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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

N-acetylcysteine interferes with the biofilm formation, motility and epiphytic behaviour of Xanthomonas citri subsp citri

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Author(s):
Picchi, S. C. [1] ; Takita, M. A. [1] ; Coletta-Filho, H. D. [1] ; Machado, M. A. [1] ; de Souza, A. A. [1]
Total Authors: 5
Affiliation:
[1] Inst Agron Campinas, Ctr Citricultura Sylvio Moreira, Rod Anhanguera Km 158, BR-13490970 Sao Paulo - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 1
Document type: Journal article
Source: PLANT PATHOLOGY; v. 65, n. 4, p. 561-569, MAY 2016.
Web of Science Citations: 4
Abstract

Citrus canker is caused by Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri. Bacterial biofilm formation is important in the development of this disease because it is a factor in epiphytic bacterial survival on leaves and in infection. N-acetylcysteine (NAC), in addition to having antibacterial properties, reduces biofilm formation by a variety of bacteria and was therefore tested for impairing biofilm formation by X.citri. Copper is currently the antimicrobial compound most commonly applied in agriculture to control citrus canker. Therefore, this study also evaluated a possible synergistic effect between NAC and copper to improve the strategy for controlling this phytopathogen. NAC was found to decrease biofilm formation, the production of extracellular polysaccharides and bacterial stickiness. Motility was also affected in the presence of NAC. The best combination of NAC and copper for controlling X.citri was application of NAC followed by copper 48h later. The concentrations of 6mgmL(-1) of NAC and 35gmL(-1) of copper were able to kill X.citri. NAC inhibited the epiphytic behaviour of X.citri on leaves, altering cell growth and the bacterial ability to form biofilms. The addition of copper to cells previously treated with NAC enhanced its bactericidal activity. In conclusion, NAC has antibacterial properties against X.citri, interfering with bacterial growth, motility and biofilm formation. Under epiphytic conditions, NAC made the cells more susceptible to copper by affecting X.citri biofilm formation. This study opens new possibilities for the use of NAC in combination with copper, possibly resulting in more sustainable management of citrus canker. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 08/57909-2 - Genomic platforms applied to citrus breeding
Grantee:Marcos Antonio Machado
Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants