Isolation of Fungal Genes for Engineering Plant Defence against Fungal Pathogens

The enzymes chitinases and glucanases are responsible for hydrolytic degradation of chitin and glucan, two major components of fungal cell walls. Both plants and fungi use these enzymes in defence responses against their fungal pathogens. Expression of recombinant chitinases and glucanases in genetically modified crop plants has potential to enhance plants natural resistance against harmful fungi, thereby reducing dependence on fungicides. This book offers an overview of research in this area and describes isolation and characterisation of chitinase and glucanase genes from soil fungi with a view to engineering plants with them.

Susana Averis trained in biotechnology at Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia. This book is based on the thesis presented for her PhD and it reflects her interest in plant biotechnology for the improvement of food production systems. Her interests have also seen her involved in studies relating to genetic markers in legumes and cereals.