Biotechnology Publication
Sylvia Mutinda
2021 MLEx Fellow, Kenya
KSTP 94, an Open Pollinated Maize Variety Has Postattachment Resistance to Witchweed (Striga Hermonthica) - Sylvia Mutinda
Abstract
Striga spp. are obligate root hemiparasites that constrain cereal production in sub-Saharan Africa. Although purple witchweed [ Striga hermonthica (Delile) Benth.] and Asiatic witchweed [ Striga asiatica (L.) Kuntze] infect all cereal crops, maize ( Zea mays L.) is particularly vulnerable to their infestations. A sustainable control strategy for Striga would be to breed crops with host-based resistance as part of an integrated management plan. To determine whether KSTP 94 harbors postattachment resistance, we used a soil-free assay based on observation chambers called rhizotrons.
GWAS Provides Biological Insights into the Mechanisms of the Parasitic Plant (Striga)Resistance in Sorghum - Sylvia Mutinda
Abstract
Sorghum yields in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are greatly reduced by parasitic plants of the genus Striga (witchweed). Vast global sorghum genetic diversity collections, as well as the availability of modern sequencing technologies, can be potentially harnessed to effectively manage the parasite. We used laboratory assays – rhizotrons to screen a global sorghum diversity panel to identify new sources of resistance to Striga; determine mechanisms of resistance, and elucidate genetic loci underlying the resistance using genome-wide association studies (GWAS)
New Pre-attached Striga Resistant Sorghum Adapted to African Agro-ecologies - Sylvia Mutinda
Abstract
Pre‐attachment resistance to the parasitic plants Striga hermonthica and S. asiatica occurs in sorghum mutants designated low germination stimulant 1 (lgs1). However, only a few of these mutants have been identified and their resistance validated. Additionally, pre‐attachment resistance in sorghum beyond lgs1 mutants has not been explored. We used lgs1 specific markers to identify new lgs1‐like mutants in a diverse global sorghum collection. The sorghum collection was also evaluated for pre‐attachment resistance against Striga using an in vitro assay that measured Striga germination activity and radicle growth.
Mechanisms of Pre-attached Striga Resistance in Sorghum through Genome-wide Associations Studies - Sylvia Mutinda
Abstract
Witchweeds (Striga spp.) greatly limit production of Africa’s most staple crops. These parasitic plants use strigolactones (SLs)—chemical germination stimulants, emitted from host’s roots to germinate, and locate their hosts for invasion. This information exchange provides opportunities for controlling the parasite by either stimulating parasite seed germination without a host (suicidal germination) or by inhibiting parasite seed germination (pre-attachment resistance).
Pauline Orondo
2021 MLEx Fellow, Kenya
Habitat Diversity, Stability and Productivity of Malaria Vectors in Irrigated and Nonirrigated Ecosystems in Western Kenya - Pauline Orondo
Abstract
Several sub-Saharan African countries rely on irrigation for food production. This study examined the impact of environmental modifications resulting from irrigation on the ecology of aquatic stages of malaria vectors in a semi-arid region of western Kenya. Mosquito larvae were collected from irrigated and non-irrigated ecosystems during seasonal cross-sectional and monthly longitudinal studies to assess habitat availability, stability, and productivity of anophelines in temporary, semipermanent, and permanent habitats during the dry and wet seasons.
Ruth Mwangi
2021 MLEx Fellow, Kenya
Medicinal Plants with Anti-colorectal Cancer Bioactive Compounds: Potential Game-changers in Colorectal Cancer Management - Ruth Mwangi
Abstract
Development and identification of molecular compounds capable of killing or inhibiting transformed cells promoting carcinogenesis without inducing toxic effects to the normal cells are of utmost significance. Natural antioxidants in herbal plants including polyphenols and carotenoids inhibit the oxidation of lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids and thereby preventing the initiation of oxidizing chain reactions. These bioactive compounds should be considered an important dietary supplement.
A Systematic Review of Selected Plants and their Metabolites with Anti-colorectal Cancer Effects - Ruth Mwangi
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is among the most common malignancy and the third prime cause of cancer-associated mortalities. Long-term inflammation of the colon can promote carcinogenesis by facilitating oxidative stress which enhances deoxyribonucleic acid damage resulting in the tumor initiation step. The existing chemotherapeutic options are often associated with adverse reactions and emergence of drug resistance. The carefully selected plants are cited to demonstrate anticancer properties as has been revealed in this review. Of significance, these plant species are widely available, especially in Africa.