Two new phytotoxins in Septoria nodorum blotch: Biosynthesis and functions

A light-activated phytotoxic molecule and a potential anti-plant defense molecule have recently been discovered in the wheat pathogenic fungus Parastagonospora nodorum. This project seeks to 1) characterise the function of the genes and enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of the two molecules and 2) investigate whether and how they contribute to disease development. The outcomes would lead to technologies for identifying novel biosynthetic pathways in other fungi and enzyme technology for synthesising new molecules. The technologies could lead to development of new herbicides, biopesticides or drugs. In addition, the outcomes will advance our understanding of plant-microbe interactions and facilitate novel disease management strategies.