodology of application of chloroplast molecular markers (cpSSR) selected in the previous stages of the project has been performed; the set of the most informative markers has been selected to explain the structure of interspecific crossings of Ribes plant material. DNA extraction was performed using the existing Ribes sample collection. In order to ensure the representation of Ribes species, additional samples were collected in the LatHort collection and their DNA extraction and quality assessment was performed. PCR of resistance Ce genes specific amplification fragments was performed for further cloning and sequencing, and analysis of the obtained sequences was started. In BMC the sequencing of cloned amplification fragment of Ce genes samples transferred by the Leading partner was performed by the Sanger method.

Work continued on the preparation of NGS libraries of blackcurrant (cultivar ‘Mara Eglite’) mite-infested and control samples for sequencing on MGISeq2000, as well as the isolation of total RNA from Ribes alpinum and red currant (cultivar ‘Kodu Suur Valge’ (‘Hele’)) for mite-infested and control samples sampled in May and August and stored at -80°C has been initiated by BMC following the previously optimized RNA isolation protocols. The work has been undertaken on the preparation of NGS libraries for sequencing.

Primers based on the literature search were selected and new primers developed for amplification of COX1, TEF 1-a, HSP70 gene fragments and sequencing to develop mite detection method.

The evaluation of Ribes genetic resources field collections was continued according to RIBESCO descriptors. The second year data set on plant phenological and vegetative development, frost resistance was collected. The collections in Pūre and Dobele were assessed for the prevalence and symptoms of BRV. Samples were collected from the red and white currants for the determination of BRV to develop a disease evaluation methodology. In the tissue culture laboratory, 9 Ribes genotypes from different species were propagated and rooted in the substrate, which will be used for resistance studies, and 9 blackcurrant and 4 gooseberry genotypes for a creating of virus and pest free core collection, which will be tested for healthiness. In parallel, samples of all genotypes are maintained and preserved in vitro.

Information published 29.05.2020.

Progress of the project

1 June 2020 – 31 August 2020

Within Activity No.1, the amplification and cloning of the ITS/5.8S region of mites was done for the samples from UK and after electron microscopy. The prepared samples were sent for sequencing to the project partner BMC. Sequencing of the ITS/5.8S region of mites transferred by the Leading Partner was performed by the Sanger method. Fragment Length analysis (FLA) was performed on new mite multiplex PCR samples on the genetic analyzer ABI PRISM 3130xl for the species determination, using the previously developed automated analysis protocol. The research on mite morphology by an electron microscopy and testing of BRV in single mites after the electron microscopy and plant material was continued.

Within Activity No.2 the writing an article on resistance of Ribes to Cecidophyopsis and BRV, and their interactions was continued.

The analysis of the sequences obtained from resistance Ce gene-specific amplification fragments was continued. A draft of the publication on the results of SSR marker genotyping of Ribes genetic resources has been prepared, and experts from different project activities have been involved to start the improvements of draft publication. The chloroplast molecular markers (cpSSR) adapted in the previous stages of the project were used to start the genotyping of Ribes plant material in order to explain the possible species structure of interspecific crosses. The cpSSR genotyping was performed on 126 samples of blackcurrants (including samples of Ribes species used in blackcurrant breeding), as well as 13 samples of red currants, 3 gooseberries, 8 Ribes alpinum and 10 other Ribes species. At the BMC, length analysis for 23 chloroplast molecular markers, selected in the previous stages of the project, of FLA samples (3812 samples) transferred by the Leading Partner were started on the genetic analyzer ABI PRISM 3130xl, and development of automated analysis protocols.

NGS libraries were prepared of blackcurrant (cultivar ‘Mara Eglite’) mite-infested and control samples for sequencing on MGISeq2000. Work continued on the preparation of NGS libraries of mite-infested and control samples of Ribes alpinum and red currant (cultivar ‘Kodu Suur Valge’ (‘Hele’)) harvested in May and stored at -80°C. The evaluating of experimental infestation of Ribes plants with several bud mite species was undertaken. A new infestation experiment was set up using several species of Ribes in vitro propagated plants and mites collected from various host plants.

Protocols for PCR amplification of COX1, TEF 1-α, and HSP70 genes were established and practical testing in the laboratory was started using the newly designed primers.

The evaluation of Ribes genetic resources field collections and genotype describing according to RIBESCO descriptors was continued. The second year data set on genotype yield, berry quality, pest and disease resistance was collected and phenotypic berry characterization and photography was performed. In the Tissue Culture Laboratory, the propagation and maintenance in vitro of plants required for industrial research, which was started in 2019, was continued, as well as the in vitro propagation of another 16 genotypes required for research was started. The maintenance of 10 blackcurrant and 5 gooseberry genotypes in vitro for the creation of virus and pest free genetic resource core collection was continued and the samples were collected and tested. Additionally, 6 currants and 1 gooseberry genotype of Latvian origin were introduced in vitro.

Information published 31.08.2020.

Progress of the project

1 September 2020 – 30 November 2020

Within Activity No.1 the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of Cecidophyopsis mites was completed, SEM images obtained and documentation of morphological parameters completed, and the data analysis of morphological parameters was started. Nucleic acid preparations from mite individuals used in SEM were made, multiplex PCR amplification performed for species identification by fragment length analysis (FLA), ITS/5.8S/28S region amplified and PCR products were prepared for direct sequencing. FLA was performed on new mite multiplex PCR samples on the genetic analyzer ABI PRISM 3130xl for the species determination, using the previously developed automated analysis protocol, and sequencing of ITS/5.8S/28S region of prepared samples by Sanger method was done at BMC. Quality controls of ITS/5.8S/28S sequences were done and alignments prepared for further analysis. COX1 PCR amplification of all selected mite DNA samples was done and prepared for sequencing. PCR fragments of COX1 was sequenced by the Sanger method at BMC. The sequence assembly was started. Testing of BRV in single mites after the electron microscopy was continued to study involvement of mite species in BRV transmission. Design and testing of primers for BRV CP amplification was started.

Within Activity No.2 the writing an article on resistance of Ribes to Cecidophyopsis and BRV, and their interactions was continued, and the manuscript was prepared for submission.

The analysis of the sequences obtained from resistance Ce gene-specific amplification fragments was continued. A draft of the publication on the results of SSR marker genotyping of Ribes genetic resources has been improved by involving of experts from different project activities. Genotyping of chloroplast molecular markers (cpSSR) for Ribes plant material has been completed in order to elucidate the possible species structure of interspecific crosses. Further analysis of the material was performed by BMC, where FLA analysis for 23 chloroplast molecular markers were performed (3812 samples) on the genetic analyzer ABI PRISM 3130xl, and developed automated analysis protocols.

NGS libraries were prepared of Ribes alpinum mite-infested and control samples for sequencing on DNBSEQ-G400 (previously known as MGISeq2000). The 12 NGS libraries of the infested and control samples of blackcurrants (cultivar ‘Mara Eglite’) harvested in May 2019 and four NGS libraries of Ribes alpinum harvested in May 2019 were sequenced on DNBSEQ-G400. Primary statistical analysis of RNA-Seq data of blackcurrant samples was performed. After data analysis from 1th group samples were identified 573 gene transcripts, from 2nd group – 769 and from 3rd group – 574 gene transcript. We selected base line 3 for logFC and based on this for 1th group we selected 10 top upregulated genes (At3g45310, NPC1, GOLS2, CP, ZIP10, GOLS1, PPDK, GOLS4, PPD, STC) and three top downregulated genes (CHSA, CHS, CHS1), for 2nd group – 14 top upregulated genes (At3g45310, NPC1, GOLS2, CP, ZIP10, GOLS1, PPDK, GOLS4, PPD, O2390, PLT5, PDR1, CAX3, SIGE) and five downregulated genes (At1g48100, CHSA, CHS, SKU5, P14009) and for 3rd group – 21 top upregulated genes (Os08g0191100, At1g60710, At3g45310, O23920, MSRB1, LWD1, NPC1, GOLS2, NPF3.1, ABCC10, FDH1, PECS-2.1, AND1, APX3, SCE1, ABCC3, PLT5, OPR11, CP, GOS2, UBC9) and 17 top downregulated genes (At4g15545, matK, ndhI, psaJ, ndhE, psbK, psbW, ART2, cemA, RRT15, ndhG, PSBS2, CHS, RRF, ATP6, RPS17, PSRP3). Work continued on the preparation of NGS libraries of mite-infested and control samples of red currant (cultivar ‘Kodu Suur Valge’ (‘Hele’)) harvested in May 2019 and stored at -80°C.

The work was continued for PCR amplification of TEF 1-a, and HSP70 genes and their possible use for establishment of diagnostic method for Cecidophyopsis species on Ribes hosts. After reviewing and compiling the information on the local genetic resources of Ribes plants in databases and collections, a consolidated and updated list of Ribes genetic resources has been created and submitted for inclusion in the National Genetic Resources System. Evaluation of local genetic resources was continued. A second annual data set has been created on the results of the evaluation of recently obtained, previously did not evaluated local Ribes genotypes. The description of genotypes included in genetic resources according to RIBESCO descriptors was continued and their description according to EURISCO descriptors was started. An improved methodology for evaluating the damage by bud mites and BRV in field conditions has been developed. In the Laboratory of Tissue Culture, the propagation and maintaining in in vitro the plants required for industrial research and the establishment of genetic resources core collection has continued.

Two popular science publications were published about the project, obtained results and local genetic resources of Ribes:

1) Moročko-Bičevska I., Stalažs A., Lācis G., Laugale V. (2020) Studies on Ribes plants, Cecidophyopsis mites and Blackcurrant Reversion virus for sustainable resistance breeding and cultivation of Ribes [in Latvian]. Proceedings of conference “Sustainable Agriculture 2020”, 120-122.

http://www.lf.llu.lv/sites/lf/files/2020-09/Latvia-lidzsvarota-lauksaimniec_rakstu_krajums_2020.pdf

2) Laugale V. (2020) Genetic resources of Ribes in Latvia, research and conservation. [in Latvian]. Professional Horticulture [Profesionālā Dārzkopība], 3 (13): 20-24

https://fruittechcentre.eu/sites/default/files/2020-11/Profesionala_DARZKOPIBA_13.pdf

Information published 30.11.2020.

Progress of the project

1 December 2020 – 28 February 2021

Within Activity No.1 measurements of mite morphological parameters based on SEM images were completed, and the morphometric data analysis was started. Quality controls of ITS/5.8S/28S and COX1 sequences and alignment preparation was continued for the further analysis. The testing of BRV in single mites after the electron microscopy was continued to study involvement of mite species in BRV transmission. Design and testing of primers for BRV CP amplification was continued.

Within Activity No.2 the writing of article on resistance of Ribes to Cecidophyopsis and BRV, and their interactions was completed, and the review manuscript was submitted to Annals of Applied Biology.

The work was continued on the improvement of the analysis of the Ribes genetic resources SSR marker genotyping results and supplementing the draft of the publication. Analysis of genotyping data of chloroplast molecular markers (cpSSR) of Ribes plant material has been started, evaluation of the applicability of markers with the aim to explain the possible species structure of Ribes interspecific crosses. Work on the analysis and processing of NGS data was continued. Work continued on the preparation and sequencing of NGS libraries of infected and control samples of currants [cultivar ‘Kodu Suur Valge’ (‘Hele’)] and ‘Ribes alpinum‘ harvested in May 2019 and stored at -80°C. After analysis of NGS transcriptome data, Black currant-associated rhabdovirus 1 (BCaRV) was identified in blackcurrant samples (cultivar ‘Mara Eglite’) collected in May 2019, which has not been identified in Latvia so far. Based on these results, a manuscript of the article was prepared for submission to the journal “Plant Disease”, as well as the viral genome sequence was inserted into the GenBank database.

The work was continued for PCR amplification of TEF 1-a, and HSP70 genes and their possible use for establishment of diagnostic method for Cecidophyopsis species on Ribes hosts. Evaluation of COX1 sequences for design of species specific primers for diagnostic purposes was stared.

Evaluation of local genetic resources and analysis of data from season of 2020 was continued. The propagation and maintaining of in vitro plants required for industrial research and the establishment of genetic resources core collection was continued, and the testing of plants for presence of viruses and elimination efficiency was started.

Information published 26.02.2021.

Progress of the project

1 March 2021 – 31 May 2021

Within Activity No.1 the morphometric data analysis was continued. Phylogenetic analyses of ITS/5.8S/28S and COX1 sequences was started. In parallel, the literature studies were performed for possibilities to include morphological parameters of mite genitalia for species discrimination. It was concluded that these parameters are more suitable for delineation among the genera rather than the species; therefore, studies on this aspect were not continued.

To obtain samples for sequencing, all previously detected BRV positive samples were retested with BRV coat protein-specific primers. For sequencing, samples from redcurrants, blackcurrants, alpine currants, golden currants, gooseberry and their hybrids were chosen. Overall, 26 samples were sequenced at BMC on a genetic analyzer ABI PRISM 3130xl. Obtained BRV sequences covered BRV coat protein gene from position 3480 nt – 3643 nt (based on GenBank reference sequence AF020051).

Within Activity No.2 the corrections according to the reviewer’s comments were made in the review article on resistance of Ribes to Cecidophyopsis and BRV, and their interactions, and the manuscript was resubmitted to Annals of Applied Biology.

The work was completed on the study on genotyping analysis of Ribes genetic resources using SSR markers, paper “Evaluation of blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum) germplasm structure by microsatellite-based fingerprinting for the diversification of the breeding material” (authors: Gunārs Lācis, Katrīna Kārkliņa, Irita Kota-Dombrovska, Sarmīte Strautiņa) has been accepted for publication in the “Journal of Berry Research” (https://www.iospress.nl/journal/journal-ofberry-research/). Work was continued on the analysis of genotyping data of chloroplast molecular markers (cpSSR) of Ribes plant material, development of a resistance gene P identification method and analysis and processing of NGS data. Work has begun on the isolation of total RNA from infested and control samples of blackcurrants (cultivar “Mara Eglite”) harvested in August 2019 and stored at -80°C. The complete genome sequence of Black currant-associated rhabdovirus 1 (BCaRV) isolate Māra Eglīte was inserted into the European Nucleotide Archive database under accession number OU015520-OU015520. The prepared manuscript of the article “First report of black currant-associated rhabdovirus 1 in blackcurrants in Latvia” has been submitted to the journal “Plant Disease”.

The work was continued for PCR amplification of TEF 1-α, and HSP70 genes and their possible use for establishment of diagnostic method for Cecidophyopsis species on Ribes hosts. Evaluation of COX1 sequences for design of species specific primers for diagnostic purposes was continued.

For the improvement of resistance evaluation method, various Ribes genotypes were evaluated in the field by counting of invaded and no-invaded buds of each plant in the experimental plot. New experiment was set up to study possibility of mites invade different groups of Ribes using in vitro propagated plants and mites from different Ribes groups for invasion.

The evaluation of Ribe’s genetic resources field collections was continued, describing genotypes according to RIBESCO descriptors. The third year data set on plant phenological and vegetative development, flowering, frost resistance was collected. The collection in Pūre was assessed for the prevalence and symptoms of BRV. A report on the resistance of blackcurrant cultivars to gall mites was provided at the information day “Spring 2021” organized by the Institute of Horticulture, which presented the results collected during the project. Samples of red and white currants were collected from the Pūre`s collection for the determination of BRV in laboratory tests in order to clarify the visual signs of the disease. In the tissue culture laboratory, 14 Ribes genotypes from different species were propagated for laboratory resistance studies. 9 blackcurrant, 2 red currant and 5 gooseberry genotypes are currently introduced and maintained in vitro to create a virus and pest free core collection. Preserved blackcurrants and gooseberries were tested for viruses in the laboratory.

Information published 31.05.2021.

Progress of the project

1 June 2021 – 31 August 2021

Within Activity No.1 129 TEF-1-α and 87 HSP70 gene PCR products of Cecidophyopsis mites after electron microscopy were prepared and given to partner BMC for Sanger sequencing. Sequencing of these samples and its optimization was done on the genetic analyzer ABI PRISM 3130xl. The assembly and quality control of obtained sequences was started. BRV PCR products from 12 different Ribes samples were prepared and sequenced at BMC with four primer pairs by the Sanger method. the analysis of sequences was performed.

Within Activity No.2 was continued work on the analysis of genotyping data of chloroplast molecular markers (cpSSR) of Ribes plant material, development of a resistance gene P identification method and analysis and processing of NGS data. The results of blackcurrant genetic resources genotyping were demonstrated in a poster report at the international scientific conference “Sustainable horticulture from plant to product: Challenges in temperate climate”, which took place in a remote format on 25-26. August in Dobele. The title of the report was “Evaluation of blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum) germplasm structure by microsatellite-based fingerprinting for the diversification of the breeding material” (authors: Gunārs Lācis, Katrīna Kārkliņa, Irita Kota-Dombrovska, Sarmīte Strautiņa).

Work on the analysis and processing of NGS data has continued. Work is ongoing on the isolation of total RNA and the preparation of NGS libraries for Ribe infested and control samples.

Manuscript resubmition and corrections have been made according to the reviewers’ coments for the article “First report of black currant-associated rhabdovirus in blackcurrants in Latvia” submitted in Plant Disease.

To assess host range of viruses, the two bioassays were established: 1) Different in vitro propagated Ribes (blackcurrant, gooseberries, R. dicuscha, R. spicatum, R. aureum, R. ussuriense) were inoculated with BRV purified from infected blackcurrant; 2) In vitro propagated plants of cultivar ‘Ojebyn’ were inoculated with BRV, newly detected Blackcurrant betanucleorhabdovirus (BCaRV) and combination of both viruses. The monitoring of symptom development was strated.

The evaluation of Ribes genetic resources field collections was continued, performing the description according to RIBESCO descriptors. The third year data set on plant yield, fruit ripening time, phenotypical and quality characteristics, plant resistance to pests and diseases was collected. Three years of data on gooseberry genotype evaluation have been compiled and a poster presentation has been prepared. It was presented at the International Conference “Sustainable horticulture from plant to product: “Challenges in temperate climate”” organized by the Institute of Horticulture on August 25-26. As well as a manuscript for publication in the Proceedings of the Latvian Academy of Sciences on topic “Characterization of Latvian gooseberry genetic resources’’ was submitted. 14 Ribes genotypes of different species have been propagated in vitro and rooted for laboratory resistance research. In the Tissue Culture Laboratory in total 28 genotypes at present are preserved in vitro for plant resistance research and for the development of a recovered Germplasm Core Collection.

Information published 31.08.2021.

Progress of the project

1 September 2021 – 30 November 2021

Within the framework of Activity No.1 the assembly and quality control of obtained TEF-1-α and HSP70 sequences was continued and completed. Sequencing optimization for TEF-1-α and HSP70 PCR products was performed at BMC and repeated sequencing was done for the samples with insufficient quality. The final data analysis of the obtained data was continued and manuscript preparation of scientific publications started.

Within Activity No.2 work was continued on the analysis of genotyping data of chloroplast molecular markers (cpSSR) of Ribes plant material, performing identification of amplification fragments, quality analysis of results and definition of chloroplast haplotypes. For the purpose of analysis of molecular markers, the origin of the involved Ribes genotypes and its relation to the defined haplotypes were clarified.

The work on the analysis and processing of NGS data was continued. The work is ongoing on the preparation of NGS libraries for Ribes infested and control samples.

The article “First report of black currant-associated rhabdovirus in blackcurrants in Latvia” has been accepted for publication in “Plant Disease”. The published results were presented as the e-poster in ICPV 2021: 15. International Conference on Plant Virology, which took place in a remote format on 11-12 November in Tokyo, Japan, report “Blackcurrantassociated rhabdovirus new pathogen for blackcurrants in the Baltic Sea region” (authors: Gunta Resevica, Nikita Zrelovs, Ivars Silamikelis, Ieva Kalnciema, Helvijs Niedra, Gunārs Lācis, Toms Bartulsons, Inga Moročko-Bičevska, Arturs Stalažs, Kristīne Drevinska, Andris Zeltins, Ina Balke).

The practical development and testing of diagnostic method for differentiating Cecidophyopsis species on Ribes plants was continued by using the sequence information of several genes and developed primers within the Activity No.1.

The evaluation of Ribe’s genetic resources collections in the field was completed in the given period, performing the description according to the RIBESCO descriptors. The obtained data have been digitized. Fruit biochemical analyzes were performed for the most productive genotypes. A total of 13 samples of blackcurrants, 10 currants and 19 gooseberries were analyzed. Blackcurrant genotypes GEN 233A and 30B1, red currants GEN 733 and GEN DRUDZE, and gooseberry GEN 1125 characterised by the most valuable biochemical content in this year. The description of Latvian Ribe genetic resources according to RIBESCO descriptors has been continued. The list of Latvia’s Ribes genetic resources, included in the Nordic and Baltic genetic resources database GeNBIS (https://www.nordic-balticgenebanks.org/gringlobal/search.aspx), has been revised and clarified. The necessary corrections have been submitted to the Latvian National Contact Point. In the Tissue Culture Laboratory, 14 genotypes previously selected are maintained at present in vitro for the development of a recovered Germplasm Core Collection and 16 genotypes are preserved for plant resistance research.

Information published 30.11.2021.

Progress of the project

1 December 2021 – 28 February 2022

Within Activity No.1, the data analysis was continued and the first draft of the manuscript was prepared about the Cecidophyopsis species concept and genetic diversity based on four gene sequence and morphometric data analysis. The testing of viruses in mite individuals was completed. The analysis of obtained data was completed and preparation of scientific publication about mite involvement in virus transmission on Ribes was started.

Within the framework of Activity No.2, the work on the analysis of genotyping data of chloroplast molecular markers (cpSSR) of Ribes plant material was continued, the plan of the article manuscript was developed, the preparation of the first version was started. An analysis of information was performed and a summary prepared about Ribes genes, differential expression of which was observed in the results of the NGS experiment on infested and control genotypes.

NGS library preparation optimization was performed and according to established optimization protocol NGS libraries were prepared of Ribes alpinum, redcurrant (cv. ‘Kodu Suur Valge’ (‘Hele’)) and blackcurrant meristema cultures – cv. ‘Mara Eglite’, Ribes dikuscha, R. ussurience, mite-infested and control samples for sequencing on DNBSEQ-G400. The NGS libraries were sequenced on DNBSEQ-G400. Primary statistical analysis of RNA-Seq data of samples was performed.

The first version of the manuscript on the method of RNA extraction from blackcurrants, Ribes alpinum and redcurrants for downstream applications – cDNA synthesis for NGS libraries preparation for the acquisition and analysis of transcriptome data has been prepared.

The monitoring of bud mite damages was continued in the experiment established in 2019 and counting of damaged and healthy buds on experimental plants was completed. Since the virus infection symptoms and bud damages were not clearly visible during the previous season on in vitro propagated plants used in the experiment established in 2021, the vegetation of plants was forced in January in the greenhouse. Counting of damaged and healthy buds and evaluation of virus infection symptoms on experimental plants was completed. The practical development and testing of diagnostic method for differentiating Cecidophyopsis species on Ribes plants was completed by using the sequence information of several genes and developed primers. For testing of method efficiency and comparison other species from eriophyid mites that can be present on Ribes plants were included in the tests. At the final of the project, the evaluation data for three years of observations was completed for Ribes genotypes of local origin, which are preserved in the collection of genetic resources of Latvia, and for newly acquired genotypes, for which the evaluation had not been previously performed or was performed incompletely. The descriptors developed during the international RIBESCO project were used in the evaluation. In total, 31 blackcurrant, 14 currant and 23 gooseberry genotypes were evaluated. The evaluation payed particular attention to the resistance of genotypes to gall mites and BRV, which is most relevant for blackcurrants. Blackcurrant genotypes VI-2, GEN 233A, GEN 264, 30B1, 8872 and 5/8/2/23 showed the highest resistance to both gall mites and BRV during the evaluation years. In the frame of the project, the list of Latvia genetic resources for Ribes plants has been finalised and submitted to the National Contact Point for Genetic Resources and included in the International European Database on genetic resources EURISCO. A total of 31 blackcurrant, 22 gooseberry and 11 currant genotypes are included in the list. All Ribes genotypes included in the list of genetic resources of Latvia have been described according to EURISCO descriptors. A list of the core collection of Ribes plants of native origin has been created by selecting the most valuable genotypes. Core collection includes 10 blackcurrant, 5 gooseberry and 5 redcurrant genotypes. The selected genotypes have already been introduced in vitro in the previous stages of the project and are currently stored in the LatHort Tissue Culture Laboratory, but some of the genotypes have also been planted in the in situ collection of the recovered plants established by the LatHort.

The popular scientific publication about blackcurrant resistance mechanisms and cultivar resistance to gall mites is prepared and published to inform society about the project and research results: Laugale V., Lācis G. (2022). Upeņu rezistences mehānismi un šķirņu izturība pret pumpurērcēm. Agro Tops, Nr.2 (294), 64.-66.lpp.

Information published 28.02.2022.