Expression of G-Ry derived from the potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) increases PVY(O) resistance

In Solanaceae, potato virus Y(O) (PVY(O)) is a widespread virus leading to severe damages such as necrosis, molting, and yield reduction. The resistance Y gene (Ry gene) of potato specifically confers resistance to PVY infection. Previously, potatoes resistant to PVY(O) infection were screened among the 32 Korean cultivars. 'Golden Valley' displayed the most resistance to PVY(O) infection. 'Golden Valley''s Ry gene (G-Ry) was cloned from 'Golden Valley', and the function was investigated. G-Ry protein contains 1134 amino acid residues and is structurally similar to the Y-1, which confers resistance to PVY infection in Solanum tuberosum subsp. andigena. To generate a PVY(O)-resistant potato, the G-Ry gene has been introduced into 'Winter Valley', the cultivar most susceptible to PVY(O) infection among the 32 Korean cultivars. Transgenic 'Winter Valley' ('Winter Valley'-G) showed an increased resistance to PVY infection. This approach may ultimately lead to the development of a virus-resistant plant.