Xylem-dwelling pathogen unaffected by local xylem vessel network properties in grapevines (Vitis spp.)

• DOI: 10.1093/aob/mcae016
• Publication Date: 2024-02-09T14:40:03Z
• Authors: Ana Clara Fanton; Martin Bouda; Craig Brodersen
• Keywords: Xylella fastidiosa; Liana

Abstract Background and aims Xylella fastidiosa (Xf) is the xylem-dwelling bacterium associated with Pierce’s disease (PD), which causes mortality in agriculturally important species, such as grapevine (Vitis vinifera). The development of PD symptoms grapevines depends on ability Xf to produce cell-wall-degrading enzymes break up intervessel pit membranes systematically spread through xylem vessel network. Our objective here was investigate whether resistance could be mechanistically linked network local connectivity. Methods We used high-resolution X-ray micro-computed tomography (microCT) imaging identify describe type, area spatial distribution connections for six different genotypes from three genetic backgrounds, varying (four resistant two susceptible). Key results suggest that unlikely derive (Ai) varied 0.07 ± 0.01 mm2 mm−3 Lenoir 0.17 0.03 Blanc do Bois, both resistant. Intervessel contact fraction (Cp) not statically significant, but PD-susceptible genotypes, Syrah (0.056 0.015) Chardonnay (0.041 0.013), were among most highly connected networks. Neither Ai nor Cp explained differences genotypes. Bayesian re-analysis our data shows moderate evidence against effects traits analysed: (BF01 = 4.88), mean density (4.86), relay diameter (4.30), (3.31) solitary proportion (3.19). Conclusions show radial tangential connectivity conserved within Vitis we sampled. way traverses may limit importance properties its confer greater host biochemical responses.