Author
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Lin, Hong |
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Submitted to: American Phytopathological Society Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 5/15/2014 Publication Date: 8/7/2014 Citation: Lin, H. 2014. Candidatus Liberibacter associated diseases: challenges and opportunities. American Phytopathological Society Abstracts. Available online: http://www.apsnet.org/meetings/Documents/2014_meeting_abstracts/aps2014abS37.htm. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: “Candidatus Liberibacter” species are plant pathogens that have caused tremendous economic losses to agricultural crops. Since the causative agents are yet unculturable, information regarding genetics and pathogenesis of the pathogens is limited. Comparative analyses of multiple Liberibacter genomes provide unprecedented insights into the evolutionary history, phylogenetic diversity and metabolomic capacities in these pathogenic bacteria. The available of genomic information also led to identification of potential or putative pathogenicity and virulence factors, biomarkers associated with Liberibacter-host plant interactions as well as development of improved, reliable diagnostic protocols for early (i.e. pre-symptomatic), rapid Liberibacter detection. Since no host resistance has been found in Liberibacter-associated diseases, knowledge of specific Liberibacter genes and their products associated with pathogenicity and virulence, as well as interactions with hosts is extremely important in understanding pathogenesis. In spite of the uncultivable nature of Liberibacter, a novel technique for functional determinant of virulence genes had been developed. This technique facilitates identification of potential targets for mitigating Liberibacter acquisition and transmission by psyllids, host plant infection and disease development. Finally, genomics-based research will improve our understanding of the complex and diverse mechanisms of Liberibacter – plant interactions. |
