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Indian River State college team annotates Asian citrus psyllid genome to fight citrus greening

A collaboration led by Professor Tom D'Elia of Indian River State College has successfully annotated the Asian citrus psyllid genome, a development in the battle against citrus greening disease. The findings, published in GigaScience, involve 28 student co-authors from Indian River State College, showcasing the integration of scientific discovery with undergraduate education.

The initiative, supported by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture grants, united Indian River State College with USDA Agricultural Research Service, the Boyce Thompson Institution, Cornell University, Kansas State University, and the University of Cincinnati. This partnership yielded the third and most detailed psyllid genome version.

"The involvement of our students in such high-level research demonstrates the exceptional opportunities available at our institution and highlights our role in addressing critical challenges facing our region," Timothy E. Moore, president of Indian River State College, stated.

"This publication represents the culmination of a unique research partnership that began in 2015," D'Elia remarked. "Our students worked alongside leading scientists to analyze complex genomic data, contributing to research that addresses a critical agricultural challenge."

Since 2005, citrus greening disease, spread by the Asian citrus psyllid, has significantly impacted Florida's citrus industry, with over $7 billion in lost revenue and thousands of jobs. The genome annotation provides vital information for devising strategies against this disease.

The project also made a notable educational impact, with 10 out of 28 student authors advancing to graduate programs and others securing careers in science.

"This collaborative approach has provided our students with authentic, real-world research experiences," D'Elia noted. "They've developed critical skills in team-based problem-solving while contributing to a project with significant agricultural and economic implications."

Source: Citrus Industry

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