Chand, Sudeep. Killer genes cause potato famine. BBC News: Science & Environment [Internet]. 2009 Sept 9 [cited 2009 Sept 13]. Available from: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/8246944.stm
Scientists have recently discovered the genome that is responsible for the infamous Irish potato famine in the 1800s. This genome causes a water mold called Phytophthora infestans. The mold still exists today, and destroys an annual $6 billion in crops worldwide.
Because this organism evolves each year, the problem is getting worse. In 2003, Papua New Guinea lost all of its potato crops to this mold. In the United Kingdom, farmers have had to spray up to thirty percent more pesticides in recent years.
The mystery behind how the mold adapts so rapidly and becomes resistant to chemical spraying has long puzzled scientists. However, now that this genome has been identified, researchers hope to use it to develop new defenses against crop disease.
Researchers now know that the genome for this mold contains at least twice the DNA of similar structures. It can insert itself into the leaves of potato plants and attack the immune systems of the plants by rapidly dividing its genes.
This landmark discovery marks a milestone in agricultural science. While scientists will now attempt to breed potatoes that are more resistant to this type of mold infection, some researchers are not optimistic. Even though they now know the enemy, they may still not be able stop it. Only time will tell.
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