Articles in the Frontiers Category
The application of new technology in R4D programs at IITA is accelerating the discovery of genes and closely linked molecular markers underlying important traits that leads to the rapid accumulation of genomic resources for devising an efficient and effective breeding strategy.
The head of IITA’s Gernplasm Health Unit describes the molecular diagnostics research program in IITA. This program emphasizes the development of simple and accurate tools and procedures for rapid identification of pathogens and pests affecting the food and horticultural crops in sub-Saharan Africa.
Leena Tripathi discusses the use of transgenics for the genetic improvement of vegetatively propagated crops. In IITA, transgenic technologies are being used for improving banana/plantain, cassava, and yam.
Molecular geneticist Leena Tripathi provides an update on a collaborative work to develop a high-value product—the transgenic banana.
GIS tools could help governments, policymakers, and land use planners to manage their environments better by providing information on land degradation and use. Such information is useful for monitoring and for devising a strategy for natural resource management and conservation.
IITA scientists explain about the exciting new work in diagnostics using a combination of conventional biology, biotechnology, and bioinformatics.
An underutilized leguminous species has huge potentials for food security in Africa. Read about IITA’s ongoing research on African yam bean.
IITA Virologist James Legg explains the progress of research on understanding the deadly relationship between the whitefly vectors and the viruses that are causing the destructive cassava mosaic and cassava brown streak diseases.
Information on the banana genome and molecular tools to map traits are lacking. IITA is mapping and characterizing new molecular markers for use in banana breeding and genetics.
What’s the connection? Leena Tripathi explains how IITA and partners are producing banana cultivars that are resistant to destructive nematodes and other pests.