A team of plant scientists has made a significant breakthrough in understanding how potato plants defend themselves against Spongospora subterranea f. sp. subterranea (Sss)—the soilborne pathogen that causes powdery scab, an emerging and economically damaging disease affecting potato crops worldwide.| The Global Plant Council
Barley plants produce unique antifungal compounds called hordedanes to defend against pathogens. Scientists identified 17 hordedanes that inhibit fungal growth, but a pathogen, Bipolaris sorokiniana, exploits these defenses to thrive. By neutralizing hordedanes, it extends its parasitic phase, showcasing the complex evolutionary battle between plants and pathogens.| The Global Plant Council
Jan| The Global Plant Council
Jan| The Global Plant Council