Linking physiology, molecular genetics and genomics to understand and improve yield of populous for biomass and timber production across Europe

Objective

To develop a new European experimental network in contrasting climates, combined with mapping pedigrees of Populus to identify robust QTL for yield and disease resistance traits. To identify the molecular genetic basis of stemwood productivity in this biomass (energy) and timber tree suitable for agroforestry. To bring together current molecular genetic maps of populus and using SSR (microsatellite) markers, develop a 'consensus ' map for the genus. To use the latest tree genomics resources in Populus, particularly the large EST database, to identify candidate genes for yield and disease resistance. To undertake an association (linkage disequilibrium) analysis using collections of native P. nigra to confirm the candidate gene/QTL positions in Populus. To undertake microarray experiments with biotic and abiotic stresses to identify genes differing in expression and to map candidate genes.

Programme(s)

• FP5-LIFE QUALITY - Specific Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Quality of life and management of living resources", 1998-2002

Topic(s)

• 1.1.1.-5. - Key action Sustainable Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Funding Scheme

CSC - Cost-sharing contracts

Coordinator

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHAMPTON

Address

Bassett Crescent East
SO16 17PX Southampton
United Kingdom

Participants (7)

FLANDERS INTERUNIVERSITY INSTITUTE FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY VZW

Belgium

Address

Ledeganckstraat 35
9000 Gent

INSTITUUT VOOR BOSBOUW EN WILDBEHEER

Belgium

Address

Gaverstraat 4
9500 Geraardsbergen

Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)

France

Address

147 Rue De L'université
75341 Paris

UNIVERSITA DEGLI STUDI DELLA TUSCIA

Italy

Address

Via San Giovanni Decollato 1
01100 Viterbo

UNIVERSITA DEGLI STUDI DI UDINE

Italy

Address

Via Delle Scienze 208
33100 Udine

UNIVERSITAIRE INSTELLING ANTWERPEN - UNIVERSITEIT ANTWERPEN

Belgium

Address

Universiteitsplein 1
2610 Wilrijk (Antwerpen)

UNIVERSITY OF UMEAA

Sweden

Address

Universitetsomradet, Hus L
901 87 Umeaa