Identification of resistance locus and characterization of effector genes toward breeding for resistance to Phytophthora infestans

Late blight disease, caused by Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary, is a serious disease in tomato and potato all over the world. To overcome this disease by a breeding strategy, resistance genes or their genetic loci should be identified. In addition, since P. infestans isolates have great genetic variability and environmental adaptability, assessment of the genetic variability of the effector genes is helpful to design breeding programs. Here, we report a new disease resistance locus through a genome-wide association study in which an aggressive P. infestans isolate and a robust sequencing technology were employed for phenotyping and genotyping of an interspecific mapping population of tomato. In addition, non-synonymous mutations in the P. infestans effector genes were identified. Genome information on both the host plant and the pathogen is helpful to resistance breeding programs in tomato and potato for managing late blight.