Induction of lytic enzymes by the interaction of Ustilago maydis with Zea mays tissues.

The nonpathogenic (FB-2) and pathogenic (FB-D12) strains of Ustilago maydis were grown in medium supplemented with different carbon sources including monosaccharides, polysaccharides, and plant tissues. Both strains were able to grow on all substrates, with doubling times varying from 2 to 25 h depending on the carbon source. Plant tissues supplied as carbon source induced lytic enzymes differentially; pectate lyase and cellulase activities were induced preferentially by apical stem meristem in strain FB-D12, whereas leaves preferentially induced xylanase and cellulase activities in strain FB2. Stems induced polygalacturonase activity in both strains. All enzyme activities, except cellulase in the FB-D12 strain, were detected at a low level when U. maydis was grown on glucose. In planta, chlorosis and production of teliospores were paralleled by an increase in pectate lyase activity. Anthocyanin production and formation of galls and teliospores correlated with polygalacturonase expression whereas cellulase activity increased only during the stage of anthocyanin production and gall formation. Expression of xylanase activity coincided with the last stage of teliospore formation. Copyright 2000 Academic Press.