A single gene underlies begomovirus resistance in eggplant
Peer-Reviewed Publication
Updates every hour. Last Updated: 9-Jan-2026 14:11 ET (9-Jan-2026 19:11 GMT/UTC)
A new study has identified the first known gene in eggplant that provides resistance to begomoviruses, a group of plant viruses responsible for major crop losses worldwide. The research shows that virus-resistant plants accumulate far less viral DNA than susceptible plants, linked to a gene encoding an exonuclease involved in viral defense. This previously unknown resistance pathway could support the breeding of virus-resistant crops, strengthen food security, and reduce reliance on chemical pesticides.
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