Molecular Pathogenesis of Clavibacter michiganensis in Tomato Crops

Clavibacter michiganensis is a Gram-positive bacterial pathogen responsible for bacterial canker and wilt in tomato, posing significant threats to global tomato production. Infection typically begins with bacterial entry through wounds or natural openings, followed by colonisation of the xylem vessels. The pathogen deploys a suite of cell-wall-degrading enzymes, including cellulases, pectinases and proteases, to breach host tissues and facilitate systemic spread. Central to its virulence is a pathogenicity island encoding secreted effector proteins that manipulate host physiology and weaken cell integrity. Exopolysaccharide (EPS) production and biofilm formation promote bacterial adhesion and persistence within the vascular system, exacerbating wilting and necrosis. Two-component regulatory systems and transcriptional regulators orchestrate the timely expression of virulence genes in response to environmental cues. Host susceptibility factors, such as auxin-transport and cell-wall-associated proteins, further determine disease outcome. Advances in genomics and molecular biology have illuminated key genetic determinants of pathogenicity, offering targets for resistant cultivar development and novel control strategies.

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Molecular Pathogenesis of Clavibacter michiganensis in Tomato Crops publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in molecular pathogenesis of clavibacter michiganensis in tomato crops across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Pathogenicity island: A distinct genomic region encoding clusters of virulence genes and effectors.

Effector protein: A secreted bacterial molecule that modulates host cell processes to facilitate infection.

Exopolysaccharide (EPS): A high-molecular-weight polymer secreted by bacteria to form biofilms and protect against host defences.

Biofilm: A structured bacterial community encased in a self-produced matrix adherent to biotic or abiotic surfaces.

Susceptibility gene (S gene): A host gene whose normal function is exploited by a pathogen to promote disease development.

References

1. Allelic variations in the chpG effector gene within Clavibacter michiganensis populations determine pathogen host range. PLOS Pathogens (2024).
2. Deletion of pbpC Enhances Bacterial Pathogenicity on Tomato by Affecting Biofilm Formation, Exopolysaccharides Production, and Exoenzyme Activities in Clavibacter michiganensis. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2023).
3. Inactivation of tomato WAT1 leads to reduced susceptibility to Clavibacter michiganensis through downregulation of bacterial virulence factors. Frontiers in Plant Science (2023).