Fumonisins: Probable role as effectors in the complex interaction of susceptible and resistant maize hybrids and Fusarium verticillioides

Abstract

Fusarium verticillioides is best known for its worldwide occurrence on maize resulting in highly variable disease symptoms, ranging from asymptomatic to severe rotting and wilting and fumonisin production. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of hybrid genotypes in the early stages of F. verticillioides infection, and the role of fumonisins as effectors in the outcome of this complex interaction. Disease symptoms, growth parameters, root morphology, and fungal colonization were evaluated at 7, 14, and 21 days after planting in seedlings from maize seeds of resistant (RH) and susceptible (SH) hybrids inoculated with F. verticillioides or watered with solutions of fumonisins. F. verticillioides induced growth enhancement or retardation depending on the plant genetic background and the fungal colonization rate, while fumonisins caused severe reduction in biomass and fitness. Seedlings watered with high fumonisin concentrations displayed lesions similar to those seen in F. verticillioides maize seedling disease, and also elicited inhibitory effects on root growth and morphology and on functional properties. In summary, these data strongly suggest a dual role for fumonisins in the F. verticillioides−maize interaction, acting as pathogenic factors at high concentrations, or triggering the plant detoxification mechanisms at low levels.