Scientific background report Phytophtora resistant potato

Phytophthora infestans causes ‘late blight’. In regions of potato cultivation with a temperate climate, like Belgium, this is the single most dangerous disease. The disease costs farmers in Belgium about 55 million euros annually, and controlling it causes significant environmental pressure. However, in the last few years a number of resistant varieties based on conventional plant breeding techniques were introduced to the market, and work is being done on developing genetically modified Phytophthora-resistant lines. The report provides the necessary background information and gives an overview of the most recent scientific developments. It also discusses the pros and cons of genetic modification as a technique for building in resistance.