Reserach interests:
Cellular communication processes within a fungal colony or in host-pathogen interactions are crucial to allow adequate development or host infection. We use the hemibiotrophic maize pathogen Colletotrichum graminicola to study both communication types with special emphasis on germination, germling fusion, chemotropic growth to host plant signals, and plant infection. Seeking for the identification of signals, receptors and downstream pathways, we apply genetic, biochemical, bioanalytical, and microscopy techniques. Based on these findings, we evaluate pathogen-host communication factors for their probable use for new crop protection strategies within sustainable agriculture management.
Colletotrichum graminicola projects:
- Germling fusions: signals, perception and processes in Colletotrichum graminicola (DFG grant NO 1230/3-1)
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Specialized infection strategies of falcate and oval conidia of Colletotrichum graminicola. - Directed growth in the vegetative and pathogenic life cycle of Colletotrichum graminicola
- Mycosporines in spore-type specific development and corn anthracnose spreading (IRTG PRoTECT)
Project in the 3rd cohort of the IRTG PRoTECT graduate school
Hyphal fusions dnable dfficient nutrient distribution in Colletotrichum graminicola conidiation and symptom development on maize.
Conserved perception of host and non-host signals via the a-pheromone receptor Ste3 in Colletotrichum graminicola.
Tracking Fungal Growth: Establishment of Arp1 as a Marker for Polarity Establishment and Active Hyphal Growth in Filamentous Ascomycetes.
A 3D Printed Device for Easy and Reliable Quantification of Fungal Chemotropic Growth.