We are investigating the xylem system in plants and how this system relates to the movement of Xylella fastidiosa (Yf), a xylem-dwelling bacteria responsible for the Pierce’s disease in grapevine. As such we are comparing different host plants that are able to support systemic and non-systemic Xf infection. Our hope is to comprehend how the xylem network might control bacterial movement in susceptible plants and thus provide a better understanding of the disease.
-David Chatelet
We are interested in the following two aspects:
1. Mechanism of tylose formation and gel secretion.
Tyloses and gels occur in Pierce's disease infected grapevines, but their formation mechanism and effect on disease development is unclear. By using a stem pruning system, we are investigating the anatomy, cell biology and physiology tylose and gel formation in wounded grape stems. Detailed information on these processes will help us understand the relationships of tyloses and gels to Pierce's disease symptom development.
2. Mechanism of systemic movement of the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa in grapevines infected with Pierce's disease.
The mechanism for the movement of basteria within infected plants is not clearly understood. We are trying to clarify the mechanisms involved in the systemic presence of bacteria by investigating integrity of intervessel pit membranes with SEM and other approaches.
- Qiang Sun
Xylella fastidiosa is a xylem-dwelling bacterium that causes Pierce’s disease in grapevine. My research is focused on connecting movement of Xylella in the plant with respect to leaves, stems, grafted stems and roots. In addition, research includes possible signaling relationships of hormones that regulate possible defense mechanisms against Xylella.
-Trey Hudgins
UC Davis Home | Plant Biology Home
Current
Lab Members | Collaborators | Recent
Publications | Teaching
Root Animations | Virtual
Crops