Enzymatic virulence factors in plant pathogens

Context

Oomycetes are fungal-like microorganisms that cause severe diseases in agriculture and aquaculture and pose a recurrent threat to global food security. The Phytophthora genus comprises more than 140 species, including the late blight pathogen Phytophthora infestans, which triggered the Irish potato famine in the mid-19th century. P. infestans infects both potato and tomato crops, causing economic losses in excess of $6 billion annually.

The Research

In the Sabbadin Lab, we integrate omics, structural and functional activity studies to unveil and biochemically characterise enzymatic virulence factors produced by Phytophthora pathogens at the plant cell wall interface. Our work provides key insight into the molecular arms race driving plant-pathogen interactions, opening opportunities for innovative and sustainable strategies to fight crop diseases and increase agricultural productivity.

Project activities and publications

Secreted pectin monooxygenases drive plant infection by pathogenic oomycetes

Oomycetes manipulate plant innate immunity through galacturonide oxidases