Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. manihotis gumD gene is essential, for EPS production and pathogenicity and enhances epiphytic survival on cassava (Manihot esculenta)

B P Kemp, J Horne, A Bryant, R M Cooper

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45 Citations (SciVal)

Abstract

Extracellular polysaccharide-defective (EPS−) mutants of the cassava blight pathogen, Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. manihotis, were created by targeted disruption of the biosynthetic gene gumD. Pathogenicity of mutants was severely attenuated. Two EPS− mutants infiltrated into the leaf apoplast, caused initial water-soaking and chlorosis but symptoms were confined to inoculated zones, whereas those of wild type I56 rapidly extended and developed into flaccidity. This pattern reflected failure of EPS− mutants to spread. In entire lobes the wild-type population exceeded by 200-fold that of EPS− mutants. Petioles injected with EPS− mutants remained symptomless, in contrast to severe wilting with I56. EPS conferred significant resistance to H2O2, known to be produced by cassava cells during the oxidative burst. At 1 h exposure to 1 mM peroxide, only 3% EPS− compared with 48% wild type cells survived. Also, EPS− mutants were more vulnerable to UV irradiation. These phenomena correlated with reduced epiphytic survival of EPS− following spray application. The requirement for EPS in pathogenicity and epiphytic fitness is considered.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)209-218
Number of pages10
JournalPhysiological and Molecular Plant Pathology
Volume64
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2004

Bibliographical note

ID number: ISI:000226440200006

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