Modelling and manipulation of plant-aphid interactions: A new avenue for sustainable disease management of an important crop in Africa

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Our overall objective is to assess potential risks/benefits for disease management (using epidemiological modelling with experimental validation) from identifying and adapting the knowledge/tools (including gene sequences/semiochemicals/epidemiological models) from studying viral suppressor of RNA silencing-mediated effects on aphid-plant relations to develop 'push-pull'-type systems to protect bean. However, aphids are important pests and disease vectors affecting all major crops, meaning our results will have wide applicability. Our collaboration will translate work from model systems (Arabidopsis and tobacco) to a vital crop (bean) with uniquely African viral disease problems (with emphasis the combined effects of bean common mosaic virus and bean common necrotic mosaic). Key objectives/activities are listed with lead researcher(s) and time-scales indicated in parentheses.

1. Epidemiological modelling (Yrs 1-4, CAG, Cam)
2. Validation and exploration of modelling predictions in controlled conditions (Yrs 1-4, Cam)
3. Field surveys and data collection in Uganda (Yr. 1) and experiments utilizing data from 1 and 2, and field samples (Yrs. 2-4)(MA, CIAT)
4. Analyzing the effects of silencing suppressors on bean mRNA and small RNA profiles (Yrs 2-4) (JH, AD, BecA; DB, Cam)
5. Metabolite analyses to identify semiochemicals produced by bean that influence plant-aphid interactions (Yrs 2-4, Rothamsted)
6. Initiating pathways to impact activities via the Pan-Africa Bean Research Alliance, a network of the national bean research programmes of 28 African nations (Yr3/4; Lead: MA, CIAT).

We aim to develop technologies for aphid management (and potentially other insect pests) and aphid-vectored viruses while strengthening capacity in sustainable pest and disease management. Transnational, multi-stakeholder and participatory approaches ensure technology uptake and provide opportunities for beneficiaries along the value chain (incl. research papers, epidemiological models, gene sequences and markers for bean improvement through PABRA's networks, semiochemicals that could be exploited by growers, industry, etc). Cambridge Plant Sciences hosts a Business Fellow (Beatrix Schlarb-Ridley) to facilitate routes to impact and the Dept. is the hub of the Cambridge Partnership for Plant Sciences linking many research institutes, SMEs and regional industry. The Figure summarizes our pathways to impact and capacity building, demonstrating how our innovation chain ensures delivery of results to end users. Capacity building is embedded in all phases of the project. PhD & PDRA exchange placements will facilitate skills transfer and establish an international team capable of addressing food security constraints in future projects. Our project enables BecA and ECABREN to expand research beyond their respective ILRI and CIAT core-funded activities and in line with priorities developed in consultation with African national partners.