Cereal Disease Laboratory, USDA Agricultural Research Service

The research program in my lab focuses on developing a better understanding of the host-parasite interactions and evolution of rust fungi.  Currently, we are working on the following project:  characterization of rust genomes, including the development of a genetic map, and a draft genome sequence for Puccinia graminis; identify and characterize fungal genes (avirulence) involved in mediating race-specific resistance; molecular phylogenetics; and the development of rapid detection methods for cereal rust fungi.

Selected Publications:

Anikster, Y., Szabo, L.J., Eliam, T., Manisterski, S.T. and Bushnell, W.R. 2004. Morphology, life cycle biology and DNA sequence analysis of rust fungi on garlic and chives from California. Phytopathology 94: (in press).

Szabo, L.J. and Bushnell, W.R. 2001. Hidden robbers:  The role of fungal haustoria in parasitism of plants. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 98:4654-7655.

Zambino, P.J., Kubelik, A.R. and Szabo, L.J. 2000.  Gene action and linkage of avirulence genes to DNA markers inthe rust fungus, Puccinia graminis. Phytopathology 90:819-826.

Anikster, Y., Eilam, T., Mittelman, L., Szabo, L.J. and Bushnell, W.R. 1999.  Pycnial nectar of rust fungi induces cap formation on pycniospores of opposite mating type. Mycologia 91:858-870.