Chasing a molecular chimera : examining a composite effector family through new lenses
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Plant pathogenic microbes deliver effector proteins into host cells to reduce the plant immune response and increase their own success during infection. Understanding the way these proteins arise within the pathogen genome and interact with their target eukaryotic cell is a critical part of the development of crop plants with stable resistance that lasts long-term. I study the chimeric AvrRps4 effector family which originates from agronomically relevant species of Pseudomonas and Xanthomonas. The AvrRps4 effector family consists of AvrRps4, a full homologue called XopO, and a partial homologue called HopK1. The family is characterized by highly similar N-terminal amino acid sequences followed by a GGGKRV motif. Each member of the family is processed in planta between GG and GKRV, allowing the N and C termini to separate and act as effectors in their own right, although virulence functions are only known for the AvrRps4-type C terminus. During my dissertation research I have worked to better understand the molecular arms race between bacterial phytopathogens and their host plants. I have incorporated ecological, biochemical, bioinformatic, and genetic elements into my studies that have allowed me to produce a new tool for the study of effector interactions within Asteraceae, to suggest new virulence functions and mechanisms for the AvrRps4 effector family C termini, and to advance the investigation of the AvrRps4 N terminus by providing new insights into its evolutionary history. Results from my research presented here will advance the ongoing study of plant-pathogen interactions well beyond the sidewalks of Mizzou.
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Ph. D.