Elucidation of plant-bacterial pathogen interactions for the control of bacterial blight on cruciferous crops

　Pseudomonas cannabina pv. alisalensis (Pcal), the causative agent of bacterial blight on cruciferous crops, is an economically important pathogen worldwide. We have conducted several studies on the interactions between plants and pathogenic bacteria to develop effective control strategies for this disease. Using forward and reverse genetics, we identified several virulence factors, including the type III secretion system, membrane transporters, transcriptional factors, and amino acid metabolism. Additionally, we emphasized the role of coronatine, a toxin produced by Pcal, which promotes stomatal reopening and suppresses salicylic acid accumulation in plants. We also examined plant defense mechanisms activated by one of the plant defense activators, acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM). ASM enhanced stomatal-based defense, resulting in reduction of bacterial entry and disease development. Moreover, we explored innovative control strategies for bacterial disease and demonstrated that amino acids and cellulose nanofiber are efficient and environmentally friendly control strategies. These studies advance our understanding of plant-pathogen dynamics and offer promising, sustainable approaches for managing bacterial blight disease in cruciferous crops.

研究紹介 (Research Report)