Abstract

Using Next Generation Sequencing to Understand Pseudomonas Syringae Pv Actinidae, an Emerging Bacterial Pathogen of Kiwifruit

Iain Lamont, Professor, University of Otago

Pseudomonas syringae pv actinidae (PSA) is a member of the fluorescent pseudomonad family that has recently emerged as a major pathogen of kiwifruit, with major effects on this industry in New Zealand, Europe and South America. We have used next generation sequencing of isolates of PSA from different parts of the world to understand the source and spread of the disease and evolution of this pathogen. The results suggest that PSA has spread from China, the ancestral source of kiwifruit, to other parts of the world. We are also using RNAseq to identify and characterize genes involved in uptake and storage of iron, an essential micronutrient, by PSA. Characterisation of genes that are upregulated in response to iron starvation suggest that PSA can utilise similar iron uptake pathways to other Pseudomonas plant pathogens but in addition, reveal some unexpected features.