2005 Annual Report 4d.Progress report. This report serves to document research conducted under a Specific Cooperative agreement between ARS and Towson University. Additional details of research can be found in the report for the parent project 1275-21220-183-00D Molecular Genetic Approach for Improved Pathogen and Pest Resistance in Sugar Beet. Investigational studies include the identification and characterization of disease resistance genes that can be manipulated for more effective control of major pests and pathogens of sugar beet. A research associate initiated studies on characterization of sugar beet genes involved in disease resistance. A sugar beet root maggot bioassay was developed to evaluate the effect of resistance genes on the root maggot using genetically modified roots of sugar beet (hairy root cultures). A reporter gene (GUS) fused to an insect-or wound-inducible gene switch (promoter) was introduced into the hairy roots to characterize the level and location of gene activity in response to insect attack using a colorimetric assay.