This research has made a substantial contribution to understanding the kauri dieback pathogen, Phytophthora agathidicida, at the molecular level. Lengthy laboratory work led to a chromosome-level assembly of the Phytophthora agathidicida genome sequence – a world first for any Phytophthora pathogen.

To determine expression of Phytophthora agathidicida genes during plant infection, a hydroponic system for sampling from roots and leaves of the model host plant Nicotiana benthamiana was developed.

The Phytophthora agathidicida effector genes that are duplicated and silenced or mutated were discovered, suggesting mechanisms for adaptation. One effector appears to be a key suppressor of plant defence. Researchers helped forge a collaboration with an international Phytophthora research group to study this in more detail.

Journal Articles

• Chromosome-level assembly of the Phytophthora agathidicida genome reveals adaptation in effector gene families.
• Functional analysis of RXLR effectors from the New Zealand kauri dieback pathogen Phytophthora agathidicida

Project Collaborators

| Massey University |