Vasili A Balios, Karsten Fischer, Thomas Bawin, Kirsten Krause
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background: Research on the parasitic plant genus Cuscuta has flourished since the genomes of several of its species were published. Most of the research revolves around the iconic infection organ that secures the parasite's sustenance: the haustorium. The interest in understanding the structure-function-regulation relationship of the haustorium is based as much on the wish to find ways to keep the parasite under control as on the opportunities it offers to shed light on various open questions in plant biology.
Scope: The review will briefly introduce parasitism among plants, using the genus Cuscuta as main example, before presenting its haustorium alongside the terminology that is used to describe its architecture. Possible evolutionary origins of this parasitic organ are presented. The haustorium is then being followed from its initiation to maturity under contemplation of the molecular landscape that accompanies the morphological changes and in the light of the challenges it must overcome before gaining access to the vascular cells of its hosts. The fact that Cuscuta has an unusually broad host range stresses how efficient its infection strategy is. Therefore, special consideration will be given in the final chapter to a comparison with the process of grafting, being the only other type of tissue connection that involves interspecific vascular continuity.
Conclusions: Studies on Cuscuta haustoriogenesis have revealed many molecular details that explain its success. They have also unearthed some mysteries, that wait to be solved. With a better understanding of the complexity of the infection with its combination of universal as well as host-specific elements that allow Cuscuta to parasitize on a wide range of host plant species, we may be many steps closer to not only containing the parasite better but also exploiting its tricks where they can serve us in the quest of producing more and better food and fodder.
期刊介绍:
Annals of Botany is an international plant science journal publishing novel and rigorous research in all areas of plant science. It is published monthly in both electronic and printed forms with at least two extra issues each year that focus on a particular theme in plant biology. The Journal is managed by the Annals of Botany Company, a not-for-profit educational charity established to promote plant science worldwide.
The Journal publishes original research papers, invited and submitted review articles, ''Research in Context'' expanding on original work, ''Botanical Briefings'' as short overviews of important topics, and ''Viewpoints'' giving opinions. All papers in each issue are summarized briefly in Content Snapshots , there are topical news items in the Plant Cuttings section and Book Reviews . A rigorous review process ensures that readers are exposed to genuine and novel advances across a wide spectrum of botanical knowledge. All papers aim to advance knowledge and make a difference to our understanding of plant science.