Working group 4: Phytoplasma / host interactions

The main objective of working group 4 (WG4) "Phytoplasma/host interactions" is to collect current and future genome sequence/molecular information from phytoplasmas and their hosts and to provide this information to the (phytoplasma) community in a format that is understandable to non molecular biologists so that the available information can be used in management strategies.

More specifically, WG4 was assigned the following tasks:

1. Integrate genomics and bioinformatics information into a single website to allow password-protected access for all members of this Action

2. Identify model systems in which to co-ordinate effort and research funding to enhance understanding of phytoplasma/host interactions

3. Establish a link between phytoplasma genomics achievements and insect vector transmission

4. Co-ordinate research activities on the molecular basis of phytoplasma diseases in plants and insects.

NCBI accession numbers of phytoplasma chromosomes:

Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris, Onion Yellows phytoplasma strain M (OY-M): NC_005303

Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris, Aster Yellows phytoplasma strain Witches' Broom (AY-WB): NC_007716

Candidatus Phytoplasma mali, Apple Proliferation Phytoplasma (AP): NC_011047

Candidatus Phytoplasma australiense, Australian Grapevine Yellows (AUSGY):NC_010544