Ultrastructural studies of the host (Senecio aegyptius L.) responses after the infection by the pathogenic rust fungus, Puccinia lagenophorae Cooke

This study investigated the impact of the rust fungus, Puccinia lagenophorae on its host, Senecio aegyptius using both light (LM) and transmission (TEM) electron microscopy. The chloroplast numbers decreased during the aecial and telial stages of the pathogen (53.7 and 56.6%, respectively). The nucleus volumes were increased during both stages (10.9 and 14.1%, respectively). Infected chloroplasts and nuclei showed changes in their shape and ultrastructure. Instead of the M-haustorium, a collar was created around the D-haustorium. A neck encasing developed in both types of necrotic haustoria. This encasement may serve as the host cell's protection against toxins created after the death of haustoria. The severe changes in the chloroplasts and nuclei of this host plant after infection by this pathogen may give this pathogen the possibility of controlling this serious weed. Future research in the molecular mechanism may explore the biological control of weeds for local farm agroecology.