Author
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WEI, WEI - PEOPLES REPUBLIC OF CHINA |
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Zhao, Yan |
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Davis, Robert |
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CHANG, CHUNG-JAN - UNIV OF GEORGIA |
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SHI, XIURONG - PEOPLES REPUBLIC OF CHINA |
Submitted to: International Organization for Mycoplasmology
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 4/5/2006 Publication Date: 4/5/2006 Citation: Wei, W., Zhao, Y., Davis, R.E., Chang, C., Shi, X. 2006. Genome-scale functional screening of effector proteins from aster yellows phytoplasmas. International Organization for Mycoplasmology. P. 33. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris' and related phytoplasmas are a group of phloem-restricted, cell wall-less bacteria that cause numerous plant diseases worldwide. Despite the stunning accomplishments in genome sequencing of two aster yellows phytoplasma strains, knowledge about genes involved in phytoplasma pathogenicity and about molecular interactions between phytoplasmas and their host plants is still lacking. To gain insights into what genes and gene products may play roles in disease induction and/or symptom expression, we launched a genome-scale in planta functional screening of aster yellows phytoplasma effector proteins. A complete set of protein-encoding genes from ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris' –related strain AY1 were amplified by polymerase chain reactions and cloned into Potato virus X (PVX)-based binary expression vector pGR107. Plasmid constructs harboring individual phytoplasma genes were transformed into Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain GV3101. In planta functional screening was carried out by infiltration inoculation of Agrobacterium cells into leaves of Nicotiana benthamiana seedlings. While most of the inoculated plants showed systemic symptoms typical of PVX infection, some exhibited unusual phenotypes including stunting, shoot proliferation, and chlorosis or yellowing of the foliage tissues. Histological, physiological, and biochemical studies are being focused on those plants showing unusual symptoms. Findings of this study may lead to identification of phytoplasma effector proteins and potential molecular targets for disease control. |