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Updated: Mar 16, 2026
Using Ustilago maydis as a Trojan Horse for In Situ Delivery of Maize Proteins
Published on: February 8, 2019
Cell biology of corn smut disease-Ustilago maydis as a model for biotrophic interactions
Alexandra Matei1, Gunther Doehlemann1
1Botanical Institute and Center of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), University of Cologne, BioCenter, Zuelpicher Str. 47a, D-50674 Cologne, Germany.
Abstract:
Ustilago maydis is a well-established model system for biotrophic fungal plant pathogens. The fungus has a dimorphic life cycle with a yeast-like saprophytic phase switching to filamentous, pathogenic growth upon hyphal fusion. Due to its highly differentiated development and the amenability for reverse-genetics U. maydis provides a model system for both fungal cell biology as well as the study of biotrophic plant interaction. The present article highlights key findings in different aspects of cell biology on the corn smut disease and provides an outlook on the most intriguing open questions.
Insights
Ustilago maydis, a fungus causing corn smut disease, offers insights into fungal cell biology and plant pathogen interactions. Its unique life cycle and genetic tractability make it a valuable model organism for research.
Area of Science:
- Fungal biology
- Plant pathology
- Microbial genetics
Background:
- Ustilago maydis is a key biotrophic fungal pathogen of plants.
- It exhibits a dimorphic life cycle, transitioning from yeast to filamentous growth.
- This transition is crucial for its pathogenic development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review key findings in Ustilago maydis cell biology.
- To explore its utility as a model for studying biotrophic plant-pathogen interactions.
- To identify open questions in the field.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of Ustilago maydis research.
- Analysis of its dimorphic life cycle and genetic manipulation.
- Focus on cell biology and host-pathogen interactions.
Main Results:
- Ustilago maydis serves as an excellent model for fungal cell biology.
- Its genetic amenability facilitates studies on pathogenicity.
- Key aspects of its differentiated development are well-characterized.
Conclusions:
- Ustilago maydis research provides significant insights into fungal pathogens.
- Further investigation is needed to address remaining questions in its cell biology and host interaction.
- It remains a crucial model for understanding plant diseases.
