Identification and functional analysis of oxidative stress response genes in Xylella fastidiosa

Abstract

One important aspect of plant defense system is the Oxidative Burst, a rapid production of Reactive Oxygen Species(ROS). Phytopathogens must be able to counteract ROS through the action of specific enzymes. Genes encoding such enzymes are called Oxidative Stress Response genes (OSR genes), and play an important role in virulence mediated by phytopathogens. We propose to identify and analyze OSR genes in X. fastidiosa, as to their general mechanisms of action and regulated expression. Gene identification and mode of regulation will be done by sequence comparison, microarray hybridization, and functional analyses using standard systems. (AU)