Exploring Adaptations of the Plant Pathogen Pseudomonas syringae

Pseudomonas syringae is a bacterial plant pathogen which threatens agriculture, including the iconic cherry blossoms of Michigan. It inhabits diverse environments including rivers, clouds and plant surfaces and has evolved remarkable adaptations:

1. Siderophores: Iron-scavenging molecules that fluoresce under UV light.
2. Ice nucleation: Trigger ice formation above freezing temperatures.
3. Type-III-secretion-system: Injects virulence proteins into plant cells.

At our booth, you’ll witness these bacterial superpowers in action! Observe P. syringae create ice, see glowing bacteria under UV light, and learn how P. syringae has shaped understanding of plant immunity.