Defense evasion in plant-bacteria interactions

We investigate molecular events of the interaction of bacterial pathogens (Pseudomonas, Ralstonia, Salmonella) with the plant (Arabidopsis, tomato, bean), from both sides: how the plant deploys defenses against invasion, and how the pathogen evades these defenses. We apply interdisciplinary experimental approaches in national and international collaboration. Three main research lines are addressed: (1) Genetic and epigenetic regulation of the expression of genes associated with virulence, generating phenotypic heterogeneity that allows the establishment of bacterial subpopulations during infection. (2) Characterization of bacterial interference with the plant cell through virulence effectors secreted by a T3SS (Type III Secretion System), which suppresses all levels of plant defense (PTI, ETI and SAR) (3) Regulation of immunity through miRNA/phasiRNA networks encoded by the plant itself, which regulate the expression of plant genes encoding TIR-NBS-LRR (NLR) defense proteins.