Our laboratory specializes in plant pathogenic bacteria, with a primary focus on Soft Rot Pectobacteriaceae (SRP). These pathogens cause soft rot, stem rot, and blackleg disease in economically important crops such as potatoes, vegetables, and various ornamental plants
Our research pursues two main avenues:
Bacterial virulence factors: We identify and characterize specific bacterial genes and proteins that play crucial roles in pathogenicity. These serve as potential targets for anti-virulence strategies, aimed at inhibiting disease symptom development without directly killing the bacteria, thus potentially reducing the risk of resistance development.
Plant defense responses: We investigate and manipulate plant immune responses to pathogenic bacteria, with a particular emphasis on flower bulbs. Our work explores the concept of defense priming as a sustainable approach to protect plants against necrotrophic pathogens. We are developing innovative tools and techniques to effectively apply this strategy in agricultural settings.
Through this dual approach, we aim to contribute to the development of novel, environmentally friendly methods for controlling bacterial plant diseases, ultimately enhancing crop yield and quality in both food and ornamental plant industries.
