Mobile fungal 'Starship' carries protein that triggers crop leaf loss

An international team of researchers, led by plant scientist Professor Dr. Bart Thomma from the University of Cologne, has identified the genetic region responsible for a specific protein produced by the pathogenic fungus Verticillium dahliae. This protein is a key driver of leaf loss in infected host plants, such as cotton and olive trees, and determines the fungus's virulence.

Published in Nature Communications, the study reveals that the gene for this leaf-losing protein is located on a large, mobile genetic element known as a "Starship." This mobile element can transfer genes between different fungal species, potentially spreading virulence traits across various pathogenic fungi. The discovery of this genetic component, which is also present in remnants of similar mobile elements in other wilt-disease-causing fungi, could pave the way for novel strategies to detect and control highly virulent fungal strains.

By understanding the genetic basis of leaf loss, researchers may develop targeted detection methods and even breed or genetically modify resistant varieties of cotton and olive plants, ultimately mitigating the significant crop losses caused by Verticillium dahliae infections.