New Research Identifies Andes as the Origin of Potato Blight Linked to Irish Famine

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A recent study has concluded that the pathogen responsible for the devastating potato blight during the Irish famine, known as Phytophthora infestans, likely originated in the Andes region of South America. This finding, emerging from one of the largest whole genome analyses of the microbe, settles a long-standing debate among scientists who have argued over whether the pathogen originated in the Andes or Mexico.

Lead researcher, Professor Jean Ristaino from North Carolina State University, stated that the genetic evidence strongly supports a South American origin. Historical records from the 1840s also indicate that the disease was known to indigenous Andean potato farmers prior to its emergence in Europe and the US.

The study, published in the journal Plos One, reveals that modern populations of the pathogen in Mexico are more recent than those from the Andes. This contradicts the notion that Mexico is the center of origin for the disease. Understanding the pathogen's origin is crucial as it can lead to identifying resistance sources, which is essential for effectively managing the blight.

Potato blight continues to threaten crops worldwide, with strains now resistant to common fungicides. Researchers recommend focusing breeding efforts on potatoes originating from the Andes to develop long-term solutions that may involve gene editing.

Dr. David Cooke, a potato blight expert not involved in the research, reiterated the need for further studies in South America to better understand the diversity of the pathogen's populations.

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